The fifth and final Test between the cricketing greats Australia and India is set to begin on Friday at the legendary Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). With the series delicately prepared, fans are eagerly anticipating an exciting clash as these two powerhouses battle it out in a decisive match.
A crucial test for India
Australia currently lead the five-match Test series 2-1, with one match tied due to rain. This leaves India in a precarious position, with no chance of winning the series outright, but a chance to level it with a win in Sydney. It is a do-or-die scenario for India. A win would not only level the series but also keep alive their hopes of retaining the prestigious Border-Gavaskar trophy.
The stakes are even higher in context ICC World Test Championship (WTC). India, currently on 114 points, need a win to take their total to 126 out of a possible 228, giving them a percentage point (PCT) of 55.26%. Anything less – a draw or a loss – would eliminate them from the competition for the championship final.
Also READ: No Rohit Sharma! The former Australian cricketer picks the Indian playing XI for the Sydney Test
3 battles to watch out for in Australia and India, Sydney Test
1. Yashasvi Jaiswal vs Mitchell Starc
An ongoing rivalry between India’s young upstart Yashasvi Jaiswal and the Australian left-arm pace ace Mitchell Starc was the highlight of the series. Starc managed to dismiss Jaiswal on more than one occasion, showing his ability to exploit the batsman’s vulnerabilities. However, Jaiswal, known for his fearless strokeplay and propensity to take on pacers and spinners, also scored vital runs against Starc.
This clash promises to set the tone for the Test, with Jaiswal’s aggressive approach countering Starc’s ability to make early breakthroughs.
2. Virat Kohli vs Scott Boland
Virat Kohlione of the best batsmen of his generation, he had a mixed series. After a strong start in the first Test in Perth, Kohli has struggled to find consistency, especially against Scott Bolandprobing line and length off stump. Boland has repeatedly dismissed Kohli in this fashion, taking advantage of the batsman’s recent vulnerability.
Boland’s accuracy and versatility, coupled with Kohli’s determination to come 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 in the series, Travis Head and Jasprit Bumrah are outstanding performers for their sides. Head, the leading run-scorer in the series with 410 runs, including two centuries, was in superb form. On the other hand, Bumrah, with 30 wickets, including three five-wicket hauls, was India’s leading man with the ball.
Bumrah dismissed Head four times in the series, but the Australian batsman also managed to score crucial runs against him. This battle of the best batsman against the best bowler is sure to keep the fans on the edge of their seats.
Also READ: Gautam Gambhir’s coaching job under threat, he was never BCCI’s first choice
