The third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 is poised to be a game-changer, with India looking to repeat one of their most iconic victories in recent cricket history. The venue? The Gabba, Brisbane – a ground that has long been Australia’s fortress, where they have been nearly invincible for decades. But India, having broken Australia’s stranglehold on the Gabba back in 2021, is ready to shatter their confidence once again and win the famed title “Tootega Gabba Ka Ghamand” (The Gabba’s Pride).
History will be repeated and We will hear once again –
‘Toota Hai Gabba Ka Ghamand’ ❤️#INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/TorBhzQd6h---Advertisement---— Rashpinder Brar (@RashpinderBrar3) December 14, 2024
India’s Obsession With Playing Spinners
India came into 3rd Test and took another surprising decision at Gabba, Rohit Sharma announced that India will be bringing in Ravindra Jadeja in place of Ravichandran Ashwin. Another change was in the pace attack as Harshit Rana now sits out and Akashdeep comes in his place. India has already made three changes in the spin department, Washington Sundar played in 1st Test, Ravichandran Ashwin in the 2nd and now Ravindra Jadeja in 3rd Test. But the surprising part is the spinners have failed to leave an impact in Australia’s fast bowling conditions.
Akashdeep Comes In Place Of Harshit Rana
The Gabba pitch is known for its pace and bounce, due to which India has taken the decision to bring in Akashdeep but is benching Harshit Rana a good decision? The challenging pitch like Gabba requires atleast four fast bowlers but India has again opted to place their trust in spin and tried to balance out the squad.
The Role Of Rishabh Pant
As Ravi Shastri said, “Rishabh Pant is the X-factor in Modern-Day cricket”. Rishabh Pant will play a very crucial role as he was the hero of India’s win in Gabba in 2021.
Rishabh Pant has accumulated 112 runs in Gabba in the two innings he played in 2021. If Pant scores 88 more runs he will become the first Indian batter to score a total of 200 runs in the challenging venue.
Also Read: IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Will The Weather Bring An Unexpected Twist At Gabba?
The Need For India’s Top-Order To Work
India’s top order has failed to leave an impact in the Adelaide Test, the openers struggled to score runs and with Rohit Sharma batting at number 6 the decision completely back-fired. Hence, if India plans to continue with openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal then a steady partnership is required.
Unpredictable Weather At Gabba
One of the crucial elements that could play a role in this highly anticipated Test is the unpredictable weather at the Gabba. Brisbane is currently experiencing unusual rain patterns, and the forecast for the match suggests potential disruptions. However, the overcast and humid conditions could play into India’s hands, with their pacers like Mohammed Siraj and Bumrah ready to exploit the swinging ball. If the rain holds off, India will be hopeful that the pitch and conditions will help their seamers dominate, just as they did in the 2021 Test.
The iconic ground’s invincibility is under threat, and India, with their strong lineup and memories of 2021, will be looking to finish what they started. Will India break “Gabba Ka Ghamand” once more and etch another unforgettable victory into cricketing history? The 3rd Test against Australia promises to be a thrilling battle for the ages!
