Australia's dominant performance in the third Test against India resulted in a convincing nine-wicket win, securing their place in this year's ICC World Test Championship Final. However, the other finalist is yet to be determined. Australia has been the standout team during the World Test Championship period (2021-23), winning 11 out of the 18 Tests they have played. Despite the unexpected absence of Pat Cummins due to personal reasons, veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon's outstanding bowling performance, which garnered 11 wickets, helped Australia seal their latest triumph.
Also Read: AUS: 78-1 (18.5) | IND VS AUS 3rd Test, Day 3 LIVE Cricket Score And Updates: Australia Qualify For WTC 2023 Final
Although Australia's batting had been inconsistent throughout the series, they managed to chase down the target without any hiccups, thanks to the impressive performances of Travis Head (49*) and Marnus Labuschagne (28*). With this win, Australia has amassed an impressive 68.52 points out of a possible WTC points, securing their position as the top team on the World Test Championship standings, regardless of the outcome of their ongoing series against India.
#WTC23 Final bound _
Congratulations Australia. See you in June! _ pic.twitter.com/H2YdaWPzYV
— ICC (@ICC) March 3, 2023
Team India's WTC Qualification Scenario
India currently occupies the second position on the standings with 60.29 points out of their possible WTC points, placing them in a favorable position to qualify for the one-off Test at The Oval in June. However, Sri Lanka has a chance to overtake India if the results do not go in favor of Rohit Sharma's team in the upcoming weeks.
If IND vs AUS 4th Test Ends In A Draw?
If India manages to secure a win in the upcoming fourth Test against Australia in Ahmedabad, it will guarantee their spot in the WTC Final. However, if Australia wins the match or if it results in a draw, Sri Lanka will have an opportunity to overtake India and secure the last spot.
Sri Lanka has two away Tests scheduled against New Zealand this month and must win both matches with a 2-0 series sweep to have a chance of securing a spot in the WTC Final.
Remaining ICC World Test Championship Fixtures
South Africa v West Indies (Second Test) – Johannesburg, South Africa, 8-12 March
New Zealand v Sri Lanka (First Test) – Christchurch, New Zealand, 9-13 March
India v Australia (Fourth Test) – Ahmedabad, India, 9-13 March
New Zealand v Sri Lanka (Second Test) – Wellington, New Zealand, 17-21 March
