Sun Jan 05 02:03:11 UTC 2025: ## India Inches Closer to Victory in Thrilling Sydney Test
**Sydney, Australia:** India is on the brink of victory in the fifth and final Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test against Australia, after a dramatic third day’s play at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Australia, chasing a challenging 162 runs for victory, reached lunch at 71/3, still needing 91 runs.
India’s impressive bowling performance, spearheaded by Prasidh Krishna’s three wickets, put Australia on the back foot. However, Usman Khawaja (19*) and Travis Head (5*) are at the crease and will be looking to steer Australia to safety. Earlier, Australia’s top order crumbled, with Marnus Labuschagne (6), Steve Smith (4), and Sam Conners (22) all falling relatively cheaply. The absence of Jasprit Bumrah due to injury remains a significant blow to India’s bowling attack.
India’s first innings ended on 185, a total slightly bettered by Australia’s 181 in their first innings. India then bowled out Australia for 157 in their second innings, establishing a 161-run lead and setting the challenging target. Rishabh Pant top-scored for India with 61 runs, but Scott Boland’s impressive bowling figures of 6/46 significantly hampered India’s efforts. Pat Cummins (3/49) and Beau Webster (1/23) also contributed to India’s downfall.
The match remains intensely close, with the result hanging in the balance as Australia begins their second innings. The exciting final session will determine whether Australia can achieve a remarkable turnaround or if India will secure a memorable victory.
First Piper 