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Xtra Time Web Desk: Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting believes the ongoing third Test between Australia and India will be more balanced after the two one-sided encounters that opened the series. The five-match series is currently tied at 1-1, with both teams securing dominant victories in the first two matches. India outclassed Australia with a commanding 295-run win in Perth, while the hosts bounced back in Adelaide with a resounding ten-wicket triumph.

Ponting expressed confidence in Australia’s chances but acknowledged that the contest at the Gabba in Brisbane promises to be more evenly matched. Interestingly, India defeated Australia in their previous encounter at the Gabba, breaking the hosts' 32-year unbeaten streak at the venue.

“It's really hard to say what to expect after the way the first two games have gone. I mean, they've just been complete blowouts either way. So you don't really know what to expect. I've got a feeling it'll be a bit more even contest than the first couple of games. I still think Australia will win,” said Ponting on the ICC Review.

Read More: BGT 2024-25: Rain plays spoilsport on Day 1 of the Gabba Test, raises questions over Rohit’s decisions

Further speaking ahead, Ponting acknowledged India’s recent good record in Australia but also mentioned Australia’s dominance at the venue, which makes them favourite for the encounter.

“I'll back recent form up there. India have got a good record. [But] going through history, I think Australia only lost twice there in about 40 years. So, I'll back Australia to win at the Gabba,” he added.

Read More: BGT 2024-25: Rishabh Pant reflects on recovery struggles ahead of Australia series

BGT 2024-25: Rain plays spoilsport on Day 1 of the Gabba Test, raises questions over Rohit’s decisions

Australia finish Day 1 on 28/0

Meanwhile, day 1 of the third Test at the Gabba could only witness 13.2 overs. India captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and elected to bowl first on a cloudy morning in Brisbane to take full advantage of the green top. However, the conditions didn’t turn out to be as expected, as Indian bowlers failed to find any swing.

As a result, Australia passed through the first session without losing any wickets. They were 28/0 in 13.2 overs with McSweeney (4*) and Khawaja (19*) at the crease. With the rain not subsiding, the umpires called in stumps on Day