Delhi: India had to face difficult conditions on the third day of the Gaba Test. Australia’s fast bowlers shook the Indian top order, due to which the team lost 4 wickets for 51 runs at stumps. If India fails to reach the score of 246 runs, it will be the first time in 13 years that the team will face follow-on. On the other hand, frequent rains slowed down Australia’s progress, which could also lead to a draw in the match.
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victory is necessary at any cost
To make it to the final of the World Test Championship (WTC), India must win this match at any cost. However, India was on top of the WTC points table after a record 295-run win in the first Test in Perth. But, after the defeat in Adelaide and South Africa’s clean sweep against Sri Lanka, India slipped to third place.
What will happen if India loses?
If India loses in this test, its chances of reaching the WTC final will almost end. Even if India wins in Melbourne and Sydney, it can still reach only 58.8%. Australia, on the other hand, can go up to 60.5% if it clean sweeps Sri Lanka. In such a situation, even India winning 3-2 will not be enough to reach the final. India would then need miraculous help from Sri Lanka and Pakistan. If Sri Lanka draws a match against Australia, then India can reach the final, because then Australia will not be able to go above 57%.
if the match is a draw
Due to the possibility of rain in Brisbane for the remaining two days, India’s hopes may rest on a draw. But, this draw also will not be much helpful for India. After this, India will have to register victory in Melbourne and Sydney at any cost. If India loses even one of these matches and the series ends 2-2, then India will have to expect Sri Lanka to beat Australia 1-0. Then India will be at 55.3% and Australia will be at 53.5%, due to which India can make it to the finals.
This situation is challenging for India, and the only recourse is rain or a miracle.