India and Australia gear up for the Sydney Test, but weather forecasts predict rain on crucial final days, potentially affecting the series decider.
January 2, 2025: Sydney: The fifth and final Test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) faces a looming rain threat on the final two days, according to weather forecasts.
Also Read: McGrath Hopes Mitchell Starc Would Take Part In Sydney Test Amid Pacer’s Fitness Concerns
The highly anticipated New Year’s Test, set to begin on January 3, is also significant as it marks ‘Jane McGrath Day’ on Day 3, raising funds and awareness for breast cancer support in Australia.
Weather Forecast Overview:
According to reports by Wisden Cricket, day one of the match is expected to start under a thick cloud cover, with a 25% chance of rain, which drops significantly to 5% on day two. Sunny weather is predicted for the second and third days, with temperatures rising to the mid-thirties.
However, day four could witness showers towards the end of the day, followed by a constant drizzle on day five, potentially disrupting the final outcome of the match.
Team Concerns:
India:
- India has struggled with the form of key batters, including Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Rishabh Pant, who have collectively managed just one fifty-plus score in the series.
- Despite a stellar bowling performance by Jasprit Bumrah (30 wickets at an average of 12.83), India trails the series 1-2.
Australia:
- Australia faces injury concerns with Josh Hazlewood ruled out due to a calf injury.
- Mitchell Starc has been sent for scans just two days before the match, raising questions about his availability.
Series Context:
Australia currently leads the series 2-1 and is in a commanding position to join South Africa in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. However, if India manages to win and draw the series, they will retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and keep their WTC hopes alive, depending on favorable results in the Australia-Sri Lanka series.
Key Players to Watch:
- India: Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant
- Australia: Pat Cummins (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Starc, Steve Smith
As the cricketing world turns its eyes to Sydney, the unpredictable weather patterns add another layer of suspense to an already high-stakes Test match. Both teams will aim to make every moment count in what promises to be an epic finale.
Tags: Sydney Test, Border-Gavaskar Trophy, India vs Australia, Rain Threat, Cricket News, Test Match Weather, Glenn McGrath Day, WTC 2025
