BGT 2024-25: Rohit Sharma OUT; Indian Cricket Team playing 11 for 5th test in Sydney - Predicted

The Indian Cricket Team last won a test in Sydney in 1978.

Australia are leading the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 by 2-1 after four entertaining tests.

India started the series with a dominant 295-run win in Perth, but Australia responded strongly in Adelaide with a commanding 10-wicket victory in the day-night test. The third test in Brisbane ended was a rain-affected draw, while Australia claimed a remarkable 184-run victory in the Boxing Day test in Melbourne.

The Sydney test is a crucial clash for India, as they need a win to retain the BGT. On the other hand, Australia will aim to secure their spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 final before heading to Sri Lanka for the two-match test series.

Batting has been a major concern for the visitors, with the senior duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli underperforming throughout the series. Rohit, in particular, has struggled, managing just 31 runs across five innings.

Recent reports in The Indian Express suggest that Rohit Sharma has opted out of the Sydney test. As a result, Jasprit Bumrah will lead the Indian team, with Shubman Gill replacing Rohit in the playing XI. KL Rahul is expected to move back to the opening slot.

Addressing the pre-match press conference, Indian coach Gautam Gambhir confirmed that Akash Deep has been ruled out of the contest due to a back issue. Despite limited success, Akash impressed everyone with his bowling accuracy in Brisbane and Melbourne.

Prasidh Krishna or Harshit Rana for Akash Deep?

Akash’s injury has left India with two fast-bowling options for replacement—Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana. Rana, who made his debut in Perth, impressed with his energy, claiming four wickets, including the massive breakthrough of Travis Head in the first innings but was whacked around by the left-hander in Adelaide.

Prasidh Krishna last played a test match in January 2024 against South Africa in Cape Town. His ability to generate extra bounce could prove to be valuable at the SCG, which is typically more favorable to batsmen.

Indian Cricket Team playing 11 for fifth test in Sydney – Predicted:

1. Yashasvi Jaiswal
2. KL Rahul
3. Shubman Gill
4. Virat Kohli
5. Rishabh Pant (wk)
6. Ravindra Jadeja
7. Nitish Kumar Reddy
8. Washington Sundar
9. Jasprit Bumrah (C)
10. Mohammed Siraj
11. Prasidh Krishna/Harshit Rana

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