‘They've got two class players in at the moment, we've got to stay patient’ - Alex Carey on Australia’s game plan ahead of WTC Final's Day 5

Day 5 of the World Test Championship final (WTC) 2023 could be the day that makes it or breaks it for both India and Australia. By the time stumps were called on Day 4, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane stood at the crease as Kohli was batting on 44* runs in 60 deliveries, with Rahane at 20* runs in 59 deliveries. 

Team India requires 280 runs to win in 97 overs to win the World Test Championship. With seven wickets in hand, India would be keen on building upon their performances with the bat, chasing the target down, and writing history.

On the other hand, the Aussies would look to send the Indian batting attack back to the pavilion as soon as possible. Talking about Australia’s game plan ahead of Day 5, wicketkeeper Alex Carey opined that the side would look to remain patient.

"They've got two class players in at the moment, so we've got to stay patient. (The pitch) is still doing bits and pieces, but hopefully those chances will come," Alex Carey told BBC

Australia struck early in second innings

Coming in to chase the mammoth target of 444 runs, the Aussies struck early, dismissing star batter Shubman Gill. The 23-year-old was dismissed for 18 runs in 19 deliveries after Cameron Green took a controversial catch in the slips.

Furthermore, disaster struck once again when skipper Rohit Sharma was sent packing by Nathan Lyon. Rohit looked to be in the flow, as he was batting on 43 runs in 60 balls when she was sent back to the pavilion. 

Veteran Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara failed to make an impact in the run chase as well. Pujara was sent packing by Pat Cummins for 27 runs in 47 balls. Following the loss of three wickets, the run chase comes down to Kohli and Rahane, as they would be keen on putting in a memorable showing with the bat and chasing the target down.