Overview
The MCG Boxing Day Test generates great anticipation, but this year carries an additional intensity. With the series standing at 1-1, amplified on-field chatter, resurging Australian spirit, and Virat Kohli’s resolute approach, the match promises to be a riveting affair boosted by the presence of grass on the Melbourne pitch.
If India can rebound from their Perth setback and secure a win, they will secure the Border-Gavaskar trophy. Should Australia triumph, it would signify a significant resurgence following a tumultuous year. A draw, however, should hopefully be an enthralling contest, unlike the previous year’s stalemate.
The pitches in this series have instigated substantial debate, with Melbourne’s 22 yards taking center stage for days. Following last year’s “poor” rating by the ICC, this Test, under a new curator’s management, stands as a pivotal moment for the iconic ground aiming to restore its reputation.
Both teams have demonstrated the ability to produce captivating cricket when the bowlers receive support from the pitch, creating a captivating spectacle. The battle between bat and ball has been exceptional in Tests throughout 2018, and ideally, it will conclude in a similar fashion.
Past Performance
(last five completed matches)
Australia WLLDL
India LWWWL
Focus Players
Team Updates
Australia 1 Aaron Finch, 2 Marcus Harris, 3 Usman Khawaja, 4 Shaun Marsh, 5 Travis Head, 6 Mitchell Marsh, 7 Tim Paine (capt. & wk), 8 Pat Cummins, 9 Mitchell Starc, 10 Nathan Lyon, 11 Josh Hazlewood
India has opted to replace both openers, with Mayank Agarwal set to debut and Hanuma Vihari moving up the order. With R Ashwin’s incomplete recovery, Ravindra Jadeja has been included as part of the four-man attack. Rohit Sharma returns to fitness and slots in at No. 6, while India refrains from reintroducing Hardik Pandya.
India 1 Mayank Agarwal, 2 Hanuma Vihari, 3 Cheteshwar Pujara, 4 Virat Kohli (capt.), 5 Ajinkya Rahane, 6 Rohit Sharma, 7 Rishabh Pant (wk), 8 Ravindra Jadeja, 9 Mohammed Shami, 10 Ishant Sharma, 11 Jasprit Bumrah
Pitch and Weather
Facing scrutiny after being rated “poor” last year, the pitch has been a focal point of discussion. The varying lengths of grass trialed in the Sheffield Shield suggests an inclination towards leaving more grass on the surface to inject some vitality. It may even be sufficiently green to prompt a team to opt for bowling first. The weather conditions are expected to significantly impact the pitch, with hot and sunny weather forecast for the initial four days.
Statistics
Quotations
“I believe in confidence, there’s no doubt. Confidence, like respect, is something you have to earn. We haven’t had much success…to win one, it’s nice to get rewarded for the work the boys are doing. There were some really good signs in Perth.”
Justin Langer when asked if he believed in momentum
Andrew McGlashan is a deputy editor at ESPNcricinfo
