Australia vs England Prediction: Who Will Win 3rd Test Match on 17th December 2025?
The Australia vs England prediction for the 3rd Test of the Ashes 2025 clearly leans toward the hosts as the series reaches a potentially decisive stage at the Adelaide Oval. Australia currently lead the series 2–0 and are eyeing an early series win, having dominated proceedings with superior bowling depth, disciplined batting, and ruthless execution in key moments. England, despite winning the toss in each of the first two Tests, have failed to convert promising positions into match-winning performances and now find themselves under immense pressure.
The narrative of this Ashes series has been familiar. England arrived with confidence and bold intent but were undone by Australia’s ability to seize control in crucial sessions. Injuries have further dented England’s hopes, with Mark Wood ruled out of the remainder of the series, weakening an already stretched pace attack. Australia, in contrast, welcome back key players, including captain Pat Cummins and master spinner Nathan Lyon, significantly strengthening their bowling arsenal. There is also a strong possibility of Usman Khawaja returning to the XI, adding experience and stability at the top of the order.
Adelaide Oval traditionally offers excellent batting conditions, especially under lights, but also rewards disciplined bowling. Australia’s pink-ball expertise and strong record at this venue further enhance their advantage. England will need a near-perfect performance with bat and ball to stay alive in the series, while Australia will aim to maintain relentless pressure.
With momentum, conditions, and history firmly in their favour, Australia enter this Test as clear favourites. However, the Ashes rarely follow a simple script, and England will be desperate to respond before the series slips completely out of reach.
- Australia lead the Ashes series 2–0 and can seal it in Adelaide
- England struggling with injuries and poor conversions after winning tosses
- Adelaide Oval expected to favour disciplined batting and quality bowling
- Australia enter as strong favourites based on form and home record
Match Details
| Match | Australia vs England, 3rd Test |
|---|---|
| Series | Ashes 2025 |
| Date | Wednesday, 17 December 2025 |
| Time | 5:00 AM (IST) |
| Venue | Adelaide Oval, Adelaide |
Team Preview
Australia Team Preview
Australia head into the 3rd Test with confidence soaring after winning five consecutive Test matches and dominating England in familiar Ashes fashion. Their bowling unit has been relentless, exploiting conditions expertly and capitalising on England’s batting lapses. The return of captain Pat Cummins significantly boosts leadership and balance, while Nathan Lyon’s inclusion restores control and wicket-taking threat in the middle overs.
Australia’s batting has recovered strongly after a shaky start in the first Test. Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith continue to anchor the innings, while Travis Head has provided aggressive momentum in the middle order. Cameron Green’s all-round value remains vital, offering stability with the bat and support with the ball. Alex Carey has also contributed valuable runs down the order.
The likely return of Usman Khawaja adds composure at the top, especially in pink-ball conditions where experience is crucial. Australia’s pace trio of Cummins, Starc, and Boland, supported by Lyon, gives them one of the most balanced attacks in world cricket. At home, this unit rarely allows opposition batters time to settle.
Overall, Australia appear tactically superior, mentally stronger, and better equipped for conditions. With momentum firmly on their side, they will aim to press England hard and close out the series.
England Team Preview
England arrive in Adelaide under immense pressure after failing to capitalise on winning positions in the first two Tests. Despite moments of promise, particularly with the bat, they have lacked consistency and discipline over long periods. Injuries have further compounded their problems, with Mark Wood ruled out for the remainder of the series.
Joe Root finally broke his Australian century drought in Brisbane, which could free him mentally for the rest of the series. Zak Crawley showed signs of form but remains under scrutiny, while Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope have been inconsistent. Harry Brook continues to be a bright spot, capable of changing the momentum quickly.
Ben Stokes leads the side with intent but has not yet produced a defining all-round performance in this series. Jamie Smith has looked composed behind the stumps, while Will Jacks provides England’s primary spin option, though conditions may limit his effectiveness.
The bowling attack lacks penetration without Wood, placing extra burden on Archer, Tongue, and Carse. Against a settled Australian lineup at Adelaide, England will need sustained discipline and improved catching to remain competitive. Anything less could see the series slip away decisively.
Team Squads
Australia Squad
Usman Khawaja, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Nathan Lyon
England Squad
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Jamie Smith, Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue
Probable Playing XI
Australia:
Usman Khawaja, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (c), Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Nathan Lyon
England:
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue
Dream11 Prediction for Today Australia vs England 3rd Test
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Batters | Steve Smith, Joe Root, Travis Head |
| All-Rounders | Cameron Green (C), Ben Stokes (VC) |
| Wicketkeeper | Alex Carey |
| Bowlers | Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Jofra Archer |
Fantasy selection for this Test should prioritise consistency and all-round impact. Cameron Green is an excellent captaincy choice due to his ability to contribute with both bat and ball across long spells. Ben Stokes remains a strong vice-captain option, capable of influencing the match through leadership, aggressive batting, and key bowling spells.
Steve Smith and Joe Root are must-pick batters due to their experience and proven Ashes pedigree. Travis Head adds attacking value, especially in Australian conditions. Alex Carey offers reliable runs and wicketkeeping points.
In bowling, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc are premium selections for home conditions, while Nathan Lyon’s control and wicket-taking ability make him highly effective in Adelaide. Jofra Archer remains England’s biggest strike threat.
Captain Options: Cameron Green, Steve Smith
Vice-Captain Options: Ben Stokes, Pat Cummins
Players to Avoid: Brydon Carse, Jake Weatherald
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today – Australia (Why?)
Australia are clear favourites due to their dominance at home, superior bowling depth, and strong recent form. They have not lost a home Ashes Test in 17 matches and arrive with momentum and near full strength. England, meanwhile, are struggling with injuries and inconsistency. Australia’s pace-spin balance, batting stability, and tactical clarity give them a decisive edge in this match.
Australia Test History
| Matches | Won | Lost | Draw | Tied |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 879 | 424 | 234 | 219 | 2 |
Australia boast one of the strongest home records in Test cricket history.
England Test History
| Matches | Won | Lost | Draw |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1091 | 403 | 332 | 356 |
England have a rich Test legacy but struggle consistently in Australia.
Head-to-Head Stats
| Matches | Australia Won | England Won | Draw |
|---|---|---|---|
| 363 | 154 | 112 | 97 |
Australia hold a clear historical advantage, especially in home Ashes series.
Pitch Report – Adelaide Oval
The Adelaide Oval is traditionally one of the best batting surfaces in Australia, offering even bounce and carry. The pink ball, however, brings bowlers into play under lights, especially during twilight sessions. Seamers who hit the right lengths can extract movement, while spinners find assistance later in the game. Batting becomes easier once set, but early discipline is crucial. A first-innings score of 350+ is considered competitive.
Weather Report
Clear conditions are expected in Adelaide with temperatures around 25°C. No rain interruptions are forecast, ensuring full five-day play with ideal cricketing weather.
Broadcast Details
The Australia vs England 3rd Test will be broadcast live on Star Sports Network, with digital streaming available on JioHotstar, providing full match coverage and expert analysis.
Toss Prediction
Australia are predicted to win the toss and may choose to bat first to make use of prime batting conditions and apply scoreboard pressure with the pink ball later.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Steve Smith is the most probable top scorer for Australia, given his outstanding Ashes record. Travis Head could also dominate with aggressive stroke play. For England, Joe Root remains the most reliable batter. In bowling, Pat Cummins is expected to lead Australia’s attack, while Nathan Lyon could be decisive in later innings. Jofra Archer remains England’s best wicket-taking hope.
Match Prediction
Based on current form, squad strength, and home dominance, Australia are expected to win the 3rd Test and seal the Ashes series. England may compete in phases, but Australia’s consistency and depth should prevail.
Our Winner Prediction: Australia Will Win
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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