India vs Australia 3rd Test Match Analysis, Probable XI & Fantasy Cricket Insights

The highly anticipated 3rd Test match of the India-Australia series is set to take place from December 14-18, 2024, at the iconic Gabba in Brisbane. With the series locked at 1-1, this match will be pivotal for both teams. Australia will look to maintain their momentum following their commanding victory in the second Test, while India will aim to regroup and respond strongly. The clash promises excitement, with star players such as Virat Kohli and Mitchell Starc likely to shine. Here’s an in-depth preview featuring predictions, playing XI, and fantasy cricket suggestions.

India vs Australia 3rd Test Details

• Date: 14th December 2024

• Day: Saturday

• Venue: The Gabba, Brisbane

• Time: 5:50 AM IST

India vs Australia 3rd Test Match Predictions

India’s Outlook

India faces a challenging task as they recover from their loss in the second Test. The team’s success hinges on the performance of its key batters like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who need to counter Australia’s potent fast-bowling attack. India’s pace spearheads Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj will play a crucial role in breaking Australia’s batting partnerships early on. To thrive on Brisbane’s pace-friendly pitch, India must strike a balance between their batting stability and aggressive bowling, with the middle order led by Shubman Gill stepping up under pressure.

Australia’s Perspective

Australia enters the 3rd Test as the favorites, riding high on their dominant display in the second Test. Their lethal pace attack, led by Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, is perfectly suited for the Gabba’s bouncy surface. The Australian batting lineup, featuring the dependable Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith, has been in great form. With strong depth in both batting and bowling, Australia will aim to take control of the game from the start, focusing on early breakthroughs and disciplined batting to maintain their edge.

Predicted Playing XI for India vs Australia 3rd Test

India’s Probable XI:

• Rohit Sharma (c)

• Yashasvi Jaiswal

• KL Rahul

• Virat Kohli

• Shubman Gill

• Nitish Reddy

• Rishabh Pant (wk)

• Ravichandran Ashwin

• Jasprit Bumrah

• Mohammed Siraj

• Harshit Rana

Australia’s Probable XI:

• Nathan McSweeney

• Usman Khawaja

• Marnus Labuschagne

• Steve Smith

• Travis Head

• Mitchell Marsh

• Alex Carey (wk)

• Pat Cummins (c)

• Mitchell Starc

• Josh Hazlewood

• Nathan Lyon

Fantasy Cricket Tips for the 3rd Test

Key Batters to Watch:

• Virat Kohli (India): Known for his consistency, Kohli’s experience in handling high-pressure situations makes him a top pick.

• Steve Smith (Australia): Smith’s ability to anchor the innings and score crucial runs is invaluable to Australia.

Impactful All-rounders:

• Mitchell Marsh (Australia): His dual ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a valuable fantasy pick.

• Ravichandran Ashwin (India): Ashwin’s expertise and adaptability could prove crucial in the middle overs.

Best Bowlers:

• Jasprit Bumrah (India): Bumrah’s knack for picking crucial wickets will be vital for India’s success.

• Mitchell Starc (Australia): Starc’s pace and ability to exploit bounce will make him a significant threat on this surface.

Captaincy Picks:

• Jasprit Bumrah (India): His wicket-taking ability makes him an excellent captaincy option.

• Mitchell Starc (Australia): Starc’s game-changing spells make him an ideal choice for vice-captaincy.

Pitch and Weather Conditions at Gabba

The Gabba in Brisbane is renowned for its pace and bounce, making it a paradise for fast bowlers. Seamers like Mitchell Starc and Jasprit Bumrah are expected to thrive in these conditions, particularly in the early overs. As the match progresses, spinners might find some assistance on the fourth and fifth days. Batters will need to display patience and technique to counter the challenges posed by the surface. Clear weather is forecast, ensuring uninterrupted play throughout the match. The quick outfield is expected to reward well-timed strokes.

Conclusion

The 3rd Test at the Gabba promises to be a gripping contest. While Australia’s formidable pace attack will aim to dominate in Brisbane’s challenging conditions, India will rely on their bowlers and experienced batters to turn the tide. The game’s outcome will likely depend on which team adapts better to the bouncy conditions. Fantasy players should build balanced teams by including top-order batters and strike bowlers from both sides.

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