Australia’s Playing XI for India vs Australia 3rd Test at The Gabba

The cricketing world is abuzz as Australia gears up to face India in the 3rd Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Scheduled to commence on Saturday, December 14, at the iconic Gabba in Brisbane, the five-match series stands tantalizingly poised at 1-1. Star pacer Josh Hazlewood is set to make his return to the playing XI, replacing Scott Boland.

Australia’s Playing XI for India vs Australia 3rd Test at The Gabba

Usman Khawaja
Nathan McSweeney
Marnus Labuschagne
Steve Smith
Travis Head
Mitch Marsh
Alex Carey (WK)
Pat Cummins (C)
Mitch Starc
Nathan Lyon
Josh Hazlewood

Josh Hazlewood, one of the finest fast bowlers in modern cricket, reclaims his place in the Australian side after recovering from injury issues that kept him out of the second Test. The 33-year-old pacer boasts an impressive record, with 278 wickets in 71 Test matches. Hazlewood’s return is a major boost for the Australian pace attack, which has already showcased its dominance in the series.

The Gabba holds a special place in Hazlewood’s career. Over eight Tests at this venue, he has scalped 37 wickets, cementing his reputation as a formidable bowler on this ground. His last appearance at The Gabba was in January 2024 against the West Indies, where he took five wickets across two innings, contributing significantly to Australia’s victory.

Australian captain Pat Cummins, speaking at the pre-match press conference, expressed his confidence in Hazlewood’s readiness. “Josh comes back in… had no hiccups,” Cummins revealed. “He had a really good bowl yesterday (Thursday) and another one in Adelaide earlier this week. Both he and the medical team are super confident.”

Cummins also addressed the tough decision to leave out Scott Boland, who played a key role in Australia’s resounding 10-wicket victory in the second Test. “It’s tough; Scotty was fantastic in Adelaide,” said Cummins. “A shame for him, but with three Tests to play in the next 25 days, I’m sure he’ll get another opportunity this summer.”

All eyes on India Australia 3rd Test at The Gabba

India faces a stern test in Brisbane, a venue where Australia has traditionally dominated. Hazlewood, alongside Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, forms a potent pace trio that could exploit the Gabba’s bounce and seam movement. The Indian batsmen will need to bring their A-game to counter this formidable attack.

With the series level at 1-1, the 3rd Test is pivotal for both teams. Australia will look to capitalize on their home advantage and build momentum, while India will aim to bounce back after their defeat in the second Test. The five-match series has already delivered gripping cricket, and fans can expect another thrilling contest as the action shifts to Brisbane.

For daily fantasy sports tips on your mobile phone, Fill out the form below