The third Test of the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 is just around the corner, and all eyes are set on The Gabba, Brisbane! The clash between Australia and India is scheduled to begin on December 14 at 5:50 AM IST. This iconic venue is known for producing thrilling Test matches, and with both teams eager to gain an advantage in the series, fans are bracing themselves for yet another cricketing spectacle.
From strategic line-up changes to a pitch that promises excitement for bowlers and batters alike, let’s dive into the details of the Australia vs India 3rd Test.
Start Time for the 3rd Test
The Test match between Australia and India at The Gabba will start at 5:50 AM IST on December 14, 2024. With the same timing across all five days, Indian cricket fans will need an early start to catch all the live-action from Brisbane.
India’s Predicted Playing XI
Team India is likely to introduce some tactical changes, aiming to bolster their pace attack while maintaining a balanced batting line-up. The inclusion of Akash Deep in place of Harshit Rana is expected to bring fresh energy to the bowling unit. Additionally, Washington Sundar may replace Ravichandran Ashwin to provide added depth to the batting order.
India’s Predicted XI:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- KL Rahul
- Rishabh Pant (wk)
- Nitish Reddy
- Washington Sundar
- Akash Deep
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
Key highlights include Rohit Sharma opening with Yashasvi Jaiswal, while KL Rahul is expected to move down the order once again. Washington Sundar’s versatility as an all-rounder could prove crucial in striking the right balance.
Australia’s Predicted Playing XI
Australia is likely to stick with their winning combination from the Adelaide Test. Scott Boland has justified his inclusion, contributing effectively to the Australian pace attack, which now looks more lethal than ever.
Australia’s Predicted XI:
- Usman Khawaja
- Nathan McSweeney
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Steven Smith
- Travis Head
- Mitchell Marsh
- Alex Carey (wk)
- Pat Cummins (c)
- Mitchell Starc
- Nathan Lyon
- Scott Boland
Despite consecutive failures in the first two Tests, Usman Khawaja is expected to retain his spot at the top of the order, as Australia continues to back their experienced opener.
Pitch Report for the 3rd Test at The Gabba, Brisbane
The Gabba is renowned for its true, balanced pitch that offers something for everyone. The surface typically provides bounce and carry for fast bowlers, making it a paradise for seamers. At the same time, batters who can adapt to the consistent bounce will enjoy playing their strokes.
Kevin Mitchell Jr., the celebrated groundsman of The Gabba, has maintained the traditional nature of the pitch and resisted calls for a drop-in surface. This ensures The Gabba retains its unique characteristics, promising an exciting contest between bat and ball.
The Gabba, Brisbane Test Stats & Records
Here’s a quick glance at some key stats from The Gabba, Brisbane:
- Total Matches Played: 68
- Matches Won Batting First: 26
- Matches Won Bowling First: 27
- Average 1st Innings Score: 327
- Average 2nd Innings Score: 317
- Highest Total: 645/10 by Australia vs England
- Lowest Total: 58/10 by India vs Australia
These figures reflect the balance between batting and bowling, emphasizing the importance of the toss and execution of strategies.
Final Thoughts
The Australia vs India 3rd Test at The Gabba is shaping up to be a classic battle between two powerhouse teams. With tactical adjustments, in-form players, and the intriguing conditions at Brisbane, this encounter could very well be a series-defining moment in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Indian fans, set your alarms for 5:50 AM IST on December 14, as the cricketing giants go head-to-head in what promises to be a memorable Test match!