India vs Australia 3rd Test: Rohit Sharma Wins Toss, India Opts to Bowl

India vs Australia 3rd Test: India captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and elected to field against Australia in the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024 at the Gabba, Brisbane. With the series tied 1-1, this match holds immense significance as both teams aim to take the lead.

Team Changes and Strategy

Ravindra Jadeja and Akash Deep replace Ravichandran Ashwin and Harshit Rana.
Australia's Playing XI Change:

Josh Hazlewood returns from injury, replacing Scott Boland

Explaining the decision to bowl first, Rohit Sharma said, “The conditions here at the Gabba look ideal for bowling with overcast skies and a soft pitch. It’s a big game, and we’re focused on executing our strategy.”

Australia captain Pat Cummins acknowledged the challenging conditions but expressed confidence in his team’s preparation, saying, “We would’ve bowled first too. It’s been a fantastic series so far. Hazlewood’s return strengthens our bowling attack.”

High Stakes at the Gabba

India looks to bounce back after their loss in the second Test, while Australia aims to build on their momentum. With strategic changes in both teams, the third Test promises to be a crucial and thrilling encounter.

Playing XIs for the Gabba Test

India XI:
Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (w), Rohit Sharma (c), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep

Australia XI

Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (w), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood