Australia will square off with India in the high-octane fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) starting Friday, January 3. With Aussies leading the series 2-1, this match is not just a battle for the series but also for pride and a potential spot in the World Test Championship final. Read the full Reddy Anna match prediction below.
Australia
For Australia, the series has showcased their grit and determination. They bounced back brilliantly after their initial loss. Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith have regained their form, while Usman Khawaja’s inconsistency remains a concern.
Debutant Sam Konstas shined in Melbourne, while Beau Webster is set to debut, replacing Mitchell Marsh. His all-round abilities add depth to Australia’s side.
Australia’s bowling attack, led by Pat Cummins, Scott Boland, and Nathan Lyon, has been relentless. With Mitchell Starc declared fit despite a rib niggle, their bowling unit looks set to dominate again.
India
India started the series strong with a commanding win in Perth, but their performances dipped with losses in Adelaide and Melbourne, and only a draw in Brisbane.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have struggled to find form, and while Rishabh Pant has shown glimpses of brilliance, consistency has eluded him. Adding to their troubles, reports of internal rifts have emerged, further pressuring the visitors.
On the bowling front, Akash Deep’s absence is a setback, but Harshit Rana is expected to join Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj to form a formidable pace trio.
How Will The SCG Pitch Behave?
The SCG pitch promises a thrilling contest. The initial green tinge and moisture will benefit pacers, while batters can capitalize once the surface flattens out. With an average first-innings score of 318, teams batting first have historically had the upper hand, winning 47 out of 114 Tests here.
Rain is expected on the final two days, which could heavily influence the outcome. The toss will be crucial, with teams likely opting to bat first and post a substantial total.
Players To Watch Out For
Australia
Travis Head: Scored 625 runs in his last 10 matches at an average of 36.76. His counterattacking ability makes him a vital player.
Steven Smith: Accumulated 566 runs in his last 10 matches with an average of 35.38. Smith’s patience and technique add stability.
Pat Cummins: With 47 wickets in 10 matches, his pace and consistency make him a game-changer.
Nathan Lyon: Claimed 37 wickets in 10 matches, Lyon’s control and turn will test Indian batters.
India
Yashasvi Jaiswal: India’s top performer in the series, with 795 runs in 10 matches at an average of 44.17.
Rishabh Pant: Although inconsistent, Pant’s explosive style can change games.
Jasprit Bumrah: Bumrah’s 46 wickets in 9 matches underline his match-winning ability.
Ravindra Jadeja: With 31 wickets in 8 matches, Jadeja’s accuracy will be crucial in the middle overs.
Reddy Anna Match Prediction: AUS vs IND 5th Test
Predicted Top Performers:
Australia: Travis Head, Steve Smith, Pat Cummins
India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah
Predicted Scores:
First Innings: 300-330
Second Innings: 250-280
Third Innings: 200-230
Fourth Innings: 150-180
Predicted Result:
The team batting first is likely to have the edge in this tightly contested match.
For more such insights and predictions, visit the official Reddy Anna platform:
Comments