Australia’s path to a historic title unification has been laid bare, with an ODI World Cup final rematch against powerhouse India looming as a pivotal credential examination.

After cruising through the initial group stage unbeaten, with a healthy net run rate of +2.791, the reigning One-Day and Test champions were the first nation to be placed for the Super 8s stage, drawing Group 1.

And with Bangladesh crushing the long-shot hopes of cricketing minnows Nepal with a nervy victory on Monday, Australia’s rivals for the cup are set.

While there are never any easy games at a World Cup, Australia will be confident of advancing through their group.

With Afghanistan’s seed falling into Group 1, Australia will avoid hosts West Indies, who will instead face South Africa, England – who scraped through on net run rate after Scotland lost their final group match – and fellow hosts USA.

It leaves Australia to face Bangladesh on Friday morning (8.30am AWST) and Afghanistan Sunday morning (8.30am AWST) before the main event the next day against India at 10.30pm AWST.

If Australia win their first two matches, it would all but assure their progression to the finals, with the clash against India potentially determining if they top the group.