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India's hopes of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final suffered a massive blow after their crushing 184-run defeat against Australia in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. South Africa's victory over Pakistan secured their place in the final, leaving India and Australia vying for the second spot.
Pat Cummins to skip Sri Lanka tour
India, once a strong contender, faced setbacks with a 0-3 whitewash against New Zealand at home and subsequent losses in Adelaide and Sydney. Now, a win in the final Test in Sydney is crucial for their WTC aspirations. However, a victory alone won't be enough. India will also need Sri Lanka to defeat Australia 2-0 in their upcoming series. While defeating Australia will be challenging for Sri Lanka, the absence of Australian captain Pat Cummins due to his decision to skip the tour could provide an advantage. Recent death of his mother and the birth of his second child is known to be the reason behind Cummins' decision to skip the Sri Lanka tour. A weakened Australian team would indirectly benefit India's chances of qualifying for the WTC final, as they rely on Sri Lanka to upset their rivals.
With Pat Cummins opting out of the Sri Lanka tour, Australia will need to appoint a new captain. Two strong contenders for the role are Steve Smith and Travis Head.
While both players are experienced leaders, Travis Head may have a slight advantage due to his recent impressive performances. The final decision will likely depend on several factors, including the team's overall strategy and the specific demands of the tour. Notably, Australia and Sri Lanka will play a three-match Test series starting from January 29.
"In some ways it really makes you focus in on what I think is important. It’s family, it’s enjoyment, it’s trying to find joy in life and I think that’s been a slight shift in the way I’ve approached playing and touring and it’s just given me that real decluttering mindset," he told the Daily Telegraph at the launch of the Pink Test.
“When you go out you just want to play well and of course there’s going to be pressure, but you don’t want to forget that what mum and dad used to say to us every time we went and played as kids, was to go and enjoy it. Try your best, but make sure you enjoy it. I try and remind myself of that every time I go on a tour or play," he added.
“Whatever you choose to do there’s always an opportunity cost. And I think in the last few years that’s probably rung true. That is when you go away on a tour you are missing out on maybe family time or moments. That’s a deliberate choice so make sure you are making the most of that tour or that game if that makes sense,” Cummins signed off.
Meanwhile, Australia have announced their playing XI for the fifth and final Test against India. Australia have dropped their star player Mitchell Marsh and replaced him with Tasmanian all-rounder Beau Webster, who will be making his debut in Sydney. Meanwhile, Mitchell Starc has been declared fit to feature in the final showdown in Sydney.
Australia's Playing XI for 5th Test against India
Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (captain), Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland.
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