Australia vs England, 3rd Test – Cricket Match Prediction, Fantasy XI Tips & Probable XI

In the Boxing Day Test, Australia will be looking to defend the Ashes while England will need a win to keep their hopes alive. 

AUS v ENG: Match Details

• Date – Sunday, December 26, 2021
• Time – 5:00 AM IST
• Venue – Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne

AUS v ENG: Match Preview:

Australia are all sorted. Although David Warner's fitness is not 100%, but he will be opening the innings along with Marcus Harris, as confirmed by coach Justin Langer. There won't be any changes in the batting order, unless forced. 

Pat Cummins will be back as the leader of the team and the bowling department. With Josh Hazlewood doubtful to play, Jhye Richardson is likely to retain his spot while Michael Neser may have to move back to bench. 

England are likely to bring in Zak Crawley in the opening slot in place of Rory Burns. The management will be looking towards Jonny Bairstow in the middle order. Joe Root is the key. 

With pitch are likely to assist spinners, Jack Leach or Dom Bess will return to the playing XI. It will be an interesting call as to which fast bowler will be benched to bring in a spinner. 

AUS v ENG: Cricket Match Prediction:

Also Read: Ashes 2021-22 - England vs Australia Schedule and Squads

Australia have dominated the first two tests and are looking favorites to win the Boxing Day Test as well. 

AUS v ENG: Head-to-Head:

• Total – 353
• Australia – 148
• England – 110 
• Draw - 95

AUS v ENG: Team News: 

• Australia - Josh Hazlewood is doubtful to play in this test. 
• England - All players are available for selection as of now. 

AUS v ENG: Probable Playing XI:

• Australia - David Warner, Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith (c), Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Jhye Richardson, Nathan Lyon
• England - Rory Burns/ Zak Crawley, Haseeb Hameed, Dawid Malan, Joe Root (c), Ben Stokes, Ollie Pope/ Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler (wk), Chris Woakes, Ollie Robinson, Stuart Broad, James Anderson/ Jack Leach 

AUS v ENG: Fantasy XI:

• Wicket-keepers - Alex Carey
• Batsmen - Dawid Malan, Steven Smith, David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne
• All-rounders - Joe Root, 
• Bowlers - Stuart Broad, Ollie Edward Robinson, Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc