Ponting predicts Finch omission, Khawaja to open for Sydney Test

Ponting believes that opener Aaron Finch will make way, the opener averaging 16.16 in six innings thus far in the series, with all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne coming in and Usman Khawaja filling the vacant position at the top of the order.

Labuschagne was called up to the squad following Australia's 137-run defeat to Kohli's India in Melbourne, a result which ensured that a series victory is now off the cards for the home side.

"I've seen Labuschagne has come into the line-up so to me straightaway that means Finch has to miss out and Usman will open the batting, I'd imagine," Ponting said to cricket.com.au."That's how it looks – Labuschagne probably bats four, (Travis) Head five and Mitch Marsh six – I think that's the way they're going to line up. I can't really think what else they can do.

"The selectors and the captain and coach have obviously had a long chat about what they want and what they expect. We'll see how they line up."

Labuschagne made his Test debut in Australia's series against Pakistan in the UAE in October, recording modest scores with the bat but impressing in the fielding department, as well as notching seven wickets across the two matches. Adding another slow-bowling option to the ranks could be high on the Australian agenda, given the SCG's reputation as a spin-friendly pitch.

"He looked impressive a couple of times in the UAE in the Tests over there," Ponting said. "(He) bowled well, which is something they're probably thinking about for the SCG Test as well. To be honest I haven’t seen a lot of him. I'll reserve my judgment until I see a little more."

Ponting was also quick to acknowledge the impact of India's highly regarded pace attack, who blew away Australia for scores of 151 and 261 in the third Test.

"Full credit to (Kohli). He's got a good attack at his disposal… It's certainly their best attack to come to Australia. They're all slightly different as well – to pick a really good attack, you've got to have guys that are a bit different and all work really well.

"That's what India have done really well."