🏏 India vs Australia – 3rd ODI Preview Introduction
The stage is set for the 3rd and final ODI between India and Australia, to be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) on Saturday, October 25, 2025. With Australia already leading the series 2–0, the Men in Blue are desperate to avoid a clean sweep, while the Aussies aim to maintain their unbeaten streak on home soil.
📅 Match Details
- Match: India vs Australia, 3rd ODI (India Tour of Australia 2025)
- Date: Saturday, 25 October 2025
- Time: 9:00 AM IST
- Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney
- Series Status: Australia lead 2–0 (3-match ODI series)
- Live Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar, Star Sports Network
🌤️ Pitch & Weather Report
The SCG pitch is known to be a batting-friendly surface with something in it for spinners later in the innings. Teams batting first have traditionally enjoyed success here, but early morning movement could help fast bowlers.
- Pitch Type: Balanced (Batting-friendly with turn for spinners)
- Average 1st Innings Score: 285–300 runs
- Weather Forecast: Sunny and pleasant; minimal rain chance
🔥 Key Storylines
1️⃣ India’s Fight for Pride
India enters the 3rd ODI after two disappointing defeats. Captain Rohit Sharma and veteran Virat Kohli are under pressure to deliver strong performances. Young guns like Shubman Gill and Rinku Singh could play vital roles as India seeks a morale-boosting win before the T20 series.
2️⃣ Australia’s Dominance
Australia, led by Mitchell Marsh, have been clinical in all departments. Their top order has fired consistently, and the bowlers—especially Pat Cummins and Adam Zampa—have exploited conditions well. With the series already in the bag, Australia may rest a few key players and test their bench strength.
3️⃣ SCG Factor
The Sydney Cricket Ground offers a unique challenge with its slower surface and big boundaries. Batters will need patience, while spinners like Ravindra Jadeja and Zampa could be game-changers in the middle overs.
⭐ Players to Watch
🇮🇳 India
- Rohit Sharma: Needs to lead from the front after two low scores.
- Virat Kohli: Eyeing redemption and a strong finish to the ODI leg.
- Shubman Gill: Has shown maturity and is one of India’s most consistent batters this year.
- Mohammed Siraj: Key pacer with the ability to pick early wickets in Australian conditions.
- Ravindra Jadeja: His all-round skills will be crucial on the SCG surface.
🇦🇺 Australia
- Mitchell Marsh: In top form with the bat and a calm presence as captain.
- Travis Head: Aggressive opener capable of taking the game away in the Powerplay.
- Adam Zampa: Dangerous on turning pitches; has troubled Indian batters before.
- Josh Hazlewood: His accuracy and bounce make him a tough customer at the SCG.
📊 Head-to-Head Record (ODIs)
- Total Matches: 150+
- India Wins: ~56
- Australia Wins: ~84
- Last 5 Meetings: Australia 3 – India 2
- At SCG: Australia lead 7–3
- Australia clearly hold the upper hand historically at this venue, but India has pulled off surprises here in recent years — most notably in the 2020–21 tour
🧠 Expert Prediction
| Factor | Advantage |
|---|---|
| Pitch Conditions | Balanced – slight edge to spinners later |
| Toss Prediction | Bat first and post 300+ looks ideal |
| Form | Australia dominant |
| Winner Prediction | 🇦🇺 Australia likely to win, but expect a strong Indian comeback effort |
AI Win Probability:
- Australia – 68%
- India – 32%
If India’s top order fires early and the bowlers strike in the Powerplay, the Men in Blue can make it a thriller. Otherwise, Australia looks poised for a 3–0 sweep.
📺 Where to Watch
- TV: Star Sports 1, Star Sports HD
- Live Stream: Disney+ Hotstar (India), Kayo Sports (Australia)
- Time Zones: 9:00 AM IST / 2:30 PM Local Time
🏆 Final Thoughts
The 3rd ODI between India and Australia isn’t just another match — it’s a battle for pride and momentum. For India, a win here could set the tone for the upcoming T20 series. For Australia, it’s a chance to reaffirm their dominance at home.
Fans can expect a competitive, high-intensity clash at the SCG, filled with world-class talent, tactical battles, and a few surprises along the way.
