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The highly anticipated Boxing Day Test between India and Australia will commence on December 26, 2024, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). This match, a part of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, is crucial as both teams strive for a lead in the five-match series, currently tied at 1-1.

Series Background

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has been a showcase of intense competition. India started the series with a 295-run victory in Perth, but Australia bounced back with a decisive 10-wicket win in Adelaide. The third Test ended in a rain-affected draw, leaving everything to play for in this pivotal Boxing Day encounter. A win here could provide significant momentum heading into the final Test in Sydney.

Historical Significance

Historically, Australia has dominated Boxing Day Tests against India, winning five out of their first seven encounters. However, India has won the last two Boxing Day Tests at the MCG, in 2018 and 2020. This trend suggests a potential shift in momentum favoring India as they aim to extend their unbeaten streak at the Melbourne Cricket Ground(MCG).

Team Preparations

Both teams are making strategic adjustments ahead of the match. For Australia, teenage sensation Sam Konstas has been called up and is set to debut, replacing Nathan McSweeney after a string of disappointing performances. Konstas displayed his grit and great technicality while amassing a century in the PMXI match against India amidst all odds. Travis Head, who has been in exceptional form with two centuries in the series, has been cleared to play despite concerns over a minor thigh strain. Pat Cummins, the Australian Captain has confirmed, that Head is fully fit for the match. 

On India’s side, there may be only one change in their playing XI, with Prasidh Krishna or Harshit Rana likely to replace Mohammed Siraj. Siraj’s performance has not been up to expectations of late which calls for a review of his form and preparations for the upcoming encounters. Jasprit Bumrah continues to be the standout performer for India, leading the wicket-taking charts in the series with 21 wickets at an impressive average of 10.90.

Pitch Conditions

The pitch at the MCG is expected to offer ample support to fast bowlers initially due to its grass cover but should become more favorable for batting as the match progresses. Historically, there is no clear advantage between batting first or second at this venue. The conditions suggest that the teams concerned will need to adapt quickly. Early breakthroughs will be crucial for bowlers while batsmen will need patience to construct their innings.

Key Players to Watch:

– Jasprit Bumrah (India): Close to achieving 200 Test wickets, Bumrah’s performance will be critical in setting the tone for India’s bowling attack.

– Travis Head (Australia): As the leading run-scorer of the series so far, his aggressive batting style could be a game-changer if he can maintain his form.

– Sam Konstas: Making his debut at just 19 years old, all eyes will be on Konstas as he steps into a high-pressure environment.

How to Catch the Action:

In India:

  • Live Streaming: The match will be streamed live on the Disney+ Hotstar app and website.
  • Television Broadcast: Fans can watch the match on the Star Sports Network and DD Sports.

In Australia:

  • Live Streaming: Viewers can catch the match live on Kayo Sports or through the 7 Plus platform, which offers free streaming.
  • Television Broadcast: The match will be available on Fox Cricket and Channel 7.

In the United States:

  • Live Streaming: The match can be viewed on Willow TV, available via Sling TV.

In the United Kingdom:

  • Live Streaming: Fans can watch the match on TNT Sports or through Discovery+.

Match Timings:

  • The match is scheduled to start at 10:30 AM AEDT in Melbourne, which corresponds to 5:00 AM IST in India. The toss will take place 30 minutes earlier, at 4:30 AM IST.

For the United States Viewers:

  • Eastern Standard Time (EST): 6:30 PM on December 25, 2024
  • Central Standard Time (CST): 5:30 PM on December 25, 2024
  • Mountain Standard Time (MST): 4:30 PM on December 25, 2024
  • Pacific Standard Time (PST): 3:30 PM on December 25, 2024

As anticipation builds for this high-stakes Boxing Day Test, fans can expect an exhilarating battle filled with skillful performances and strategic gameplay. With both teams eager to gain an advantage in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and secure vital points in the World Test Championship standings, this match promises to deliver top-notch cricketing action that fans around the world will not want to miss.