Australia vs India Boxing Day Test Prediction, Team News, Playing XI

The much-anticipated fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between Australia and India is set to captivate fans at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Boxing Day, 26 December 2024.

Australia vs India Boxing Day Test Prediction

With the series currently tied at 1-1, the stakes couldn’t be higher as both teams vie for a crucial victory in their quest for the coveted trophy and for a spot in the World Test Championship final.

The five-match series has been nothing short of enthralling. India dominated the first Test with a commanding 295-run victory, showcasing their batting depth and bowling prowess. However, Australia bounced back emphatically in the second Test, winning by 10 wickets and leveling the series. The third Test at the Gabba ended in a rain-affected draw, leaving the teams locked at 1-1 heading into the pivotal Boxing Day clash.

The build-up to the Boxing Day Test has not been without drama. Social media buzzed with images showing stark differences in the quality of practice pitches allocated to the two teams. While the Australian side enjoyed lush green surfaces, India was provided older, less lively tracks, raising eyebrows among fans and players alike. Indian pacer Akash Deep expressed concerns, stating the practice conditions seemed more suited to limited-overs cricket.

Adding fuel to the fire, Australian media speculated that India’s decision to send Akash Deep—who is not fluent in English—to a press conference was strategic, suggesting it was meant to deflect tough questions about tensions between the two teams.

First Test: India won by 295 runs

India: 150 & 487/6d
Australia: 104 & 238

Second Test: Australia won by 10 wickets

India: 180 & 175
Australia: 337 & 19/0

Third Test: Match drawn

Australia: 445 & 89/7d
India: 260 & 8/0

Both teams are not only competing for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy but also fighting to secure their positions in the World Test Championship standings. Australia and India currently sit second and third, respectively, behind South Africa. Securing a win in Melbourne is critical for their championship aspirations.

What is a Boxing Day Test?

The Boxing Day Test, held annually on 26 December, is one of cricket’s most cherished traditions. The day’s name originates from the historical practice of giving gifts, often in boxes, to employees and the less fortunate after Christmas. Over time, this public holiday in countries like Australia, England, and South Africa became synonymous with marquee cricket matches.

A record-breaking crowd of over 86,000 fans is expected to pack the stadium, promising an electrifying atmosphere. At the MCG, the Boxing Day Test has become a cultural phenomenon. First held in 1950 between Australia and England, the match has evolved into one of the most anticipated fixtures in the cricketing calendar. The festive season, coupled with thrilling on-field action, draws massive crowds, making it a celebration of cricket and community spirit.

Melbourne Pitch Report

The MCG is known for its sporting wickets, and curator Matt Page has revealed that the pitch will likely favor seamers over spinners. He mentioned, “Over the last four or five years, the pitches here have been more seam-friendly than spin-friendly.” Captains might opt to bowl first, taking advantage of the grass cover and early movement. However, batting upfront could also yield rewards under the bright Melbourne sun.

AUS vs IND 4th Test Playing XI

Australia Playing XI

Usman Khawaja
Sam Konstas
Marnus Labuschagne
Steve Smith
Travis Head
Mitchell Marsh
Alex Carey
Mitchell Starc
Pat Cummins
Nathan Lyon
Scott Boland

The hosts are set to make a couple of changes. Scott Boland is likely to replace Josh Hazlewood, who suffered a calf strain during the Gabba Test. Additionally, 19-year-old Sam Konstas is expected to debut, replacing Nathan McSweeney at the top of the order.

India Playing XI

KL Rahul,
Yashasvi Jaiswal
Shubman Gill
Virat Kohli
Rishabh Pant
Rohit Sharma
Ravindra Jadeja
Nitish Reddy
Jasprit Bumrah
Mohammed Siraj
Akash Deep

India’s squad will also see some adjustments. After Ravichandran Ashwin’s recent retirement, Washington Sundar is likely to feature, offering a complementary spin option to Ravindra Jadeja. There’s also speculation about including a fourth pacer instead of a second specialist spinner.

BGT Squads 2024

Australia: Pat Cummins (C), Travis Head (VC), Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Mitchell Marsh, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey (WK), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland, Sean Abbott, Jhye Richardson, Beau Webster.

India: Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Ravindra Jadeja, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Virat Kohli, Prasidh Krishna, Rishabh Pant (WK), KL Rahul, Harshit Rana, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Akash Deep, Tanush Kotian.

AUS vs IND 4th test Prediction

Australia enters the Boxing Day Test with momentum, having dominated large parts of the series since their win in the second Test. While India boasts a strong following in Melbourne and a solid record at the MCG, the hosts’ familiarity with the conditions and recent form give them the edge. Australia are likely to secure a win and take a lead into the final Test in Sydney.

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