The third and final Test match of the three-match series between two wonderful sides –West Indies and Australia– is set to take place from July 12 at Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica. Both teams have shown flashes of brilliance in the previous two Tests, with several standout performances lighting up the series.

Australia eye clean sweep as West Indies seek redemption in final Test

Australia, the runners-up of the previous World Test Championship, have already sealed the series against West Indies with impressive performances. Their batting has been solid, boosted by the return of Steve Smith, who provided stability and key runs. Alongside him, Travis Head contributed significantly. In bowling, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon have been relentless, consistently taking crucial wickets and maintaining pressure.

On the other hand, West Indies showed great fighting spirit but were outclassed by Australia’s strength. Their bowling had moments of brilliance, especially from Shamar Joseph, but their batting struggled throughout. Despite some starts from Brandon King, the team failed to build substantial partnerships, often collapsing under pressure. As the final Test approaches, West Indies will aim to improve their batting and challenge Australia on home soil.

Here are the top 3 battle to watch out in the third Test:

1. Steve Smith vs Alzarri Joseph

Steve Smith’s return to the Test side was marked by a dramatic early dismissal at the hands of West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph. In the previous Test at Grenada, Joseph’s fiery spell rattled Australia’s top order, with Smith lasting just six balls before falling to a well-directed short ball from Joseph. The delivery, which bounced sharply and held its line, induced a mistimed pull from Smith, resulting in a catch at fine leg. This battle will be crucial again as Smith looks to regain form and assert himself against Joseph’s pace and bounce on a lively Caribbean pitch. Joseph’s ability to extract movement and intimidate with short-pitched bowling makes this contest a fascinating duel between one of the world’s best batters and a rising fast bowler.

2. Alex Carey vs Shamar Joseph

One of the key battles to watch in the third Test will be between Alex Carey and Shamar Joseph. After Joseph trapped Carey lbw with a sharp delivery in the second innings of the previous Test, their contest has become even more intriguing. Carey, known for his ability to steady Australia’s lower order, will be determined to find answers to Joseph’s pace and movement. On the other hand, Joseph will look to repeat his success and target Carey as a crucial wicket. This individual duel could play a significant role in shaping Australia’s lower-order resistance and West Indies’ hopes of making early breakthroughs.

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3. Brandon King vs Pat Cummins

A key battle to watch in the third Test is between West Indies batter Brandon King and Australian captain Pat Cummins. King has shown promise with his technique and grit against quality bowling. However, in the second Test, Cummins delivered a sharp, well-directed ball that cleanly bowled King, dismissing him just before the lunch break. This moment highlighted Cummins’ skill in exploiting any slight mistake in the innings. For West Indies to build a competitive total, King will need to overcome Cummins’ early threat and provide stability at the top. Meanwhile, Cummins will look to continue his dominance by striking early and putting the West Indies under pressure. This contest perfectly illustrates the classic duel between a determined opener and a world-class fast bowler.

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