AUS vs IND Match Preview

India is touring Australia to play 5th test matches. The grueling test series comes to an end with the fifth match being held at the SCG. After a superb win at the MCG in the boxing test, Australia now leads 2-1. Australia will face India in the fifth Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 3, 2025, at 5:00 AM IST. After leading 1-0 in the series following the first Test in Perth, India lost two of the next three Tests against Australia. They are currently trailing 1-2 in the series. This Test will determine whether India can level the series and keep its hopes for the WTC Final alive. Australia, on the other hand, appears confident, and they would like to secure the WTC Final spot in this Test itself.

AUS vs IND Match Details

Australia vs India – 5th Match, Test Match

Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground, Moore Park

Date & Time: 03rd January 2025 at 05:00 AM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

AUS vs IND Venue Stats

AUS vs IND Pitch Report

The Sydney offers a flat, hard surface. The pitch is true, with good pace and bounce, as well as the bowlers will have a lot of movement in the new ball. Bowlers will also notice good seam movement, especially with the new ball in play.

AUS vs IND Weather Report

The climate in Moore Park is likely to be cloudy, with some rain on the following two days.

AUS vs IND Last Five Matches

AUS vs IND Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Virat Kohli Aspires to Be Interim Test Captain for Transition Phase and Desires to Play Till 2027

AUS vs IND Probable Playing XIs:

Australia Probable Playing XIs

Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

India Probable Playing XIs

Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep

Topmost Picks for AUS vs IND Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – India

• Nitish Reddy – Nitish Reddy is by no means an all-rounder, and playing him as such could be one of the things holding India back.
• Jasprit Bumrah – Jasprit Brumrah has been outstanding not only in this series but throughout the entire year 2024. He has 30 wickets in the first four tests of this series with a ridiculous average of only 12.83.

Top Picks – Australia

• Travis Head – Travis found form with a brilliant 140-run innings and was adjudged the player of the match.
• Pat Cummins – Pat Cummins was the standout bowler of the series, with 20 wickets in 4 Tests at an average of 22.65.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for AUS vs IND Dream11 Team:

KL Rahul, Alex Carey, Yashasvi Jaiswal(VC), Steven Smith, Travis Head(C), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Jasprit Bumrah, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for AUS vs IND Dream11 Team:

KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Jasprit Bumrah(C), Pat Cummins(VC), Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Travis Head, Jasprit Bumrah

Vice-captain – Yashasvi Jaiswal, Pat Cummins

Wicketkeeper – KL Rahul

AUS vs IND Probable Winners:

Australia leads the five-match Test series 2-1 after losing the first match in Perth. India has batted horribly in the last three Tests. With the exception of Yashasvi Jaiswal and, to some extent, KL Rahul, India's batting appears to be weak. The current form of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli is a major concern. The Australians, on the other hand, are bowling extremely well, and their batting, particularly Smith and Head, has found some form. Considering the team combination, Australia is expected to win this match.

Isha Guha, the former England cricketer turned commentator, has always been a popular voice in the cricketing world. However, during the Boxing Day Test 2024, her commentary made headlines for a completely unexpected reason—her voice. Described by fans on social media as “seductive” and “refreshingly different,” Guha’s distinctive tone not only added charm to the broadcast but also sparked a wave of reactions from netizens.

Boxing Day Test 2024: The Voice That Captivated Fans

While most cricket commentary goes unnoticed beyond hardcore fans, Guha’s unique voice became the talking point during the iconic Boxing Day Test. Many viewers took to Twitter to express their admiration for her delivery style, with some even dubbing her commentary the highlight of the match. The viral buzz demonstrated her ability to connect with fans in a way few commentators manage. 

This seductive voice of Isha Guha and they made her to apologize .. Bumrah didn't even notice her comment 🤦🤦

pic.twitter.com/mevQEKC6wU

— ROFL.Ai (@ROFL_India) December 29, 2024

What Did Isha Guha Say? Fans Curious About the Viral Commentary Moment

During the Boxing Day Test 2024, Isha Guha’s commentary caught fans’ attention not for her words, but for her unique tone. The exact sentence she said remains unclear to some, but it was her soft, drawn-out inflection at the end of a statement that sparked intrigue. Many netizens described the moment as sounding like a subtle moan, leading to the “seductive voice” discussion online. Fans have clarified that it wasn’t the content of her words, but the natural charm of her voice that made this moment go viral.

Kerry : Good Afternoon

Isha Guha : good afternoon to you Kerry

i love that intro from Howie

yeah for you

Mmhhhmmm hmmmm ahan 

Kerry : it's a bit exaggerated ahhan

Viral Commentary Moments in Her Career

This isn’t the first time Isha Guha has gone viral. Known for her wit, charm, and professionalism, she has had other memorable moments:

1. The ‘Carrom Ball’ Query
   During a Big Bash League match, Guha’s innocent yet hilariously timed question, “How big is yours?” while discussing the technique behind the carrom ball, left the commentary box in stitches and fans amused. The clip quickly made rounds on social media. 

2. The Controversial ‘Primate’ Comment
   While praising Jasprit Bumrah during a Test match, Guha referred to him as the “MVP - Most Valuable Primate.” Although intended as a compliment, the phrase caused controversy due to its racial connotations. Guha’s immediate and heartfelt apology showcased her professionalism, and the incident became a learning moment for commentators worldwide.

Isa Guha apologises on TV for calling Jasprit Bumrah a "primate" during commentary yesterday 🇮🇳🤯🤯 #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/K5vaiB7wZi

— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) December 16, 2024

      3. The 'Do You Want a Climax' Moment

           In a memorable commentary session, Isha Guha, alongside Kerry O'Keeffe, shared a playful exchange that left viewers in stitches. During their conversation, Guha humorously asked, "Do you want a climax?" The light-hearted banter      between the duo showcased their chemistry and ability to keep the atmosphere lively in the commentary box.

           This moment quickly gained attention, adding to Guha's repertoire of viral clips that highlight her charm and wit. Such interactions underline her legendary status as a commentator who effortlessly balances insightful analysis with humour, especially when paired with dynamic personalities like O'Keeffe.

"Do you want a climax"🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

Isha guha is a legend in the com box especially when she's with Kerry O'Keeffe (skull).#INDvAUS #AUSvINDIA#AUSvIND #INDvAUSpic.twitter.com/o26Y3TQ17n

— trna (@Tryptophan_7) December 30, 2024

The Human Side of Commentary

Guha’s ability to captivate audiences goes beyond her voice. Her quick wit, deep understanding of the game, and willingness to address mistakes with grace have solidified her position as one of cricket’s most beloved commentators. Moments like these highlight the evolving role of sports broadcasting, where personalities play a significant part in engaging viewers.

Fans’ Reactions: A hilarious Mix of Admiration and Humor 

The online cricketing community didn’t hold back in sharing their thoughts. Tweets ranged from light-hearted praise to outright admiration:

• “Never thought I’d say this, but Isha Guha’s voice is the MVP of this Test match.”
• “Is it just me, or does Isha Guha’s commentary have a calming, yet seductive vibe?”
• “Cricket never sounded this good! Thank you, Isha Guha, for redefining commentary.”

While the majority of responses were positive, some fans humorously debated whether her voice was “too engaging” for a high-stakes cricket match.

Isa Guha on commentary-
"Too much happening at the G" 🥵 pic.twitter.com/YkCVAuogP7

— Dinda Academy (@academy_dinda) December 30, 2024

don’t know why but isha guha’s commentary turns me on 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

— Pr𝕏tham (@Prxtham_18) December 29, 2024

Isha Guha in commentary box: #KKRvRCB pic.twitter.com/lfA6OyiHtQ

— जॉन स्नो - 🚩 zone wale (@DefucktiveGuy) April 19, 2019

Isa Guha's commentary 🥰🥰🥰🥺✊✊✊💦💦💦💦✊✊✊✊💦💦💦💦

— jataayu (@WoKyaHotaHai) December 30, 2024

Isha Guha is just English version of her. Her voice is 🤤#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/En5idJvtah

— Cricket Police (@PoliceCricket) December 30, 2024

ahh the orgasm🥵🥵

— Shivam (@Shivam1931323) December 29, 2024

Why it's sounded like a foreplay session 😭

— 𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝗝𝗶𝗻 𝗪𝗼𝗼 (@ShadowMonarkV) December 29, 2024

Conclusion

From her “seductive” voice stealing the show during the Boxing Day Test to her light-hearted and controversial viral moments, Isha Guha continues to leave a lasting impact on cricket fans. Whether through humour, insight, or introspection, her commentary elevates the sport and connects with audiences on a deeper level. As netizens keep buzzing, one thing is certain: Isha Guha is more than just a commentator; she’s a voice that resonates in the cricketing world.

On Day 2 of the 4th Test between India and Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, Australia dominated from start to finish, leaving India in a tough spot by the end of the day.

Australia Takes Control

Australia resumed their innings from 311/6, with Steve Smith leading the charge. Smith played a brilliant knock, scoring 140 runs and reaching his 34th Test century. With his support, Australia posted a massive 474 runs in their first innings.

Early Wickets for India

India faced early setbacks in their batting chase. Skipper Rohit Sharma fell cheaply for just 3 runs, caught out off a misjudged pull shot. KL Rahul also struggled and was dismissed for 24 just before tea, giving Australia a strong grip on the game.

Read Also:Virat Kohli’s Aggression That Backfires on Team India

Jaiswal and Kohli Provide Hope

The Indian middle order did show some resistance. Yashasvi Jaiswal played an impressive knock of 82 runs, finding form with elegant drives and boundaries. He was involved in a solid 102-run partnership with Virat Kohli, who was batting with great discipline. However, disaster struck when a misunderstanding between the two led to Jaiswal being run out. Jaiswal called for a quick single, but Kohli hesitated, leaving Jaiswal stranded and out of the crease.

Kohli, who had been playing carefully, then fell for 36. He edged a delivery from Scott Boland to wicketkeeper Alex Carey, ending his gritty innings. India’s situation worsened when nightwatchman Akash Deep was dismissed for a duck off Boland’s bowling, leaving India at 164/5 at stumps, still trailing Australia by 310 runs.

India's Uphill Task on Day 3

As the day came to a close, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja were at the crease, with India still facing a mountain to climb. They will need to bat with resilience on Day 3 to avoid further collapse, while Australia will look to extend their advantage and press for a win.

The five-match series is tied at 1-1, and the battle for supremacy is far from over. India must regroup and show determination to stay in the game.

Read Also:Rohit Sharma Trolled as His Struggles in BGT 2024-25 Persist

AUS vs IND Match Preview

With the five-match series hanging on the balance, Australia will face India in the fourth Test on Boxing Day. Both teams hope to gain an insurmountable advantage. The match begins on Thursday at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.

AUS vs IND Match Details

Australia vs India – 4th Match, Test Match

Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Richmond

Date & Time: 26th December 2024 at 05:00 AM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

AUS vs IND Venue Stats

AUS vs IND Pitch Report

The Melbourne offers a flat, hard surface. The pitch is true, with good pace and bounce, as well as the bowlers will have a lot of movement in the new ball. Bowlers will also notice good seam movement, especially with the new ball in play.

AUS vs IND Weather Report

The climate in Richmond is likely to be cloudy, with some rain on the following two days.

AUS vs IND Last Five Matches

AUS vs IND Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: SunRisers Hyderabad's fresh signee named to Sri Lankan ODI squad for New Zealand tour

AUS vs IND Probable Playing XIs:

Australia Probable Playing XIs

Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh/Beau Webster, Travis Head, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins(C), Alex Carey (WK), Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

India Probable Playing XIs

Rohit Sharma(C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant(WK), Nitish Reddy, R Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep

Topmost Picks for AUS vs IND Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – India

• Yashasvi Jaiswal – Virat Kohli hasn't been in the best of form this season, averaging slightly more than 25 in the 9 games played in 2024.
• Jasprit Bumrah – Bumrah has been the leading wicket-taker in the series with 12 scalps at an average of just 11.25.

Top Picks – Australia

• Usman Khawaja – Khawaja has an impressive record at the MCG, where he averages more than 42 runs.
• Scott Boland – Scott Boland’s 51 wickets against India at an average of 26.94 make him a potent weapon.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for AUS vs IND Dream11 Team:

KL Rahul(VC), Rishabh Pant, Alex Carey, Steve Smith, Travis Head(C), Nitish Reddy, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for AUS vs IND Dream11 Team:

KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Alex Carey, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Nitish Reddy, Mitchell Starc(VC), R Jadeja, Pat Cummins, Jasprit Bumrah(C), Mohammed Siraj

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Travis Head, Jasprit Bumrah

Vice-captain – KL Rahul, Mitchell Starc

Wicketkeeper – KL Rahul

AUS vs IND Probable Winners:

Australia and India were close competitors in this series, as evidenced by the 1-1 tie. However, despite a strong start, India has struggled to maintain a competitive advantage. Australia was hampered by the weather in Brisbane but appeared to be the superior team. India's dependence on Jasprit Bumrah is obvious, as are the cracks in both teams' batting lineups. A close contest is likely, but Australia possesses more weapons at its disposal. It is also expected to win a toss soon! Considering the team combination, Australia is expected to win this match.

As expected since India’s follow-on avoidance, the Brisbane Test ended with a draw result but with an unexpected thrilling turn, where rain spoiled the entire moment. 

Starting the fifth day at 252/9 in reply to Australia’s first innings total of 445 runs, the Indian last batters added eight more runs before Travis Head dismissed Akash Deep for 31 runs off 44 balls (two fours and one six) as he was stumped out. 

Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep added 47 runs for the last wicket. It was India's third-highest 10th-wicket partnership in Test cricket in Australia. 

See Also: Ravichandran Ashwin retires from international cricket

Australia declared at 89/7

Australia started their second innings of the Gabba Test with a lead of 185 runs, but the Indian pacers dominated from the early period. Australia lost five wickets for 33 runs, where Jasprit Bumrah started with two wickets, while Akash Deep shined from the beginning by picking up the next two wickets, and Mohammed Siraj sent the first innings centurion Steven Smith very early. 

Later, Travis Head (17), Alex Carey (20*), and captain Pat Cummins (22) cleared their minds with big shots as they were busy to start the fourth innings as soon as possible in the bad weather. Australia ultimately declared their innings at 89/7 in 18 overs, as India had the fourth innings target of 275 runs in 54 possible overs.

Indian openers stayed not out in the tricky period

Indian openers came to bat in the full dark cloud weather, which was only confirming the fifth-day weather forecast. Aussie fast bowlers, the left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Starc and the skipper Pat Cummins, only managed to bowl 13 balls, where India scored 8/0 before the bad light called the tea break sooner.

Both the Indian openers, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, didn’t look nervous in the tricky period, as the fourth innings couldn't be restarted due to dominant rain. Both the umpires and teams quickly came to the draw decision. 

Series remained level at 1-1

At the end of the Brisbane Test, the five-match Test series Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 is hanging at 1-1 with the last two Tests to go. While India won the Test series opener at Perth by 295 runs, Australia won the day-night pink ball Adelaide Test by 10 wickets. 

Iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground will host the fourth Test of the series, starting on December 26. Later, another iconic venue Sydney Cricket Ground will host the last Test, starting on January 3, 2025.

In the crucial Brisbane Test, while hosts Australia have earned a massive advantage, they have been hit by a fresh injury concern in the first session of the fourth day as one of the key pacers couldn’t bowl much. 

After scoring 445 runs in the first innings of the Gabba Test, Australian pacers dominated on the third day as India were struggling at 51/4. Apart from the opener KL Rahul, who remained not out at 33 runs, all other Indian batters failed to reach double-digit scores.

Watch: KL Rahul's century denied by Steven Smith's stunning catch

Josh Hazlewood reported calf awareness

On the fourth day, Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood could bowl only one over in the first session due to a calf injury. During warm-up, the right-arm pacer felt discomfort in the calf. Later, it was revealed that the right-arm pacer was taken for scans in the treatment for calf awareness. 

An Australian spokesperson said, "Josh Hazlewood reported calf awareness in this morning’s warm-up. He will be taken for scans to assess the injury. Any updates will be shared in due course."

During India’s first innings of the Brisbane Test, Hazlewood picked up the wicket of the former Indian captain Virat Kohli. 

Hazlewood missed the Adelaide Test

Hazlewood missed out on the second Test of the ongoing five-match Test series at Adelaide Oval, which was a day-night pink ball Test match, due to a side strain. Scott Boland replaced him for that Test match, and the right-arm pacer troubled the Indian batters heavily. 

The five-match Test series, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, is currently standing at 1-1. While the visitors India started this Test series with a victory by 295 runs at Perth Stadium, Australia won the pink-ball Adelaide Test match by 10 wickets. 

India are in a difficult position in the Brisbane Test, as even the rainy third day of the Test match couldn’t save the visitors from the uncomfortable situation. 

Starting the third day at 405/7, the hosts scored 445 runs after spending more than 15 overs on the crucial rain-marred day. Just like the forecast, rain dominated the third day of the Test match, where India are on the back foot at 51/4 at the early stumps of the day. 

See Also: Mandhana and Rodrigues propel India's win in the series opener against West Indies

Only KL Rahul managed to reach the double-digit score

Except for the opener KL Rahul, all other Indian batters who came out to bat haven’t reached the double-digit mark. Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal started the innings with a boundary but was out on the next delivery of Mitchell Starc after setting up a catch for Mitchell Marsh at forward square leg. 

Shubman Gill only managed to score 1 run as the right-handed batter was Starc’s next victim after Marsh took a flying catch at the gully. 

Former Indian skipper Virat Kohli once again lost his wicket in a similar fashion as Josh Hazlewood has returned to Test cricket with a key wicket. 

Rishabh Pant came to bat at no. 5, and the left-handed batter was caught behind at nine runs as the Aussie skipper Pat Cummins took his first wicket of the match. 

With the help of four boundaries, opener KL Rahul remained not out for 33 runs off 64 balls. Indian captain Rohit Sharma was not out for none after facing six deliveries. 

Alex Carey scored 70 after Jasprit Bumrah's six-fer

In the morning session, Jasprit Bumrah completed his six-wicket haul after dismissing Mitchell Starc, who was caught behind for 18 runs. Before that wicket, Alex Carrey completed his half-century. While Mohammed Siraj then bowled Nathan Lyon for just two runs, Akash Deep took his first wicket of the match by dismissing Carrey for 70 runs off 88 balls (seven fours and two sixes).

The 31-year-old Indian right-arm fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah once again produced his special bowling performance, especially when India were in trouble in the first innings of the Brisbane Test.

The second day of the Gabba Test, the third Test of the five-match Test series, started at Australia’s first innings total of 28/0. In the first half an hour, Australia lost both the openers as Bumrah took the wickets of Usman Khawaja (21) and Nathan McSweeney (9). Both the openers had no answers against the master fast bowler. 

Struggling at 75/3, Australia made a strong comeback, thanks to the 200+ partnership between the centurions Steven Smith and Travis Head. While Smith scored his 33rd Test century, Head slammed his ninth Test century, as both the batters were in complete control.

However, with the second new ball, Bumrah showed his class once again. After dismissing Smith for 101 runs, he took the wickets of Mitchell Marsh (5) and Head in the same over. While Head scored 152 runs, Smith and Head had an outstanding 241-run partnership for the crucial fourth wicket. 

Watch: Mohammed Siraj's bails swap trick brings Marnus Labuschagne's wicket quickly

Jasprit Bumrah recorded the second fifer in this Test series

While Australia scored 405/7 at the stumps on day two, Bumrah finished the day with bowling figures of 25-7-72-5. It was his second fifer in this Test series, which came after his Perth Test fifer as a captain. After the legendary cricketer Kapil Dev recorded multiple five-wicket hauls in two Australian tours (2 times in the 1980-81 series and 2 times in 1991-92), Bumrah became another Indian pacer to record multiple fifers in a Test series in Australia.

Bumrah recorded his third 4+ wickets haul in the Test series

On the other hand, after 5/30 and 4/61 in Australia’s first innings of the Perth Test and Adelaide Test, respectively, the latest fifer was Bumrah’s third four or more wickets haul in an innings in this Test series. After Kapil Dev recorded it three times in the 1991-92 season, Bumrah became the second Indian pacer to record three four+ wicket hauls in a Test series in Australia. 

Bumrah recorded his 12th Test fifer

Talking about Bumrah’s fifer in the first innings of the Gabba Test, it was his 12th Test fifer. Surpassing legendary Indian pacers Zaheer Khan and Ishant Sharma (both recorded 11 five-wicket hauls), Bumrah has now climbed to second place in the list of most Test fifers by an Indian pacer. Only Kapil Dev is ahead of Bumrah in this list with 23 Test fifers. 

Bumrah recorded his 10th Test fifer outside India

On the other hand, it was Bumrah’s 10th Test five-wicket haul outside India. After the legendary Indian pacer Kapil Dev (12 Test fifers outside India) and the leg-spinner Anil Kumble (10 Test fifers outside India), Bumrah became the third Indian bowler to record 10 or more Test fifers outside the home soil. 

Despite a good start, the visitors India are under pressure at the stumps on the second day of the Brisbane Test as Steven Smith and Travis Head’s centuries set the full control of the game for the hosts Australians.   

After the rain-interrupted opening day of the Gabba Test, which experienced only 80 balls, Australia started the second day at 28/0. 

India controlled the first session

In the first half an hour, both the Aussie openers Usman Khawaja and newcomer Nathan McSweeney were dismissed by the Indian star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Nitish Kumar Reddy picked up the third wicket by dismissing Marnus Labuschagne, which came after the Aussie batter’s hilarious bails swap moment with Mohammed Siraj. At that moment, Australia scored 75/3. 

Steven Smith and Travis Head replied strongly

Hosts dominated in the second session, where Steven Smith and Travis Head added 130 runs in 27 overs without losing their wickets. After Head’s naturally aggressive batting, Smith came out from the pressure and set a great example with his familiar batting. 

After completing his half-century in 71 balls, Head scored his ninth Test century in 115 balls. It was his second century in this Test series, which came in consecutive innings. 

Meanwhile, Smith completed his first 50 runs in 128 balls and then completed his century in 185 balls. It was his first Test century after 24 innings. While it was his 33rd Test century, he surpassed legendary Steve Waugh to record the second most Test centuries by an Australian batter. While Smith recorded the joint most Test centuries against India with English legend Joe Root by recording his 10th Test hundred, he also set a new record for most international centuries against India with his 15th international century. 

See Also: Mohammed Shami included in Bengal squad for Vijay Hazare Trophy

Jasprit Bumrah shined once again

However, Jasprit Bumrah once again put the visitors in the game by taking wickets with the second new ball. While Smith lost his wicket for 101 runs (12 fours) as he produced a thick edge to the slip, captain Rohit Sharma grabbed a superb catch to end the frustrating partnership. Before that wicket, Smith and Head had a partnership of 241 runs for the fourth wicket.

Soon, Bumrah dismissed Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head in a single over. While Marsh only managed to score five runs, Head lost his wicket only after scoring valuable 152 runs off 160 balls (18 fours). It was Head’s 140+ runs in back-to-back Test innings. 

Alex Carey and the skipper Pat Cummins had a 58-run partnership for the seventh wicket before Cummins was caught behind in Mohammed Siraj’s over after scoring 20 runs. 

Australia scored 400+ total after 16 Test innings

Australia ended the second day of the Gabba Test at 405/7. While Carey scored 45 not out off 47 balls with five fours and one six, Mitchell Starc was not out at seven runs. They have set up a 20-run partnership for the unbroken eighth wicket. It was Australia's first 400+ total after 16 Test innings, including 12 completed or declared innings.

Jasprit Bumrah completed his 12th Test five-wicket haul by ending the day with the bowling figures of 25-7-72-5. 

While the in-experienced Indian batting has been struggling, Australia have the headache of poor weather forecast for the next three days of the Test match. As the series is in the 1-1 level position, this third Test of the five-match Test series is very crucial for both teams, who can afford a draw but not a defeat.

The crucial Brisbane Test had a disappointing start as the rain frustrated the opening day of the Test match, which involved only 80 balls. 

Indian captain Rohit Sharma chose to field first after winning the toss, which is also  Virat Kohli's 100th international match against Australia. Aussie openers Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney were really cautious while the Indian pacers fought hard with the new ball but hardly generated threatening swings. 

See Also: Shakib banned by ECB for illegal bowling action

Australia end Day 1 with 28 for no loss

Rain first interrupted when Australia were batting at 19/0 in 5.3 overs. The game restarted in 30 minutes and the hosts scored 28/0 in 13.2 overs when the second rain interruption started. This time rain completely dominated as soon the cricket fans experienced a disappointing waterlogged. There was no surprise that the umpires called off the day. At the end of the day, Khawaja scored 19 not out off 47 balls with three fours, and McSweeney was batting at four off 33 balls.

A minimum of 98 overs to be bowled in the remaining four days

All remaining four days of the Test match will begin at 9:50 AM local time, and the days will be extended with a minimum of 98 overs to be bowled. As the day experienced less than 15 overs, the Cricket Australia (CA) has announced a full refund for the opening day tickets.   

The weather forecast suggests less rain for the second day of the Gabba Test. However, the last three days can hugely be disturbed due to the strong rain forecast. 

It is an important Test series for both Australia and India as both are fighting to grab the top two spots of the 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship points table. The five-match Test series is currently at 1-1 after the completion of the first two Tests. While the visitors India started the Test series with a 295-run victory at Perth, Australia won the day-night pink-ball Test by 10 wickets at Adelaide.