The last Test between India and Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) is scheduled and both teams have everything to play for in the WTC 2023-25 cycle. India’s recent defeat against Australia in the fourth Test at the MCG has left them in a vulnerable situation but they can still make it to the WTC final
Updated WTC Standings
Melbourne loss reduced India’s win percentage from 55.88 to 52.78 but they remained on the third position in the WTC points table. The victory for Australia increased their win ratio from 58.89% to 61.46% and retained their second position. South Africa is already placed in the WTC final with a win percentage of 66.67.
Potential scenarios for qualification of India
India can only make it to the WTC final if they defeat Australia in the fifth Test match. A win would bring their overall win percentage to 55.26, which should be enough to qualify for the second spot if Australia does not beat Sri Lanka in the upcoming series. A draw or a loss in Sydney would rule India out of the competition and hence, the Indian team would have to play out of their skins.
The Journey to Qualification in Australia
Australia, who is at the second position, requires two victories and a draw in their remaining games to make it to the WTC final. The series against Sri Lanka will be important, and if Zimbabwe performs well then they will be almost certain of qualifying.
Key Players to Watch
The two teams will aim at their best players to give their best in the match. And for India, Kohli, Rahul, and Bumrah will be the key players India will be looking forward to help the team clinch the match. Australia will rely on their senior players including Travis Head, Steve Smith and Pat Cummins.
Conclusion
The fifth Test in Sydney should be an exciting one that will have ramifications as to the WTC table. India’s prospects are still alive but they will need to perform significantly well to keep those prospects alive. Cricket followers across the globe will be looking forward to the two cricket playing behemoths to fight for a place in the WTC final.