The fifth and final Test between the cricketing giants Australia and India It plans to start on Friday at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The series is finely crafted, with fans anticipating an exciting clash as these two powerhouses battle it out in the decider.
The main 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 outright, but an opportunity to equalize with a win in Sydney. It is a do or die scenario for India. A win would not only clinch the series but also keep alive their hopes of retaining the prestigious Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The stakes are higher in context ICC World Test Championship (WTC). Currently sitting on 114 points, India need a win to take their points percentage (PCT) to 126 out of a possible 228, giving them 55.26%. Anything less – a draw or a loss – will put them out of 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 was the highlight of the series. Starc managed to dismiss Jaiswal on several occasions and showed his ability to exploit his weaknesses. However, Jaiswal, known for his fearless batting and penchant for taking on pacers and spinners alike, scored vital runs against Starc as well.
This clash promises to set the tone for the Test, with Jaiswal’s aggressive approach countering Starc’s prowess with early breakthroughs.
2. Virat Kohli vs Scott Boland
Virat KohliOne of the best batters of his generation, has been a mixed series. After a strong start in the first Test in Perth, Kohli, in particular, struggled to find opposition Scott Boland‘s probing line and length beyond the stump. Boland has repeatedly dismissed Kohli in this fashion, taking advantage of the dead body’s ultimate weakness.
Boland’s accuracy and versatility combined with Kohli’s determination to bounce back makes this an exciting contest that could have a significant impact on the match.
3. Travis Head vs. jasprit bumrah
Perhaps the most anticipated duel of the series, Head of Travis and jasprit bumrah are the chosen performers for their sides. Head, the leading run-scorer of the series with 410 runs, including two centuries, was in superb form. Bumrah, on the other hand, has been India’s spearhead with the ball, with 30 wickets to his name, including three five-wicket hauls.
Bumrah dismissed Head four times in the series, but the Australian all-rounder also managed to score crucial runs against him. This battle between the best batter and the best bowler is sure to keep the fans on the edge of their seats.
