Finch, March face the axe as Australia go into must-win Test

Australia will make a final call on their playing XI for the final Test against India, starting in Sydney on Thursday, just before the toss.

Reports circulating in Australia suggest opener Aaron Finch and Mitchell Marsh could be dropped for the Test that the hosts have to win to secure a draw in the series.

Finch has been struggling in the series so far while Marsh did not impress after being drafted into the side for the Boxing Day Test.

Marnus Labuschagne, who was a late inclusion in the squad for the Sydney Test, could replace Finch while Peter Handscomb will come back into side if March drops out.

It is thought that the selection of Handscomb in the middle-order will help if India decide to play two spinners on a pitch that is expected to take turn.

Captain Tim Paine said they will first look at the wicket before making call on the final XI.

Paine said on Wednesday: “There’s ongoing discussion the last day or two but we’ll have a final look at the wicket and we’ll have our last chat then.

“We’re not too far away. As I said all along, we’ll be looking to pick the best XI that we think is the best combination to win this Test and the wicket will play a part in that.”