The Rohit Sharma-led Indian cricket team is gearing up to face world number one Australia in the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at Brisbane’s Gabba. After a painful defeat against the Aussies over a week ago, India finds itself in a precarious situation, needing to win this match to keep their World Test Championship (WTC) final hopes alive. A loss would all but end their chances of qualifying for the final at Lord’s in June 2025.
Rohit Sharma, whose captaincy and batting form have come under scrutiny after a lackluster performance in the second Test, faces a critical test in what could be his final chance to prove his mettle in the longest format of the game. At 37, his leadership and individual contributions are key as India fights to stay in contention.
The form of star batsman Virat Kohli has also been below expectations, while emerging talent Sarfaraz Khan remains on the sidelines despite his promising display against New Zealand last month.
The series has seen a rollercoaster of performances from both sides. India dominated the first Test in Perth, crushing Australia by 295 runs, but Australia bounced back in the second Test, winning by 10 wickets. India’s bowling, including veteran spinner R. Ashwin, has struggled to contain Australia, further complicating their challenge.
India currently sits third on the WTC points table, trailing South Africa and Australia. To win in Brisbane, the team must improve in all departments, especially fitness. The return of fast bowler Mohammad Siraj has provided a much-needed boost to the squad.
Weather forecasts suggest rain could interfere with play, potentially disrupting the highly anticipated encounter. Australia has already announced their playing XI, while India’s lineup remains undecided, with Washington Sundar potentially replacing the out-of-form R. Ashwin.
Australia XI for the third Test: Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (WK), Pat Cummins (C), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.
India’s probables: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (WK), KL Rahul, Nitish Reddy, Washington Sundar, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.
As cricket fans eagerly await this exciting contest, the outcome of the match will be crucial in shaping the fate of both teams in the WTC.
