Australia vs India 3rd Test Preview, Australia playing XI Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

A Crucial Encounter in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

The third Test between Australia and India at Brisbane’s Gabba promises to be a pivotal clash in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. With the series tied at 1-1, both teams will be looking to seize the advantage as they push for a spot in the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord’s in 2025. Known as Australia’s fortress, the Gabba will provide the perfect stage for a high-stakes showdown, with the home side announcing a formidable playing XI led by captain Pat Cummins.

Australia’s Playing XI: Hazlewood Returns

Australia has confirmed their playing XI for the Gabba Test, with one key change: pacer Josh Hazlewood returns to the side, replacing the unlucky Scott Boland. Hazlewood, who missed the second Test in Adelaide due to a side strain, has been declared fit after extensive rehabilitation and rigorous practice sessions. According to Cummins, Hazlewood is "super confident" about his fitness, having bowled at full tilt in both Adelaide and Brisbane in the lead-up to the Test.

The decision to leave out Scott Boland was not an easy one. Boland has been a consistent performer for Australia in recent years, and his efforts in Adelaide were commendable. Cummins acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, stating that Boland remains a key part of the squad and could return later in the series.

The confirmed Australian XI is:

• Usman Khawaja
• Nathan McSweeney
• Marnus Labuschagne
• Steve Smith
• Travis Head
• Mitch Marsh
• Alex Carey (wk)
• Pat Cummins (c)
• Mitchell Starc
• Nathan Lyon
• Josh Hazlewood

The Gabba Factor

The Gabba has long been a stronghold for Australian cricket, with the team losing just one Test at the venue in over three decades. The conditions at Brisbane typically favor fast bowlers, with the pitch offering pace, bounce, and lateral movement, especially in the early days of a Test.

The return of Josh Hazlewood bolsters an already intimidating pace attack comprising Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc. Cummins, the ICC No.1 Test bowler, will spearhead the attack, while Starc’s ability to swing the ball at high speeds adds another layer of menace. Nathan Lyon’s off-spin provides a potent spin option, particularly as the pitch begins to wear.

Travis Head: Australia’s X-Factor

Travis Head has emerged as one of Australia’s most reliable performers in recent years, and his form heading into the Gabba Test is a significant advantage for the hosts. His fearless century in Adelaide, a stunning 140 off 141 balls, played a pivotal role in leveling the series.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has heaped praise on Head, comparing him to the legendary Adam Gilchrist. Ponting highlighted Head’s ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, a trait that has been evident in his performances over the last 18 months. From his heroics in the ICC World Test Championship Final to his match-winning innings in the ODI World Cup final, Head has consistently risen to the occasion.

Ponting noted that Head’s aggressive stroke play and mental resilience make him a key figure in Australia’s middle order. His performances against India, including a century in the ICC WTC Final and big scores in the ongoing series, underline his ability to dominate high-caliber attacks.

India’s Challenge

For India, the Gabba Test is an opportunity to break Australia’s stronghold and take a decisive lead in the series. Their historic victory at the Gabba in 2021, where they chased down a record target despite missing key players, remains a source of inspiration.

However, replicating that feat will require exceptional performances, especially from their batting unit. India’s batters have struggled with consistency, particularly in the first innings. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the experienced pillars of India’s lineup, are yet to make significant contributions in the series. Youngsters like Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal have shown glimpses of potential but will need to step up in the face of Australia’s relentless bowling attack.

On the bowling front, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj will lead the pace attack, with Ravichandran Ashwin providing the spin option. The Indian bowlers have been effective in patches but will need to maintain pressure throughout the game to counter Australia’s deep batting lineup.

The Importance of the ICC World Test Championship

The stakes at the Gabba extend beyond the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Both Australia and India are in contention for a place in the ICC World Test Championship Final, making every match in the series critical. The points system in the WTC rewards victories heavily, and a win in Brisbane could provide crucial momentum for either side in their bid to secure a spot at Lord’s next year.

Key Match-Ups

The third Test is set to feature several intriguing battles. Steve Smith vs. Jasprit Bumrah remains one of the marquee contests, with Bumrah’s precision and Smith’s unorthodox style making for a captivating duel.

Travis Head’s aggressive batting will be tested against Ravichandran Ashwin’s guile. Ashwin has been a thorn in Australia’s side on numerous occasions and will be crucial to India’s chances of containing Head and the middle order.

For India, Rohit Sharma’s ability to counter Australia’s new-ball pair of Cummins and Starc will be pivotal. A solid start at the top of the order could set the tone for India’s innings and alleviate pressure on the middle order.

Weather Watch

The weather forecast for Brisbane adds another layer of complexity to the Test. Thunderstorms are predicted on the first day, with intermittent rain expected over the course of the match. These conditions could favor swing bowlers and disrupt the rhythm of play, making adaptability a key factor for both teams.

A Clash to Define the Series

The Gabba Test is shaping up to be a classic encounter, with both Australia and India bringing their A-game to one of cricket’s most iconic venues. For Australia, the return of Josh Hazlewood and the form of Travis Head provide confidence, while India will draw inspiration from their 2021 heroics and look to their senior players for leadership.

As the cricketing world turns its attention to Brisbane, the stage is set for a contest that could determine the trajectory of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and shape the road to the ICC World Test Championship Final.

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