Australia vs India 2025: 3 Players to watch out for in Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) 5th Test

AUS vs IND 2025: 3 Players to watch out for in Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) 5th Test – CA/Cricket Australia via Getty Images)

The battle for the coveted Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 has converged to a final showdown. Witnessing intense matchups, it has been nothing short of an epic. But, as of now, Australia does not seem far away from triumphing, with the results 2-1 in the five-match series.

The Men in Blue were leading the Test series, as they dominated Australia in the first Test in Perth. With a thumping victory by 10 wickets, the Aussies struck back at the Adelaide Oval in the second game. While the Brisbane Test ended up in a draw, Australia gained an upper hand in the penultimate match, by crushing India by 184 runs.

With the grand finale in the SCG, the stakes are higher for both teams. If Australia succeeds, they could have a comprehensive series win after two series losses against India in their backyard. Moreover, they will also inch closer to sealing the WTC final berth. As for Team India, the chances of reaching the WTC finals look thin but they will aim for a win or at least draw the series to retain the trophy.

Meanwhile, here are the key players to watch out for in the final Test of BGT 2024-25:

3. Steve Smith

One of the modern legends in Test cricket, Steve Smith will be a threat to the Indian bowlers. He has got the scorecard ticking well for Australia, scoring 277 runs at an average of 39.75 with consecutive hundreds in Brisbane and Melbourne so far.

Notably, the veteran has notched up 1,171 runs in 15 innings, the highest a batter has scored at the iconic venue, SCG. It would be a bigger advantage for the hosts given the form he is in. Also, Smith had achieved the feat of most Test hundreds against India in MCG, defining his greatness yet again. He will try to replicate his purple patch in his home ground, where he can rattle the Indian bowling unit yet again.

Also Read: What is the highest successful run-chase at MCG in Tests before Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25?

2. Nitish Kumar Reddy

Nitish Kumar Reddy has been a revelation for India in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The all-rounder has displayed effortless strokeplay throughout the series, batting down the order. Along with batting, his bowling has also come handy.

Nitish had showcased his true potential in the MCG Test, scoring a masterful 114. He took the total from 164/5 to 359 after a bland performance from the top order. His style of play has garnered appreciation from several pundits as well.

Armed with the confidence to score a century, the 21-year-old will be a key player for the upcoming series decider. It will be a sight to see what the Aussie bowlers will be bringing for him, as his prowess will be tested in a must-win game.

1. Jasprit Bumrah 

Jasprit Bumrah has risen to the elite list of the greatest fast bowlers of this era. A player of sheer determination and unparalleled consistency, Bumrah has been the cornerstone of India’s bowling attack in all the formats currently. He reigns the position of the leading wicket-taker in this series, with 30 wickets at a sensational average of 12.83.

The 31-year-old has extracted impactful contributions when it mattered the most, almost changing the course of the match. Though the SCG pitch may not be lethal compared to the pitches in Brisbane and Perth, Bumrah can work wonders considering his red-hot form.

The Indian stalwart is on a dream run, breaking and making new records. Though his spells did not produce winning effects except in Perth, he will be a catalyst in dismantling Australia’s batting side. Australia will be utmost careful in handling Bumrah at the SCG track, thus making him a top contender to watch out for.

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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