AUS vs IND 3rd Test, BGT 2024 – The highly anticipated third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia is set to commence on Saturday, December 14, at the iconic Gabba in Brisbane. With the series level at 1–1, this match is crucial for both teams.
Australia, riding high after their commanding win in Adelaide, will aim to maintain their winning momentum, while India will look to bounce back and keep their World Test Championship hopes alive. The stage is set for an intense showdown between two cricketing powerhouses.
AUS vs IND Preview
Australia enters the third Test brimming with confidence after their win in Adelaide. Travis Head and Mitchell Starc were the stars of the show, with Head’s counter-attacking innings and Starc’s fiery spells tipping the scales in their favor. Their bowling unit, led by Pat Cummins, looks as formidable as ever. However, concerns remain over the form of Steven Smith and Alex Carey, who are yet to make significant contributions.
After a disappointing performance in Adelaide, India faces criticism for their inconsistent batting displays. Apart from Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli’s occasional brilliance in the first Test match, the batting unit has struggled, failing to cross 200 in three of four innings on this tour.
However, Nitish Reddy’s stellar form with both bat and ball has been a silver lining, as he has consistently delivered crucial contributions in the first two matches. The brilliance of Jasprit Bumrah has also been phenomenal, leading the attack with skill and precision.
Concerns for India
- Captain Rohit Sharma’s poor form is a significant concern, and the team will hope he can rediscover his rhythm and play a match-winning knock.
- The decision between Ravichandran Ashwin and Washington Sundar for the spinning option will be critical. With four right-handed batsmen in Australia’s top six, Ravindra Jadeja’s inclusion also remains a possibility.
AUS vs IND 3rd Test 2024 Probable Playing XI
Australia’s Probable Playing XI – Nathan McSweeney, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (WK), Pat Cummins ©, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon
India’s Probable Playing XI: KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (WK), Rohit Sharma ©, Nitish Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja/Washington Sundar , Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah. Mohammed Siraj
Gabba, Brisbane Pitch Report
The Gabba pitch is renowned for its bounce and pace, making it a paradise for fast bowlers. The surface appears green but has some brown patches that could aid batsmen willing to spend time at the crease. The curator has prepared a typical Gabba track, ensuring a competitive five-day Test match. While batting here isn’t impossible, batsmen must be patient and technically sound to succeed.
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Record at The Gabba
India and Australia’s record at the Gabba strongly favors the hosts. India’s solitary win at this venue came in a historic match in 2021, and they will look to draw inspiration from that performance.
India: Played 7, Won 1, Lost 5, Drawn 1
Australia: Played 35, Won 26, Lost 2, Drawn 7
AUS vs IND 3rd Test 2024 Prediction
This match is tough to predict, with both teams having their strengths and weaknesses. Australia holds the advantage with home conditions and a superior record at the Gabba. However, India’s resilient bowling attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah, can create opportunities. If India’s batting unit steps up, they have a genuine chance to edge out Australia. While emotions favor India, logic suggests Australia might hold the upper hand at their fortress.
