If the reports are to be believed, star Australia batter Travis Head has sustained a groin injury and might be ruled out of BGT 2024-25. This comes after India and Australia played out a draw in the third fixture of the five-match series in Gabba on Wednesday (December 18).
During his brief innings on Wednesday, Head didn’t look comfortable at the crease. He was limping between the wickets and was seen stretching his left leg at the non-striker’s end. The southpaw was eventually dismissed on 17 by Mohammed Siraj, as his pull could only go up in the air and get caught by Rishabh Pant.
Moreover, Head did not join the Australian team in India’s second innings, which lasted only 13 balls, before rain interruption had a final say on the game. The injury speculations were first speculated by Australian fast bowler Brett Lee, who said on Fox Cricket commentary:
“There may some worrying signs for Travis Head. Just there (while batting), he couldn’t move. We’re hearing a potential groin (injury). We don’t know how bad it is … definitely wasn’t moving as freely as he does normally.”
After the game, Head revealed that he has been battling soreness for the past couple of weeks, but ensured he will be fit ahead of the Melbourne test, beginning on December 26.
“It’s been a big couple of weeks and I’m a bit sore, but I’ll be fine,” he said.
Head was adjudged Player of the Match for the second time in a row. He slammed 152 off 160 in the first innings to help the team in posting a strong total of 445. He took a solitary wicket as well by sending Akash Deep (31) packing on Wednesday.
India and Australia head into Melbourne test with BGT 2024-25 tied 1-1
The first test of the series in Perth saw stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah leading a group of energized individuals to secure a dominating 295-run victory. Then, Australia handed a 10-wicket loss to Rohit Sharma’s team in the second test, which was a day-night affair played with a pink ball.
After Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) provided impactful contributions to compile a 445-run total, India were on the backfoot. The early strikes piled further misery on the visitors, but KL Rahul (84) and Ravindra Jadeja (77) helped them remain in good stead.
Then, Akash Deep (31) and Jasprit Bumrah (10*) played a key role to help India avoid the follow-on, before the side was bundled out for 260.
On Wednesday morning, the Indian bowling unit fired on all cylinders to pick up consistent wickets, as Australia declared on 89/7 and set up a target of 275. However, the persistent rain showers forced the contest to be drawn, as India were at 8/0.
It will be interesting to see if who secures a victory in the Melbourne test and head into Sydney with a psychological advantage. Moreover, both teams have their WTC spots on the line as well, which makes up for an interesting contest.
FAQs
Can India and Australia both qualify for WTC final?
Yes
Who is currently the top team in WTC standings?
South Africa
