Australia vs Pakistan, 3rd Test 2023: Match preview, playing XI, Head to Head, Where to Watch on TV & Live Streaming Details

Australia will lock horns with Pakistan in the third Test of the three-game series, starting on January 3, Wednesday.

By Arfath Pasha S

Updated - 02 Jan 2024, 16:00 IST

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6 Min Read

The Sydney Cricket Ground is gearing up for the much-anticipated clash between Australia and Pakistan in the final Test of the series, set to kick off on Wednesday, December 3. Australia hold a commanding 2-0 lead after a stellar 79-run victory in the previous match, fuelled by skipper Pat Cummins' remarkable ten-wicket haul. Buoyed by their recent success, the home team will aim to uphold their high standards with both bat and ball in the upcoming Test.

The anticipation building up to the third Test between Australia and Pakistan at the SCG cantered on David Warner's farewell from Test cricket, adding to the excitement for fans. Despite the match holding little consequence for the home team's standing, Warner's imminent departure brings a heightened sense of significance. In a poignant twist before his final Test, Warner misplaced his cherished baggy green, symbolising the emotional weight surrounding his farewell from the traditional format of the game.

However, Pakistan face disappointment, especially after squandering opportunities in the opening Test despite promising batting displays. Skipper Shan Masood will be eager for a redemption show from his squad, urging a stronger performance in the dead rubber. The team's focus lies on rectifying past errors and exhibiting a more formidable display on the field. As the series reaches its climax, all eyes are on how both sides will fare in this crucial showdown at Sydney.

Sydney Cricket Ground Pitch Report and Conditions

The final Test between Australia and Pakistan is set to unfold at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground. Australia's morale received a boost considering their triumphant streak, having clinched victories in the last three Test encounters against Pakistan held at this venue. Anticipated to favour batters, the pitch is expected to yield high-scoring opportunities while demanding substantial effort from the bowlers. Weather predictions suggest intermittent light rain showers during the initial three days of the match, adding a potential variable to the game's dynamics.

AUS vs PAK Probable Playing XI, Pakistan Tour of Australia

Australia (AUS)

Following their series win in Melbourne, there were rumours Australia might contemplate introducing Scott Boland in place of Mitchell Starc, who might rest for the inconsequential match. However, Cummins cleared the air by sticking to the same squad. The team's batting strength banks heavily on the inform Mitchell Marsh, alongside David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, and Steve Smith to amass significant runs in the upcoming game.

Predicted XI: David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (WK), Pat Cummins (C), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.

Pakistan (PAK)

Pakistan face deep disappointment following their near-miss in Melbourne. The off-spinner Sajid Khan's inclusion in the XI was confirmed, given Sydney's favourable conditions for slow bowlers, potentially sidelining Shaheen Shah Afridi. Additionally, Saim Ayub will make his debut, after Imam's recent struggles.

Predicted XI: Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (C), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Salman Ali Agha, Sajid Khan, Hasan Ali, Mir Hamza and Aamer Jamal

AUS vs PAK Head-to-Head Records in Test:

Matches Played 71
Australia 36
Pakistan 15
Draw 11
First Played 11 Oct 1995
Last Played 26-29, Dec, 2023

AUS vs PAK Second Test Broadcast details:

Date January 3-7
Timing 05:00 AM (IST)
Live Broadcast Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD
Live Streaming Disney+ Hotstar

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