Australia to Face India in Third ODI with Unassailable Lead
Australia is gearing up to take on India in the third and final ODI of the series on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The hosts currently hold a commanding 2-0 lead in the series, making it impossible for India to stage a comeback.
With the series already in the bag, Australia is expected to test their bench strength in the upcoming match. This provides an opportunity for players who have not yet featured in the series to showcase their skills. The team will be aiming to complete a clean sweep and carry the winning momentum into the upcoming T20 series.
India’s Quest for Redemption
On the other hand, India will be determined to bounce back after suffering defeats in the first two ODIs, which ultimately led to them losing the series. The visitors will be looking to secure a consolation win in the final match to end the ODI leg on a positive note. They will then shift their focus to the T20 format with hopes of a fresh start.
Sydney Cricket Ground — Pitch Preview
The third ODI will be held at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), a venue known for its favorable batting conditions. Batsmen can expect the ball to come onto the bat nicely, allowing them to play their shots with confidence. However, fast bowlers will need to put in extra effort to generate movement and take wickets. As the match progresses, spinners are likely to play a crucial role, especially if they maintain a disciplined line and length.
Predicted 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
Key Players to Watch
Probable Best Batter — Shubman Gill
Indian captain Shubman Gill is expected to lead the visitors’ batting line-up in this crucial match. Despite a lack of runs in the ODI series so far, Gill possesses the talent to play long innings and dominate the opposition. He will be looking to make a significant impact and guide India to a win against the strong Australian bowling attack.
Probable Best Bowler — Adam Zampa
Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa has been in stellar form, particularly in the second ODI where he picked up a four-wicket haul. Zampa’s variations and ability to outsmart the batsmen make him a key player to watch in this encounter. His performance could be instrumental in helping Australia secure a clean sweep in the series.
Match Prediction
Based on analysis and instincts, the prediction for the match is the chasing team to emerge victorious. Australia will face India at the Sydney Cricket Ground in what promises to be an exciting clash between two top cricketing nations.
Team Strategies and Dynamics
As Australia heads into the final ODI with an unassailable lead, they have the luxury of experimenting with their lineup and giving opportunities to fringe players. This move not only helps in building depth within the squad but also keeps the regular starters fresh and motivated. The team will be looking to maintain their winning streak and continue their dominance over India.
On the other hand, India will be under pressure to salvage some pride after their disappointing performances in the first two ODIs. The team will be focused on regrouping, identifying their weaknesses, and executing a solid game plan to secure a win in the final match. Captained by Shubman Gill, India will be aiming to put up a strong fight and carry some momentum into the T20 series.
Impact of Pitch Conditions
The Sydney Cricket Ground has traditionally been a high-scoring venue, favoring batsmen who can play their shots freely. The pitch is expected to remain true, offering good bounce and carry, which should encourage stroke-making. Bowlers will need to be patient and vary their pace and lengths to succeed on this surface. Spinners could come into play as the game progresses, exploiting any rough patches and slowing down the run rate.
Players to Watch Out For
Key Batsman – Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma, known for his ability to score big runs and change the course of a match, will be crucial for India’s chances in the final ODI. Sharma’s experience and composure under pressure make him a player to watch out for as he looks to anchor the innings and build partnerships to set a competitive total against the Australian bowling attack.
Key Bowler – Mitchell Starc
Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc is expected to trouble the Indian batsmen with his raw pace and swing. Starc’s ability to swing the new ball and deliver lethal yorkers at the death overs make him a potent weapon in Australia’s bowling arsenal. His early breakthroughs could set the tone for Australia’s bowling performance in the match.
Final Outcome Prediction
With Australia holding a comfortable 2-0 lead and playing at home, they are the favorites to clinch the series with a clean sweep. However, cricket is a game of uncertainties, and India will be determined to put up a fight and salvage a win to avoid a whitewash. The final ODI promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams look to make a statement before heading into the T20 series.
Overall, the match between Australia and India at the Sydney Cricket Ground is set to be a riveting contest, showcasing the skills and competitiveness of both teams on the cricket field.
