Rain Threatens Fifth Test as India Battles Batting Woes and Australia Faces Injury Concerns

Rain Threat Looms Over Fifth Test at SCG

The fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) could be affected by rain during the last two days of the match, according to reports.

The final Test, starting on January 3 at the SCG, holds special significance as it marks 'Jane McGrath Day', honoring the wife of legendary pacer Glenn McGrath who succumbed to cancer. The third day of the match will see the venue draped in pink, raising funds for cancer support and awareness in Australia.

While the first two days of the Test are expected to be sunny with temperatures in the mid-thirties, the last two days could be impacted by showers starting at the end of day four and continuing overnight. A constant drizzle is also likely on day five.

Both Google and BBC weather reports predict similar weather patterns. While there is a chance of rain on Friday afternoon, the weekend is expected to see some sunshine. However, there is a 68% chance of rain on the night of Monday, day four of the match, and heavy showers are likely to continue throughout day five.

India's batting woes continue, with key players Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Rishabh Pant managing only one fifty-plus score throughout the series combined. Despite some incredible bowling from Jasprit Bumrah, who has taken 30 wickets in four matches at an average of 12.83, India have failed to make a significant impact and trail 1-2.

Australia, on the other hand, faces injury concerns with pacer Josh Hazlewood ruled out of the series due to calf injuries. Recent reports also suggest that another frontline pacer, Mitchell Starc, has undergone scans two days before the Sydney Test.

With the series currently 2-1 in favor of Australia, they are in a strong position to join South Africa in the ICC World Test Championship. However, if India wins the match and draws the series, they will not only retain the trophy but also keep themselves alive in the WTC race, provided the results of the Australia-Sri Lanka series next year go their way.