India and Australia will be heading into their third Test, at Brisbane’s Gabba stadium but there is a danger of witnessing significant weather-related disruptions. Torrential rains in the region in recent days are unusual for this time of year and might just jeopardize the highly anticipated India-Australia encounter. There is a likelihood of rain over the next five days, which would hamper play and possibly alter the conditions on the pitch.

Rain Forecast For Day 1

The most intense rain is likely to fall on Day 1, Saturday, December 14, with an 88% chance of rain throughout the day. Thunderstorms are also likely, which could cause the match to be delayed or even stopped. The heavy rain might even delay the Test match from starting and a good portion of Day 1 might be lost to the rain.

Impact On Play in the Coming Days

The rain is likely to decrease in the coming days, but still some disruptions are expected. On Day 2, light morning showers might disrupt play for a short time and could impact the morning session. However, it is expected that the weather will improve slightly as the Test goes on.

Day 3 and Day 5: Little to no rain is expected, and play is likely to be uninterrupted on these days, though overcast conditions may persist to help the fast bowlers.
Day 4: There is a slight possibility of an afternoon shower that might cause further delays in the game and disrupt its flow.

Impact On The Gabba Pitch & Conditions

The rain may have a significant impact on the conditions at The Gabba. On cloudy skies and overcast weather, the pitch is likely to favor fast bowlers, especially in the initial stages. Moisture in the surface will make the ball move more, offering swing and bounce for the seamers. This might help the bowlers who can exploit these conditions, especially on Day 1 when the pitch will be at its freshest.

Also Read: IND Vs AUS, 3rd Test Day 1 LIVE Updates: Rohit Sharma Wins The Toss Opts To Bowl First

Potential For A Delayed Finish?

Given the forecast, it’s possible the Test match could extend to Day 5, with rain shortening play throughout the week. In the previous two Tests of the series, both matches ended early— the first Test concluded on Day 4, and the second Test wrapped up in just two and a half days. The rain in Brisbane can extend the contest, as teams hope to make the most of any dry spells to win the result.

With the series being level at 1-1, both teams will look forward to utilizing all the available playing time and getting a better head start in qualifying for the World Test Championship final scheduled for 2025. Fans will have to wait and see how the weather unfolds and how it affects the match at The Gabba.