India and Australia are set to face off in the highly anticipated Boxing Day Test, starting on December 26 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). With the series currently tied 1-1 after three thrilling matches, this Test promises to be an exciting contest. However, weather conditions could play a pivotal role, as rain is expected to disrupt play on a few days.
Weather Forecast for the Boxing Day Test
Unlike the rain-hit third Test in Brisbane, Melbourne’s weather is expected to stay mostly clear over the five days of the Boxing Day Test. There is, however, a 25% chance of rain on Days 3 and 4. Despite this, the match is expected to be hot and humid, with only occasional rain delays likely to interrupt play.
Possible Changes in India's Line-Up
India is anticipated to make some adjustments to its playing XI for this crucial match. Captain Rohit Sharma will likely open the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, with KL Rahul moving down to the number three position. The team may also opt to include both Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja as spinners, which could result in either Shubman Gill or Nitish Kumar Reddy being left out.
In the pace department, Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep, and Mohammed Siraj are expected to retain their spots, forming a strong bowling attack for India.
Changes in Australia's Squad
Australia, too, has made notable updates to its line-up. Travis Head has been declared fit to play after recovering from an injury. Australian captain Pat Cummins confirmed two changes to the team: Scott Boland will replace the injured Josh Hazlewood in the pace attack, while 19-year-old Sam Konstas will debut as an opener, replacing Nathan McSweeney.
Konstas, at just 19, becomes Australia’s youngest Test debutant since Pat Cummins debuted against South Africa in 2011.
Australia’s Playing XI
Australia’s confirmed playing XI includes:
– Usman Khawaja
– Sam Konstas
– Marnus Labuschagne
– Steve Smith
– Travis Head
– Mitch Marsh
– Alex Carey
– Pat Cummins (captain)
– Mitchell Starc
– Nathan Lyon
– Scott Boland
India’s Likely Playing XI
India’s probable line-up is:
– Rohit Sharma (captain)
– Yashasvi Jaiswal
– KL Rahul
– Virat Kohli
– Rishabh Pant
– Washington Sundar
– Nitish Kumar Reddy/Shubman Gill
– Ravindra Jadeja
– Jasprit Bumrah
– Mohammed Siraj
– Akash Deep
Stakes of the Boxing Day Test
With the series evenly poised at 1-1, both teams will be eager to seize the lead. Australia aims to take control of the series, while India seeks redemption following the rain-affected draw in the third Test.
The unpredictable weather could influence the match’s outcome, with potential rain delays on Days 3 and 4 affecting both teams’ strategies. Fans can expect an intense game, but keeping an eye on weather updates will be crucial as the match progresses.
