SYDNEY, Jan 02 (AP): The scenarios are clear-cut for Australia going into Friday's final match of the five-Test series with India at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
If the Australians win or draw the match they will regain the Border-Gavaskar trophy for the first time since 2014-15. A win by India and a drawn series at 2-2 would allow the visitors to retain the trophy for a record-extending fifth consecutive time.
But more importantly for Australia, a win at the SCG would book the team's spot in a second consecutive World Test Championship final. Australia beat India in the 2023 decider.
South Africa became the first team to qualify for the WTC final at Lord's in June by
winning a dramatic match at home to Pakistan last weekend. On Thursday, Australia allrounder Mitch Marsh was dropped for the final match against India, giving Beau Webster a test debut. Fast bowler Mitchell Starc was also named despite dealing with rib soreness at the Melbourne Cricket Ground during Australia's 184-run win ending Monday to take a 2-1 series lead.
The 34-year-old Starc had scans on Wednesday and received the all-clear to take his spot in a bowling lineup with captain captain Pat Cummins, Scott Boland, and Nathan Lyon.
Marsh had only been called upon for 13 overs in the past three tests, with his pace appearing well down while not taking a wicket.
Debuting in 2014, Marsh has played 46 tests for a batting average of 28.53, highlighted by three Ashes centuries.
Australia need a win to book WTC final spot
Face India for final Test today
FE Team | Published: January 02, 2025 23:35:31
Australia need a win to book WTC final spot
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