Under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy, the Indian cricket team suffered a heavy defeat against Australia in the second Test played in Adelaide. The pink-ball Test ended in just two days and one session. India’s batting collapsed in both innings, leading to the loss. India managed only 180 runs in the first innings, while Australia posted a commanding 337. In the second innings, India was bowled out for 175, leaving Australia with just 19 runs to chase, which they did with ease.
This defeat pushed India down to the third spot in the ICC Test Championship standings. India’s Points Percentage (PCT) is now 57.29. Australia leads the table with 60.71 PCT, followed by South Africa with 59.26 PCT. Sri Lanka remains in contention as well. Let’s take a closer look at the scenarios for these four teams to reach the WTC final.
India’s Chances of Reaching the WTC Final
Remaining Matches: 3 (against Australia)
Current PCT: 57.29
India can still make it to the final but must win all their remaining matches. If India wins the next three matches against Australia, their PCT will rise to 64.05. A 4-1 series victory would guarantee their spot in the final, regardless of Australia’s result in their upcoming series against Sri Lanka.
Australia’s Chances of Reaching the WTC Final
Remaining Matches: 5 (3 against India, 2 against Sri Lanka)
Current PCT: 60.71
Australia strengthened their position with the win in Adelaide. Winning all their remaining matches would take their PCT to 71.05. Two more wins against India and a clean sweep against Sri Lanka would also secure their place in the final.
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South Africa’s Chances of Reaching the WTC Final
Remaining Matches: 3 (1 against Sri Lanka, 2 against Pakistan)
Current PCT: 59.26
South Africa also has a strong chance to reach the final. Winning all three of their remaining matches would raise their PCT to 69.44. Even a victory against Sri Lanka and a 1-1 draw against Pakistan would leave their PCT at 61.11, which might be enough to qualify.
Sri Lanka’s Chances of Reaching the WTC Final
Remaining Matches: 3 (1 against South Africa, 2 against Australia)
Current PCT: 50
Sri Lanka must win all their remaining matches to stay in contention. If they achieve this, their PCT will rise to 61.53. Winning only two matches would leave their PCT at 53.84, which is unlikely to secure a spot in the final. Thus, they must win every game to keep their hopes alive.