India bounced back impressively in the 2nd Test against Australia, leveling the series 1–1 and setting the stage for an electrifying decider in the 3rd Test. After a heavy loss in the opening match, the Indian team responded with resilience and tactical sharpness. The match-winning performance came from Ravindra Jadeja, who was named Player of the Match for his all-round brilliance—claiming key wickets and anchoring the lower-middle order with a gritty half-century. With each team having registered a win, this third match will determine who takes the lead in this fiercely contested series, and potentially gains a strong position in the World Test Championship standings.
Live Streaming Info
Fans can watch Ind vs Eng on Sony Sports Network and JioCinema (India), Sky Sports Cricket (UK), Willow TV (US), Fox Sports (Australia), and Ten Sports (Pakistan). Match starts: 3:00 PM IST | 2:30 PM PST | 10:30 AM GMT
Team Analysis
Australia’s team enters the 3rd Test with confidence in their pace attack, which remains their most lethal weapon. Led by Pat Cummins and supported by Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, the trio has consistently troubled Indian batsmen, especially under lights and on bouncy tracks. Travis Head’s form continues to be a huge asset; his counterattacking centuries in recent series have given Australia much-needed momentum in the middle order. Their fielding unit has also been sharp, converting half-chances and applying pressure throughout the innings. Add to this the calm leadership of Cummins and a deep understanding of home conditions, and you have a side that remains a serious threat.
However, Australia’s weaknesses lie in their lower-order batting and occasional overreliance on key players. If the top order fails, the tail often crumbles without resistance, leaving them vulnerable in tight chases or pressure situations. Moreover, the spinners—Nathan Lyon and the backup options—have not been as effective in controlling the game during the middle overs, especially on flatter decks. There have also been lapses in concentration in the field, particularly during long sessions, which can prove costly in high-stakes encounters.
India’s strengths were on full display in the 2nd Test. Their bowling unit, spearheaded by Bumrah and backed by the ever-reliable Jadeja, exploited the conditions perfectly. The return to form of Rohit Sharma at the top added stability, while Shubman Gill’s composed stroke play gave India a solid foundation. Ravindra Jadeja’s all-round impact continues to be India’s most reliable weapon in overseas Tests. The Indian side has also shown improved temperament, with the ability to build partnerships even under pressure.
Yet, vulnerabilities remain. India’s middle order still lacks consistency, with players like Iyer and Rahul struggling to convert starts into significant scores. Their record at the MCG is average, and adapting quickly to the pitch behavior remains a challenge. Additionally, India’s fast bowlers—though sharp—have shown a tendency to be expensive in patches, especially when reverse swing doesn’t come into play. Fielding, particularly in the slips, has also been a recurring concern, and dropped chances have hurt them in close matches.
Match Insights and Conclusion
The 3rd Test will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a venue known for its true bounce early on and increasing turn as the game progresses. The pitch is expected to offer assistance to pacers in the first two days, with spinners coming into play from Day 3 onward. Key factors will include handling the new ball, rotating strike against spin, and building long partnerships. Australia might have the edge due to home advantage and superior fast bowling depth, but if India can repeat their balanced performance from the 2nd Test—especially with Jadeja and Bumrah leading from the front—they stand a real chance of seizing the lead. If you want to watch Ind vs Aus live, scroll above and click on the link provided.
