Sydney: India’s Jasprit Bumrah stepped up as captain in place of Rohit Sharma, who was rested, and opted to bat first in the fifth and final Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Friday. Rohit’s omission comes as he struggled for form throughout the series, with the leadership handed to Bumrah, who previously led India to a commanding win in Perth.
Bumrah praised Rohit’s decision to rest, highlighting the team’s unity and selflessness. “Our captain has shown leadership by opting to sit out for the team’s best interest,” he stated.
India made two changes, with Shubman Gill replacing Rohit in the top order and Prasidh Krishna stepping in for Akash Deep, sidelined by a back injury. Australia, leading the series 2-1, introduced debutant all-rounder Beau Webster in place of Mitchell Marsh.
With a WTC final spot on the line, India needs a victory to keep their hopes alive and retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Australia, aiming to secure their place in the final against South Africa, are eager to capitalize on favorable bowling conditions after losing the toss.
Despite morning drizzle, clear weather is expected for the first three days, with potential showers on Monday and Tuesday. Both teams face immense pressure as they vie for glory in the decisive clash.
Teams:
Australia: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland
India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah (captain), Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna
