The Men’s One Day International Series continues with a marquee clash as Australia face India at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney on 25th October. The first ball is scheduled for 09:00 IST (converted from the UK start time of 04:30). Two of the world’s strongest ODI units renew their classic rivalry, with Australia’s balanced pace attack up against India’s formidable batting depth in one of the most picturesque and challenging venues in world cricket.
Form Guide
Australia
Australia enter this contest with confidence, blending experienced campaigners and dynamic new talents. Their ODI approach remains assertive — aggressive in the powerplay, disciplined through the middle, and clinical at the death. The SCG has historically favoured stroke-makers and spinners, and Australia’s squad composition reflects that awareness. They’ll look to exploit India’s early vulnerabilities with the new ball and control the tempo through spin in the middle overs.
- Consistent home ODI record, particularly at the SCG where they utilise batting-friendly conditions.
- Balanced bowling unit featuring high-pace options supported by quality spin control.
- Batting depth allows flexibility in chasing or setting totals above 300 comfortably.
India
India’s ODI form has been characterised by stability at the top and adaptability through the order. Their ability to bat deep, coupled with improved fast-bowling options, has made them one of the most complete limited-overs sides in the world. While their recent away form has been mixed, India’s record in Sydney is respectable, and their spinners’ ability to exploit slower conditions will be key to challenging Australia at home.
- Power-packed top order capable of accelerating after cautious starts.
- Spin duo and all-rounders offer balance and flexibility in the middle overs.
- Fast bowlers effective in early swing conditions, providing wicket-taking threats.
Key Players
Australia
- David Warner – The local hero loves batting at the SCG; his aggressive starts often set the tone for big totals.
- Marnus Labuschagne – Elegant and composed; controls the middle overs with strike rotation and sharp running between wickets.
- Pat Cummins – The skipper’s pace and precision make him a constant threat with both new and old ball.
India
- Rohit Sharma – India’s captain and master of pacing ODI innings; thrives in Australian conditions with impeccable timing.
- Virat Kohli – Serial run-scorer at the SCG; his match awareness and hunger for big games make him India’s linchpin.
- Jasprit Bumrah – World-class death bowler with unerring yorkers; vital for containing Australia’s power finishers.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The SCG pitch typically offers true bounce and value for timing, making it one of the fairest surfaces in Australia. Batters will enjoy the even pace early, though spinners often come into play as the match progresses, especially under dry conditions. Seamers who hit the deck hard can find occasional grip and reverse swing later in the innings. The weather forecast suggests clear skies with a top of 27°C and gentle breezes — perfect cricketing conditions. A par score here ranges between 290–310, with the toss winner likely to prefer batting first to exploit early dryness and scoreboard pressure.
Australia vs India – Prediction
Both sides possess world-class quality across departments, but Australia’s home familiarity and balanced attack give them a slender advantage. If David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne provide a solid foundation, and Pat Cummins leads with the ball, Australia will feel confident. India’s hopes hinge on a strong start from Rohit Sharma and a steady hand from Virat Kohli. Expect a fiercely competitive match, but home advantage and bowling depth may see Australia edge out India in a high-quality ODI.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
- David Warner – Proven SCG performer and fantasy gold for powerplay runs and boundary frequency.
- Virat Kohli – Dependable run-machine with an exceptional ODI record in Australia.
- Pat Cummins – Captaincy pick for wickets, economy, and potential late cameo with the bat.
