Sat Oct 25 03:10:00 UTC 2025: ## India Skips Practice Ahead of Final ODI in Sydney, Fans Still Eager for a Glimpse of Kohli

Sydney, Australia – October 25: Indian cricket fans were left disappointed Friday evening as the Indian team skipped their scheduled practice session at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) ahead of the final One Day International (ODI) against Australia. Despite assurances from security personnel that no practice was planned, scores of fans lingered outside the stadium hoping for a glimpse of star players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

The unexpected lack of preparation time highlights the tight schedule of India’s current tour of Australia. While less critical with the series already secured 2-0 by India, the disrupted routine raises questions about its potential impact if the series were on the line.

While the match may be considered a “dead rubber,” interest remains high, particularly surrounding Virat Kohli, who is likely playing his final international match on Australian soil. His recent dismissals for two consecutive ducks in Adelaide have fueled further speculation and attention.

Australia, meanwhile, will be playing for pride and the chance to achieve their first-ever clean sweep against India in an ODI series.

Match Details:

  • Date: October 25
  • Time: 14:30 hrs Local Time, 14:30 hrs AEDT, 09:00 hrs IST
  • Weather: Expect a pleasant spring afternoon in Sydney with temperatures in the low 20s.

Pitch Report: The SCG pitch is expected to offer a similar batting-friendly surface as Adelaide, providing opportunities for both teams to score runs.

Possible Lineups:

Australia is likely to make changes to their playing XI, potentially resting key bowlers Mitch Starc or Josh Hazlewood. Youngster Jack Edwards, playing in his home ground, could make his international debut.

Australia (Probable XI): Travis Head, Mitch Marsh (c), Matt Short, Matt Renshaw, Alex Carey (wk), Cooper Connolly, Mitch Owen, Mitchell Starc/Jack Edwards, Xavier Bartlett, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood

India is also expected to rotate their squad after concerns about fast bowlers experiencing cramps. Prasidh Krishna is in line for a recall, while Kuldeep Yadav and Dhruv Jurel are also contenders for a spot.

India (Probable XI): Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (c), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (wk), Nitish Kumar Reddy/Dhruv Jurel, Washington Sundar/Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana/Prasidh Krishna, Mohammad Siraj, Arshdeep Singh

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