Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Match Highlights: The 8th match of the ICC World Cup 2023 was played today between two Asian teams, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, where the Men in Green achieved a historic victory by defeating Sri Lanka by six runs. For your information, let us tell you that for the first time in the history of the ODI World Cup, 344 runs have been chased. This article will feature Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Match Highlights, Check the Updated Points Table of the ICC World Cup 2023



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul><li class=""><a href="#match-details">Match Details</a></li><li class=""><a href="#pakistan-vs-sri-lanka-match-highlights">Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Match Highlights</a></li><li class=""><a href="#updated-points-table-of-the-icc-world-cup-2023">Updated Points Table of the ICC World Cup 2023</a></li></ul></nav></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="match-details">Match Details</h2>



Tournament: ICC Cricket World Cup 2023



Match: PAK vs SL, 8th Match



Date: Tuesday, October 10, 2023



Toss: Sri Lanka won the toss and opt to bat



Time: 2:00 PM



Venue: Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="pakistan-vs-sri-lanka-match-highlights">Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Match Highlights</h2>



Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka won the toss and decided to bat first. While batting, Sri Lanka scored 344 runs for the loss of nine wickets in the stipulated 50 overs. From the Sri Lankan team, both Kusal Mendis and wicketkeeper batsman Sadeera Samarawickrama scored a century. Mendis scored 122 runs in just 77 balls with the help of 14 fours and six sixes, while Samarawickrama scored 108 runs in 89 balls with the help of 11 fours and two sixes.



Hasan Ali took the most wickets in bowling action for Pakistan; he took four wickets while giving 78 runs in 10 overs. Haris Rauf got two wickets, while Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Nawaz, and Shadab Khan got one wicket each.



The score of 344 runs was never chased in the World Cup; as soon as the Pakistan team started to chase the runs, their two wickets had fallen for only 37 runs. Captain Babar Azam was out after scoring 10 runs, and opener batsman Imam-ul-Haq was out after scoring 12 runs. But then, thanks to Abdullah Shafique's 113 runs in 103 balls and Mohammad Rizwan's 131 runs, Pakistan chased the runs at the loss of four in just 48.2 overs.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/10/Mohammad-Rizwan-1.jpg" alt="Mohammad Rizwan" class="wp-image-120924" /></figure>



After the victory against Sri Lanka, Pakistan has now come to second place in the ICC World Cup 2023 points table with four points. Babar Azam and Company defeated the Netherlands by 81 runs in the World Cup match. Pakistan's match against India is on October 14.



Down below, Check the Updated Points Table of the ICC World Cup 2023.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="updated-points-table-of-the-icc-world-cup-2023">Updated Points Table of the ICC World Cup 2023</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Teams</td><td>Mat</td><td>Won</td><td>Lost</td><td>Tied</td><td>NR</td><td>Pts</td><td>NRR</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>New Zealand</td><td>2</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>4</td><td>+1.958</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Pakistan</td><td>2</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>4</td><td>+0.927</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>South Africa</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>+2.040</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>India</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>+0.883</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>England</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>+0.553</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Bangladesh</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>-0.653</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Australia</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>-0.883</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Sri Lanka</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>-1.161</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Afghanistan</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>-1.438</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Netherlands</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>-1.800</td><td></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>







Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-vs-afghanistan-expected-playing-11-squad-and-head-to-head-odi-stats-and-records-india-vs-afghanistan-9th-match/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-vs-afghanistan-expected-playing-11-squad-and-head-to-head-odi-stats-and-records-india-vs-afghanistan-9th-match/">India vs Afghanistan: Expected Playing 11, Squad and Head-To-Head ODI Stats and Records | India vs Afghanistan, 9th Match</a>



Visit the?<a href="https://www.icc-cricket.com/homepage" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ICC OFFICIAL WEBSITE</a>?for more recent updates

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Match Highlights, Check the Updated Points Table of the ICC World Cup 2023

pakistan-vs-sri-lanka-match-highlights-check-the-updated-points-table-of-the-icc-world-cup-2023

The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 is becoming more interesting day by day after each match. Today, almost 30 percent of the league matches are completed, and there are batsmen like Devon Conway, Rohit Sharma, Kusal Mendis, and many others who are performing extremely well. A team wins when all 11 players execute their roles and perform well on that day. But continuous performance from the batsmen ensures that you have a respectable winning total on the board to secure the victory.



In this article, let's review the top 5 batsmen ranking in this One Day International (ODI) Cricket World Cup tournament. This order can change over time as the matches progress. We will publish another article to share the updated top run-scorer list. You can also refer to the ICC World Cup's official '<a href="https://www.cricketworldcup.com/tournament-stats/players/most-runs">most runs</a>' page to access the latest statistics.



<div class="wp-block-rank-math-toc-block" id="rank-math-toc"><nav><ul></ul></nav></div>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="icc-odi-world-cup-2023-top-5-batsman-run-scorers">ICC ODI World Cup 2023: Top 5 Batsman Run Scorers</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="mohammad-rizwan-pakistan-248-runs">Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan) - 248 Runs</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/10/Mohammad-Rizwan-1.jpg" alt="Mohammad Rizwan" class="wp-image-120924"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mohammad Rizwan (image source - Twitter)</figcaption></figure>



Mohammad Rizwan is at the top of the list with 248 runs. Rizwan usually plays at number 5, but his continuous performance is greatly appreciated.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="devon-conway-new-zealand-229-runs">Devon Conway (New Zealand) - 229 Runs</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2021/06/Devon-Conway.jpg" alt="Devon Conway" class="wp-image-64953"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Devon Conway (Image Source: Twitter)</figcaption></figure>



Devon Conway is 2nd in the list with 229 runs to his name and a remarkable average of 114.50. Conway opens for New Zealand and is a key player for his team in the tournament.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="rohit-sharma-india-217-runs">Rohit Sharma (India) - 217 Runs</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/10/Rohit-Sharma-Team-India.jpg" alt="Most Sixes in International Cricket, Most Sixes in ODI Cricket, Rohit Sharma achieves THIS massive Feat during IND vs PAK" class="wp-image-121362"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rohit Sharma (ICC/Getty Image)</figcaption></figure>



Rohit Sharma, also known as the 'Hitman' for Team India, is 3rd in the list. His recent performance in the India vs. Pakistan match was praiseworthy. If he plays with the same aggression, he might finish at the top.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="quinton-de-kock-south-africa-209-runs">Quinton de Kock (South Africa) - 209 Runs</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/03/Quinton-de-Kock_11zon-1024x576.jpg" alt="Quinton De Kock" class="wp-image-105684"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Quinton de Kock (Image Source: Hindustan Times)</figcaption></figure>



Quinton de Kock is a batsman-cum-keeper who also opens for his team. His first century in the ODI World Cup 2023 came against Sri Lanka. He is 4th in this list, but with his current form, he could easily move up to the 2nd or 3rd position



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="kusal-mendis-sri-lanka-198-runs">Kusal Mendis (Sri Lanka) - 198 Runs</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/10/Kusal-Mendis.jpg" alt="Kusal Mendis" class="wp-image-121394"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kusal Mendis (Image source: icc-cricket.com)</figcaption></figure>



Let's see who is in 5th place on the list of the highest run-scorers; it's none other than Kusal Mendis from Sri Lanka. He bats at 3rd position, and because of his current form, Sri Lanka is able to put a good score on the board.



Also read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-mens-odi-ranking-updated-after-india-vs-pakistan-in-icc-world-cup-2023-full-icc-mens-odi-team-standing/" data-type="post" data-id="121365">ICC Men?s ODI Ranking Updated After India vs Pakistan in ICC World Cup 2023 | Full ICC Men?s ODI Team Standing</a>

ICC ODI World Cup 2023 - Top 5 Batsman Run Scorers Ranking|Kusal Mendis

ICC ODI World Cup 2023: Top 5 Batsman Run Scorers Ranking: Most Runs so far!

icc-odi-world-cup-2023-top-5-batsman-run-scorers-ranking-most-runs-so-far

World Cup 2023 is still in progress, and today marks the completion of the 18th match of the tournament. This is the perfect time to assess some of the important statistics, such as the most sixes in the tournament and ranking the top players based on how many sixes they have hit so far. Although Sri Lanka hasn't been able to do much, Kusal Mendis from Sri Lanka leads with 14 sixes, followed closely by Rohit Sharma. Rohit Sharma is in his best form in the One Day International format, consistently hitting sixes and fours like a true 'hitman.'



In this article, we present top 5 players ranking based on the most sixes in the ICC World Cup 2023 so far. We will share the updated list as the matches progress.



Also read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-odi-world-cup-2023-players-with-most-runs-and-most-wickets-so-far-in-world-cup-2023-player-ranking-1-10/" data-type="post" data-id="121590">ICC ODI World Cup 2023: Players with Most Runs and Most Wickets So Far in World Cup 2023| Player Ranking 1 ? 10</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ICC World Cup 2023 Most Sixes Ranking [Top 5 Players]</h2>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">1. KUSAL MENDIS (SL)</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/10/Kusal-Mendis.jpg" alt="Kusal Mendis" class="wp-image-121394"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kusal Mendis (Image source: icc-cricket.com)</figcaption></figure>



Kusal Mendis from Sri Lanka leads the list with 14 sixes in just 3 innings. He is a brilliant player who loves to hit boundaries whenever he gets the opportunity.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">2. Rohit Sharma (IND)</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/10/Rohit-Sharma-Team-India.jpg" alt="Most Sixes in International Cricket, Most Sixes in ODI Cricket, Rohit Sharma achieves THIS massive Feat during IND vs PAK" class="wp-image-121362"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rohit Sharma Most Sixes in International Cricket, Most Sixes in ODI Cricket, Rohit Sharma achieves massive feat during IND vs PAK (ICC/Getty Image)</figcaption></figure>



Rohit Sharma has hit 13 sixes in 4 innings, and there are still 5 matches in the group stage to be played. With his current form, Rohit might become the <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/tag/world-cup-2023-most-runs/">leading run scorer</a> in this tournament.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">3. David Warner (AUS)</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/10/David-Warner-Mitchell-Marsh-1.jpg" alt="Australia vs Pakistan: David Warner, Marsh add a record-breaking partnership in World Cup 2023 against Pakistan in Bengaluru" class="wp-image-121604"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Australia vs Pakistan: David Warner, Marsh add a record-breaking partnership in World Cup 2023 against Pakistan in Bengaluru (Photo Credit: PTI Photo/Shailendra Bhojak)</figcaption></figure>



One of the best performances came from David Warner on October 20th against Pakistan at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. He scored 163 runs with 9 sixes and 10 fours. Thanks to his brilliant performance, he now stands at 3rd place in the list.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">4. Mitch Marsh (AUS)</h4>



Mitch Marsh from Australia is 4th in the list with 9 sixes in 3 innings.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">5. Quinton de Kock (SA)</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/10/Quinton-de-Kock.jpg" alt="Quinton de Kock" class="wp-image-121515"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Quinton de Kock (image source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>



Quinton de Kock from South Africa is 5th in the list with 8 sixes in 3 innings. 







Please note that this list will continue to change daily. You can also refer to the ICC Men's World Cup official website to check the updated, comprehensive list of <a href="https://www.cricketworldcup.com/tournament-stats/players/most-sixes">most sixes</a>.



Also read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-odi-world-cup-2023-players-with-most-runs-and-most-wickets-so-far-in-world-cup-2023-player-ranking-1-10/" data-type="post" data-id="121590">ICC ODI World Cup 2023: Players with Most Runs and Most Wickets So Far in World Cup 2023| Player Ranking 1 ? 10</a>

ICC World Cup 2023 Most Sixes Ranking list

ICC World Cup 2023 Most Sixes Ranking [Top 5 Players]: Rohit Sharma Joins the List with 13 Sixes

icc-world-cup-2023-most-sixes-ranking-top-5-players-rohit-sharma-joins-the-list-with-13-sixes

Zimbabwe tour of?Sri?Lanka?2024: The Zimbabwe team is going to tour Sri Lanka for a 3-match ODI and T20 series. The first match of the three-match ODI series between the two teams will start on January 6, 2024, while the first match of the T20 series will be played on January 14. Down below this article will cover Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe Full Schedule, Venue, Timing and Full Squad of both teams



Craig Ervine will captain Zimbabwe in the ODI series, while the responsibility of leading the team in the T20 series will be on the shoulders of all-rounder Sikandar Raza. Kusal Mendis will captain the Sri Lankan team in the ODI format, while Wanindu Hasaranga will be seen leading his team in the T20 match.



Zimbabwe's matches during the Sri Lankan tour must be held at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The first three ODI matches of this tour are scheduled for January 6, 8, and 11. Three Twenty20 matches are scheduled for January 14, 16, and 18.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Zimbabwe tour of Sri Lanka 2024: Full Schedule</h2>



ODI Schedule



1st ODI: January 6, 2024, R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo



2nd ODI: January 8, 2024, R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo



3rd ODI: January 11, 2024, R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo



T20I Schedule



1st T20I: January 14, 2024, R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo



2nd T20I: January 16, 2024, R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo



3rd T20I: January 18, 2024, R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe: Full Squad</h2>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Sri Lanka</h4>



ODI Squad: Kusal Mendis (c), Charith Asalanka (vc), Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Avishka Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Sahan Arachchige, Nuwanidu Fernando, Dasun Shanaka, Chamika Karunaratne, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka, Dushmantha Chameera, Dunith Wellalage, Pramod Madushan, Asitha Fernando, Akila Dananjaya, Jeffrey Vandersay, Chamika Gunasekera



T20I Squad: Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Charith Asalanka (vc), Pathum Nissanaka, Kusal Janith Perera, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Dasun Shanaka, Angelo Mathews, Dhananjaya de Silva, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Akila Dananjaya, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Pramod Madushan, Matheesha Pathirana



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Zimbabwe</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/ZimCricketv/status/1741791067760951557
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ODI Squad: Craig Ervine (c), Faraz Akram, Ryan Burl, Joylord Gumbie, Luke Jongwe, Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Clive Madande, Wellington Masakadza, Tapiwa Mufudza, Tony Munyonga, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Sikandar Raza, Milton Shumba



T20I Squad: Sikandar Raza (c), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Craig Ervine, Joylord Gumbie, Luke Jongwe, Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Clive Madande, Wellington Masakadza, Carl Mumba, Tony Munyonga, Blessing Muzarabani, Ainsley Ndlovu, Richard Ngarava, Milton Shumba



Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/team-india-schedule-in-2024-test-odi-t20i-full-fixtures-of-indian-team-in-all-three-formats-team-india-schedule-2024/#google_vignette" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/team-india-schedule-in-2024-test-odi-t20i-full-fixtures-of-indian-team-in-all-three-formats-team-india-schedule-2024/#google_vignette">Team India Schedule in 2024: Test, ODI &amp; T20I, Full Fixtures of Indian Team in All Three Formats</a>



For More, Check The Official Site:?<a href="https://www.icc-cricket.com/homepage" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ICC</a>

Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe Full Schedule, Venue, Timing and Full Squad of both teams | Zimbabwe tour of?Sri?Lanka?2024

sri-lanka-vs-zimbabwe-full-schedule-venue-timing-and-full-squad-of-both-teams-zimbabwe-tour-of-sri-lanka-2024

BAN vs SL: Sri Lankan spin bowling all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga isn't having a great time on the field during the ongoing Sri Lanka tour of Bangladesh 2024. Hasaranga, who recently came back from test retirement, has now been handed a 2 Test match ban by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for his foul play during the recently held ODI series against Bangladesh.



The star spinner was found guilty of breaching the ICC Code of Conduct, which deals with the behaviour of the players on the field. As per Article 2.8 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, relating to "showing dissent at an Umpire's decision during an International Match," Hasaranga was found off-guard by the ICC.



Wanindu Hasaranga ridiculed the umpiring in the last ODI against Bangladesh and was also seen snatching his cap from one of the umpires. The incident happened in the 37th over of the innings.



Following the incident, ICC heavily penalised the cricketer. Wanindu Hasaranga was fined 50 per cent of his match fee and was handed three demerit points for his poor conduct on the field. It's worth noting that Hasaranga was already handed 5 demerit points for his misconduct last month during the T20I series against Afghanistan and now with the addition of the latest demerit points, he breaches the threshold of eight demerit points.



The spinner has now accumulated eight demerit points in the span of 24 months, which is disastrous for any cricketer. According to article 7.6 of the Code, those demerit points have been converted into four suspension points, which equates to either four ODI or T20I match suspensions or two test match suspensions, whichever comes first.



Owing to the ban imposed by the apex cricket body, Wanindu Hasaranga will not be able to take part in the Test series against Bangladesh, which comprises two matches. Both the games are part of the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">BAN vs SL: Kusal Mendis earned 3 Demerit Points</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/10/Kusal-Mendis-1.jpg" alt="BAN vs SL: Sri Lanka spinner Wanindu Hasaranga banned from Test Cricket by ICC, handed Two match ban" class="wp-image-121516" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kusal Mendis (Photo: ANI)</figcaption></figure>



In addition to Wanindu Hasaranga's ban, Sri Lankan skipper Kusal Mendis was handed three demerit points for his foul conduct by the ICC in the third ODI against Bangladesh. The charges were levelled on Mendis for a level 2 offence for abusing the umpires during post-match handshakes. 



For the offence, Kusal Mendis was penalised with a 50 per cent match fee and an additional three demerit points. Both the concerned players have admitted the offence and accepted the sanctions. So there was no requirement for formal hearings. 



ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ban-vs-sl-test-schedule-dates-and-timing-venues-full-squads-streaming-and-broadcasting-details-sri-lanka-tour-of-bangladesh-2024/">BAN vs SL Test Schedule, Dates and Timing, Venues, Full Squads, Streaming and Broadcasting Details | Sri Lanka Tour of Bangladesh 2024</a>

BAN vs SL: Sri Lanka spinner Wanindu Hasaranga banned from Test Cricket by ICC, handed Two match ban

ban-vs-sl-sri-lanka-spinner-wanindu-hasaranga-banned-from-test-cricket-by-icc-handed-two-match-ban

IND vs AUS 5th Test: India lost at Melbourne Cricket Ground on the boxing day test even after they were considered the better side at the MCG. Now, after conceding a massive 184-run loss in the fourth test, India and Australia are set to take a bout at Sydney Cricket Ground for the last time in the series and the first time in the year 2025.
The defeat at the MCG was a key moment in the series. Big names like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma failed to shine, and the middle order fell apart when the team needed them most. Australia’s star bowlers, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, made life difficult for India, showing their weakness in overseas conditions. This loss sparked heated discussions about India’s plans and preparation for away games.
The result shook Indian cricket, raising serious questions about Rohit Sharma’s captaincy and Virat Kohli’s form. Fans and experts began calling for changes, suggesting new players should get a chance to step up. With young talent waiting in the wings, all eyes were on the senior players to prove they could still perform under pressure.
With a scoreline of 2-1, Australia is dominating and is a high favorite for the trophy. The only hope for Indian side is that the last test is set to be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground. 
<h2>India's history at the SCG</h2>
The Indian cricket team’s last Test loss at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) came in January 2008 during the heated 2007–08 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Australia won by 122 runs in a game packed with drama, including the infamous "Monkeygate" controversy between Harbhajan Singh and Andrew Symonds. That defeat became a turning point for India, building the team’s resilience and setting the stage for stronger performances at the SCG in the years to come.
Since that 2008 loss, India hasn’t lost a Test at the SCG. A standout moment was the thrilling draw in January 2021, where Ravichandran Ashwin and Hanuma Vihari battled through injuries to save the match. Their gutsy effort helped India hold their ground and ultimately secure a historic series victory in Australia, earning widespread admiration.
India’s overall Test record at the SCG stands at 1 win, 5 losses, and 7 draws, with their only win dating back to 1978. The SCG holds a special place in India’s cricketing journey, filled with moments of struggle and triumph. From the heartbreak of 2008 to remarkable comebacks, India’s performances at the SCG showcase the team’s growth and determination in world cricket.
Match Played- 13 India Won- 01 Australia Won- 05 Draw- 07
READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/indian-cricket-team-india-s-full-test-cricket-schedule-in-2025-they-will-face-these-teams/">Indian Cricket: Team India's full Test Cricket schedule in 2025, they will face these teams</a>

With immense pressure now on India, the history of Sydney gives some hope to the Indian team. The SCG journey reflects growth, from the controversial 2008 loss to unbeaten performances, including a heroic 2021 draw, showcasing resilience and evolving strength in overseas cricket.

India's SCG journey highlights resilience, overcoming setbacks like the 2008 loss and achieving iconic moments like the 2021 draw.  

India's Record at Sydney Cricket Ground Before the IND vs AUS 5th Test

india-s-record-at-sydney-cricket-ground-before-the-ind-vs-aus-5th-test

India captain Rohit Sharma bid adieu to 2024 in a staggering Instagram post. The senior batter posted a video on Instagram on Tuesday, December 31, of his best and worst moments of 2024. This comes amid the talks related to his retirement. 
Rohit Sharma had a roller coaster ride in 2024 as the captain had his best and worst part of his career. The India captain started the year on high as under him India won the Test match at Centurion and went on to draw the series. After that, he was at his best in the Test series against England. 
Rohit Sharma with the team full of youngsters won the Test series against England. Under his leadership, India won the five-match series by a massive margin of 4-1. He led from the front and also slammed two centuries in the series, helping the team win. 
After that, Rohit Sharma was at his best in the IPL as he was amongst the highest run-getters for Mumbai Indians. He also slammed the century there. He also returns to the T20Is before the Tests as slammed a century there as well. 
<h2>The best moment for Rohit Sharma was in June when under his leadership India won the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.</h2>
The best moment for Rohit Sharma was in June when under his leadership India won the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. He was the leading run-getter for the team in the tournament as he top-scored and helped the India team end their ICC title drought. 
Things didn't go well for Rohit Sharma after that. Since then has been going through a rough patch in the Tests. The India captain has failed to get going and under his leadership team faced the whitewash first time at home as they lost the series to New Zealand by the margin of 3-0. 
He is currently in Australia but things have been poor for him as well. The batter has scored just 31 runs in the three games and also under him India is behind in the series by 2-1. He has registered scores of 3, 6, 10, 3 and 9 and following this, there have been a lot of talks related to his retirement as well. 
He posted the video with caption: "For all the ups &amp; downs, and everything in between, Thank you 2024."
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DEPoz8Ah2oV/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==">You can watch video here: </a>
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-changes-india-must-make-to-win-the-scg-test-to-retain-the-border-gavaskar-trophy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">3 changes India must make to win the SCG Test to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a>

"For all the ups & downs" - Rohit Sharma bids adieu to.....

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India is all set to lock horns with England in the three-match ODI series. This will be the only series for the Men in Blue before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and it will be extremely important for the team as they would want to look at their combination for the tournament. 
The ODI series between England and India will get underway from 6th February at the VCA Stadium in Nagpur. The second game of the series is scheduled to take place on 9th February in Cuttack, followed by the last match to be played on 12th at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. 
There have been several reports that have claimed that India will be playing the series in the absence of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah. This is because BCCI wants their premier players to be rested and fresh for the ICC Champions Trophy 2024, which will be a crucial event for the team. 
If the reports emerge to be true, then it will be a massive problem for the Indian team that they will be playing without their captain. This has raised speculations about who will be leading the team in the three-match ODI series against the full-strength England team at home. 
<h2>Who will captain India in the absence of Rohit Sharma during England ODIs </h2>
With Rohit Sharma being rested for the three-match ODI series, it is expected that Shubman Gill will be captaining the team against England. The young batter was recently appointed as the vice-captain of the team in the white-ball format after the team went through the transition. 
It is expected that the squad for the England series will be similar to what India will be named for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Therefore, it will be a great opportunity for the young players who will be picked to make their case strong for the tournament. 
Shubman Gill, since the last few years, has been the best batter for India in the ODIs. He has shown his real class with the bat and would want to carry on the same form. He also was captain of the team during the T20I series against Zimbabwe and will be keen to replicate the same performance.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-changes-india-must-make-to-win-the-scg-test-to-retain-the-border-gavaskar-trophy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">3 changes India must make to win the SCG Test to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a>

There have been several reports that have claimed that India will be playing the series in the absence of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah

Who will captain India if Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and Virat Kohli will be rested for England ODIs

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Team India are currently in Australia for the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The fifth and final test will end on January 7; after that, India will play three T20Is and three ODIs against England at home between January 22 and February 12.
This will be the last three ODIs for India ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, and India will look to prepare for the upcoming mega event. However, there has been news that India might rest Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli.
Being India's premier pacer, Bumrah has been doing too much in Australia, but resting out-of-form Virat and Rohit might not be ideal. Hence, we will talk about three reasons why India should not rest Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from England ODIs.
<h2>Three reasons why India should not drop Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from England ODIs ahead of ICC Champions Trophy 2025</h2>
1. Form of both players
Dropping a player who is struggling with form might not do good for the team. Both Virat and Rohit have struggled in Australia, and they are searching for runs badly. Consistent failures must have hurt their confidence as well. Hence, at home on Indian batting pitches, it can be ideal to get back to form. But if India rest them, they won't have the time to get back to form and will enter the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 after a string of low scores.
2. Only ODIs to prepare for Champions Trophy 2025
Since the ODI World Cup 2023 at home, Rohit and Virat have only played three ODI matches. Though they have played test cricket consistently, ODI format is a different game altogether. Hence, to get back into rhythm, the upcoming ODI series against England can be perfect. At least England are going with the same team that will feature in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. That is why India must need to do and give the game time to their main batters whom you expect to fire in the mega event.
3. Managing Replacement
The form of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli is under scrutiny, and many questions have been raised about their position in tests. However, ODI cricket is a totally different format. But loss of form can sometimes hurt the confidence, and it can affect other formats as well. Hence, India should play them in England ODIs because if they fail, then they can pick the backup batters for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. That means if these two don't score runs against England, then India can take some hard decisions and pick other players as replacements.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-changes-india-must-make-to-win-the-scg-test-to-retain-the-border-gavaskar-trophy/">3 changes India must make to win the SCG Test to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a>

The Indian management is looking to rest Jasprit Bumrah, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from England ODIs ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025.

3 Reasons why Resting Virat and Rohit from England ODIs can be blunder ahead of Champions Trophy 2025

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Batting great Sunil Gavaskar gave a massive suggestion to the Indian team going forward in Test cricket. He said that the Rohit Sharma-led should keep an eye on Venkatesh Iyer for the red-ball cricket as he can be handy for the team. 
India hasn't been blessed with as many fast-bowling all-rounders as they would've wanted. After Kapil Dev, it was Hardik Pandya who took the mantle and has been doing a staggering job for the team in the white-ball cricket but his fitness hasn't supported him at all. 
Hardik Pandya played a few Tests for India but couldn't carry on in the format. The all-rounder last played in 2018 and, after that, has been focusing on white-ball cricket after that, India tried Shardul Thakur, and although he did a decent job, the quality wasn't there, and he was dropped. 
India now has included Nitish Kumar Reddy in the team and the all-rounder has been doing a great job in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. He has shown great promise with the bat as he also slammed a magnificent century and helped the team tackle the trouble. 
But it's fair to say that the quality of the ball still has been lacking. Nitish Kumar Reddy hasn't been the best with the ball and hasn't bowled well, which has put an extra burden on Jasprit Bumrah, who has bowled around 140 overs in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. 
<h2>India must also keep an eye on Venkatesh Iyer, who can be another fine all-rounder and is a left-hander to bat - Sunil Gavaskar</h2>
Amid the debate around all-rounder, Sunil Gavaskar has suggested the name of Venkatesh Iyer, claiming that he can be a fine all-rounder for the team. He also pointed out that he played in the county. Writing in his column, he explained: 
"India must also keep an eye on Venkatesh Iyer, who can be another fine all-rounder and is a left-hander to bat. His bowling too can do with some work, but he has played in England and can be a very good option to have there," Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar. 
Venkatesh Iyer has already made his India debut, having played two ODIs and nine T20Is. He also played for Lancashire in the England summer earlier this year.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/indian-cricket-team-india-s-full-test-cricket-schedule-in-2025-they-will-face-these-teams/#google_vignette"> </a><a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/indian-cricket-team-india-s-full-test-cricket-schedule-in-2025-they-will-face-these-teams/#google_vignette">Indian Cricket: Team India's full Test Cricket schedule in 2025, they will face these teams</a>

Batting great Sunil Gavaskar gave a massive suggestion to the Indian team going forward in Test cricket.

Not Hardik Pandya or Nitish Reddy, Sunil Gavaskar wants this fast-bowling all-rounder for Tests

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After the end of the 2025 IPL Mega-Auction, a lot of teams have strengthened their respective batting units. The dominance of the batters is going to increase even more this time around in the Biggest T20 tournament in the entire world and it's going to be really interesting to see which teams walks out on to the field with the strongest batting unit. 
Every year, the batsmen create new records in the IPL and now the runs figure of 250 is looking pretty common these days. Not just this, scoring centuries has also become pretty common for the batters. In such a situation, let's take a look at 3 teams who have the strongest batting-unit in IPL 2025
<h3>Three IPL Teams who have the strongest batting-unit in IPL 2025:</h3>
<h3>1. Sunrisers Hyderabad</h3>
Pat Cummins-led Sunrisers Hyderabad will once again walk out on the field in the IPL with the strongest batting unit. The likes of Travis Head, Ishan Kishan, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen are a part of the squad of SRH and these players have the potential in them to dominate any opposition bowling unit. 
While Kishan is a new addition, the other four players were a part of the Hyderabad team in the previous edition of the tournament too and they wrecked havoc in the 2024 edition of the IPL as they crossed the 260 run mark twice verus the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and five time winners Mumbai Indians (MI).The presence of these four players and the addition of hard hitting Indian batter Ishan Kishan makes the IPL 2024 runners-up a force to reckon with. 

<h3>2. Kolkata Knight Riders</h3>
IPL 2024 winners and reigning champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are blessed to have a solid and a strong batting unit ahead of IPL 2025. The presence of the likes of Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rinku Singh, Sunil Narine, Venkatesh Iyer, Andre Russell, Quinton de Kock and Ajinkya Rahane can target any bowler from the word go. The aggressive batting nature of Gurbaz, De Kock, Narine and Venky Iyer along with the solid middle order presence of the duo of Russell and Rinku make the team of KKR look like a complete and a really formidable one. The Reigning Champs are surely going to be a dangerous side to bowl against.

<h4>3. Delhi Capitals </h4>
After the conclusion of the 2025 IPL Mega-Auction, the Delhi Capitals managed to include some really incredible batters in their squad which consists of the likes of KL Rahul, Tristan Stubbs, Jack Fraser McGurk and Harry Brook. Besides them, the presence of experienced all-rounder Axar Patel provides a lot of stability to their middle-order. This time around, the Delhi franchise have set up themselves as a batting-heavy team, which will create a lot of difficulties for the opposition bowlers.

Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ipl-csk-s-strongest-playing-11-if-conway-and-ravindra-miss-the-start-of-ipl-2025/">IPL: CSK's strongest Playing 11 if Conway and Ravindra miss the start of IPL 2025</a>

Many IPL teams have strengthened their squads after the end of the 2025 Mega-Auction and three teams have the strongest batting-unit ahead of IPL 2025. We will be taking a look at those three teams in this article.

IPL 2025: 3 Teams who have the strongest batting unit, they can blow away any bowling attack

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It has been a great year for India's ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah, as he has been at the top of his game and has proved it in all three formats. The ace pacer played a big role in India's T20 World Cup 2024 triumph, winning the Player of the Tournament award. Bumrah has taken the most wickets in 2024 across all three formats.
But his best came in the red-ball cricket, where he has taken most wickets in 2024. That is why Cricket Australia (CA) has honored him and picked him as the captain of the Test XI of 2024. Interestingly, CA has not picked Pat Cummins and has picked Bumrah to lead the team.
CA has picked three English players, two each from Australia, India, and New Zealand, and a player each from South Africa and Sri Lanka. Apart from Bumrah, the Indian opener Yashavi Jaiswal also features in the exclusive Best Test XI by Cricket Australia.
<h2>Jasprit Bumrah picked as captain to lead Best Test XI of 2024 by Cricket Australia</h2>
Indian ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah led India in the first game of the ongoing BGT series in Perth and played a crucial role in winning. Hence, CA has picked Bumrah to lead this exclusive Test XI. The 31-year-old has taken 71 wickets in just 13 games at an average of 14.92 and a strike rate of 30.16, with five fifers.
Jaiswal and Ben Duckett have been picked to open the innings. Both left-handers had a tremendous year. Jaiswal has scored 1478 runs and is the second-highest scorer in 2024, while Duckett has scored 1149 and is below Jaiswal at three for this year. Former English captain Joe Root, who is leading the run scoring chart with 1556 runs in 17 tests, is picked to bat at no. 3.
<h2>Harry Brook to lead the middle-order batting in the Best Test XI by Cricket Australia</h2>
The middle order is filled with some exceptional performers. Harry Brook, who was the No. 1 ranked test batter, has scored 1100 runs this year in just 12 games with four centuries, including a triple hundred, and is at No. 4. He is followed by New Zealand's Rachin Ravindra, who has 984 runs in 12 tests.
At no. 6, Sri Lanka's emerging star Kamindu Mendis, who became one of the fastest to reach 1000 test runs. Mendis has scored 1049 runs in just nine tests, with five centuries and three half-centuries. Australia's Alex Carey is picked as the wicketkeeper, who has scored 440 runs in nine tests.
Bumrah will lead the team. The other two pacers are England's Gus Atkinson and New Zealand's Matt Henry. Atkinson has taken 52 wickets in 11 tests, while Henry has taken 48 wickets in nine tests. South Africa's Keshav Maharaj is the only spinner in the team, who has 35 wickets in seven tests.
Cricket Australia's Best Test XI of 2024: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Rachin Ravindra, Harry Brook, Kamindu Mendis, Alex Carey (wk), Matt Henry, Jasprit Bumrah, Josh Hazlewood, Keshav Maharaj
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/mitchell-starc-ruled-out-of-sydney-test-australian-coach-makes-a-big-revelation-ahead-of-5th-test/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mitchell Starc ruled out of Sydney Test? Australian coach makes a big revelation ahead of 5th Test</a>

Cricket Australia announced the Best Test XI of 2024, picking two Indian players. Jasprit Bumrah has been picked as the captain of the team.

Cummins dropped as Jasprit Bumrah to lead as Cricket Australia released Best Test XI of 2024

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Rohit Sharma, the current captain of the Indian Cricket Team is set to take the big decision of retiring from Test Cricket following the conclusion of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series versus the Australians. According to a media report, Rohit will be taking a big decision regarding his career after the conclusion of the ongoing series. 
Let us tell you that the Men in Blue have failed to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, a series which the Indians have won on the previous four occasions. On the other hand, the personal performance of the 37-year-old with the bat have been poor too, managing to score just 31 runs in five innings versus the Aussies in the current edition of the BGT. 
According to the news report of Times of India, the top officials of thr BCCI and the National Team selectors have already talked to Rohit and it looks like the 'Hitman' will not be changing his decision of retiring. While the date of his retirement has not been revealed yet, some news reports suggest that the 37-year-old will be taking the tough decision after the conclusion of the Sydney Test-Match. 
If the two time WTC runners-up manage to qualify for the 2023-25 WTC Final, then Rohit can carry on as the captain of the team for some more time and he will most likely have a discussion with the selectors regarding staying on as the skipper. 
Following the team's defeat in the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test, the Indian captain was deeply hurt by the defeat. On one hand, elite seamer Jasprit Bumrah has single handedly dismissed Australian batters 30 times in the ongoing series while Rohit on the other hand, has managed to amass just 31 runs. It's possible that the retirement of the 'Hitman' is not that far but he won't be moving away from Red-ball Cricket without fighting back in the Sydney Test-Match.
<h2>What did Indian Captain Rohit Sharma say following the team's embarrassing defeat in Melbourne? </h2>
The Indian Team fell to an embarrassing 184 runs defeat in the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test-Match versus the Australians and this defeat meant that the home team have taken a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. After the defeat, Skipper Rohit Sharma that there are many things that are not happening according to his wishes. He also said that this defeat is mentally disturbing. 
"It's evident that we have had a few unfavorable-outcomes, and as captain, I find this disheartening. Many of the things I'm attempting to do as a batter are not working out and it's upsetting to the mind," the Indian captain said.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/mitchell-starc-ruled-out-of-sydney-test-australian-coach-makes-a-big-revelation-ahead-of-5th-test/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mitchell Starc ruled out of Sydney Test? Australian coach makes a big revelation ahead of 5th Test</a>

A dejected Rohit Sharma walks back to the dugout after getting dismissed for yet another low score in the BGT 2024 series | Image: Associated Press

Reportedly, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has decided to retire from Test Cricket and the announcement is likely to be made by the BCCI after the end of the Sydney Test-Match versus the Australians.

Team India: Captain Rohit Sharma decides to retire from Tests, BCCI likely to make an announcement soon

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The Indian Men's National Cricket Team is currently in Australia where they are taking part in the 2024-25 edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. Post the conclusion of the Australian tour, they will head back to Indian where they will be participating in a limited-overs Bilateral Series versus England, which will consist of five T20 International contests and three One Day International games. 
Ahead of England's tour of India, a big update has come out regarding the three-match One Day International series and it says that the duo of Virat Kohli &amp; Rohit Sharma are not going play in the Odds versus the Three Lions. Besides these two players, elite seamer Jasprit Bumrah will also miss the ODI series. 
The One-Day International series versus the Three Lions is the Men in Blue's final series before the commencement of 2025 Champions Trophy and this series will be acting as a preparatory ground for the 2023 ODI World Cup runners-up. 
The White Ball assignment versus the Jos Buttler-led team will start from the 22nd of January, 2025 with the five-match Twenty-Twenty series. Then the 50-overs event of three games will kick off from the 6th of February, 2025.
It's worth noting that both Virat &amp; Rohit have retired from the shortest format of the game and both will be seen playing in just the One-Day International matches but now that seems very unlikely too.
According to a news report of Sports Tak, the trip of Jasprit Bumrah, Virat Kohli &amp; Rohit Sharma will be missing the England ODI series due to the workload-management policy of the BCCI. Bumrah will also be absent from the England T20 International series. However, official updates regarding the trio's participation are yet to be revealed. 
<h2>The 2025 edition of the Champions Trophy will commence from the 19th of February</h2>
Let us tell you that the 2025 edition of the Champions Trophy will kick off from the 19th of February, 2025. On the other hand, the white ball series between England and India will end on the 12th of February. Champions Trophy (CT) will be played under the 'Hybrid-Model' policy.
While Pakistan will be acting as the host country of the tournament, the Men in Blue will be playing their CT fixtures in the city of Dubai, UAE. If the Rohit Sharma-led team manage to qualify for the knock out rounds and advance to the final too, then one Semi-Final and the all-important Final will be played in the Dubai Cricket Stadium.
Do Read:

India's Jasprit Bumrah (R) celebrates with teammate Virat Kohli (C) and captain Rohit Sharma after taking the wicket of Australia's captain Pat Cummins during the 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup one-day international (ODI) match between India and Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai | Image: Getty Images

The Trio of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Rohit Sharma are set to miss the England ODI series ahead of Champions Trophy 2025

IND vs ENG: Kohli and Rohit set to miss the England ODI series ahead of Champions Trophy 2025

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IND vs AUS: India are the current holder of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, as they have won the last four editions and have a great record. Australia won the last BGT trophy back in 2014-15, but it looks like the long wait is all set to come to an end. After an emphatic win at the MCG, Australia are leading by 2-1.
They just need to win or draw the final test, which will help them to win the BGT trophy and also to qualify for the World Test Championship 2023-25 final. Australia have had great performance so far, and everyone has chipped in with valuable contributions.
The fifth and final test is all set to begin on January 3, 2025, at the Sydney Cricket Ground. However, ahead of the final game, Australia might suffer a big blow. Ace pacer Mitchell Starc can miss the game due to a fitness issue.
<h2>IND vs AUS 5th Test: "Mitchell Starc is carrying something of some description"- Australian head coach Andrew McDonald</h2>
Australia had to find the replacement for Josh Hazlewood when he was ruled out ahead of the MCG test. Though they had Scott Boland, who did pretty well. But they can have a big headache if Mitchell Starc also gets ruled out of the final test. Australian head coach Andrew McDonald is optimistic about Starc's availability for the SCG test.
The 34-year-old looked in discomfort during the Boxing Day Test in the second innings. He left the field during Day 3 due to a niggle and was seen stretching his back a few times in India's second innings as well. However, the pacer kept pushing hard and played a crucial role in Australia's victory. He took the wicket of Virat Kohli in the second innings and bowled consistently with a good speed of over 140 km/h.
His inclusion is still a question, and McDonald said, "Clearly, Starc is carrying something of some description. We’ll assess that. There was clearly a bit of discomfort early in his spells, but once he warmed up, he seemed relatively free. His ball speeds were good."
Notably, Australia have the option to go for Sean Abbott and Jhye Richardson if Starc gets unfit for the final game. These two pacers are with the team as backup options. Australia are one win away from regaining the BGT trophy and qualifying for the WTC final. So, they need Starc fully fit and at his best for the final game.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/3-changes-india-must-make-to-win-the-scg-test-to-retain-the-border-gavaskar-trophy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">3 changes India must make to win the SCG Test to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a>

Mitchell Starc was seen in discomfort while bowling in the Boxing Day Test. He had a niggle, and his participating in the final test at the SCG is in doubt.