The much-awaited India vs Australia third Test in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy is set to begin on December 14 at the Gabba in Brisbane. With the series tied at 1-1, this Test holds significant importance, not only for the series but also for both teams’ chances of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. As the action intensifies, one of the main talking points will be the batting position of Indian captain Rohit Sharma, along with the team selection choices for both sides.
Rohit Sharma’s Batting Position: Key Decision for India
Rohit Sharma’s position in the batting order has been a topic of much debate throughout this series. In the first two Tests, he batted at No.6, a decision that didn’t yield much success, as he scored just 3 and 6 runs under lights in Adelaide. This followed his earlier decision to not disturb the opening combination of Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, who had done well in Perth.
As India heads to Brisbane, the question arises: Will Rohit Sharma come up the order to open the innings, or will he continue at No.6? Given the pressure on the Indian team to perform, especially with a spot in the WTC final up for grabs, a change in Rohit’s position could be crucial. In his recent net session, Rohit faced some of India’s best pacers, including Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep, Harshit Rana, and Mohammed Siraj, hinting that he might open the innings, with KL Rahul potentially moving to No.5.
Team India’s Selection Dilemmas: Spinner and Pacers
While Rohit’s batting position remains uncertain, India also faces a few selection dilemmas regarding their bowling attack. One of the major questions revolves around who will play as the lone spinner in the team. Ravindra Jadeja, with his all-round abilities and impressive record in overseas conditions, remains a strong contender. Ravichandran Ashwin and Washington Sundar, both of whom have been steady in the previous Tests, could also be in the mix. However, Jadeja’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball might give him the edge, especially on a surface that is expected to assist spin.
On the pace bowling front, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj are expected to retain their places in the XI, but the third seamer is still uncertain. While Akash Deep has been impressive in the nets, rookie pacer Harshit Rana has been favored by captain Rohit Sharma, so the decision will likely come down to the combination that best complements the two main pacers.
Australia’s Key Changes: Josh Hazlewood Returns
Australia has already confirmed a major change to their playing XI, with experienced pacer Josh Hazlewood returning after missing the second Test due to injury. Hazlewood’s inclusion adds depth to Australia’s pace attack, which already includes Mitchell Starc and captain Pat Cummins. The return of Hazlewood will make the Australian bowling attack even more formidable on the fast and bouncy Gabba pitch.
Predicted Playing XIs for India and Australia
Australia (Playing XI):
- Usman Khawaja
- Nathan McSweeney
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Steve Smith
- Travis Head
- Mitchell Marsh
- Alex Carey (wk)
- Pat Cummins (c)
- Mitch Starc
- Nathan Lyon
- Josh Hazlewood
India (Possible Playing XI):
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Jasprit Bumrah (vc)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- KL Rahul
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Rishabh Pant (wk)
- Ravichandran Ashwin/Ravindra Jadeja/Washington Sundar
- Mohammed Siraj
- Akash Deep/Harshit Rana
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
The Importance of This Test Match
With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series delicately poised at 1-1, this Test match at the Gabba could prove to be a decisive moment for both India and Australia. India will be eager to bounce back after the loss in the second Test, while Australia will be determined to take advantage of home conditions and push for a series win. With the WTC final spot on the line, every moment of this Test will be crucial.
India vs Australia 3rd Test Live Streaming Details
The India vs Australia third Test will begin on December 14 at 5:50 AM IST. Fans can watch the live telecast of the match on Star Sports 1 HD/SD. For live streaming, the match will be available on Disney+ Hotstar for viewers in India.
As the tension builds ahead of the third Test, all eyes will be on how both teams approach the game, the key selection decisions they make, and whether Rohit Sharma returns to open the innings to lead India to victory in the Gabba Test.
