The second Test of the thrilling Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT 2024-25) is just around the corner! Set to begin on December 6 at the stunning Adelaide Oval, this much-anticipated Australia vs India Pink Ball Test has cricket fans buzzing with excitement. With the match starting at 9:30 AM IST, it’s the perfect way to kick off your mornings as two of cricket’s giants battle it out under the magical pink-ball lights.
From line-up changes to a pitch that promises something for everyone, there’s a lot to look forward to in this day-night showdown. Let’s dive into all the details, including the playing XI and what to expect from the pitch at this iconic venue.
Start Time for the Pink Ball Test
The Australia vs India Pink Ball Test in Adelaide Oval will start at 9:30 AM IST from December 6 and will follow the same timing across all five days of play.
India’s Predicted Playing XI
India will head into the Adelaide Test with a reshuffled batting lineup and some tactical changes to strengthen their middle order. The return of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill promises to bring stability to the team.
India’s Predicted XI:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- KL Rahul
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Rohit Sharma
- Rishabh Pant (wk)
- Nitish Reddy
- Washington Sundar
- Harshit Rana
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
While KL Rahul is likely to retain his opening spot after an impressive performance in the first Test, Rohit Sharma is expected to bolster the middle order. Devdutt Padikkal and Dhruv Jurel make way for Gill and Rohit.
Australia’s Predicted Playing XI
Australia suffered a significant blow with the unavailability of Josh Hazlewood, who is ruled out due to a side strain. Scott Boland is expected to replace him, bringing prior pink-ball Test experience to the playing XI.
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
Boland’s inclusion adds depth to Australia’s bowling attack, especially under the lights where the pink ball promises assistance for seamers.
Adelaide Oval Test Stats & Records
- Total Matches: 86
- Matches Won Batting First: 41
- Matches Won Bowling First: 25
- Average 1st Innings Score: 377
- Highest Total: 674/10 by Australia vs. India
- Lowest Total: 77/10 by West Indies vs. Australia
Pitch Report for the Pink Ball Test
The Adelaide Oval pitch traditionally favours batters during day games, but the dynamics change drastically in a day-night Test. As the sun sets and floodlights take over, the pink ball offers extra seam and swing, providing significant help for pacers.
Expect a batting-friendly surface in the afternoon session, with pacers likely to dominate during the evening under the lights. The grass cover on the pitch ensures sufficient bounce and seam movement, creating a balanced battle between bat and ball.
Final Thoughts
The Australia vs India Pink Ball Test at Adelaide Oval promises to be an electrifying contest with both teams making strategic adjustments. India’s reshuffled batting order and Australia’s reliance on Scott Boland to fill Hazlewood’s shoes set the stage for an intense clash. Under the lights, the pink ball is expected to spice things up, keeping players and fans on their toes!
Mark your calendars and don’t miss a single moment of this exciting day-night Test from December 6!