The Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 season will move ahead with Match 5, in which Melbourne Stars (STA) will play against Hobart Hurricanes (HUR) at the venue of Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday, 18 December. The match will be the first for the Melbourne Stars, while the other one has kicked off with a winning experience.

Melbourne Stars had finished the last season at the fourth position and would be very eager to make a bright start to the season at their home ground. The Stars under the leadership of Marcus Stoinis possess a well-balanced squad with a lot of talent in both batting and bowling.

Hobart Hurricanes, the defending champions, opened their season with an exciting four-wicket win over Sydney Thunder. Chris Jordan played a key role with both bat and ball and was named Player of the Match. The Hurricanes will aim to continue their good form and pick up another important win.

STA vs HUR: Head-to-Head Record (T20s)

• Matches Played: 22
  
• Melbourne Stars Won: 14
  
• Hobart Hurricanes Won: 8
  
• No Result / Tied: 0

STA vs HUR: Pitch Report

The MCG generally offers help to bowlers early, especially pacers. As the match goes on, batting becomes easier. Teams chasing have had more success here, but a score of 160 or more can be competitive. Winning the toss and bowling first could be the preferred option.

See Also: Watch: Nathan Lyon becomes Australia’s 2nd leading Test wicket-taker during 3rd Ashes 2025/26 Test

STA vs HUR: Predicted Playing XIs

Melbourne Stars (STA):

Joe Clarke, Sam Harper (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis (c), Hilton Cartwright, Tom Curran, Campbell Kellaway, Haris Rauf, Peter Siddle, Mitch Swepson, Tom Rogers

Hobart Hurricanes (HUR):

Mitchell Owen, Nikhil Chaudhary, Rehan Ahmed, Ben McDermott, Tim David, Matthew Wade (wk), Chris Jordan, Nathan Ellis (c), Rishad Hossain, Riley Meredith, Billy Stanlake

After the ODI series, India is taking on Australia for a 5-match T20I series. After the 1st T20I match was washed out, India took on Australia in the 2nd T20I at MCG. After a great batting display by Indian batters in 1st T20I, the picture in 2nd T20I was totally different.

In Canberra, Indian Batters seemed in great form, and after washing off, it was expected they would carry this form in the 2nd match. But nothing like this happened at MCG. Josh Hazlewood made a difference with his bowling. Hazlewood always bowled with precision, which created trouble whenever any batter faced him. 

While batting first, Indian batters crumble in Hazlewood's storm. He was also seen in good form in 1st T20I as well. He took early and crucial wickets of Shubman Gill, Skipper Suryakumar Yadav, and other power hitters. His brilliant bowling put the host nation in the driving seat.

See Also: [WATCH] Abhishek Sharma charges Xavier Bartlett for 6 during AUS vs IND 2nd T20I at MCG

Josh Hazlewood Strikes; India’s Batting Collapses:

Since the ODI series, Josh Hazlewood has been exceptional in every match. In every match, he created a big difference between the two teams with his brilliant bowling spell. Though the first T20I was washed out, Hazlewood was the only wicket-taker. In the next one, he rattled India’s heavy power-packed top order with his brilliance.

Hazlewood dismantled India’s top order, starting with Shubman Gill’s dismissal in the third over. His devastating third over of the spell — the fifth of the innings — saw him remove Tilak Varma and captain Suryakumar Yadav in quick succession, conceding just a single run. Both batters, known for their explosive stroke play, were undone by his precision and pace. In his spell, a catch was dropped as well.

In the 2nd T20I match, Josh bowled an exceptional spell. In his spell, he only conceded 13 runs, at an economy of 3.20, and picked up 3 crucial pillars of India’s top order; Shubman Gill, Skipper Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma. His experience helped Australia take the lead in the series and win the match by 4 wickets.

Suryakumar Yadav, a standout performer for India in T20I cricket, has revealed that the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is his number one cricket stadium in Australia, describing it as one of the most historic grounds in world cricket.  During a recent interaction on YouTube, Yadav spoke fondly about the memories that he associates with the ground and talked about how looking forward to playing in the venue in the white-ball series against Australia early next year.

“It's definitely an MCG, Melbourne, definitely one of the iconic stadiums," Yadav said. "I had an opportunity in 2022, Virat Bhai (Kohli) played the innings of a lifetime. I am really excited to play there I will go for a T20I."

The Mumbai batter was referring to the now-famous India vs Pakistan clash during the 2022 ICC Men's T20 World Cup, when Virat Kohli scored a magical 82 off 53 balls* to lead India to a thrilling four-wicket victory with 90,293 fans in attendance, the largest-ever crowd for a T20I match between the two nations. Yadav scored a brisk 15 in that match before being dismissed by Haris Rauf, and asserted that night will always remain one of the best cricketing experiences he has ever had. 

Q: Which is your favourite stadium in Australia? [Suryakumar Yadav YT]

Suryakumar Yadav said "It's definitely MCG, Melbourne - one of the iconic stadiums - I got an opportunity in 2022, Virat bhai played his innings of the life - I am really excited to play there, I am going to… pic.twitter.com/JGnYPOzdJm

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) October 31, 2025

ALSO SEE: Major update on Hardik Pandya’s return to competitive cricket from injury

The MCG: A Historic Ground Where Legends of Cricket Are Made

The MCG, or the Melbourne Cricket Ground, was established in 1853. It is Australia’s largest stadium with a crowd capacity of over 100,000. The MCG has witnessed some of the greatest historical moments of the game of cricket including the World Cup Final in 1992, the Centenary Test in 1977 and the World Cup final in 2015 when there was an official attendance of 93,013. But Yadav said the MCG is more special than just historical significance or the attendance total stating that "the atmosphere, the crowd, the history, everything about the MCG is special.”

Yadav’s tour with India to Australia in 2025 includes a T20I match at the MCG on November 9 in case Yadav had a chance to impress the crowd in the grand old arena once again. With his fearless stroke making and 360-degree batting approach, he will welcome another opportunity to present his T20I form at a venue that favors aggressive cricket.

The MCG is also a cultural landmark with major events including the AFL Grand Final and the MCG will feature in the 2032 Brisbane Olympics when that happens. As Suryakumar prepares to pursue future plans to return, the MCG remains a cultural icon that seems to offer hope of creating some cricketing magic.

Cricket Australia has officially announced that public ticket allocations for the upcoming T20I between Australia and India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) have been completely sold out. The match, scheduled for Friday, October 31, has achieved this milestone more than three weeks before the game, highlighting the massive excitement among fans. This adds to what is shaping up to be one of Australia’s biggest cricket summers, with public allocations for all 12 days of the Ashes series also fully booked.

The AFL member tickets went on sale today, followed by MCC member tickets being available from tomorrow. This increased demand is an indication of the immense hype surrounding the India-Australia rivalry. Overall, ticket sales for the Men’s ODI and T20I series have crossed an impressive 175,000, with only about 30,000 tickets still available across the remaining eight matches of the tour.

Public tickets for matches at the Sydney Cricket Ground and Manuka Oval have already been exhausted, while the Adelaide ODI and the Gabba T20I are also nearing full capacity. Both venues have fewer than 5,000 public tickets left each, according to Cricket Australia.

CA CEO Todd Greenberg on Fan Enthusiasm

Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg expressed delight over the overwhelming fan response. He said, “The huge crowd anticipated for the Melbourne T20I is another strong indicator of the incredible interest in this series. We’re thrilled to see fans embracing the Australia vs India contest with such passion, and we look forward to delivering a world-class experience both on and off the field.”

Greenberg further added, “To have over 175,000 tickets sold with 13 days until the first ODI in Perth is a phenomenal result. It speaks volumes about the strength of the rivalry and the enthusiasm of fans across the country.”

See Also: WATCH: Sanju Samson bowls to Liverpool legend Michael Owen during Mumbai event

Australia vs India 2025: Full Schedule

There is already a different buzz for the return of two superstars and veterans of Indian cricket, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, through the three-match ODI series against Australia down under. They have already retired from the shortest and longest format of the game and will return in the national colours for the first time since the Champions Trophy 2025 final.

Cricket Australia has confirmed that public ticket allocation for the T20I game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has now been exhausted. This is now a huge milestone with Australia promising it to be one of the biggest cricket summers along with the Ashes 2025/26, which is due to begin on November 22. It has also been revealed that 12 days of the Ashes series has also been exhausted as the press release revealed.

See Also: [WATCH] Suryakumar Yadav reveals India’s ‘bold and fearless’ approach to Asia Cup 2025 glory

Now the MCG T20I, which is scheduled to happen on October 31, has reached the milestone more than three weeks ahead of the match day. It reflects the extra-ordinary demand of the fans for the exciting series.

Public ticket allocation exhausted for Australia vs India 2025 T20I series

The announcement comes as the overall ticket sales for the ODI and T20I series have crossed 175000 with just 30000 tickets remaining across the eight games. The Sydney and Manuka Oval games have already been exhausted, while the Adelaide ODI and Gabba T20I are finishing slowly.

The summer only gets bigger 🤩

Tickets for the summer are in huge demand - don’t miss out 🎟️ https://t.co/XP4qyEjwG4 pic.twitter.com/j0hiXS5ho8

— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) October 6, 2025

“The huge crowd anticipated for the Melbourne T20I is another strong indicator of the incredible interest in this series. We're thrilled to see fans embracing the Australia v India contest with such passion, and we look forward to delivering a world-class experience both on and off the field.  To have over 175,000 tickets sold with 13 days until the first ODI in Perth is a phenomenal result.” Todd Greenberg, CA CEO, expressed as quoted by the Cricket Australia press release.

The opening game of the trip will begin on October 19 at the Optus Stadium in Perth before the action moves to Adelaide and Sydney. The T20I series will begin on October 29 in Canberra before it continues to spread in Melbourne, Hobart, Gold Coast, and Brisbane.

Cricket is not a sport it's a world obsession. And nothing embodies the size of that obsession quite like the enormous stadiums filled with supporters cheering every boundary, wicket, and six. From the subcontinent to Down Under, these cricket venues aren't large they're iconic.

1. Narendra Modi Stadium – Ahmedabad, India

• Capacity: 132,000
• Opened: 1982 (Refurbished in 2020)
• Operator: Gujarat Cricket Association

This is the king of all cricket grounds. In Ahmedabad, the Narendra Modi Stadium is the world's largest cricket stadium. It was fully refurbished in 2020, making it a contemporary cricketing fortress. It has played host to high-profile events such as the 2023 Cricket World Cup Final and has already become a global sports landmark.

2. Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) – Melbourne, Australia

• Capacity: 100,024
• Opened: 1853
• Operator: Melbourne Cricket Club

Typically abbreviated to just "The G," the Melbourne Cricket Ground is a stadium it's a world sporting icon. Since 1853, it has hosted some of cricket's most famous moments and much else besides, from Boxing Day Tests to World Cup finals and even the 1956 Summer Olympics. With a seating capacity of over 100,000, the MCG blends majesty with tradition, giving an electric atmosphere that's unequalled anywhere in the globe. To players and spectators alike, walking into the MCG is walking into history.

3. Eden Gardens – Kolkata, India

• Capacity: 68,000
• Opened: 1864
• Operator: Cricket Association of Bengal

Also called "cricket's Colosseum," Eden Gardens is a site where heroes are forged. Kapil Dev, Sachin, Saurav Ganguly and now Virat Kohli  some of the greats of Indian cricket have illuminated this stage. The fervour here gets palpably heated, particularly whenever India hosts Pakistan or an all-star IPL tie.

4. Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium – Raipur, India

• Capacity: 65,000
• Opened: 2008
• Operator: Chhattisgarh State Cricket Sangh

Located in the heart of Chhattisgarh's capital city, the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium is India's most promising new cricket ground. Although it was inaugurated in 2008, the stadium hosted its first international match in 2023, the first time Raipur featured on the international cricket map. With its sprawling layout and vast boundary lengths, the ground has soon found itself in demand for home T20s, IPL practice games, and other high-profile games.

5. Perth Stadium (Optus Stadium) – Perth, Australia

• Capacity: 61,266
• Opened: 2018
• Operator: VenuesLive

A contemporary wonder in Western Australia, Optus Stadium informally known as Perth Stadium has revolutionized the live cricket experience. Opened in 2018, it soon replaced the venerable WACA as Perth's top cricket ground.Renowned for its elastic, fast pitch and stunning sunset views, the stadium combines cutting-edge design with fan friendly amenities. Whether an international contest or a Big Bash contest, Optus Stadium is a dynamic experience and has become an instant hit with fans in Australia's cricket calendar.

ALSO SEE:IPL 2025: KKR vs RR – Player Battles to Watch out for in match number 53

6. Adelaide Oval – Adelaide, Australia

• Capacity: 53,583
• Opened: 1871
• Operator: Adelaide Oval SMA Ltd

Adorned by the beautiful parklands of Adelaide, the Adelaide Oval is a marriage of tradition and innovation. Originally opened in 1871, the old ground has maintained its old-world feel while embracing contemporary developments, such as hosting the world's first-ever day-night Test match in 2015.Hailed for its unobstructed views and intimate atmosphere, it's rated as one of the finest places on earth to enjoy cricket. In addition to its novel charm is the Oval Hotel, which is integrated directly into the stadium allowing supporters an opportunity to rise and shine up over the pitch.

7. Greenfield International Stadium – Thiruvananthapuram, India

• Capacity: 50,000
• Opened: 2015
• Operator: Kerala Cricket Association / KSFL

Against the green backdrop of Thiruvananthapuram, the Greenfield International Stadium has brought world class cricket to the very heart of Kerala. It opened in 2015 and was built under a special public-private partnership, one of the very few Indian stadiums that can host cricket and football matches. The stadium's up to date facilities, expansive seating, and picturesque setting have ensured it's a crowd pleaser, particularly for T20 Internationals, which are known to sell out in a hurry. Either under lights or basking in Kerala sunlight, Greenfield is an experience never to be forgotten.

8. Ekana Cricket Stadium – Lucknow, India

• Capacity: 50,000
• Opened: 2017
• Operator: Ekana Sportz City Pvt Ltd

One of India's latest international stadiums, the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow has established itself solidly on the world cricketing map. Officially the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, named after the former Prime Minister, who passed away, the stadium has top-class facilities and trendy design. Since its opening in 2017, it has played host to a series of international matches and Indian Premier League (IPL) matches. As one of the primary venues for the 2023 Men's Cricket World Cup, Ekana demonstrated its ability to accommodate high-pressure matches with ease and its reputation only continues to rise.

9. JSCA International Stadium – Ranchi, India

• Capacity: 50,000
• Opened: 2013
• Operator: Jharkhand State Cricket Association

Nestled in the capital of Jharkhand, the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi is one of India’s newer cricketing venues, inaugurated in January 2013. It quickly made its mark by hosting its first One Day International (ODI) between India and England the same month. The stadium is the proud home of the Jharkhand cricket team and has also been associated with Chennai Super Kings, who played several home games here during earlier IPL seasons. With a seating capacity of 50,000, the stadium is known for its modern design, excellent sightlines, and electric atmosphere. To date, it has hosted seven IPL matches and continues to be a key venue for domestic and international cricket.

10. Brabourne Stadium – Mumbai, India

• Capacity: 50,000
• Opened: 1937
• Operator: Cricket Club of India

Historic and charming, Brabourne is where old-school cricket fans go to relive the golden era. It’s hosted everything from Ranji Trophy to T20Is and even served as the original home for the Mumbai Indians. Despite newer stadiums nearby, Brabourne holds a special place in Mumbai’s cricket heart.

Narendra Modi Stadium

• Location: Ahmedabad, India
• Year Opened: 1982
• Capacity:132,000
• Operated by:Gujarat Cricket Association

Narendra Modi Stadium is the largest cricket stadium in the world with a seating capacity of 132,000 and it is located at Ahmedabad. This stadium is well equipped with all modern amenities such as LED floodlights, 11 centre circle pitches, four changing rooms, and two nets available. These mega events can be held without any hassle due to high end drainage facilities provided in this stadium. It hosted its first event after renovation, during the 2023 ICC Cricket World cup Final of 2020.

Melbourne Cricket Ground

• Location: Melbourne, Australia
• Year Opened: 1853
• Capacity:100,024
• Operated By:Melbourne Cricket Club

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Melbourne, Australia The MCG is one of the worlds most recognise stadiums, established in 1853 with a capacity of 100,024. Established through international events 1956 Olympics, 2006 Commonwealth Games and several ICC World Cups. On top of that, the MCG serves as home to Boxing Day Test Match & AFL (Australian Football League) where jewel-like ring of grandstands set around a retractable roof.

Eden Gardens

• Location: Kolkata, India
• Year Opened: 1864
• Capacity:66,000

Eden Gardens, Kolkata, India  Edens from Kolkata is the second-biggest stadium of the nation and one of the most cherished international cricket venues. Located in 1864 Eden Gardens, Kolkata (India) 66,000 often called as "Mecca of Indian Cricket" and it is where one will host numerous historic matches such as ICC Cricket World Cup final in 1987,2016 ICC World T20 Final etc.

Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium(Nava Raipur International Cricket Stadium)

• Location: Raipur, India
• Year Opened: 2008
• Capacity:65000
• Operated BY:Chhattisgarh State Cricket Sangh

One of India's newest stadiums Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium Raipur(H), capacity 65,000 built in the year 2008For the year it opened, It is India's 50th international cricket ground and infamously a batsmen-friendly due to boundary dimensions. It has also held many an IPL and international domestic matches.

Perth Stadium

• Location: Perth, Australia
• Year Opened: 2018
• Capacity:61,266
• Operated BY:VenuesLive

Perth Stadium, also known as Optus Stadium in Perth, Australia, has a capacity of 61,266 and is a multi-use stadium that opened its doors back in 2018. It was opened near the Fremantle Sea and is the 2nd biggest cricket stadium in Australia after the MCG and provides an incredible view with fresh breeze. It is a general sports venue that can host cricket and Australian football matches.

ALSO READ:West Indies Secure Historic 120-Run Victory Over Pakistan in Multan, Ending 35-Year Wait for Win in Pakistan

Adelaide Oval

• Location: Australia 
• Year Opened: 1871
• Capacity:53,500
• Operated By:Adelaide Oval SMA Ltd

Adelaide Oval (1871) In Adelaide, South Australia It is a multi use stadium which for cricket (mainly), Australian rules football, events such as concerts and rugby. Between 2012 and 2014 the stadium was heavily developed to increase capacity in order to allow it to host major events, from the original capacity of 42240 to over an increased neutral capacity along with modern facilities including the installation of Western Stand and pedestrian bridge over River Torrens. Having a long and eventful past, it played host to its first Test in 1884, and has been home base of the South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) from the get go. Some of the recent major events, 2017 Ashes Test; world record Adele concert 70,000 and since 2019 the AFLW Grand Final.

Greenfield International Stadium

• Location: Thiruvananthapuram(INDIA)
• Year Opened: 2015
• Capacity:50,000
• Operated by:Kerala Cricket Association

Greenfield International Stadium (The Sports Hub) is a multi-purpose stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, used for international cricket and football (soccer). It is all purpose stadium that can accommodate upto 50,000 viewers and constructed on lessee site of 36 acres by Kerala University. The stadium is green on the inner being a place that boasts of flora and a rainwater harvesting unit The first Indian stadium constructed under DBOT (design-build-operate-transfer) model 262185 On 1 November 2018, India won vs West Indies by 9 wickets in its first ODI 

Ekana Cricket Stadium(Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee (BRSABV))

• Location: Lucknow(INDIA)
• Year Opened: 2017
• Capacity:50,000
• Operated by:Ekana Sportz City Pvt Ltd

Ekana Cricket Stadium, also known as Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee (BRSABV) Ekana Cricket Stadium, is an international cricket stadium in Lucknow, India. The stadium has a seating capacity of 50,000 and is the fifth-largest international cricket stadium in India. It is the home ground of the Uttar Pradesh cricket team, UP women's cricket team, and IPL franchise Lucknow Super Giants. The stadium was commissioned in 2014 and was built under a public-private partnership between Ekana Sportz City and the Lucknow Development Authority. It hosted its first international match on 6 November 2018, a T20I between India and the West Indies.

JSCA International Stadium 

• Location: JharkandINDIA)
• Year Opened: 2013
• Capacity:50,000
• Operated by:Jharkhand cricket association

JSCA International Stadium is an international cricket venue in Ranchi, Jharkhand India. The venue is the home ground of Jharkhand cricket team. The stadium was opened in January 2013 and in his first ever ODI between India vs England, 19th January 2013. The stadium could hold a capacity of 50,000and has 76 Corporate boxes. The stadium is designed so that no shadow ever falls on the nine pitches before 4:45 PM, even on the shortest day of the year as per an independent survey. It also has eight pitches on the practice area and an indoor cricket center that has dwelling facilities for players.

Brabourne Stadium

• Location: Mumbai(INDIA)
• Year Opened: 1937
• Capacity:50,000
• Operated BY:Cricket club of india

Brabourne Stadium was located in the mumbai it was inagurated on the year 1937 it has capacity of 50,000 the stadium was get into light at 2006 in the year 2006 first icc champians trophy was played 
and the first T20I in 2007 .mainly it was the home ground of the MI in the ipl after a long wait of 36 years first test has played in the year 2009 and it also can host the football,tennis and concerts

Narendra Modi Stadium

• Location: Ahmedabad, India
• Year Opened: 1982
• Capacity:132,000
• Operated by:Gujarat Cricket Association

Narendra Modi Stadium is the largest cricket stadium in the world with a seating capacity of 132,000 and it is located at Ahmedabad. This stadium is well equipped with all modern amenities such as LED floodlights, 11 centre circle pitches, four changing rooms, and two nets available. These mega events can be held without any hassle due to high end drainage facilities provided in this stadium. It hosted its first event after renovation, during the 2023 ICC Cricket World cup Final of 2020.

Melbourne Cricket Ground

• Location: Melbourne, Australia
• Year Opened: 1853
• Capacity:100,024
• Operated By:Melbourne Cricket Club

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Melbourne, Australia The MCG is one of the worlds most recognise stadiums, established in 1853 with a capacity of 100,024. Established through international events 1956 Olympics, 2006 Commonwealth Games and several ICC World Cups. On top of that, the MCG serves as home to Boxing Day Test Match & AFL (Australian Football League) where jewel-like ring of grandstands set around a retractable roof.

Eden Gardens

• Location: Kolkata, India
• Year Opened: 1864
• Capacity:66,000

Eden Gardens, Kolkata, India  Edens from Kolkata is the second-biggest stadium of the nation and one of the most cherished international cricket venues. Located in 1864 Eden Gardens, Kolkata (India) 66,000 often called as "Mecca of Indian Cricket" and it is where one will host numerous historic matches such as ICC Cricket World Cup final in 1987,2016 ICC World T20 Final etc.

Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium(Nava Raipur International Cricket Stadium)

• Location: Raipur, India
• Year Opened: 2008
• Capacity:65000
• Operated BY:Chhattisgarh State Cricket Sangh

One of India's newest stadiums Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium Raipur(H), capacity 65,000 built in the year 2008For the year it opened, It is India's 50th international cricket ground and infamously a batsmen-friendly due to boundary dimensions. It has also held many an IPL and international domestic matches.

Perth Stadium

• Location: Perth, Australia
• Year Opened: 2018
• Capacity:61,266
• Operated BY:VenuesLive

Perth Stadium, also known as Optus Stadium in Perth, Australia, has a capacity of 61,266 and is a multi-use stadium that opened its doors back in 2018. It was opened near the Fremantle Sea and is the 2nd biggest cricket stadium in Australia after the MCG and provides an incredible view with fresh breeze. It is a general sports venue that can host cricket and Australian football matches.

ALSO READ:West Indies Secure Historic 120-Run Victory Over Pakistan in Multan, Ending 35-Year Wait for Win in Pakistan

India's chances of making it to the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final are almost gone, and the fifth Test, against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, is vitally important. Rohit Sharma, the team's captain, is at a major moment in his career today. Rohit Sharma's ability to make some tough calls to strengthen the group, especially after losing the Boxing Day Test by 184 runs.

The choice of players for the playing XI for the Sydney Test is going to cause many discussions.

Shubman Gill's Comeback

Team management had to explain their decision to Shubman Gill about why they didn't pick him for the Melbourne match. They did it to make sure the group was equal but considering his stats, it's a hard choice to ignore him. In 2024, Gill achieved up 866 runs, only sitting behind Yashasvi Jaiswal among Indian batters, placing him firmly as the second-best.

Gill really seems to have a strong argument to rejoin the team, despite being sidelined for that game.

ALSO READ:If You Play Good Cricket, You Don't Need PR: MS Dhoni's Wisdom on Social Media and Publicity

Rohit's Balancing Act

Now, Rohit really needs to think through how to include Gill in the team without messing up everything. Since the Sydney pitch usually helps spinners, having Washington Sundar team with Ravindra Jadeja appears like a sharp and informed move. But, if Rohit decides to leave out a spinner to make room for Gill, the team's bowling might not be as strong unless Yashasvi Jaiswal can actually do a decent job with his occasional leg-spin.

Dropping one of the quick bowlers, Mohammed Siraj who performed well in Sydney, or Akash Deep who isn't taking wickets easily, is another choice. But, making this change would mean the team's left with only two main quick bowlers. In a game they must win, that's a major risk.

Should Rohit Take a Step Back?

Rohit quitting could make space for Gill, and then KL Rahul, who can be trusted, could open again. In Rohit's last five games, he obtained just 31 runs, and in total, 155 runs in 14 games.

This kind of decision would demand significant leadership from Rohit, demonstrating his commitment to prioritizing the team over personal interests.

A True Test of Leadership

The Sydney Test is not only another game. It's really key for India because it could help them qualify for the World Test Championship final. Also, it's a major situation for looking at how good of a leader Rohit Sharma is. No matter what choices he chooses to make, like changing the plan of action or even giving something up himself, it's going to show what captain he is.This might change how things go for India in this vitally important match.

A Memorable New Year's Celebration: Indian and Australian Cricket Teams Attend Prime Minister's Party

As the cricketing world gears up for the final game of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Friday, the Indian and Australian teams took a brief respite from the action to attend a grand New Year's party hosted by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Held at the picturesque Kirribilli House in Sydney on Wednesday, the celebration lasted for about 90 minutes, blending cricket, camaraderie, and humor.

At the event, Albanese showed up with his fiancée Jodie Haydon and had some fun by telling funny stories. He really couldn't help making jokes about Jasprit Bumrah, the Indian bowler who's been a strikingly large problem for the Aussie hitters, getting 30 wickets already in the series. Albanese is known to have a pretty sharp sense of humor, and he made sure to share a cheerful moment with the players while he was there.

The crowd thought it was very amusing when the Prime Minister joked that Bumrah was so proficient at cricket, that they may potentially have to make him bowl with his left hand, or only let him take one step before he threw. Everyone really enjoyed the enjoyable event the prime minister brought.

ALSO READ:Ex-India Coach Shastri Pushes for Two-Tier Test Format After MCG Classic

Sam Konstas' Big Moment

At the party, Sam Konstas had a great tim

The Australian and Indian teams have already given us an incredible summer of cricket. pic.twitter.com/oqVDOOr5Bm

— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) January 1, 2025

e when he was able to snap a photo with Virat Kohli, his cricket idol. Everyone knows about Konstas lately because he's been performing well in Australian cricket, especially after scoring a century in the Prime Minister's XI game, and another marvelous 60 runs at the MCG. This was very important for him since there was a nervous moment between him and the legendary Kohli before.

Konstas is a bright light that everyone at the party was noticing.

During the series, there was an incident on the field between them, and because of it, Kohli got his match fee cut by 20% and also obtained a demerit point but it looks like all their hard feelings were gone at the party. Konstas' parents were even able to have a photo taken with Bumrah, which was wonderful, owing to it showed everyone was just there to enjoy themselves and celebrate the event.

Words of Wisdom from Team Leaders

Gautam Gambhir, the Indian head coach, took over for Rohit Sharma and spoke to everyone. First thing, he tipped his hat to Australia for playing so well and making things tough. Even though he didn't say much about how the series might end up, he was focused on India trying very hard to make sure the last test is really fun. Gambhir knows it's not easy playing in Australia, and he said as much.

Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, is extremely excited after the Melbourne Test match. Cummins thinks it was probably the most intense and dramatic game he's ever played, taking an entire five days full of struggle. Since Australia is leading the series 2-1, Cummins is eager to win the last match and keep the series trophy.