The fifth and final Test between the cricketing giants Australia and India will begin on Friday at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). With the series firmly in place, fans are looking forward to an exciting clash as the two teams battle it out for a decision.
An important test in India
Australia currently leads the five-match Test series 2-1, with one match likely to be affected by rain. This leaves India in a difficult position, with no chance of an outright win but a chance to clinch a victory in Sydney. For India, it is a do-or-die situation. A win would not only add to that streak but also keep alive their hopes of retaining the impressive Border-Gavaskar Trophy record.
The situation is much higher than it is ICC World Test Championship (WTC). India, who currently have 114 points, need a win to improve their tally to 126 out of 228, giving them a points (PCT) of 55.26%. Anything less—a performance or a loss—would have eliminated them from the race for the playoffs.
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Three matches to watch in the Australia and India Sydney Test
1. Yashasvi Jaiswal vs. Mitchell Starc
The ongoing competition among young Indian openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and the left Australian pace ace Mitchell Starc it has been a highlight of the series. Starc has managed to run out Jaiswal on several occasions, showing his ability to exploit the batsmen's problems. However, Jaiswal, who is known for his fearless bowling and his penchant for taking on pacers and spinners, also got a crucial game against Starc.
The clash promises to set the tone for the Tests, with Jaiswal's aggressive approach coming up against Starc's skillful early delivery.
2. Virat Kohli vs. Scott Boland
Virat Kohlione of the best batsmen of his generation, he has had a mixed list. After a strong start in the first Test in Perth, Kohli struggled to find consistency, especially against Scott BolandCheck the line and height outside the stump. Boland has dismissed Kohli several times in this manner, citing the batsman's recent insecurities.
Boland's accuracy and versatility, coupled with Kohli's determination to bounce back, make this an exciting contest that will have a huge impact on the game.
3. Travis Head vs. Jasprit Bumrah
Perhaps the most anticipated duel of the series, Travis Head and Jasprit Bumrah they are the best in their fields. Head, the leading scorer in the series with 410 hits, including two centuries, has been in top form. On the other hand, Bumrah, with 30 wickets to his name, including three wicket hauls, led India with the ball.
Bumrah has dismissed Head four times in this series, but the Australian batsman has also managed to excel against him. This battle of the best batter against the best bowler is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.