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04 January 2025

Australia And India Battle For Border-Gavaskar Trophy

The decisive 5th Test at Sydney features high stakes for both teams battling for cricketing glory.

The final Test match of the Border–Gavaskar Trophy between Australia and India began on January 3, 2024, at the historic Sydney Cricket Ground. With much at stake, both teams are geared up for the decisive clash, as the series hangs on the edge.

This fifth Test match marks not only the climax of the series but also the chance for Australia to reclaim the trophy they last held nearly a decade ago. The first day proved to be challenging for the visitors, India, who were bowled out for just 185 runs. Stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah praised his team's resilience, stating, "It’s emotional" when reflecting on their performance amid significant changes, including the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma.

Rohit Sharma's exclusion was due to inconsistent form, leaving Bumrah to lead the team against formidable opposition. India struggled from the outset, with their highest score coming from Rishabh Pant, who managed 40 runs. Scott Boland shone for Australia, finishing the day with remarkable figures of 4/31, effectively dismantling India's batting order.

At stumps on Day 1, Australia had begun their innings trailing at 9/1 after Usman Khawaja was dismissed by Bumrah on the last ball before the close of play. With the day's play interrupted by rain, the match's ebbs and flows have left fans on the edge of their seats.

The start of the match at the SCG was particularly historical, as the venue regularly hosts one of the year’s first Tests. India has managed only one Test win at the SCG back in 1978, and they come to this match with the hope to not only defend their title but also to reignite their competitive spirit within the series.

The Test series has oscillated dramatically, with Australia recovering strongly after initially falling behind earlier in the tour. The importance of this match cannot be overstated for both teams as they aim for glory; being crowned the winner of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy carries prestige and momentum going forward.

The live streaming of the match is accessible through various platforms globally, including 7Plus for Australian viewers and Disney+ Hotstar for fans in India. This allows cricket enthusiasts worldwide to engage with the game and follow the nail-biting action live.

This unique opportunity to follow the finale of such a storied rivalry amplifies the excitement. For cricket fans, the ability to stream the match for free, using reliable VPN services if they are located outside the broadcast areas, adds to the accessibility, ensuring enthusiasts do not miss any of the high-stakes moments of this series.

With Day 2 of the Test set to commence, all eyes will be on the Indian bowlers to make strides against Australia’s batting lineup. The resilience and tactics will be tested, and fans can expect thrilling moments as both sides vie for supremacy on the Test cricket stage.

Looking forward, the outcome of this match could not only decide the series but also pivot the teams' trajectories leading to future series and tournaments, including positioning within the World Test Championship framework.

The clash at the SCG encapsulates the rich history and rivalry inherent between Australia and India, making this match not just another fixture but rather a chapter in the broader narrative of Test cricket. Fans and players alike understand the stakes, ensuring the atmosphere remains electric as legends are written on the pitch.