On this day in 2021, January 19, 2021, the Indian cricket team made a miracle with one of the greatest Test wins in history by breaching the Gabba fortress to win the historic Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21. It was Australia’s first Test defeat at the Gabba in 32 years. 

It was the fourth and final Test of the four-match Test series in Australia. While the series was standing at 1-1 before the Gabba Test in Brisbane, the Ajinkya Rahane-led Indian team had some new and irregular faces, which made the hosts undoubted favourites before the beginning of the Test. 

2021 Gabba Test: Injury-marred India were clueless

While the Indian team was already missing their regular captain Virat Kohli after the first Test of the series due to paternity leave, the team missed out on the injured players Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Hanuma Vihari for the Gabba Test. 

The right-arm pacer Mohammed Siraj was leading the Indian bowling line-up in the Gabba Test with only two Test experiences, while Navdeep Saini and Shardul Thakur were playing their second Test. The left-arm pacer T Natarajan and spin-bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar made their Test debuts. Meanwhile, the opener Shubman Gill was playing his third Test.

See Also: Reason behind dropping Mohammed Siraj from ODI squad revealed

2021 Gabba Test (1st innings): Marnus Labuschagne scored century

Australian captain Tim Paine chose to bat first after winning the toss. Although Aussie openers lost their wickets in single digits, Marnus Labuschagne’s (108) century and key middle-order support with a couple of the 40s and the skipper’s 50 runs helped the hosts to score 369 runs. 

Indian pacers T Natarajan (3/78) and Shardul Thakur (3/94) took three wickets each along with the off-spinner Washington Sundar (3/89). 

2021 Gabba Test (2nd innings): Sundar and Thakur scored valuable 60s

India were struggling at 186/6, where the opener Rohit Sharma (44) was the only batter to reach the 40-run mark. However, Washington Sundar (62) and Shardul Thakur (67) rescued the visitors with their 60s as they had a partnership of 123 runs for the seventh wicket. While Josh Hazlewood claimed a fifer (5/57), India ended their first innings with 336 runs. 

2021 Gabba Test (3rd innings): Siraj's fifer and Thakur's 4-fer restricted the hosts

Starting their second innings with a 33-run lead, Australia were bowled out for 294 runs. Opener David Warner (48) and former captain Steven Smith (55) had the key roles for the baggy greens in setting up the fourth innings target of challenging 328 runs for the visitors. While the Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj picked up a fifer (5/73), Shardul Thakur had a four-fer (4/61).

2021 Gabba Test (1st innings): Fearless Pant guided to history after Gill's 91 and Pujara's long batting 

India started the fifth day of the series finale Test at 4/0. Although the opener Rohit Sharma was dismissed for seven runs, the new opener Shubman Gill impressed with his batting, and solid Cheteshwar Pujara frustrated Aussie bowlers with his patient batting. Gill and Pujara set up a 114-run partnership for the second wicket to make the game on for the visitors, where Gill scored 91 off 146 balls with the help of eight fours and two sixes. 

After the skipper Rahane scored 24 off 22 balls (four fours and one six), Pujara and Rishabh Pant had a 61-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Pujara scored 56 off 211 balls (seven fours) before Pat Cummins dismissed him. 

Although Mayank Agarwal was out for nine runs, Pant was sensational with his bat, and Washington Sundar once again produced a valuable partnership. They had a 53-run partnership for the sixth wicket before Nathan Lyon bowled Sundar for 22 off 29 balls (two fours and one six). 

However, fearless Pant controlled the chasing without any tension, and even though Shardul Thakur was out for two runs, India chased the target with three wickets in hand. Pant scored 89 not out off 138 balls with the help of nine fours and one six, and the excited Indian players jumped with joy for winning the series by 2-1.

2021 Gabba Test: Australia lost at the Test venue after 32 years

It was Australia’s first Test defeat at the Gabba after 32 years. Previously, they lost a Gabba Test in November 1988 against West Indies (9 wickets). It was their first Gabba Test defeat after 31 Tests, which also broke their seven-match winning streak in the Test venue.

Nitish Kumar Reddy Receives Hero’s Welcome in Visakhapatnam After Impressive Australia Tour

When Nitish Kumar Reddy, the seam-bowling all-rounder from India, came back to his hometown, Visakhapatnam, in Andhra Pradesh, he was welcomed with lots of cheer as he landed at the airport. His great abilities with both the bat and ball made him a big find for the Indian team during the recent test tour of Australia. The big celebration thrown for him when he got home showed how proud his local people were of all the good things he did playing for the country.

As Nitish exited the Visakhapatnam airport, the atmosphere was electric, with excited fans eagerly waiting to greet him. The streets were filled with joy as they showered him with yellow petals, a symbol of respect and admiration. He was presented with a large yellow garland, which added to the festive mood surrounding his return. Cameras captured the heartwarming moments as Nitish was showered with love from his supporters. Nitish, who hails from Gajwuaka, a locality in Visakhapatnam, was seen sitting proudly in the front seat of an open jeep, waving to his fans. His father, Mutyalu, joined him in the vehicle, sitting behind his son, reflecting the family’s pride and joy. The streets were lined with fans eager to get a glimpse of the all-rounder, many of whom cheered and applauded as Nitish passed by, basking in the admiration of his hometown. The reception was a testament to Nitish Kumar Reddy’s rising stature in Indian cricket.

ALSO READ: Dewald Brevis Smashes Record-Breaking 23-Ball Fifty in SA20 2025

INSANE WELCOME FOR NITISH KUMAR REDDY IN HYDERABAD. 🤯🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/XdDWGQSdEY

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) January 9, 2025

 His performances in Australia had left a lasting impact, and his return to Visakhapatnam was met with a level of adoration befitting a hero. The warm welcome serves as a reminder of the connection between players and their local communities, with Nitish’s success on the global stage only adding to the pride of Visakhapatnam. As he continues to make waves in international cricket, Nitish’s journey is one of hard work, dedication, and the support of his loved ones, who have been with him every step of the way. This hero’s welcome is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and successful career for the young all-rounder.

When Nitish Kumar Reddy got back to Visakhapatnam, his hometown showed him a very big and special greeting because they're extremely proud and truly respect what he's done internationally. Mr. Reddy mastered it in Australia, proving he's one of the up-and-coming seam-bowling all-rounders for India. With all the support and love he's getting from his town, it's definitely going to drive him to be even better and achieve more success as he keeps going in his cricket career.

Nitish Kumar Reddy Career Stats

BGT 2024-2025: A Thrilling Chapter in Cricket History

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-2025 just wrapped up, and gosh, was it an anomalous ride. It's easily one of the most exciting series the tournament has ever seen. Playing five intense tests, India and Australia played very hard—keeping cricket fans very excited with all the conflict, nail-biting rivalries, and amazing shows that made this series stand out.

Intense Rivalries and On-Field Drama

This year, the games had some very exciting face-offs that will be noted for a long time. One important rivalry was between Prasidh Krishna, a fast bowler from India, and Steve Smith, an experienced hitter from Australia. All through the set of games, Prasidh's balls that jumped up bothered Smith, resulting in some upset moments. Smith, who is usually calm, was in a conflict with Prasidh, and both players had great plays that made differences in the games.Another interesting part of the set of games was a clash between

BGT is pure cinema and has overtaken Ashes in craze, competitiveness & theatrics🔥pic.twitter.com/HvhqEYcWyz

— Rajiv (@Rajiv1841) December 29, 2024

Sam Konstas and Jasprit Bumrah, a very good bowler from India.They kept challenging each other. Konstas hit Bumrah's hard-to-hit balls very well. Many times Bumrah was too good for Konstas, but the Australian hitter made a hundred, which caused some strong celebrating and increased the tension. This was a major story for the games, showing how badly the two sides wanted to win.

ALSO READ: PCB Changes Date and Venue for PSL 2025 Draft Due to Logistical Issues

Another dramatic part of the entire set of matches was a sparky conflict between Mohammed Siraj and Steve Smith.Siraj's fast pace and movement were trouble for Smith during all the games. One particular time, Siraj killed Smith out with an amazing ball, which left Smith really bothered. The phenomena that happened after showed the worry between the two of them; and the loud, energetic cheering from the crowd when Siraj celebrated. Smith, being someone who loves to compete, came back with good hitting in the next set of games, making the conflict still key during the games.The entire event provided a list of which battles showed each player's great athletic ability. Every contest gave a potential to really engage the people watching. Maybe you might hold credence that these rivalries demonstrated all the ups and downs of sports at the highest level.

A Series to Remember

India's batting was extremely strong, with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli leading the way, even when Australia threw their fastest bowlers at them. The series was amazing because it was about high-quality cricket, not simply the battles between players. And then there was Todd Murphy from Australia - a new player who really got noticed.

Fans around the world are now extremely excited for what happens next in this amazing rivalry because of how intense the matches were. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-2025 will go in history not only because the cricket was exciting--but also because the teams tried really hard and always kept trying. Watching the series really showed everyone what cricket is characterized by.

The cricket series, called BGT's Finest 2024-2025: A Conflict to Remember, between India and Australia, was really intense with many amazing plays. Both teams really wanted to win, knowing the competition between them is of significant consequence in the sport. Young Indian players, such as Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj, did really well, while Australia used older players, such as Pat Cummins and boland.The bowlers mostly controlled the series, so both teams sometimes had difficulty scoring a large amount of runs. The matches were very close, the energy bouncing between sides, which made everything exciting. People watched excitedly to see impressive fast pitches, the ball changing direction quickly, and great catches in the field.

The conflict to be the better team included anomalous changes, with each side trying hard right until the end. In the last match, either India's strength or Australia's skill finished the series. The series was not only about the final score but also about the great effort and sports behavior from both teams. When the series was over, it had a large effect on the concentrated environment, or world, of cricket, making it clear that India playing against Australia is a rivalry that everyone looks forward to.While it is considered true this is an accurate assessment, the series lacked a certain basically exciting feeling and those additional things similar to all those enhancements.

On this day, 7 January 2019, Indian cricket created history. For the first time in 71 years of traveling to Australia and playing Test series, India won a series on Australian soil. This victory in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2018-19 was not just any win—it was a moment of pride for every Indian cricket fan.

Under the captaincy of Virat Kohli, India defeated Australia 2-1 in the 4-match Test series. Virat Kohli, emotional in the post-match interview, said, “This win is bigger than the 2011 World Cup victory.” He was young during the World Cup win, but this time he truly understood the value of this achievement. It was India’s 13th tour of Australia, and finally, after 14 captains had tried and failed, Virat Kohli became the first Indian captain to lift a Test series trophy in Australia.

The series started with a thrilling win for India in the Adelaide Test, where they beat Australia by 31 runs. However, Australia bounced back in the second Test at Perth, defeating India by 146 runs. India made a strong comeback in the third Test at Melbourne, winning by 137 runs. The fourth and final Test in Sydney could have ended in another victory for India, as they enforced a follow-on on Australia. However, rain washed out play on Day 5, and the match ended in a draw.

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

Despite the rain, India won the series 2-1 and became the first Asian team to win a Test series on Australian soil.

CELEBRATIONS FROM TEAM HOTEL AFTER THE SERIES WIN IN AUSTRALIA IN 2019. 😍🇮🇳pic.twitter.com/Y87gb2l3FH

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) January 7, 2025

THE CELEBRATIONS FROM VIRAT KOHLI AND HIS BOYS AFTER SCRIPTING HISTORY. ❤️pic.twitter.com/2uMkU3vjxl

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) January 7, 2025

Cheteshwar Pujara was the hero with the bat. He scored 521 runs, including three centuries, and faced a record 1,258 balls in the series, showing remarkable patience and skill. His average was close to 75. Rishabh Pant also played well, scoring 350 runs, including a brilliant century. Virat Kohli contributed 282 runs, including one century, to make it a team effort.

In bowling, Jasprit Bumrah was the standout performer. He took 21 wickets at an incredible average of 17. He was well supported by Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma, who took crucial wickets throughout the series.

A Series That Changed History

This victory in 2019 was just the beginning of India’s dominance in Test cricket. India went on to win the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy as well, defeating Australia 2-1 again, despite facing injuries and challenges.

While the recently concluded 2024-25 BGT ended in a 3-1 loss for India, no one can forget the significance of that first historic win in 2018-19. It was a moment that changed the perception of Indian cricket forever.

Srikkanth Calls Shubman Gill Overrated

On his YouTube channel, Kris Srikkanth, a major name from India's 1986 World Cup win and famous for not holding back, got very upset with Shubman Gill. Mr. Srikkanth was basically saying, I have been telling people Shubman Gill is overrated for years but it's clear nobody cared. The man is significantly overrated.

Srikkanth questioned Gill's repeated inclusion in the playing XI and pointed out the lack of opportunities for other players like Suryakumar Yadav. Addressing the Ajit Agarkar led selection committee, he remarked, "When Gill is being given so many chances, one might wonder if someone like Suryakumar Yadav could have also been given a longer run in Tests."

Srikkanth mentioned that Suryakumar has the skills and technique, even though he didn't begin well in tests. But, he also said that the selectors and management see him mainly as a white-ball player, so they should look for new talent now.

ALSO READ: Yashasvi Jaiswal Considered as First Choice Opener for England Series

In addition to Suryakumar, Srikkanth recommended two other Indian batters for selection in the Test team. "Ruturaj Gaikwad, for instance, has been performing exceptionally well in first-class cricket, but he's been overlooked. Meanwhile, Sai Sudharsan has been impressing in 'A' tours. It's important to promote such emerging talents, but instead, they keep picking Gill, running in circles," he added.

Rohit Sharma, the Captain, wasn't there for the Perth match, and Gill also missed the first Test because he was hurt--but India still won it. Gill wasn't part of the fourth Test because he wasn't doing a good job--but he did come back for the last trade. After coming back, India started to have a tougher time. Then everything became very exciting when Ravichandran Ashwin decided to retire right after the third Test, and everyone was discussing it.Despite coming back, Rohit decided to skip the fifth Test.

Cheeka talking about Shubman Gill.

- He is playing very poorly
- no one is talking about Gill, people talking about KL Rahul and virat form why not Gill
- If Gill plays in England 1 or 2 balls or 1 over He will get out pic.twitter.com/7kvj0J9OP0

— Prakash (@definitelynot05) January 4, 2025

Shubman Gill, who had been part of the Indian squad for the early matches, was sidelined for the first Test of the series due to an injury, which India won. At the same time, Rohit Sharma missed the Perth fixture, leaving avoid in the leadership and batting lineup. The team's fortunes took a downturn in the subsequent matches, with their performance faltering despite high expectations.

Ravichandran Ashwin, a key figure in India's bowling attack, announced his immediate retirement after the third Test under controversial circumstances, sparking debate within the cricket community. His exit added to the already tense atmosphere surrounding the team.

Gill, struggling with form throughout the series, was dropped for the fourth Test. He was given another opportunity to prove himself in the final Test, making his return to the playing XI. However, Rohit Sharma decided to sit out the fifth Test, raising questions about his fitness and readiness. His absence in the final match further complicated India's efforts to secure a victory in the series. Despite returning, Gill's performance remained under scrutiny, adding to the ongoing discussions about his place in the team.

Shubman Gill Career Stats Batting & Fielding

Nitish Kumar Reddy's Father Touches Sunil Gavaskar's Feet: A Heartfelt Moment in Indian Cricket

On Sunday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, something exceptionally wonderful happened. Mutyala Reddy, the father of Nitish Kumar Reddy who just scored a century in a test for India, did something wonderful in front of batting legend Sunil Gavaskar. Reddy really bent over and touched Sunil Gavaskar's feet. It was a special moment to see.

The most emotional and poignant moment - cricket and Indian culture!
Nitish Kumar Reddy’s father, and his respect and emotions for the Great Sunil Gavaskar pic.twitter.com/BXFTTqc9xA

— Vikrant Gupta (@vikrantgupta73) December 29, 2024

The Milestone Achievement

Nitish Kumar Reddy, a 21-year-old all-rounder for India, did something very big during the fourth test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) against Australia by hitting his first-ever test century. Reddy scored an impressive 114 runs from 189 balls, including 11 boundaries and a six. His amazing batting not only pulled India out of a tough spot but also made history. Reddy set a record for the highest score by any Indian batter at number eight or below in a test match in Australia. This achievement really changed everything for India, giving them a chance to shine again during the match.

ALSO READ:Jasprit Bumrah breaks another record as India’s fastest pacer

A Father's Emotional Gesture

Mutyala Reddy, feeling very emotional, did something traditional from India to show his respect he touched Sunil Gavaskar's feet because he was very grateful and admired him very much this act of respect was strikingly large in the cricket world, pointing out how important culture is at a time like this. It all happened because Mutyala Reddy was very happy and thankful when his son, Nitish Kumar Reddy, did something very special.

Sunil Gavaskar's Response

Gavaskar hugged Mutyala Reddy, obviously touched by what he did. We understand how much he has sacrificed. He has struggled a lot. You're the reason I'm feeling strong feelings. You have given India, and Indian cricket, a real treasure, Gavaskar said, showing a large amount of respect for how much the Reddy family gave up to help Nitish reach his cricket goals.

He pointed out that the connection players have with their families is vitally important to succeed in a big way.

The fourth Test match between India and Australia is set to commence on December 26, 2024, at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). This Boxing Day Test holds significant importance as the five-match series is currently tied at 1-1 after three matches, with valuable World Test Championship points at stake.

Pitch Report:

The MCG pitch has been a focal point in the lead-up to the match. Observations indicate a hint of green on the surface, suggesting that fast bowlers might find early assistance. However, as the match progresses, the pitch is expected to offer opportunities for batsmen, making it a balanced contest between bat and ball.

Historical Context:

The MCG has been a venue of mixed fortunes for both teams. In the previous series, the fourth Test at the MCG ended in a draw, with both sides showcasing formidable performances. Notably, Virat Kohli scored a century, and Ravichandran Ashwin achieved a five-wicket haul, highlighting the competitive nature of encounters at this ground.

Key Players to Watch:

• India: Captain Rohit Sharma, who recently surpassed 17,000 international runs, will be pivotal at the top of the order. Additionally, the bowling duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravichandran Ashwin, both in exceptional form, are expected to challenge the Australian batting lineup.

• Australia: Travis Head, coming off a stellar 140-run innings in the previous Test, will be a key figure in Australia's batting lineup. On the bowling front, the trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood have been in formidable form, posing significant threats to the Indian batsmen.

Match Significance:

A victory in this Test for either side would ensure they cannot lose the series, adding immense pressure and excitement to the contest. Both teams are expected to field their strongest XIs, aiming to gain an unassailable lead in the series.

Broadcast Information:

Cricket enthusiasts can catch the live action of the fourth Test match between India and Australia from December 26 to December 31, 2024. The first session for all matches is scheduled to begin at 5:00 AM IST.

As the cricketing world turns its attention to Melbourne, fans anticipate a thrilling encounter between two of the sport's powerhouses, each striving for supremacy in this closely contested series.

Indian Skipper Rohit Sharma attended the press conference today ahead of training in Melbourne before the Boxing Day Test which starts on 26 December. Skipper Rohit talked about the pitches Team India was given to practice in Melbourne. He said those pitches were used pitches for Big Bash. Today they got a fresh wicket to practice on and he said we will go and see the pitch and train accordingly.

Rohit on Series being tied at 1-1

Skipper Rohit Sharma said, "We have played some really good cricket. We have been fortunate that we won the Test in Perth. When you get bowled out for 150 runs you feel like you are under pressure. And then the attitude from the boys that they turned up and bowled out Australia for 104 shows up the attitude of not giving up till the last day of the Test match. When you tour abroad you know that you have to put those extra effort and some attitude as well which we showed in that Test match."

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"In Adelaide, we were a little bit behind the game. We didn't play well and I admitted that too. And then in Brisbane there wasn't much cricket only 180 and 90 overs were bowled. So, after three matches I had to look out at it being 1-1 it's a fair reflection of how both teams have played. Both teams have played solid cricket. The remaining two Tests are so important now for both teams. We want to break it down for just Melbourne now and we can focus on what we can achieve here. We should get our things right, play well, bat and bowl well, and take some good catches as well."

Rohit praises Bumrah's confidence and impact

Rohit Sharma on being asked about Jasprit Bumrah's impact on the series said, "It's very easy not say anything. Because he knows everything and he knows how he operates very plain and simple. He doesn't try to complicate things with his own stuff and keeps it nice and simple. He has so much belief in his skillset that there is not much discussion we need to have with him. I have been watching him for a long time. I have captained him for a long time so I know how he thinks. What he is trying to do makes it really easier for me not to think too much while he is bowling. Only because he is so clear in his mind. Whether he gets wickets or he doesn't he is so confident with his skillset that the conversations that happen during the game gives me that confidence that what the guy is trying to do. There is nothing much I can add there. So. it's very simple with him and it's always nice to have somebody like him in your team. When he is in such form the job of the other bowlers also becomes a little bit easier. All they need to do it to maintain that pressure. So, when it comes to Bumrah it is crystal clear ideas and plain and simple thoughts. It's nice to see that a lot of people from the opposition camp talk about him. How to handle him and stuff like that but usually those are the discussions that happen everywhere and like I said the impact he had on the series so far is massive. I hope he continues to do that because these two games are very very important for us."

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.

Indian Pacer Mohammed Shami won't be added to Team India's squad for the last two Tests due to swelling in his left knee. BCCI released a press release regarding Mohammed Shami's fitness update after being asked by Skipper Rohit Sharma about the fast bowler's progress at the end of the Gabba Test.

The BCCI Medical team has been working closely with Mohammed Shami at the Centre of Excellence on his recovery and rehabilitation after his right heel surgery. Shami has completely recovered from this heel problem.

See Also:- Who is new Indian Test call-up Tanush Kotian?

BCCI Statement On Medical and Fitness Update of Mohammed Shami

Shami bowled 43 overs in the Ranji Trophy match for Bengal against Madhya Pradesh in November. Following this, he played in all nine games of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), where he also engaged in additional bowling sessions on the sidelines to build his bowling volume in order to get ready for the Test matches.

However, his left knee has exhibited minor swelling due to increased joint loading from his bowling workload. The swelling is on the expected lines, owing to the increased bowling after a prolonged period.

Based on the current medical assessment, the BCCI Medical Team has determined that his knee requires more time for controlled exposure to bowling loads. Consequently, he has not been deemed fit for consideration for the remaining two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Shami will continue to undergo targeted strength and conditioning work under the guidance of the medical staff at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence and build his bowling loads needed to meet the demands of the longest format of the game. His participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy will depend on the progress of his knee.