Australia vs. India: A Key Duel with Major Implications
The clash between Australia and India transcends the category of a simple sporting encounter; it’s a high-stakes cricket series. Beyond the inherent rivalry, this duel carries significant weight on the road to the World Test Championship final in June. New Zealand’s recent victory over the West Indies (2-0) propels them to third place in the championship table. If they repeat that feat against Pakistan, both Australia and India will need to strive to stay above them.The Outlook for India
India has played four series, accumulating 360 points with a percentage of 75%. They have two series remaining in the current cycle, against Australia and England, both with four tests. This means that the points allocation is the same: 30 points for a win and 10 for a draw. If New Zealand gets the maximum points against Pakistan, their total will rise to 420, with a percentage of 70%. India must exceed that 70% to secure their position above New Zealand.To achieve this, India needs at least 150 points out of the 240 available in these two series. This can be achieved in two ways: by winning five matches or by winning four and drawing three.
For example, if India loses against Australia by a margin of 1-2, they will need 110 points in the series against England. The only way to reach 110 is by winning all four matches, as a victory grants 30 points and a draw, 10.
The situation in Australia
Australia has played three series and has 296 points, with a percentage of 82.22%. They need to surpass 420 points to reach a percentage above 70%, if the series against South Africa takes place. In case of cancellation, their goal would be to exceed 336 points. The series against South Africa, which is expected to be three tests, will offer 40 points for a win and 13 for a draw.
