India vs Australia: Akash Deep set to miss SCG Test due to stiff back

Akash Deep Singh ruled out of fifth Test vs. Australia due to back injury, confirms Head Coach Gautam Gambhir.

| Updated: 02 January, 2025 1:20 pm IST

Akash Deep Singh ruled out of fifth Test vs. Australia due to back injury, confirms Head Coach Gautam Gambhir. (Photo Illustration: Swastik Sharma)

NEW DELHI: India’s cricket team faces a major setback ahead of the decisive fifth Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), starting Friday. Pacer Akash Deep has been ruled out due to a stiff back, as confirmed by head coach Gautam Gambhir.

Akash Deep, 28, has been a vital component of India’s bowling attack in the series, claiming five wickets over the third and fourth Tests in Brisbane and Melbourne. His performance, however, was marred by several dropped catches off his bowling, potentially limiting his wicket tally.

The pacer bowled a total of 87.5 overs in these matches, and the combination of heavy workload and Australia’s hard pitches is believed to have contributed to his back stiffness.

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In light of Akash Deep’s unavailability, India is considering two potential replacements: Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna. Both bowlers bring distinct skills to the table. Rana, known for his pace and bounce, could exploit the SCG’s surface, while Krishna’s ability to generate seam movement might pose challenges for Australia’s batting lineup.

The final decision on the playing XI will be made after assessing the pitch conditions at the SCG.

This injury compounds India’s challenges as they trailed 1-2 in the five-match series. A victory in Sydney is imperative for India to retain the prestigious Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The team’s batting lineup has faced scrutiny for underperformance, and the bowling unit’s effectiveness is now under pressure with Akash Deep’s absence.

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Conversely, Australia has made strategic adjustments to their squad. All-rounder Mitchell Marsh has been dropped due to subpar performances, making way for debutant Beau Webster. Webster’s inclusion is anticipated to bolster Australia’s middle order and provide additional bowling options, enhancing their prospects in the series finale.

Indian Head Coach Gautam Gambhir confirms Akash deep's exclusion from the Sydney Test in the pre-match press conference. — Indian Head Coach Gautam Gambhir confirms Akash deep’s exclusion from the Sydney Test in the pre-match press conference.

The SCG pitch has historically been conducive to both batsmen and bowlers, offering a balanced contest. However, recent matches suggest it may provide more assistance to spinners as the game progresses. India’s selection strategy, particularly in choosing between Rana and Krishna, will be crucial in adapting to these conditions.