South Africa currently top the WTC table with Australia and India in the the second and third spot, respectively. India and Australia are currently squaring off in a five-match series, with the scores 1-1 after two Tests. South Africa, on the other hand, are set to play two Tests against Pakistan at home, starting from Boxing Day (December 26). Australia are also scheduled to play two more Tests after this, against Sri Lanka on the road.
Day 3 of the third Test between India and Australia saw only 34 over being bowled with multiple rain breaks in-between play.
Australia was bowled out for 445, while India lost their top order to be reduced for 51/4 in 17 overs.
The forecast for the remaining days in Brisbane isn’t motivating either, and there is a possibility that the game might end in a draw.
In that case, the series will be evenly poised with two matches remaining, in Melbourne and Sydney respectively.
Here’s how India can qualify for WTC if Brisbane Test fails to produce a result:
India need to win the remaining two Tests in Melbourne and Sydney to not depend on other teams and results to qualify for the WTC final.
If India win the series 2-1, Sri Lanka must avoid a whitewash against Australia. Further, if India draw the series 2-2, Sri Lanka need to beat Australia in the series by 1-0, or 2-0. If India draw the series 1-1, Sri Lanka must draw or beat Australia.
India will, however, crash out of the race if they lose the series by any margin.
