India’s Sydney Test Dilemma: Akash Deep Ruled Out Due to Injury

Akash Deep Ruled Out: India vs Australia’s five-match Test series is currently at 1-2. The fifth and last match of this series is to be played in Sydney from January 3, 2025.

Akash Deep Out of Sydney Test Due to Injury

Team India has suffered a major setback ahead of the final Test match, scheduled for January 3, 2025, at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir confirmed that Akash Deep will miss the match due to a back injury.

Akash Deep, who played in two matches in the series, took 5 wickets in total but faced challenges with dropped catches during his spells. Despite not having a huge impact in the series, his absence leaves a gap in India’s bowling lineup.

Also Read: Australia’s Playing XI 5th Test

India’s Options After Akash Deep’s Exit

Coach Gautam Gambhir revealed in a pre-match press conference that Akash Deep’s back injury has ruled him out of the Sydney Test. He also mentioned that the team is evaluating the pitch conditions to finalize the playing XI.

With Sydney’s spin-friendly surface, India might opt for two spinners in the lineup. Potential replacements include Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna. Both bowlers bring their unique strengths, and their inclusion will depend on the team’s strategy for the final match.

High Stakes in the Sydney Test

The fifth and final Test holds immense significance for both teams. A win will decide the Border-Gavaskar Trophy winner, and for India, it’s also crucial for their World Test Championship hopes. Losing Akash Deep at such a critical juncture adds to the pressure on the team, but India will aim to regroup and put up a strong performance.