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Australia are set to host Pakistan in the highly anticipated third and final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, commencing on January 3. The hosts have already secured the series with convincing victories in the first two Tests, held in Perth and Melbourne.
Australia, riding high on their recent successes, are eager to maintain their winning momentum and achieve a clean sweep against Pakistan. The team is particularly motivated to give a fitting farewell to veteran cricketer David Warner, who will be donning the baggy green for the last time in this Test match.
Warner, a stalwart of Australian cricket, has had a stellar career, contributing significantly to the team’s success over the years. As he prepares to bid adieu to international cricket, the Australian team is determined to make his final Test memorable by securing another victory in Sydney.
Pakistan, on the other hand, face an uphill battle to salvage pride and end the tour on a positive note. The visiting team will be determined to register a consolation win in Sydney, showcasing their resilience and competitive spirit. Captain Shan Masood and experienced players like Babar Azam are expected to play crucial roles in steering the team towards a potential victory.
Tests stats and records at Sydney Cricket Ground:
- Total matches: 112
- Matches won batting first: 47
- Matches won bowling first: 41
- Average first innings scores: 319
- Average second innings scores: 312
- Average third innings scores: 251
- Average fourth innings scores: 171
- Highest total recorded: 705/7 (187.3 Ov) by India vs Australia
- Lowest total recorded: 42/10 (37.3 Ov) by Australia vs England
Also READ: AUS vs PAK 2023-24 – Pakistan unveil their playing XI for the New Year Test against Australia
Sydney Cricket Ground Pitch Report:
Sydney is renowned for providing a favorable batting surface, where spinners often play a crucial role on the fourth and fifth days of a Test match. While it may lack the true bounce of and the raw pace of some other venues, Sydney’s turning conditions make it a notable venue for spinners eager to showcase their skills.
Sydney Weather Forecast:
During the period from January 3 to January 7, Sydney is expected to experience predominantly cloudy conditions, with the likelihood of scattered thunderstorms on Thursday. Temperatures are anticipated to reach highs ranging from 27°C on January 3 to 23°C on January 7, while lows are expected to be around 20°C.
Australia vs Pakistan, Sydney Test, Playing XIs:
Australia: David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood
Pakistan: Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Agha Salman, Hasan Ali, Sajid Khan, Aamer Jamal, Mir Hamza