India vs Australia 2019: 4 reasons why India could lose the series

#3 The MSD factor

Mahendra Singh Dhoni

With MS Dhoni rested for the remainder of the series for the sole purpose of giving an opportunity to young wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant, there is a massive vacuum within the Indian team. Not only did Dhoni's batting provide the much-needed stability and guidance to the unsettled and young middle-order, but he also ensured a pair of safe hands behind the stumps.

Dhoni's presence on the field also makes the life of the spinners a lot easier – they just have to listen to the wise man, and the results follow on most occasions. And most importantly, his on-field availability provides massive support to Indian captain Virat Kohli with his game awareness and strategising, especially at the crucial intense stages of the game.

Dhoni was badly missed in the 4th ODI and beyond any doubt, Team India will miss him in the 5th ODI too. The MSD factor could very well be the difference between the two sides.

#4 An all-around Australian performance

Team Australia

A key reason for Australia's success has been the consistent batting performances by their Test specialists like Usman Khawaja (283 runs) and Peter Handscomb (184 runs) fused with explosive performances by the key ODI players - Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Turner - at vital stages of the game.

On the bowling front, Pat Cummins (12) and Adam Zampa (8) have been leading the way and have been exceptionally supported by Glenn Maxwell, Jason Behrendorff and Jhye Richardson. As usual, the fielding has been top notch. Should they continue the same way, they have a very good opportunity to win the series.

The Australian team has surpassed everyone’s expectations and now, they are just one good day away from ending the Indian tour with flying colors. With momentum going their way, a win looks a very realistic possibility.

On the other hand, Kohli and Co. need to really up their game and bring their best on the ground to stop the juggernaut. Whatever the result may be, it certainly promises to an exciting game of cricket!