India vs Australia: WTC keys, How many wins does India need?

Australia vs India: A Clash with Major Implications

The clash between Australia and India transcends the category of a simple sporting encounter, becoming a series of great importance with multiple facets. In addition to the prestige at stake, the result of this competition will directly impact the qualification for the final of the World Test Cricket Championship to be held in June. New Zealand’s recent victory over the West Indies, with a score of 2-0, places them in third place in the championship table. If New Zealand repeats this performance against Pakistan, both Australia and India will have to strive to maintain their position. We analyze the ranking prospects of India and Australia, considering their upcoming challenges.

India: Situation Analysis

India has played 4 series, accumulating 360 points, which represents a 75% performance. India has two series remaining in the current cycle: against Australia and England. Both series consist of four tests, with the same point allocation: 30 points for a win and 10 for a draw. If New Zealand gets all the points in their series against Pakistan, their total will rise to 420, with a percentage of 70%. India will have to surpass this percentage 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.

Considering India’s strong home performance, they have a good chance of getting all the points against England. This means they will need at least one win or three draws in the four matches against Australia to reach the target of 150 points.

For example, if India loses against Australia with a score of 1-2, they will need 110 points in the series against England. The only way to reach the 110 points, with 30 for a win and 10 for a draw, is by winning all four matches.

Australia: Current Perspectives

Australia has played 3 series, scoring 296 points, with a percentage of 82.22%. Currently, Australia needs to surpass 420 points to maintain a percentage above 70%, as long as the series against South Africa is played. If the series is canceled, their goal will be to surpass 336 points. Since the series against South Africa consists of three tests, 40 points will be awarded for a win and 13 for a draw.

Despite injury problems, Australia is in a favorable position thanks to the accumulated points. If the series against India ends 2-2, Australia will add 356 points, with a percentage of 74.17%. A 1-0 victory against South Africa would take them to 422 points, surpassing New Zealand. If they lose 1-2 against India, Australia will need a 2-0 victory against South Africa to stay above 70%.