Australia vs India 2018-19: Australia's predicted playing XI for the third Test

All-Rounder - Mitchell Marsh

Mitchell Marsh was released from the squad to play the BBL

The vice-captain of the Australian Test squad, Mitchell Marsh had surprisingly been left out of the playing XI in the first two Test matches. He was released from the squad during the second match to play for the Perth Scorchers in the BBL.

Chris Tremain and Peter Siddle too were released to join their respective clubs. However, the squad will soon re-assemble in Melbourne ahead of the third Test and given that Peter Handscomb has failed in the series thus far, he should be replaced by the younger of Marsh brothers.

Spinner - Nathan Lyon

Nathan Lyon

In a series where the fast bowlers were expected to rule the roost, Nathan Lyon, the off-spinner, has been the highest wicket-taker in the series thus far. He has troubled the Indian batsmen a lot in the first two matches and is expected to play a huge role in MCG as well.

Including Lyon in the playing XI is a no-brainer and he will look to strangle the Indian middle order.