The fifth and final Test between cricketing giants Australia and India is set to commence on Friday at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). With the series delicately poised, fans are eagerly anticipating an exhilarating clash as these two powerhouses battle it out in the decider.
A pivotal Test for India
Australia currently leads 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 to win the series outright but an opportunity to level it with a victory in Sydney. For India, it’s a do-or-die scenario. A win would not only square the series but also keep their hopes alive for retaining the prestigious Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The stakes are even higher in the context of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC). India, currently sitting at 114 points, needs a win to boost their tally to 126 out of a possible 228, giving them a points percentage (PCT) of 55.26%. Anything less—a draw or a loss—would eliminate them from contention for the championship final.
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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 a highlight of the series. Starc has managed to dismiss Jaiswal multiple times, showcasing his ability to exploit the batter’s vulnerabilities. However, Jaiswal, known for his fearless stroke play and penchant for taking 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 coming up against Starc’s knack for early breakthroughs.
2. Virat Kohli vs. Scott Boland
Virat Kohli, one of the finest batters of his generation, has had a mixed series. After a strong start in the first Test in Perth, Kohli has struggled to find consistency, particularly against Scott Boland’s probing line and length outside the off-stump. Boland has dismissed Kohli multiple times in this manner, capitalizing on the batter’s recent vulnerability.
Boland’s precision 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, Travis Head and 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 batter has also managed to score crucial runs against him. This battle of the best batter versus the best bowler is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
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