Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
The fifth and final Test between cricket giants Australia and India will begin on Friday at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). With the series delicately set up, fans are eagerly awaiting an exciting matchup as these two powerhouses battle it out in the decider.
A crucial test for India
Australia currently lead the five-match Test series 2-1, with one match ending in a rain-affected draw. This leaves India in a precarious position, with no chance of winning the series, but a chance to match it with a win in Sydney. For India, it is a do-or-die scenario. A win would not only square the series but also keep alive their hopes of retaining the prestigious Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The stakes are even higher in the context of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC). India, currently on 114 points, need a win to take their tally to 126 out of a possible 228, giving them a points percentage (PCT) of 55.26%. Anything less, a draw or defeat, would eliminate them from contention for the championship final.
Also READ: No Rohit Sharma! Former Australian cricketer picks India’s playing XI for Sydney Test
3 battles to watch out for in Australia and India Sydney Test
1. Yashasvi Jaiswal Vs. Mitchell Starc
The ongoing rivalry between India’s young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and Australia’s left-arm pace ace Mitchell Starc has been the highlight of the series. Starc has managed to dismiss Jaiswal several times, showing his ability to exploit the batsman’s vulnerabilities. However, Jaiswal, known for his fearless strokeplay and willingness to take on both pacers and spinners, has also scored vital runs against Starc.
This clash promises to set the tone for the Test, with Jaiswal’s aggressive approach going up against Starc’s knack for early breakthroughs.
2. Virat Kohli vs Scott Boland
Virat Kohlione of the best batsmen of his generation, he has had a mixed series. After a strong start in the first Test in Perth, Kohli has struggled to find consistency, especially against Scott Bolandsounding line and length outside the stump. Boland has dismissed Kohli several times in this manner, taking advantage of the batsman’s recent vulnerability.
Boland’s accuracy and versatility coupled with Kohli’s determination to bounce back make this an intriguing contest that could have a significant impact on the match.
3. Travis Head vs. jasprit bumrah
Perhaps the most anticipated duel of the series, Chief Travis i jasprit bumrah are the standout performers for their respective sides. Head, the leading run-scorer in the series with 410 runs, including two centuries, has been in sublime form. On the other hand, Bumrah, with 30 wickets to his name, including three five-wicket hauls, has been India’s spearhead with the ball.
Bumrah has dismissed Head four times in the series, but the Australian batsman has also managed to score crucial runs against him. This battle of the best batsman against the best bowler is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
