Australia's Test Hopes Take Flight: Starc's Grit and New Talent Shine

Australia heads into the New Year's Test in Sydney with confidence after securing a 184-run win at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, leading the series 2-1. Despite Mitchell Starc's rib soreness, he's expected to play. Selectors face choices with new talent emerging and Mitchell Marsh struggling.

Australia approaches the New Year's Test in Sydney with renewed optimism following a commanding 184-run victory at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. This win propels them to a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.

Despite battling soreness, pace veteran Mitchell Starc is expected to be fit as he delivered a crucial wicket of Virat Kohli under duress in the final session.

Meanwhile, the debut of young talent Sam Konstas and experienced Usman Khawaja's return to form heighten Australia's prospects, though selectors ponder over Mitchell Marsh's form with another all-rounder, Beau Webster, in the lineup.

(With inputs from agencies.)