Australia have taken a 2-1 lead in the series following their massive win over India at the MCG. The visitors had won the Perth Test but defeats at Adelaide and Melbourne, along with a draw at the Gabba, have ensured they will fail to win a series against Australia for the first time in five attempts.

India have been bogged down by the form of their talisman batters, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, the latter averaging just over six on the tour. Despite some sensational bowling from Jasprit Bumrah, who had led in the Perth Test, India have failed to rally around him.

Australia, on the other hand, have injury concerns of their own. Josh Hazlewood has already been ruled out of the series, while recent reports suggest Mitchell Starc has been sent for scans two days out from the Test match.

Rain could also affect the Sydney game.

AUS vs IND fifth Test: Rain predictions for Sydney

According to Google Weather, day one of the game will start under a thick cloud cover. There is a 25 per cent of rain at the moment, which reduces down to five on day two. The second day will be bright and sunny as will Sunday, with the temperatures also rising to the mid-thirties.

However, the last two days could be affected by inclement weather: Showers will begin around the end of the day but will continue overnight. There is a constant drizzle predicted for day five of the Test.

BBC Weather suggests there could be intervals of slight rain in the afternoon of Friday, but the weekend will have plenty of sunshine. There is a 68 per cent chance of rain on Monday night, or day four of the Test, though the weather is expected to be clear during playing hours. Day five, however, will begin with heavy showers, which will continue throughout the day.

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