The second Test between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan at Bulawayo began with Zimbabwe asserting dominance on a day filled with bowling brilliance. After electing to field first, Zimbabwe’s bowlers exploited the conditions perfectly, bundling Afghanistan out for a below-par 157 on Day 1. The visiting batters struggled to find rhythm, with none managing a score beyond 25. Tight lines and relentless pressure ensured wickets fell at regular intervals, leaving Afghanistan reeling. Zimbabwe’s openers then safely navigated the tricky final three overs, reaching 6/0 at stumps and trailing by 151 runs.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers led by Sikandar Raza dominate Afghanistan

The Zimbabwean bowling attack delivered a masterclass in discipline and execution. Richard Ngarava was unplayable with figures of 1/18 in 12 overs, suffocating the Afghan batters with his precision. Blessing Muzarabani provided crucial breakthroughs, claiming 2/56, including the key scalp of Shahidullah. Sikandar Raza’s off-spin (3/30) was the standout, dismantling Afghanistan’s middle order with turn and subtle variations. Newman Nyamhuri (3/42) shone in the later stages, expertly cleaning up the tail. The collective effort restricted Afghanistan to a mere 157, as Zimbabwe’s bowlers worked in tandem to exploit every lapse in concentratio??n from the opposition.

Afghanistan’s batting woes continue

Afghanistan’s innings was marred by an inability to build meaningful partnerships. Openers Abdul Malik (17) and Riaz Hassan (12) made starts but couldn’t convert them, while Rahmat Shah (19) and captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (13) fell to soft dismissals. Afsar Zazai and Shahidullah tried to stabilize the innings with brief contributions, but none could withstand Zimbabwe’s relentless attack. Rashid Khan’s counterattacking 25 off 20 balls provided a late spark, but it wasn’t enough to rescue the innings. Frequent collapses and lack of application? underlined Afghanistan’s struggles as they were bowled out in just 44.3 overs, squandering any chance of a competitive total.

Also READ: ZIM vs AFG, 2nd Test: Bulawayo Weath?er Forecast For All 5 Days | Z??imbabwe vs Afghanistan 2024-25

Zimbabwe’s steady start in reply

Zimbabwe’s openers, Joylord Gumbie (4 not out) and Ben Curran (1 not out), showed composure under the fading light, ensuring no early setbacks in their reply. Facing three probing overs from Afghanistan’s bowlers, they carefully negotiated deliveries from Rashid, Fareed Ahmad and Yamin Ahmadzai. Though runs came slowly, the duo’s focus was on preserving wickets. Zimbabwe’s batting depth, with experienced campaigners like Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza waiting in the wings, sets them up for a?? dominant position on Day 2. The hosts will look to capitalize on this solid start and pile on the runs to take full control of the match.

Brilliant bowling display by Zimbabwe as they bowl out Afghanistan for 157 on Day 1 of the inaugural New Year’s Test.#ZIMvAFG #VisitZimbabwe 📝//t.co/HdHfDCXyud pic.twitter.com/JqxnzfFVKr

— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) January 2, 2025

Also READ: ZIM vs AFG 2025, 2nd Test: Queens Sports Club Pitch?? Report, Bulawayo Test stats and Records

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The fifth and final Test between cricketing giants Australia and India is set to commence on Friday at the i?conic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). With the series delicately poised, fans are eagerly anticipating an exhilarating clash as these two powerhouses battle it out in the decider.

A pivotal Test for India

Australia currently leads the five-match Test series 2-1, with one match ending in a rain-affected draw. This leaves India in a precarious position, with no chance to win the s?eries outright but an opportunity to level it with a victory in Sydney. For India, it’s a do-or-die scenario. A win would not only square the series but also keep their hopes alive for retaining the prestigious Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

The stakes are even higher in the context of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC). India, c??urrently sitting at 114 points, needs a win to boost their tally to 126 out of a possible 228, giving them a points percentage (PCT) of 55.26%. Anything less—a draw or a loss—would eliminate them from contention for the championship final.

Also READ: No Rohit Sharma! Former Au?stralian cricketer picks India’s playing XI for the Sydney Test

3 battles to watch out for in Australia and India Sydney Test 

1. Yashasvi Jaiswal vs. Mitchell Starc

The ongoing rivalry between India’s young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and Australia’s left-arm pace ace Mitchell Starc has been a highlight of the series. Starc has managed to dismiss Jaiswal multiple times, showcasing his ability to exploit the batter’s vulnerabilities. However, Jaiswal, known for his fearless stroke play and penchant for taking on both pacers and spinners, has also scored vital runs against Starc.

This clash promises to set the tone for the Test, with Jaiswal’s aggressive approach coming up agains?t Starc’s knack for early breakthroughs.

2. Virat Kohli vs. Scott Boland

Virat Kohli, one of the finest batters of his generation, has had a mixed series. After a strong start in the first Test in Perth, Kohli has struggled to find consistency, particularly against Scott Boland’s probing line and length outside the off-stump. Boland has dismissed Kohli multiple times in this manner, capitalizing on the ?batter’s recent vulner?ability.

Boland’s precision and versatility, coupled with Kohli’s determination to bounce back, make th??is an intriguing contest that could have a significant impact on the match.

3. Travis Head vs. Jasprit Bumrah

Perhaps the most anticipated duel of the series, Travis Head and Jasprit Bumrah are the standout performers for their respective sides. Head, the leading run-scorer in the series with 410 runs, inc??luding two centuries, has been in sublime form. On the other hand, Bumrah, with 30 wickets to his name, including three five-wicket hauls, has been India’s spearhead with the ball.

Bumrah has dismissed Head four times in the series, but the Australian batter has also managed to score crucial runs against him. This b?attle of the best batter versus the best ??bowler is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.

Also READ: Gautam Gambhir’s coaching job under thre?at, was never BCCI’s first choice

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On Thursday, January 2, Sri Lanka’s wicket-keeper batter Kusal Perera etched his name in cricketing history by smashing an awe-inspiring century in the third T20I of the Sri Lanka tour of New Zealand 2024-25 at Saxton Oval, Nelson. Perera’s explosive knock of 101 off just 46 balls, laced with 13 fours and 4 towering sixes, not only led his team to a thrilling 7-run victory but also earned him the title of Player of the? Match. This feat places him in an elite club of Sri Lankan legends who have achieved centuries in T20 internationals.

List of Sri Lankan T20I centurions

Mahela Jayawardene

The first Sri Lankan to achieve a T20I century was the legendary Mahela Jayawardene. Known for his elegant stroke play across all formats, Jayawardene reached this milestone on May 3, 2010, during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Playing against Zimbabwe at Providence, he crafted a magnificent 100 off 64 balls, including 10 fours and 4 sixes. His century was instrumental in securing a 14-run victory for S??ri Lanka, cementing his legacy as one of the finest batters ?in the game.

Also READ: Twitter reactions: Kusal Perera’s brilliant ton seals victory for Sri Lanka in the thrilling final T20I against New?? Zealand

Tillakaratne Dilshan

The second Sri Lankan to score a T20I century was the versatile opener Tillakaratne Dilshan. On August 6, 2011, during the Australia tour of Sri Lanka, Dilshan smashed an unbeaten 104 off 57 balls in Kandy. His innings, featuring 12 fours and 5 sixes, helped Sri Lanka secure a commanding 35-run victory. Known ??for his aggressive style and innovative shots, Dilshan’s century further so??lidified his reputation as a T20 specialist.

Kusal Perera

In the?????????????????????????? latest chapter of Sri Lanka’s T20I history, Perera’s scintillating knock against N?ew Zealand not only brought victory but also placed him among the greats. With this innings, Perera joins Jayawardene and Dilshan in the elite club of Sri Lankan T20I centurions. His record-breaking performance underscores his ability to rise to the occasion and deliver when it matters most.

Perera’s century marks only the third instance of a Sri Lankan batter reaching the three-figure mark in T20Is, making him a standout performer in the format. The 34-year-old’s brilliant innings comes over 13 years after the last Sri Lankan T20I century, furthe??r highlighting the significance of his achievement. Perera’s consistent performances reaffirm his status as Sri Lanka’s leading run-scorer in the T20I format with 2056 runs.

Also READ: Sri Lanka announc?es ODI squad for New Zealand tour; Charith Asalanka to lead

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Rohit Sharma, once celebrated as one of the most prolific openers in Test cricket, faced a tumultuous year in 2024. Known for his elegant stroke play and ability to score big, Rohit’s performance this year starkly contrasts his previous successes. As the captain of the Indian cricket team, he entered 2024 with high expectations but quickly found himself grappling with a series of disappointing performances that have raised questions about his future in the longest format.

Rohit Sharma’s disheartening statistical overview of 2024

In 2024, Rohit played 14 Test matches, accumulating 619 runs across 26 innings at a dismal average of 24.76. This included two centuries, with his highest scores being 131 against England in Rajkot and 103 in Dharamsala. However, these highlights were overshadowed by a string of low scores, particularly during India’s tour of Australia, where he managed only 31 runs across five innings, resulting in an alarming average of 6.2. This performance marks the second lowest for a top-order batter in Australia for a Test series ??with a minimum of 100 balls faced.

The impact on leadership

Rohit’s struggles with the bat have had significant repercussions on his role as captain. The Indian team faced several defeats, particularly highlighted by their performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, where Rohit’s batting failures were pivotal. His inability to contribute effectively led to increased scrutiny from critics and fans alike, questioning not just his form but also his leadership capabilities.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Gauta?m Gambhir spills beans o??n dressing room leaks and Rohit Sharma’s status for the final Test

A glimpse into past glory

Reflecting on Rohit’s past achievements provides a stark contrast to his current state. Between October 2019 and March 2024, he averaged an impressive 50.03, making him one of the leading openers during that period. His ability to score quickly was evident as he struck nine centuries in just 54 innings, showcasing his talent and potential. However, the recent downturn has been drastic; his career average has now dipped to 40.87, the lowest it has been since late 2018. Rohit’s cricketing journey has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, particularly in Test cricket.

The early struggles of Rohit

Initially, Rohit faced significant challenges in the longest format of the game. With a mere 1,585 runs from 27 matches at an average of 39.6, his early career was marked by inconsistency and missed opportunities. Despite starting with two centuries against the West Indies in 2013, his performance dwindled, especially overseas, whe??re he average?d just 26.3 in 18 Tests without a century.

The game-changing move of promotion in 2019

A pivotal moment came in October 2019 when Rohit was promoted to open the batting for India. This strategic shift transformed his Test career dramatically. Since then,?? he has amassed 2,563 runs in 34 matches at an impressive average of 48.35, including nine centuries and seven fiftie??s. His ability to score quickly has made him one of the top openers globally.

As of now, Rohit’s overall Test statistics stand at 4,301 runs from 67 matches with an average of 40.57. His resurgence as a formidable opener has not only revitalized his career but also solidified his position as a key player for India in Test cricket. The upcoming months will be critical for his career, with major tournaments on the horizon, including the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, he must fi?nd a way to regain his form and confidence.

Also READ: Top ?5 players with the most international catches in 2024 ft. Rohit Sharma

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The second Test of the Pakistan tour of South Africa 2024-25 will take place at Newlands, Cape Town, on January 3 (Friday). After a thrilling finish to the first Test, South Africa holds a 1-0 lead in the two-match series, having narrowly defeated Pakistan by just 2 wickets. The victory was secured through an all-round performance, with the Proteas�?bowlers playing a pivotal role. Marco Jansen was instrumental, claiming 7 wickets acro?ss both innings, while Dane Paterson took 6 wickets and Corbin Bosch contributed 5 wickets along wit??h valuable runs.

With this victory, South Africa has not only gained a crucial lead in the series but also secured their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 final. The win, marked by tense moments and dramatic turns, was a testament to t??he resilience of the South African team. It also highlighted Temba Bavuma’s exc??ellent leadership, further cementing his reputation as a capable Test captain for South Africa.

Cape Town Weather Forecast for the Second Test

The weather conditions for the second Test at Cape Town will play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the match. Here’s the detailed weather forecast for each day of the game:

Friday (Day 1):

The opening day of the second Test is expected to provid?e perfect conditions for cricket. With clear skies and a temperature of 25°C, players can expect a pleasant day on the field. The humidity will be at 68%, ensuring that the air remains comfortable, while a gentle breeze at 19 km/h could provide some assistance to the bowlers, especially early on.

Also READ: Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman predicts his four semifinalists ?of Champions Trophy 2025

Saturday (Day 2):

Day 2 will see a continuation of favorable conditions.?? The skies will remain clear, but the temperature will drop slightly to 23°C. The humidity will remain at 66%, keeping the conditions comfortable for both players and spectators. The wind will decrease a little to 14 km/h, maintaining a gentle breeze throughout the day.

Sunday (Day 3):

The weather on Day 3 will bring a bit more variety. While the day will start mostly su??nny, there will be a chance of cloud cover as the temperature reaches 22°C. There will also be a slight increase in precipitation, with a 10% chance of rain. The humidity will drop to 56%, and the wind speed will pick up, reaching 21 km/h, which could provide more assistance to the bowlers, especially in the later stages of the day.

Monday (Day 4):

Day 4 is expected to bring slightly better weather, with mostly sunny skies. The temperatur?e will remain steady at 23°C, and the chances of precipitation will decrease to just 5%. Humidity will be at 57%, and the wind will pick up further, reaching 26 km/h, which could make for a more challenging day for the batsmen and provide more assistance for the bowlers.

Tuesday (Day 5):

The weather on the final day o?f th??e Test match will be similar to the conditions on Day 3 and Day 4. The temperature will again be 23°C, with a slight increase in precipitation to 15%. Humidity will be at 63%, and the wind will blow at 16 km/h, which could impact the flow of the game as the match heads toward its conclusion.

Also READ: Fans go crazy as South Africa beat Pakistan in a thrilling Boxing Day T?est to secure? WTC final berth

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The final Test of the five-match series between Australia and India is scheduled to take place at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3 to January 8. Australia currently leads the series 2-1. India began the series with a dominant win victory in the opening Test in Perth. However, Australia responded strongly with a convincing win in the second Test at the Adelaide Oval. The third Test ended in a draw after persistent rain di??srupted play on the final day. In the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne, Australia delivered a commanding performance, defeating India comprehensively.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, 5th Test:

• Date and time: January 3; 5:00 am IST/ 10:30 am local/ 11:30 pm GMT (January 2)
• Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney

Sydney Cricket Ground Pitch Report

The Sydney Cricket Ground offers a batting-friendly surface where the ball comes onto the bat effortlessly, making it favorable for batters. Conversely, pacers often struggle to generate extra bounce or pace, which limits their effectiveness on this pitch. Spinners, however, typically thrive as the game progresses, taking advantage of the wearing surface. A high-scoring contest is anticipated at this venue, with the toss-winning tea??m likely choosing to bat first to post a challenging total.

AUS vs IND, 5th Test: Dream11 Prediction Picks

• Wicketkeepers: Alex Carey, Rishabh Pant
• Batters: Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Yashavi Jaiswal
• All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy
• Bowlers: Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Jasprit Bumrah

AUS vs IND, 5th Test: Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain

• Choice 1: Jasprit Bumrah (c), Pat Cummins (vc)
• Choice 2: KL Rahul (c), Mitchell Starc (vc)

Also READ: Australia or India? Michael Vaughan, Adam Gilchris??t predict the winner of Sydney Test

AUS vs IND, 5th Test: Dream11 Prediction Backups

Shubman Gill, Washington Sundar, Nathan Lyon, Marnus L??abuschagne

AUS vs IND, 5th Test: Dream11 Team for today’s match (January 2, 11:30 pm GMT):

AUS vs IND, 5th Test: Teams

Australia (Playing XI): Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smit?h, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins (c), Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

India (Probable playing XI): Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Sira??j, Prasidh Krishan

Also READ: Shubman Gill IN, Rohit Sharma OUT? 2 changes India ma??kes in their pla??ying XI for the SCG Test against Australia

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As the excitement builds for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, cricket fans are eager to see the return of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, one of the sport’s most iconic figures. Having retired from international cricket in August 2020, Dhoni is preparing to step onto the field for his 18th IPL season, a milestone that speaks volumes about his enduring legacy and commitment to the game. Recently, he shared insights into his fitness journey, acknowledging the challenges that come with maintaining peak physical condition at the age of 43.

MS Dhoni speaks on the reality of aging and fitness

In a candid conversation on Eurogrip’s ‘Tred Talks’, Dhoni admitted, ” I am not fit as I used to be, lot of efforts now needs to be there on what you are eating and I am doing very specific thing to be fit for cricket,” highlighting the increased effort required to stay in shape.

He emphasized that his fitness regimen now focuses heavily on diet and specific exercises tailored for cricket, adding, “We are not fast bowlers, so our requirements are not that intense“. This admission reflects the reality many athletes face as they age: the need for a more disciplined approach to health and fitness.

Also READ: Guj??arat Titans to?? remove Shubman Gill from captaincy? GT’s New Year post featuring Rashid Khan sparks speculation ahead of IPL 2025

Embracing diverse sports for conditioning

To ??combat the physical demands of cricket, Dhoni has incorporated various sports into his training routine. Activities like badminton, ?tennis, and football not only keep him engaged but also enhance his agility and reflexes—crucial attributes for a wicketkeeper-batter. This multifaceted approach to fitness allows him to enjoy different activities while effectively conditioning his body.

“What really helps me is playing a lot of sports in between eating and going to the gym. So whenever I get time I like to play a lot of different sports, may be tennis, badminton, football, that keeps me engaged. That’s the best way of being in touch with fitness,” he explained.

Life after international cricket

Reflecting on his post-retirement life, Dhoni expressed contentment with his decision to step back from international cricket. He stated, “I thought I will get more time, but sadly, I haven’t got much time. I don’t miss international cricket because I always believe you know you think about everything then you take a decision“.

??His focus has shifted towards spending quality time with family and ?friends, enjoying motorcycle rides, and engaging in leisure activities that bring him joy. The balance between personal life and professional commitments seems to have enriched his overall well-being.

The legacy of a captain

Dhoni’s illustrious career as captain is marked by numerous achievements: leading India to victory in three ICC limited-overs tournaments and maintaining a win percentage of 45% in Test matches. His leadership style—characterized by calmness under pressure—has earned him respect both on and off the field.

As Dhoni prepares for IPL 2025, anticipation grows among fans eager to witness his return. Despite acknowledging that he may not be at his? peak fitness level, he remains committed to giving his best on the field.

Also READ: “I don’t need a PR…�? MS Dhoni explains his stance on social media an??d focus regarding cricket

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The year 2024 stood out as a golden chapter in the history of Test cricket, offering fans a blend of drama, skill, and unpredictability. At the heart of the action was the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, ??which brought a sense of urgency and competitiveness to the longest format of the?? game.

South Africa’s remarkable consistency ensured their place in the final, a testament to their dominant performances across different conditions. Meanwhile, Australia, India and Sri Lanka remained locked in a fierce battle for the remaining?? spot in the final, reflecting the global dept??h and quality of Test cricket.

Exceptional individual performances: The backbone of success

2024 saw individu?al brilliance shine brightly, with numerous players rising to the occasion and defining matches with their exceptional performances. Batters and bowlers alike showcased their mastery, producing moments that will be etched in cricketing folklore. England and India, the two teams that played the most Test matches in the year, were particularly reliant on standout efforts from their key players. These performances not only uplifted their respective teams but also reinforced the importance of individual contributions in the team-oriented format of Test cricket.

Shocking results: The year’s unforgettable upsets

The unpredictability of Test cricket was on full display in 2024, with several unexpected results shaking up the cricketing hierarchy. Bangladesh’s historic victory over Pakistan was a watershed moment, showcasing their growth as a formidable Test-playing nation. Equally surprising was New Zealand’s dominant display in India, where they inflicted a rare home-series defeat on the hosts. These results were a ?reminder that cricket’s longest fo??rmat remains as unpredictable as it is enthralling, with underdogs capable of toppling giants on any given day.

Also READ: AUS vs I??ND: Australian PM Anthony Albanese shares proposal for a ne??w ‘Jasprit Bumrah�?law

AB de Villiers�?Test XI of 2024: A legend’s perspective

Adding to the buzz of the year, AB de Villiers, one of the most respected voices in cricket and former all-format batter, revealed his Test XI of 2024. The announcement immediately spa??rked widespread debate, as fans and experts analyzed his selections. Known for his deep understanding of the game and appreciation for skill, de Villiers�?team reflected a blend of established superstars and rising talents. His insights offered a fascinating glimpse into the qualities that define success in Test cricket, enriching discussions among cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

1. Yashasvi Jaiswal (India)

• Innings: 29
• Runs: 1478
• Average: 54.74
• Half-Centuries: 9
• Centuries: 3
• Strike Rate: 69.35

The Indian left-hander solidified his position as one of the best openers in Test cricket in 2024. Known for his patience and ability to grind out runs, Jaiswal combined consistency with aggression when needed. His three centuries, including crucial knocks in challenging conditions, were instrumental in India’s batting stability.

2. Ben Duckett (England)

• Innings: 32
• Runs: 1149
• Average: 37.06
• Half-Centuries: 6
• Centuries: 2
• Strike Rate: 87.04

England’s aggressive opener provided quick starts throughout the year. Duckett’s ability to maintain a high strike rate of 87.04 in Tests brought a dynamic edge to the top order, complementing his solid partnerships with other batters.

3. Joe Root (England)

• Innings: 31
• Runs: 1556
• Average: 55.57
• Half-Centuries: 5
• Centuries: 6
• Strike Rate: 63.38

Root’s consistent run-scoring made him a vital cog in England’s batting lineup. With six centuries in the year, he showcased his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when required. His class and adaptability reaffirmed his status as one of the modern greats.

4. Harry Brook (England)

• Innings: 20
• Runs: 1100
• Average: 55.00
• Half-Centuries: 3
• Centuries: 4
• Strike Rate: 85.00

The rising star of E??ngland’s middle order, Brook’s aggressive yet calculated approach was a revelation in 2024??. His four centuries in just 20 innings demonstrated his hunger for runs and ability to dominate bowlers across conditions.

5. Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka)

• Innings: 16
• Runs: 1049
• Average: 74.96
• Half-Centuries: 3
• Centuries: 5
• Strike Rate: 65.30

Mendis emerged as Sri Lanka’s most dependable batter, boasting an extraordinary average of 74.96. His ability to convert starts into big scores was unmatched, with five centuries in just 16 innings, underlining his immense contribution to Sri Lanka’s Test success.

6. Ravindra Jadeja (India) �?All-rounder

• Innings (Bowling): 21
• Wickets: 48
• Bowling Average: 24.29
• Best Bowling in a Match: 10/220
• Five-Wicket Hauls: 3
• 10-Wicket Match Hauls: 1

Jadeja was the quintessential all-rounder, providing breakthroughs?? with the ball and stability with the bat. His ability to bowl long spells and extract turn on spinning tracks made him an indispensable asset for India.

7. Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan) �?Wicketkeeper

• Innings: 13
• Runs: 539
• Average: 44.91
• Half-Centuries: 2
• Centuries: 1
• Strike Rate: 59.82

Behind the stumps, Rizwan’s agility and sharp reflexes saved crucial runs. With the bat, his ability to counterattack and stabilize innings under pressure was invaluable f??or Pakistan.

8. Kagiso Rabada (South Africa) �?Bowler

• Innings: 16
• Wickets: 34
• Bowling Average: 19.94
• Best Bowling in a Match: 9/72
• Five-Wicket Hauls: 2
• 10-Wicket Match Hauls: 0

Rabada’s fiery spells made him South Africa’s go-to bowler. His unmatched abilit??y to swing the ball both ways and generate pace posed a constant threat to batters.

9. Jasprit Bumrah (India) �?Bowler

• Innings: 26
• Wickets: 71
• Bowling Average: 14.92
• Best Bowling in a Match: 9/91
• Five-Wicket Hauls: 5
• 10-Wicket Match Hauls: 0

Bumrah’s lethal precision and unplayable yorkers made him the standout bowler of 2024. His remarkable average of 14.92 and consiste??nt five-wicket hauls highlighted his ability to turn matches single-ha??ndedly.

10. Josh Hazlewood (Australia) �?Bowler

• Innings: 13
• Wickets: 35
• Bowling Average: 13.60
• Best Bowling in a Match: 9/79
• Five-Wicket Hauls: 2
• 10-Wicket Match Hauls: 0

Hazlewood’s line-and-length mastery proved instrumental in Australia’s success. His ability to extract bounce and movement made him a nightmare ?for batters on all surfaces.

11. Prabath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) �?Bowler

• Innings: 18
• Wickets: 48
• Bowling Average: 32.20
• Best Bowling in a Match: 9/181
• Five-Wicket Hauls: 4
• 10-Wicket Match Hauls: 0

Jayasuriya’s spin wizardry was key to Sri Lanka’s resurgence in Test cricket. With four fiv?e-wicket hauls, he consistently delivered m??atch-winning performances, especially on subcontinental pitches.

Also READ: Rohit S?harma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bum??rah to miss England ODIs? Here’s the reason

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Australia and India are set to face each other in the 5th and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Australia are currently leading the series after their triumph over the visiting side in Adelaide and Melbourne. India, on the other hand, have only won the first Test match of the series at Perth. The third Test between the two sides at The Gabba ended in a draw.

What’s at stake for the two teams in Sydney?

The Sydney Test is absolutely crucial for both the teams. They will look forward to winning the match for varying reasons. Australia will aim to overcome the Indian challenge in Sydney and register their first BGT series win against India in over a decade. Additionally, a win in Sydney would also mean that the Aussies would clinch a spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, which is set to take place at the Lord’s in June this year.

India, on the other hand are on the verge of stooping towards a historic low. The visitors would need a win in Sydney to avoid that. Not only will it ensure a title retention for India, but their hopes of reaching the WTC finals rests solely on the outcomes of this match. Thus, it’s a do-or-die clash for India.

Also Read: Aust??ralia or India? Michael Vaughan, Adam Gilchrist pred?ict the winner of Sydney Test

Sydney Weather Forecast

The weather in Sydney for the five-day clash between the two nations is full of surprises. The match is set to begin on Friday, January 3 and conclude on Tuesday, January 7. The weather during the first two days in Sydney is expected to be favorable for play. However, clouds may shroud the sky on the first day. Players can also experience light to moderate wind, particularly on Day 2 of the match. The temperature is set to ris??e as the match progresses offering suitable playing conditions on Day 3 and 4 of the Test. However, rain gods are expected to interrupt play on the final day of the match, particularly during the post-lunch sessions.

Day-by-Day Weather Breakdown

Friday

• Condition: Cloudy
• Temperature: High 24°C, Low 19°C
• Rain: 20%
• Humidity: 60%

Saturday

• Condition: Sunny
• Temperature: High 28°C, Low 21°C
• Rain: 0%
• Humidity: 58%

Sunday

• Condition: Sunny
• Temperature: High 31°C, Low 23°C
• Rain: 5%
• Humidity: 53%

Monday

• Condition: Sunny
• Temperature: High 32°C, Low 22°C
• Rain: 10%
• Humidity: 55%

Tuesday

• Condition: Rain
• Temperature: High 23°C, Low 20°C
• Rain: 45%
• Humidity: 81%

Also Read: No Mitchell?? Marsh in Australia’s playing XI for the SCG Test against India; replacement announced

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