Australia vs India: Third ODI Preview
Australia are gearing up to face India in the third and final One Day International (ODI) of the series on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The hosts currently hold an unassailable 2-0 lead, and with the series already in their pocket, they are expected to test their bench strength in this match.
With an eye on completing a clean sweep and carrying the winning momentum into the upcoming T20 series, Australia will provide opportunities to players who have not yet featured in the series. On the other hand, India will be looking to bounce back after suffering defeats in the first two ODIs, which cost them the series. The visitors will be eager to secure a consolation win in the final match and end the ODI leg on a positive note before shifting their focus to the T20 format.
Sydney Cricket Ground — Pitch Report
The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) is known for its batting-friendly conditions where the ball comes nicely onto the bat, allowing batters to play their shots freely. However, fast bowlers will need to put in extra effort to extract movement and pick up wickets. As the match progresses, spinners are likely to play a crucial role on the surface, especially if they maintain disciplined lines and lengths.
Probable Playing 11s
Australia:
- Mitchell Marsh (c)
- Travis Head
- Matthew Short
- Matt Renshaw
- Alex Carey (wk)
- Cooper Connolly
- Mitchell Owen
- Xavier Bartlett
- Mitchell Starc
- Adam Zampa
- Josh Hazlewood
India:
- Shubman Gill (c)
- Rohit Sharma
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Axar Patel
- Washington Sundar
- Harshit Rana
- Mohammed Siraj
- Arshdeep Singh
Probable Best Performers of the Match
Probable Best Batter — Shubman Gill
Indian captain Shubman Gill could be the key batter for the visitors in this clash. Despite not finding his form in the ODI series, Gill is known for his ability to build long innings and dominate opposition attacks. He will aim to lead from the front and anchor India’s batting effort in this crucial match.
Probable Best Bowler — Adam Zampa
Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa, who impressed in the second ODI with a four-wicket haul, will be a key bowler in this encounter. He will use his variations to outsmart the Indian batters and help Australia secure a clean sweep in the series.
Match Prediction
Based on analysis and instinct, the prediction for this match is that the chasing team will emerge victorious. It promises to be an exciting battle between Australia and India at the SCG, with both teams looking to end the ODI series on a high note.
Team Dynamics and Key Players
As Australia looks to test their bench strength in this final ODI, players like Mitchell Marsh and Mitchell Starc will be crucial in providing leadership and experience to the team. Marsh’s all-round abilities and Starc’s lethal pace bowling will be key factors in Australia’s quest for a clean sweep.
On the Indian side, the onus will be on players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to step up and deliver match-winning performances. Sharma, known for his explosive batting, will be eager to provide a solid start at the top of the order, while Kohli’s leadership and experience will be vital in guiding India to a win.
Impact of Series Outcome on T20s
While the ODI series result may already be decided, the outcome of this final match can have a significant impact on the upcoming T20 series between Australia and India. A win for Australia will see them carry confidence and momentum into the T20s, putting pressure on India to bounce back quickly. On the other hand, a victory for India in the final ODI could provide them with the much-needed boost and belief heading into the T20 format.
Player Form and Conditions
Player form will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the match, with both teams looking to capitalize on the conditions at the SCG. Batters will need to adjust to the bounce and pace of the pitch, while bowlers will have to vary their lengths and lines to keep the opposition in check. The match promises to be a test of skill, adaptability, and mental fortitude.
Key Battles to Watch
One of the key battles to watch in this match will be between Adam Zampa and Virat Kohli. Zampa’s leg-spin against Kohli’s mastery of spin bowling will be a fascinating contest, with both players looking to outsmart each other. The outcome of this battle could have a significant impact on the match result.
Another intriguing battle will be between Mitchell Starc and Rohit Sharma. Starc’s pace and swing bowling against Sharma’s elegant stroke play will provide fans with an enthralling contest. The battle between these two stalwarts could be a highlight of the match.
Final Thoughts
As the stage is set for the final ODI between Australia and India at the SCG, anticipation and excitement are at an all-time high. Both teams will be looking to make a statement and end the series on a positive note. With talented players on both sides and the unpredictable nature of cricket, the match is sure to provide fans with a thrilling spectacle.
Stay tuned as Australia and India lock horns in what promises to be a gripping encounter at one of cricket’s historic venues. The outcome of this match will not only shape the series narrative but also set the tone for the upcoming T20 clashes between these two cricketing giants. Don’t miss the action-packed finale at the SCG!
