India vs Australia 5th Test Preview: Can India Level the Series at the SCG?

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has reached its climax, and the fifth and final Test match between India and Australia is set to begin on January 3, 2025, at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Australia leads the series 2-1, and India needs a win to level the series and keep their hopes alive for the World Test Championship final.

Head-to-Head Record in Tests

Weather Forecast

The weather in Sydney is expected to be pleasant for the first four days, with clear skies and an average temperature of around 28°C. However, there is a chance of heavy rain on the final day, which could affect the play.

Expected Playing XI

India: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna

Australia: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

Key Player Battles

1. Yashasvi Jaiswal vs Mitchell Starc

Jaiswal has played some courageous knocks on his first tour of Australia, but Starc has created problems for him in many innings, dismissing him four times in this series. The battle between the two will be an interesting one to watch in Sydney.

2. Steve Smith vs Jasprit Bumrah

Smith's batting in Tests against India is the best among any Australian batter. However, Bumrah has taken 30 wickets in four Test matches in this series so far and will be a lethal force for India in the final Test match in Sydney.

3. Virat Kohli vs Pat Cummins

Kohli has failed to play any impactful knock in this series after his ton in Perth. Cummins, on the other hand, has been a consistent force for Australia and has taken at least a wicket in all the innings he has bowled in this series.

Prediction

The SCG pitch is expected to provide a balanced contest between bat and ball. Initially, it will favour batters, allowing them to settle in and score runs. As the match progresses, particularly on days four and five, spinners are likely to gain an advantage. Considering the recent form and stats, Australia are favourites to win the final Test match and finish the series 3-1.

Betting Odds

Where to Watch

The match will be telecast live on the Star Sports Network in India, and live streaming will be available on Disney+ Hotstar app and website.