The highly anticipated third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia is set to take place at the Gabba in Brisbane, but weather conditions are causing some concerns. With the series level at 1-1 after India’s dominant 295-run win in Perth and Australia’s 10-wicket victory in Adelaide, all eyes are now on Brisbane, where rain is forecasted to play a significant role.
The Gabba, known for its lively pitch and challenging conditions, could be affected by heavy rain during the five-day Test. The weather forecast suggests that overcast skies and frequent showers are likely to interrupt play, especially on the first few days.
Rain Forecast for Brisbane – Will It Impact the 3rd Test?
According to AccuWeather, the weather on Day 1 (December 14) will be mostly cloudy and humid, with a 65% chance of rain in the morning and afternoon. A couple of thunderstorms could also disrupt play. This unsettled weather is expected to continue on Day 2 (December 15) and Day 3 (December 16), with both days showing a high chance of rain and overcast conditions. Day 2 has a 59% chance of rain, while Day 3 sees a 60% chance of showers, making for a damp and unpredictable start to the Test match.
However, the forecast improves slightly for the final two days. On Day 4 (December 17) and Day 5 (December 18), conditions are expected to be warmer, sunny, and humid, providing more favorable playing conditions. With the unpredictable weather in mind, both teams will need to be strategic in their approach, and the pitch at the Gabba could prove to be crucial in shaping the outcome.
What Does the Gabba Pitch Offer?
As of December 12, the Gabba pitch has a greenish tinge, and though it’s expected to be trimmed down before the Test match begins, it will likely offer some assistance to fast bowlers early on. Historically, the Gabba is known for its pace-friendly pitch, with good bounce and carry, making it an ideal surface for seamers. With overcast conditions, both India and Australia may opt for pace-heavy bowling attacks, relying on their fast bowlers to take advantage of the conditions.
This pitch has seen limited action this season, with just one Sheffield Shield game played, which means it’s relatively fresh. Bowlers who can extract bounce and movement from the surface will thrive in these conditions.
India’s Predicted Playing XI for the 3rd Test: Key Changes and Selection Dilemmas
India’s squad for the 3rd Test is likely to see a few changes, with Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul possibly swapping positions in the batting order. There is also a chance that Ravindra Jadeja could be included in the playing XI, providing India with a crucial all-rounder who can make a significant impact with both bat and ball.
The Indian team has options to balance their side, with choices between Washington Sundar and Ravichandran Ashwin as spin options. While Sundar had an important role in India’s historic win in Brisbane during the last Border-Gavaskar series, Ashwin has been a regular feature in the Indian lineup. Jadeja, however, may provide a better fit, given his experience on foreign soil and his ability to perform in both departments.
Another area of interest is the fast-bowling combination. India has options like Harshit Rana, who impressed in Perth, and Akash Deep, a bowler known for his swing. While Harshit Rana relies on pace and bounce, Akash Deep offers more variety with his swing. It remains to be seen whether the Indian management opts for one of these players or sticks to a more experienced lineup.
Australia’s Expected Lineup for the 3rd Test
Australia will likely make one change to their bowling attack, with Josh Hazlewood expected to return to the squad in place of Scott Boland. Hazlewood’s experience and skill in swinging the ball could prove crucial in helping Australia’s pacers exploit the favorable conditions at the Gabba. However, if Hazlewood is not fully fit, Australia might choose to persist with Boland, whose consistency with the ball has been notable throughout the series.
Key Matchups to Watch Out For
- Ravindra Jadeja vs. Australia’s Left-Handed Batters: Jadeja’s left-arm spin could be pivotal in breaking partnerships, especially against Australia’s left-handed batsmen.
- Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah vs. Australia’s Top Order: With conditions favoring pace bowlers, India’s fast-bowling duo will be key in challenging Australia’s top-order resilience.
- Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli vs. Australian Pacers: India’s top-order must weather the early storm against Australia’s formidable fast bowlers. Both Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli will play crucial roles in setting up India’s innings.
Conclusion: Can India Overcome the Weather and Setback?
With both teams locked at 1-1 in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the third Test at the Gabba promises to be a thrilling contest. While rain may play a spoilsport in Brisbane’s weather, the quality of both teams and their ability to adapt to changing conditions will determine the outcome. India’s selection dilemma, especially with Jadeja’s possible return, and Australia’s fast-bowling prowess will be key factors in the upcoming Test.
Stay tuned for more updates on the weather, playing XIs, and expert predictions as we head into this high-stakes encounter in Brisbane.
India’s Predicted Playing XI for 3rd Test:
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- KL Rahul
- Rishabh Pant (wk)
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Washington Sundar / Ravindra Jadeja
- Akash Deep / Harshit Rana
- Mohammed Siraj
- Jasprit Bumrah
