<p>Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 32 points and grabbed 14 rebounds on Saturday to spark the Milwaukee Bucks into the NBA Cup final with a 110-102 victory over the Atlanta Hawks.</p>

<p>The Greek big man also added nine assists, four blocks and a steal while shooting 10-of-15 from the floor and 12-of-18 from the free throw line.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Giannis turnaround jumper. 😮‍💨 <a href="https://t.co/ObpnQ2NOZA">pic.twitter.com/ObpnQ2NOZA</a></p>
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bucks/status/1868082078472094031?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Milwaukee will play for the title on Tuesday in Las Vegas against the winner of Saturday's later Vegas semi-final between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/bundesliga-mainz-hand-bayern-munich-first-league-loss-under-vincent-kompany-784052">Bundesliga: Mainz hand Bayern Munich first league loss under Vincent Kompany</a></strong></p>

<p>"We got stops. That was the most important thing," Antetokounmpo said. "They were feeling comfortable, getting to their spots. We were able to disrupt their offense.</p>

<p>"We were moving the ball, playing team basketball, getting to our spots, knocking down a few shots down the stretch. That's why we were able to get the win."</p>

<p>The Bucks also had 25 points from Damian Lillard and 16 more from Brook Lopez while Trae Young led Atlanta with 35 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds.</p>

<p>The Bucks, who made an unbeaten run to last year's inaugural semi-finals of the in-season tournament before losing to Indiana, were the only team to make a return trip to this year's last four.</p>

<p>They were inspired by NBA scoring leader Antetokounmpo and his hunger after last year's Cup near miss.</p>

<p>"Enjoy the game, take it a possession at a time and win the game. That's it," Antetokounmpo said on what he told his teammates. "If we compete, we'll win the game."</p>

<p>After a 2-8 start to the campaign, the Bucks have gone 12-3 since.</p>

<p>"We trust one another. We play together. There's no more hero ball," Antetokounmpo said. "In the beginning of the season we tried to do it by ourselves. It had a bad effect on the team. We figured out we have to compete as a team, move the ball as a team, compete together.</p>

<p>"We've changed our season around but we've got to keep going. The job is not done so far. We've got to keep playing together and hope we get better."</p>

<p>Two Jalen Johnson dunks late in the third quarter gave the Hawks an 83-82 lead entering the fourth. Young scored 14 points in the third quarter and Lillard netted 11.</p>

<p>The game stayed on a knife's edge into the final minutes but Antetokounmpo had six points in a 7-1 Bucks run for a 103-96 lead with 3:13 to play.</p>

<p>Young answered with two free throws and a jumper but Brook Lopez scored to give Milwaukee a 105-100 edge and Lillard sank a driving floater from the free throw line for a 107-100 lead with 23 seconds remaining.</p>

<p>The Bucks drained free throws down the stretch to secure the victory.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer:</strong>&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 32 points and grabbed 14 rebounds on Saturday to spark the Milwaukee Bucks into the NBA Cup final with a 110-102 victory over the Atlanta Hawks.

Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 32 points and grabbed 14 rebounds on Saturday to spark the Milwaukee Bucks into the NBA Cup final with a 110-102 victory over the Atlanta Hawks. The Greek big man also added nine assists, four blocks and a steal while shooting 10-of-15 from the floor and 12-of-18 from the free throw line. Giannis turnaround jumper. 😮‍💨 pic.twitter.com/ObpnQ2NOZA — Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) December 14, 2024 × Milwaukee will play for the title on Tuesday in Las Vegas against the winner of Saturday's later Vegas semi-final between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets. ALSO READ: Bundesliga: Mainz hand Bayern Munich first league loss under Vincent Kompany "We got stops. That was the most important thing," Antetokounmpo said. "They were feeling comfortable, getting to their spots. We were able to disrupt their offense. "We were moving the ball, playing team basketball, getting to our spots, knocking down a few shots down the stretch. That's why we were able to get the win." The Bucks also had 25 points from Damian Lillard and 16 more from Brook Lopez while Trae Young led Atlanta with 35 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds. The Bucks, who made an unbeaten run to last year's inaugural semi-finals of the in-season tournament before losing to Indiana, were the only team to make a return trip to this year's last four. They were inspired by NBA scoring leader Antetokounmpo and his hunger after last year's Cup near miss. "Enjoy the game, take it a possession at a time and win the game. That's it," Antetokounmpo said on what he told his teammates. "If we compete, we'll win the game." After a 2-8 start to the campaign, the Bucks have gone 12-3 since. "We trust one another. We play together. There's no more hero ball," Antetokounmpo said. "In the beginning of the season we tried to do it by ourselves. It had a bad effect on the team. We figured out we have to compete as a team, move the ball as a team, compete together. "We've changed our season around but we've got to keep going. The job is not done so far. We've got to keep playing together and hope we get better." Two Jalen Johnson dunks late in the third quarter gave the Hawks an 83-82 lead entering the fourth. Young scored 14 points in the third quarter and Lillard netted 11. The game stayed on a knife's edge into the final minutes but Antetokounmpo had six points in a 7-1 Bucks run for a 103-96 lead with 3:13 to play. Young answered with two free throws and a jumper but Brook Lopez scored to give Milwaukee a 105-100 edge and Lillard sank a driving floater from the free throw line for a 107-100 lead with 23 seconds remaining. The Bucks drained free throws down the stretch to secure the victory. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Giannis Antetokounmpo powers Milwaukee Bucks into NBA Cup final with stellar show

<p>Amid a wonderful day for Australia and India’s Jasprit Bumrah, who picked a five-wicket haul at the Gabba in Brisbane on the second day's play, a new controversy struck the BGT. Per several reports, broadcaster Isha Guha used a racial slur for ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah during the commentary, calling him a ‘primate’, which usually means 'any animal that belongs to the group that includes humans, monkeys and animals like monkeys without a tail (apes).'</p>

<p>Calling out the game for Fox Cricket alongside veteran seamer Brett Lee, Isha used this slur for Bumrah, who picked two wickets inside the first half an hour of the game, removing both Aussie openers Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney.</p>

<p>While Lee was impressed with Bumrah’s spell figures, praising him on air, Guha’s remarks on his performance raised eyebrows, with social media noting it.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="tl">*Isa Guha <a href="https://t.co/VgmsHxoG21">https://t.co/VgmsHxoG21</a> <a href="https://t.co/zWTJ8HUxXE">pic.twitter.com/zWTJ8HUxXE</a></p>
— Matt Krawczyk (@mjkrawz) <a href="https://twitter.com/mjkrawz/status/1868095619233169805?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-gabba-test-head-smith-punish-india-with-twin-tons-on-day-2-as-australia-go-past-400-mark-784129">BGT, Gabba Test: Head, Smith punish India with twin tons on day 2 as Australia go past 400-mark</a></strong></p>

<p>"Bumrah, today: five overs, 2-4. So, that's the tone, and that's what you want from the ex-skipper," Lee said, to which Ghua replied, "Well, he's the MVP, isn't he? Most valuable primate, Jasprit Bumrah.”</p>

<p>Meanwhile, this instance has drawn parallels with the 2008 Monkeygate episode, which made headlines worldwide, even leading to a situation where India were ready to forfeit the Test series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This controversy involved two former cricketers, India’s Harbhajan Singh and late Aussie all-rounder Andrew Symonds; during that episode, Harbhajan was accused of using a slur by calling Symonds a monkey.</p>

<h2>Bumrah, the saviour for Team India</h2>

<p>India entered the third Test in Brisbane following a ten-wicket loss in Adelaide. Down and low on morale, Indian bowlers struggled on a gloomy day at the Gabba, picking seven wickets and conceding over 400 runs. For the hosts, Travis Head and Steve Smith struck respective centuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Head completed his second hundred in as many innings against India, Smith reached the three-digit mark for the first time in 18 months.</p>

<p>With Australia on top during most of the three sessions, Bumrah pulled India back by picking his second five-for for the series. He first removed both openers before claiming the big fish: Head (152), Smith (101) and Mitchell Marsh (5).&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Jasprit Bumrah gets Travis Head to bring up his fifth wicket! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MilestoneMoment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MilestoneMoment</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/2QGUazarZP">pic.twitter.com/2QGUazarZP</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868185527016423474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Besides, Nitish Kumar Reddy was among the wickets, removing Marnus Labuschagne, caught in the slips; Mohammed Siraj, who earlier suffered an injury scare, removed captain Pat Cummins, caught behind on 20.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus far, in five innings, Bumrah has already picked 17 wickets, at an average of just over 12 (12.18), including one four-wicket and two five-wicket hauls.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Amid a wonderful day for Australia and India’s Jasprit Bumrah, who picked a five-wicket haul at the Gabba in Brisbane on the second day's play, a new controversy struck the BGT.

Amid a wonderful day for Australia and India’s Jasprit Bumrah, who picked a five-wicket haul at the Gabba in Brisbane on the second day's play, a new controversy struck the BGT. Per several reports, broadcaster Isha Guha used a racial slur for ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah during the commentary, calling him a ‘primate’, which usually means 'any animal that belongs to the group that includes humans, monkeys and animals like monkeys without a tail (apes).' Calling out the game for Fox Cricket alongside veteran seamer Brett Lee, Isha used this slur for Bumrah, who picked two wickets inside the first half an hour of the game, removing both Aussie openers Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney. While Lee was impressed with Bumrah’s spell figures, praising him on air, Guha’s remarks on his performance raised eyebrows, with social media noting it. *Isa Guha https://t.co/VgmsHxoG21 pic.twitter.com/zWTJ8HUxXE — Matt Krawczyk (@mjkrawz) December 15, 2024 × ALSO READ: BGT, Gabba Test: Head, Smith punish India with twin tons on day 2 as Australia go past 400-mark "Bumrah, today: five overs, 2-4. So, that's the tone, and that's what you want from the ex-skipper," Lee said, to which Ghua replied, "Well, he's the MVP, isn't he? Most valuable primate, Jasprit Bumrah.” Meanwhile, this instance has drawn parallels with the 2008 Monkeygate episode, which made headlines worldwide, even leading to a situation where India were ready to forfeit the Test series. This controversy involved two former cricketers, India’s Harbhajan Singh and late Aussie all-rounder Andrew Symonds; during that episode, Harbhajan was accused of using a slur by calling Symonds a monkey. Bumrah, the saviour for Team India India entered the third Test in Brisbane following a ten-wicket loss in Adelaide. Down and low on morale, Indian bowlers struggled on a gloomy day at the Gabba, picking seven wickets and conceding over 400 runs. For the hosts, Travis Head and Steve Smith struck respective centuries. While Head completed his second hundred in as many innings against India, Smith reached the three-digit mark for the first time in 18 months. With Australia on top during most of the three sessions, Bumrah pulled India back by picking his second five-for for the series. He first removed both openers before claiming the big fish: Head (152), Smith (101) and Mitchell Marsh (5). Jasprit Bumrah gets Travis Head to bring up his fifth wicket! #AUSvIND | #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/2QGUazarZP — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Besides, Nitish Kumar Reddy was among the wickets, removing Marnus Labuschagne, caught in the slips; Mohammed Siraj, who earlier suffered an injury scare, removed captain Pat Cummins, caught behind on 20. Thus far, in five innings, Bumrah has already picked 17 wickets, at an average of just over 12 (12.18), including one four-wicket and two five-wicket hauls. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Controversy hits Gabba Test as broadcaster uses racial slur for Jasprit Bumrah

<p>Travis Head hit his second hundred in two innings against India on day two of the Gabba Test in Brisbane, while Steve Smith notched his first in 18 months to power Australia past the 400-run-mark in the first innings on Sunday (Dec 15). For India, ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah picked a five-for, his second of this BGT. At stumps on day two, Australia's scorecard read 405 for seven.</p>

<p>After losing close to 80 overs on day one due to rain interruption, the action began at the usual time on day two, with the weather forecast favouring playing conditions. Team India began proceedings by removing both openers inside the first half an hour, with Jasprit Bumrah accounting for both.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-dumb-cricket-simon-katich-tears-into-rohit-sharmas-clueless-captaincy-as-head-hits-hundred-at-gabba-784101">BGT: ‘Dumb cricket’ Simon Katich tears into Rohit Sharma’s clueless captaincy as Head hits hundred at Gabba</a></strong></p>

<p>Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith played out the first hour before Mohammed Siraj’s mind games helped India get another breakthrough. During the 33rd over, Siraj ran up to Marnus in his follow-through and switched the bails to break Labuschagne’s concentration, a trick that worked wonders, as he departed in the next over to Nitish Kumar Reddy.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">How good is this exchange between Siraj and Labuschange? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/GSv1XSrMHn">pic.twitter.com/GSv1XSrMHn</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868105876357230622?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Though Siraj and Bumrah suffered little injury scares just after that, both returned to bowl after lunch.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Smith, Head crush India’s momentum</h2>

<p>Coming off a decisive hundred in the first innings in Adelaide, Travis Head continued from where he left. He played out the first few balls before opening his arms like before.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The left-handed batter smoked each bowler for a convincing boundary, including hitting Bumrah for the overhead six. Though he never let Ravindra Jadeja settle by whacking him to all parts of the ground, Head’s approach against Siraj, with whom he shared a heated moment in the second Test, kept the crowd on its feet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Oh that is class from Travis Head 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/rqr2hzSCpd">pic.twitter.com/rqr2hzSCpd</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868135734219075632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Soon after, Head completed his hundred, his second of this BGT and ninth overall in Tests, piling pressure on the Indian Team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, Smith ended his century drought with a fantastic hundred, his first in 18 months. His 101 off 190 balls sees him equal Joe Root’s record for most Test tons against India (10) and second-most overall (33) for Australia in this format.</p>

<p>However, Bumrah brought India back into the game with three quick wickets, including removing Smith (101) and Head (152) alongside Mitchell Marsh on just five.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Jasprit Bumrah gets Travis Head to bring up his fifth wicket! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MilestoneMoment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MilestoneMoment</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/2QGUazarZP">pic.twitter.com/2QGUazarZP</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868185527016423474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Captain Pat Cummins and Alex Carey kept the run-rate ticking with a handy, but Siraj’s Jaffa outdid Cummins, reducing Australia to 385 for seven. Carey (45*) and Mitchell Starc (7*) helped the host cross the 400-run mark.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Travis Head hit his second hundred in two innings against India on day two of the Gabba Test in Brisbane, while Steve Smith notched his first in 18 months to power Australia past the 400-run-mark in the first innings on Sunday (Dec 15).

Travis Head hit his second hundred in two innings against India on day two of the Gabba Test in Brisbane, while Steve Smith notched his first in 18 months to power Australia past the 400-run-mark in the first innings on Sunday (Dec 15). For India, ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah picked a five-for, his second of this BGT. At stumps on day two, Australia's scorecard read 405 for seven. After losing close to 80 overs on day one due to rain interruption, the action began at the usual time on day two, with the weather forecast favouring playing conditions. Team India began proceedings by removing both openers inside the first half an hour, with Jasprit Bumrah accounting for both. ALSO READ: BGT: ‘Dumb cricket’ Simon Katich tears into Rohit Sharma’s clueless captaincy as Head hits hundred at Gabba Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith played out the first hour before Mohammed Siraj’s mind games helped India get another breakthrough. During the 33rd over, Siraj ran up to Marnus in his follow-through and switched the bails to break Labuschagne’s concentration, a trick that worked wonders, as he departed in the next over to Nitish Kumar Reddy. How good is this exchange between Siraj and Labuschange? #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/GSv1XSrMHn — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Though Siraj and Bumrah suffered little injury scares just after that, both returned to bowl after lunch. Smith, Head crush India’s momentum Coming off a decisive hundred in the first innings in Adelaide, Travis Head continued from where he left. He played out the first few balls before opening his arms like before. The left-handed batter smoked each bowler for a convincing boundary, including hitting Bumrah for the overhead six. Though he never let Ravindra Jadeja settle by whacking him to all parts of the ground, Head’s approach against Siraj, with whom he shared a heated moment in the second Test, kept the crowd on its feet. Oh that is class from Travis Head 👏#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/rqr2hzSCpd — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Soon after, Head completed his hundred, his second of this BGT and ninth overall in Tests, piling pressure on the Indian Team. On the other hand, Smith ended his century drought with a fantastic hundred, his first in 18 months. His 101 off 190 balls sees him equal Joe Root’s record for most Test tons against India (10) and second-most overall (33) for Australia in this format. However, Bumrah brought India back into the game with three quick wickets, including removing Smith (101) and Head (152) alongside Mitchell Marsh on just five. Jasprit Bumrah gets Travis Head to bring up his fifth wicket! #AUSvIND | #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/2QGUazarZP — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Captain Pat Cummins and Alex Carey kept the run-rate ticking with a handy, but Siraj’s Jaffa outdid Cummins, reducing Australia to 385 for seven. Carey (45*) and Mitchell Starc (7*) helped the host cross the 400-run mark. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT, Gabba Test: Head, Smith punish India with twin tons on day 2 as Australia go past 400-mark

<p>England's hopes of a series clean sweep all but evaporated on Sunday as they capitulated on day two of the third Test to trail New Zealand by 340 runs. The home side skittled England for 143 before reaching 136-3 by stumps in their second innings in Hamilton, enjoying easily their best day of a series in which they had been outplayed until now.</p>

<p>Kane Williamson was at the crease on 50 and Rachin Ravindra two.</p>

<p>Williamson put on 89 for the second wicket with Will Young (60) following the departure of captain Tom Latham for 19.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-dumb-cricket-simon-katich-tears-into-rohit-sharmas-clueless-captaincy-as-head-hits-hundred-at-gabba-784101">BGT: ‘Dumb cricket’ Simon Katich tears into Rohit Sharma’s clueless captaincy as Head hits hundred at Gabba</a></strong></p>

<p>Scoreless nightwatchman Will O'Rourke gave England captain Ben Stokes (2-45) a second wicket soon before the close.</p>

<p>New Zealand's controlled strokeplay in the final session was in contrast to chaotic English batting between lunch and tea where they lost their last eight wickets for 66 runs.</p>

<p>Pace bowler O'Rourke (3-33) ripped out three key wickets in a ferocious spell after lunch, before Matt Henry (4-48) and Mitchell Santner (3-7) instigated a late collapse.</p>

<p>Jacob Bethell (12) was the first to fall to O'Rourke, caught at point, before the towering quick prised out the ICC ranked first and second-best Test batters, Harry Brook and Joe Root.</p>

<p>After scoring match-changing centuries in each of the two big England wins, in Christchurch and Wellington, Brook lasted only one ball.</p>

<p>He played on to an in-swinger, prompting a roar of approval from the small crowd on a hot, still day at Seddon Park.</p>

<p>Root departed for 32 in O'Rourke's next over, caught at point off a limp cut shot from a delivery that bounced sharply.</p>

<p>Santner reinforced New Zealand's commanding position by removing Ollie Pope (24) and Stokes (27) in his first seven deliveries after the pair had put on 52 for the sixth wicket.</p>

<p>Pope edged to Daryl Mitchell at first slip before Stokes departed lbw, losing balance as he attempted a sweep shot.</p>

<p>The last five wickets fell for nine runs but, ahead by 204 runs, New Zealand declined the opportunity to enforce the follow-on.</p>

<p>Earlier, England reached 54-2 at lunch.</p>

<p>Zak Crawley fell to Henry for the fifth time in five innings this series, caught-and-bowled for 21 to continue a miserable run of form.</p>

<p>Crawley's score was his highest of the series, having managed only managed 47 runs at an average of 9.6.</p>

<p>The impressive Henry struck again in the same over, trapping fellow opener Ben Duckett lbw for 11.</p>

<p>England had taken more than an hour to claim the last New Zealand wicket after the home side resumed their first innings at 315-9.</p>

<p>New Zealand faced a further 15.1 overs and scored 32 runs before top-scorer Santner was bowled for 76 by Matthew Potts (4-90), having added 26 to his overnight score.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer:</strong>&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


England's hopes of a series clean sweep all but evaporated on Sunday as they capitulated on day two of the third Test to trail New Zealand by 340 runs. The home side skittled England for 143 before reaching 136-3 by stumps in their second innings in Hamilton, enjoying easily their best day of a series in which they had been outplayed until now.

England's hopes of a series clean sweep all but evaporated on Sunday as they capitulated on day two of the third Test to trail New Zealand by 340 runs. The home side skittled England for 143 before reaching 136-3 by stumps in their second innings in Hamilton, enjoying easily their best day of a series in which they had been outplayed until now. Kane Williamson was at the crease on 50 and Rachin Ravindra two. Williamson put on 89 for the second wicket with Will Young (60) following the departure of captain Tom Latham for 19. ALSO READ: BGT: ‘Dumb cricket’ Simon Katich tears into Rohit Sharma’s clueless captaincy as Head hits hundred at Gabba Scoreless nightwatchman Will O'Rourke gave England captain Ben Stokes (2-45) a second wicket soon before the close. New Zealand's controlled strokeplay in the final session was in contrast to chaotic English batting between lunch and tea where they lost their last eight wickets for 66 runs. Pace bowler O'Rourke (3-33) ripped out three key wickets in a ferocious spell after lunch, before Matt Henry (4-48) and Mitchell Santner (3-7) instigated a late collapse. Jacob Bethell (12) was the first to fall to O'Rourke, caught at point, before the towering quick prised out the ICC ranked first and second-best Test batters, Harry Brook and Joe Root. After scoring match-changing centuries in each of the two big England wins, in Christchurch and Wellington, Brook lasted only one ball. He played on to an in-swinger, prompting a roar of approval from the small crowd on a hot, still day at Seddon Park. Root departed for 32 in O'Rourke's next over, caught at point off a limp cut shot from a delivery that bounced sharply. Santner reinforced New Zealand's commanding position by removing Ollie Pope (24) and Stokes (27) in his first seven deliveries after the pair had put on 52 for the sixth wicket. Pope edged to Daryl Mitchell at first slip before Stokes departed lbw, losing balance as he attempted a sweep shot. The last five wickets fell for nine runs but, ahead by 204 runs, New Zealand declined the opportunity to enforce the follow-on. Earlier, England reached 54-2 at lunch. Zak Crawley fell to Henry for the fifth time in five innings this series, caught-and-bowled for 21 to continue a miserable run of form. Crawley's score was his highest of the series, having managed only managed 47 runs at an average of 9.6. The impressive Henry struck again in the same over, trapping fellow opener Ben Duckett lbw for 11. England had taken more than an hour to claim the last New Zealand wicket after the home side resumed their first innings at 315-9. New Zealand faced a further 15.1 overs and scored 32 runs before top-scorer Santner was bowled for 76 by Matthew Potts (4-90), having added 26 to his overnight score. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

New Zealand pile up 340-run lead after best day of cricket against England in 3rd Test

<p>Team India won the first session on day two in Brisbane by picking three wickets but escaped injury scares to the pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. While Siraj pulled up his left hamstring overs before lunch, the medical staff attended Bumrah for possible stiffness after regular spells. On the other hand, India’s nemesis, Travis Head, broke the Gabba deadlock, completing another hundred in this series. At tea, Australia's scorecard read 234 for three in 70 overs.</p>

<p>India began day two with two quick wickets, removing both openers. Bumrah, accounting for the duo, first removed Usman Khawaja, who was caught behind, before dismissing rookie Nathan McSweeney seven runs later.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Jasprit Bumrah looks at his devastating best!<br />
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He gets Usman Khawaja early on Day Two. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/X7sj8lyIIv">pic.twitter.com/X7sj8lyIIv</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868085855060885640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith bailed the hosts out of trouble with a gritty stand, adding 37 for the third wicket before Siraj’s mind games against Marnus led to his wicket in the following over.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-rajat-patidar-welcome-to-captaincy-role-at-rcb-after-leading-madhya-pradesh-to-smat-final-784015">IPL 2025: Rajat Patidar welcome to captaincy role at RCB after leading Madhya Pradesh to SMAT final</a></strong></p>

<p>Siraj walked towards Marnus during a follow-through in the 33rd over, switching bails to break his concentration. That, however, worked in India’s favour as Nitish Kumar Reddy got rid of Marnus in the next over, caught in the slips.</p>

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— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868105876357230622?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>With Travis Head joining Smith in the middle, Australia breathed a sigh of relief. Soon after, Siraj pulled up his hamstring and left the over midway. Bumrah followed him shortly, reducing India's bowling attack to Akash Deep, Nitish and Ravindra Jadeja. Thankfully, lunch was taken, avoiding another scare.</p>

<h2>Another day, another hundred for Travis Head</h2>

<p>Head loves playing against India, regardless of the format. Having scored two decisive tons against Rohit Sharma’s team the past year, costing India two ICC titles, Head scored one against them in the second Test in Adelaide and now a few days later at the Gabba in Brisbane.</p>

<p>The left-handed batter took his time but dominated the bowlers with utter disdain. Making the most of a speed-less seam attack, Head took on everyone, including Bumrah, hitting him for an overhead six just after lunch.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Oh that is class from Travis Head 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/rqr2hzSCpd">pic.twitter.com/rqr2hzSCpd</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868135734219075632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>While he made merry against Jadeja by smashing him to all parts of the ground, his stroke play against Siraj pumped up the crowd.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Head completed his fifty and took no time to get past the three-digit mark, marking his second hundred of the series.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">HE'S DONE IT AGAIN!<br />
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Travis Head brings up another hundred ⭐️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayOfTheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayOfTheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/10yBuL883X">pic.twitter.com/10yBuL883X</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868159132416483776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>On the other hand, Steve Smith also completed his fifty, showing signs of returning to form just at the right time for the hosts.&nbsp;</p>


Team India won the first session on day two in Brisbane by picking three wickets but escaped injury scares to the pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. While Siraj pulled up his left hamstring overs before lunch, the medical staff attended Bumrah for possible stiffness after regular spells.

Team India won the first session on day two in Brisbane by picking three wickets but escaped injury scares to the pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. While Siraj pulled up his left hamstring overs before lunch, the medical staff attended Bumrah for possible stiffness after regular spells. On the other hand, India’s nemesis, Travis Head, broke the Gabba deadlock, completing another hundred in this series. At tea, Australia's scorecard read 234 for three in 70 overs. India began day two with two quick wickets, removing both openers. Bumrah, accounting for the duo, first removed Usman Khawaja, who was caught behind, before dismissing rookie Nathan McSweeney seven runs later. Jasprit Bumrah looks at his devastating best! He gets Usman Khawaja early on Day Two. #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/X7sj8lyIIv — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith bailed the hosts out of trouble with a gritty stand, adding 37 for the third wicket before Siraj’s mind games against Marnus led to his wicket in the following over. ALSO READ: IPL 2025: Rajat Patidar welcome to captaincy role at RCB after leading Madhya Pradesh to SMAT final Siraj walked towards Marnus during a follow-through in the 33rd over, switching bails to break his concentration. That, however, worked in India’s favour as Nitish Kumar Reddy got rid of Marnus in the next over, caught in the slips. How good is this exchange between Siraj and Labuschange? #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/GSv1XSrMHn — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × With Travis Head joining Smith in the middle, Australia breathed a sigh of relief. Soon after, Siraj pulled up his hamstring and left the over midway. Bumrah followed him shortly, reducing India's bowling attack to Akash Deep, Nitish and Ravindra Jadeja. Thankfully, lunch was taken, avoiding another scare. Another day, another hundred for Travis Head Head loves playing against India, regardless of the format. Having scored two decisive tons against Rohit Sharma’s team the past year, costing India two ICC titles, Head scored one against them in the second Test in Adelaide and now a few days later at the Gabba in Brisbane. The left-handed batter took his time but dominated the bowlers with utter disdain. Making the most of a speed-less seam attack, Head took on everyone, including Bumrah, hitting him for an overhead six just after lunch. Oh that is class from Travis Head 👏#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/rqr2hzSCpd — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × While he made merry against Jadeja by smashing him to all parts of the ground, his stroke play against Siraj pumped up the crowd. Head completed his fifty and took no time to get past the three-digit mark, marking his second hundred of the series. HE'S DONE IT AGAIN! Travis Head brings up another hundred ⭐️#AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/10yBuL883X — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × On the other hand, Steve Smith also completed his fifty, showing signs of returning to form just at the right time for the hosts.

BGT, Gabba Test: Travis Head rocks India with another hundred after pace duo escaped injury scare

<p>Riddled with anxiety about Manchester City's shocking decline, Pep Guardiola will endure another sleepless night as he tries to pose more problems for Ruben Amorim in the Manchester United manager's first taste of the Premier League's most explosive rivalry.</p>

<p>For the first time in years, City go into the Manchester derby mired in even more turmoil than United after a dismal run of one win in 10 games in all competitions.</p>

<p>Wednesday's 2-0 Champions League defeat at Juventus was City's seventh loss in that period, an astonishing collapse for a club that has won six of the last seven Premier League titles, including their current streak of four in a row.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/bundesliga-mainz-hand-bayern-munich-first-league-loss-under-vincent-kompany-784052">Bundesliga: Mainz hand Bayern Munich first league loss under Vincent Kompany</a></strong></p>

<p>United are hardly in peak form themselves, having won just three of Amorim's six games in charge since he replaced the sacked Erik ten Hag.</p>

<p>But Amorim has already inflicted one painful blow to Guardiola this season when his Sporting side crushed City 4-1 in the Champions League in Lisbon on November 5.</p>

<p>City squandered an early lead on that occasion, blown away by Viktor Gyokeres' hat-trick as Amorim ruthlessly exposed the gaping holes in Guardiola's ramshackle defence.</p>

<p>That chastening loss came just days before Amorim officially took charge at Old Trafford and Guardiola would love to exact avenge at the Etihad Stadium this weekend.</p>

<p>Whether Guardiola's injury-plagued team, whose confidence appears to be in tatters, are in any shape to deliver a sixth win in their last seven league meetings with United is another matter.</p>

<p>The strain of the worst run of his glittering managerial career is taking a toll on Guardiola as well.</p>

<p>In an interview before the Juventus game, Guardiola said his state of mind was "ugly", his sleep was "worse" and he was eating lighter as his digestion has suffered during City's collapse.</p>

<p>On Friday, Guardiola, who recently signed a new two-year contract, insisted he was "fine" despite the stress.</p>

<h2>'In a better place than us'</h2>

<p>"In our jobs we always want to do our best. When that doesn't happen you are more uncomfortable than when the situation is going well," said Guardiola, who could have just three fit defenders available on Sunday.</p>

<p>"In good moments I am happier but when I get to the next game I am still concerned about what I have to do.</p>

<p>"There is no human being that makes an activity and it doesn't matter how they do."</p>

<p>There is no question another loss to Amorim would be a huge blow for Guardiola, whose fourth-placed side are eight points behind leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand.</p>

<p>Yet Amorim has plenty of issues of his own to resolve after a rocky first month in Manchester featuring only one league victory in four matches.</p>

<p>United are languishing in 13th place after successive league losses to Arsenal and Nottingham Forest underlined the extent of the rebuilding job faced by Amorim.</p>

<p>They struggled to find any fluency in a nervy 2-1 victory at minnows Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League on Thursday.</p>

<p>Given United's mediocrity before and since his arrival, Amorim is in no position to cast aspersions about City's woes.</p>

<p>"I never think about these things. We will face a great opponent and I'm more focused on our problems, so we have a lot of issues here," he said. "I'm more focused on what we should do on Sunday to win the game, so I'm really focused on my team."</p>

<p>And the 39-year-old believes City are capable of hitting back if United allow them to rediscover their rhythm amid the sound and fury of the derby.</p>

<p>"The great teams can respond in any moment. I think they are in a better place than us in the type of understanding the game," he said. "The way they play, the confidence they have. Even in these kind of moments."</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer:</strong> This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Riddled with anxiety about Manchester City's shocking decline, Pep Guardiola will endure another sleepless night as he tries to pose more problems for Ruben Amorim in the Manchester United manager's first taste of the Premier League's most explosive rivalry.

Riddled with anxiety about Manchester City's shocking decline, Pep Guardiola will endure another sleepless night as he tries to pose more problems for Ruben Amorim in the Manchester United manager's first taste of the Premier League's most explosive rivalry. For the first time in years, City go into the Manchester derby mired in even more turmoil than United after a dismal run of one win in 10 games in all competitions. Wednesday's 2-0 Champions League defeat at Juventus was City's seventh loss in that period, an astonishing collapse for a club that has won six of the last seven Premier League titles, including their current streak of four in a row. ALSO READ: Bundesliga: Mainz hand Bayern Munich first league loss under Vincent Kompany United are hardly in peak form themselves, having won just three of Amorim's six games in charge since he replaced the sacked Erik ten Hag. But Amorim has already inflicted one painful blow to Guardiola this season when his Sporting side crushed City 4-1 in the Champions League in Lisbon on November 5. City squandered an early lead on that occasion, blown away by Viktor Gyokeres' hat-trick as Amorim ruthlessly exposed the gaping holes in Guardiola's ramshackle defence. That chastening loss came just days before Amorim officially took charge at Old Trafford and Guardiola would love to exact avenge at the Etihad Stadium this weekend. Whether Guardiola's injury-plagued team, whose confidence appears to be in tatters, are in any shape to deliver a sixth win in their last seven league meetings with United is another matter. The strain of the worst run of his glittering managerial career is taking a toll on Guardiola as well. In an interview before the Juventus game, Guardiola said his state of mind was "ugly", his sleep was "worse" and he was eating lighter as his digestion has suffered during City's collapse. On Friday, Guardiola, who recently signed a new two-year contract, insisted he was "fine" despite the stress. 'In a better place than us' "In our jobs we always want to do our best. When that doesn't happen you are more uncomfortable than when the situation is going well," said Guardiola, who could have just three fit defenders available on Sunday. "In good moments I am happier but when I get to the next game I am still concerned about what I have to do. "There is no human being that makes an activity and it doesn't matter how they do." There is no question another loss to Amorim would be a huge blow for Guardiola, whose fourth-placed side are eight points behind leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand. Yet Amorim has plenty of issues of his own to resolve after a rocky first month in Manchester featuring only one league victory in four matches. United are languishing in 13th place after successive league losses to Arsenal and Nottingham Forest underlined the extent of the rebuilding job faced by Amorim. They struggled to find any fluency in a nervy 2-1 victory at minnows Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League on Thursday. Given United's mediocrity before and since his arrival, Amorim is in no position to cast aspersions about City's woes. "I never think about these things. We will face a great opponent and I'm more focused on our problems, so we have a lot of issues here," he said. "I'm more focused on what we should do on Sunday to win the game, so I'm really focused on my team." And the 39-year-old believes City are capable of hitting back if United allow them to rediscover their rhythm amid the sound and fury of the derby. "The great teams can respond in any moment. I think they are in a better place than us in the type of understanding the game," he said. "The way they play, the confidence they have. Even in these kind of moments." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Manchester Derby Preview: City-United fight for points, glory and relief in lowkey clash of titans

Players with 90+ Sixes in Tests

All-Rounders, Pacers with Most Sixes in Tests

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<p>Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj received a hostile welcome at the Gabba in Brisbane as Australian fans booed him before he began his spell on day one of the third BGT Test on Saturday (Dec 14). Per the latest reports, after Jasprit Bumrah finished his first over, the local fans came down hard on Siraj, trying to tear into him with the boos. Siraj, however, kept his composure and concentrated on delivering goods for his team.</p>

<p>Per a report in the Times of India, the home crowd didn’t seem to forgive Siraj, let alone forget, for his send-off to Travis Head during the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-everyones-here-to-write-articles-labuschagne-hits-back-at-warner-over-batting-criticism-783914">BGT: ‘Everyone’s here to write articles,’ Labuschagne hits back at Warner over batting criticism</a></strong></p>

<p>During day two of the second game at the iconic Adelaide Oval, Siraj clean bowled Head off a searing Yorker on 140, giving him a fiery send-off by gesturing aggressively towards the dressing room. That reaction garnered attention from all spheres - the commentators, former cricketers, experts and fans worldwide.&nbsp;</p>

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— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1865310776866595166?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Both, however, made contrasting claims reflecting on this incident following the day’s play. While Head, who hammered India with another decisive ton, revealed he said ‘well-bowled’ to Siraj, while the Indian pacer refuted this, adding Head didn’t utter those words but instead said something else.</p>

<h2>'Went too far'</h2>

<p>Though both hugged it out after the match, which Australia won by ten wickets, Head admitted regret over his reaction but maintained his stance of not backing down.</p>

<p>"It probably [went] a little bit far that's why I'm disappointed in the reaction I gave back, but I'm also going to stand up for myself. Like to think in our team we wouldn't do that. [It's] not the way I'd like to play the game and feel like my teammates are the same. If I see that, I probably call it out, which I did,” Head said of the incident.</p>

<p>Reverting, Siraj said, "It was a great battle going on [with Head], and he batted really well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“When you get hit for a six on a good ball, it fires you up differently. And when I bowled him, I just celebrated, and he abused me, and you saw that on TV too. I only celebrated at the start, I didn't say anything to him. What he said in the press conference wasn't right, it's a lie that he said 'well bowled' to me. It's there for everyone to see that that's not what he said to me.</p>

<p>"We respect everyone; it's not like we disrespect other players. I respect everybody because cricket is a gentleman's game, but what he did wasn't right. I didn't like it at all,” Siraj noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Australia was 28/0 before rain stopped play on day one of the third Test at the Gabba.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj received a hostile welcome at the Gabba in Brisbane as Australian fans booed him before he began his spell on day one of the third BGT Test on Saturday (Dec 14).

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj received a hostile welcome at the Gabba in Brisbane as Australian fans booed him before he began his spell on day one of the third BGT Test on Saturday (Dec 14). Per the latest reports, after Jasprit Bumrah finished his first over, the local fans came down hard on Siraj, trying to tear into him with the boos. Siraj, however, kept his composure and concentrated on delivering goods for his team. Per a report in the Times of India, the home crowd didn’t seem to forgive Siraj, let alone forget, for his send-off to Travis Head during the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide. ALSO READ: BGT: ‘Everyone’s here to write articles,’ Labuschagne hits back at Warner over batting criticism During day two of the second game at the iconic Adelaide Oval, Siraj clean bowled Head off a searing Yorker on 140, giving him a fiery send-off by gesturing aggressively towards the dressing room. That reaction garnered attention from all spheres - the commentators, former cricketers, experts and fans worldwide. The end of a sensational innings! 🗣️#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/kEIlHmgNwT — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 7, 2024 × Both, however, made contrasting claims reflecting on this incident following the day’s play. While Head, who hammered India with another decisive ton, revealed he said ‘well-bowled’ to Siraj, while the Indian pacer refuted this, adding Head didn’t utter those words but instead said something else. 'Went too far' Though both hugged it out after the match, which Australia won by ten wickets, Head admitted regret over his reaction but maintained his stance of not backing down. "It probably [went] a little bit far that's why I'm disappointed in the reaction I gave back, but I'm also going to stand up for myself. Like to think in our team we wouldn't do that. [It's] not the way I'd like to play the game and feel like my teammates are the same. If I see that, I probably call it out, which I did,” Head said of the incident. Reverting, Siraj said, "It was a great battle going on [with Head], and he batted really well. “When you get hit for a six on a good ball, it fires you up differently. And when I bowled him, I just celebrated, and he abused me, and you saw that on TV too. I only celebrated at the start, I didn't say anything to him. What he said in the press conference wasn't right, it's a lie that he said 'well bowled' to me. It's there for everyone to see that that's not what he said to me. "We respect everyone; it's not like we disrespect other players. I respect everybody because cricket is a gentleman's game, but what he did wasn't right. I didn't like it at all,” Siraj noted. Meanwhile, Australia was 28/0 before rain stopped play on day one of the third Test at the Gabba. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Mohammed Siraj booed by Australian fans in Brisbane before rain interrupted play on day one

<p>Australia Test number three Marnus Labuschagne is not impressed with his former teammate-turned-broadcaster David Warner’s remarks on his batting slump, saying everyone is here to write articles. Labuschagne found some form (against India) in the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide, hitting a gritty 64 off 126 balls in the first innings, but his dismissals in two outings before that concerned everyone, including Warner.</p>

<p>Ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah troubled Marnus in the series opener in Perth, trapping him in the front on three in the second innings; however, his dismissal in the first innings was similar, making Warner question his ‘awareness’ at the crease.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/reeza-hendricks-maiden-t20i-hundred-seals-first-series-win-for-south-africa-in-over-two-years-783900">Reeza Hendricks’ maiden T20I hundred seals first series win for South Africa in over two years</a></strong></p>

<p>Regarding Warner’s comments, Marnus said he doesn’t recall getting out caught at the gully more than twice (besides recently against India in Adelaide).&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I would like to see him check how many times I’ve been caught at gully because, apparently, I get out there every week. I’ve looked back, and I think I can only remember getting caught at gully twice. So, I might have to have a look at Bull’s (Warner’s) comment there. But like I said, everyone’s here to write newspapers, write articles,”</p>

<p>Labuschagne said to News Corp, as quoted by the Indian Express.</p>

<h2>'Marnus nowhere near his best'</h2>

<p>Warner earlier said Marnus, who has struggled since last summer, is nowhere near his best form.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I don’t think that was anywhere near what we know he’s capable of. He might have got a couple out of the middle, got a couple of freebies, batted well that night to get through but they bowled poorly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“So, from that perspective, he had the best conditions to come out and bat in. But he got out the same way he always does when he gets over 50, hits it straight to the gully.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“So, there’s a lack of awareness there of what he’s got to be mindful of. I don’t think he’s anywhere near where he should be,” Warner said of Labuschagne’s dismissal in Adelaide’s first innings while talking to Fox Sports.</p>

<p>Labuscagne also reacted to this remark saying, “I’m watching the game, and I’m trying to play pretty naturally. I mean, hitting a cut shot, the ball was there. It was a little bit short, and I tried to hit the ball through backward point, skidded on a little bit more, and I got a bit late, and (Yashasvi Jaiswal) took a very good catch. It’s a two-edged sword.”</p>

<p>“Week before, I wasn’t playing enough shots, and then this week, people are unhappy because you’re playing too many shots. So at the end of the day, I’m not here to please everyone. I’m here to win games for Australia,” the batter continued.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Marnus will aim to score big at the Gabba against India, a venue he scored a stunning hundred&nbsp;the last time both these teams played here.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Australia Test number three Marnus Labuschagne is not impressed with his former teammate-turned-broadcaster David Warner’s remarks on his batting slump, saying everyone is here to write articles.

Australia Test number three Marnus Labuschagne is not impressed with his former teammate-turned-broadcaster David Warner’s remarks on his batting slump, saying everyone is here to write articles. Labuschagne found some form (against India) in the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide, hitting a gritty 64 off 126 balls in the first innings, but his dismissals in two outings before that concerned everyone, including Warner. Ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah troubled Marnus in the series opener in Perth, trapping him in the front on three in the second innings; however, his dismissal in the first innings was similar, making Warner question his ‘awareness’ at the crease. ALSO READ: Reeza Hendricks’ maiden T20I hundred seals first series win for South Africa in over two years Regarding Warner’s comments, Marnus said he doesn’t recall getting out caught at the gully more than twice (besides recently against India in Adelaide). “I would like to see him check how many times I’ve been caught at gully because, apparently, I get out there every week. I’ve looked back, and I think I can only remember getting caught at gully twice. So, I might have to have a look at Bull’s (Warner’s) comment there. But like I said, everyone’s here to write newspapers, write articles,” Labuschagne said to News Corp, as quoted by the Indian Express. 'Marnus nowhere near his best' Warner earlier said Marnus, who has struggled since last summer, is nowhere near his best form. “I don’t think that was anywhere near what we know he’s capable of. He might have got a couple out of the middle, got a couple of freebies, batted well that night to get through but they bowled poorly. “So, from that perspective, he had the best conditions to come out and bat in. But he got out the same way he always does when he gets over 50, hits it straight to the gully. “So, there’s a lack of awareness there of what he’s got to be mindful of. I don’t think he’s anywhere near where he should be,” Warner said of Labuschagne’s dismissal in Adelaide’s first innings while talking to Fox Sports. Labuscagne also reacted to this remark saying, “I’m watching the game, and I’m trying to play pretty naturally. I mean, hitting a cut shot, the ball was there. It was a little bit short, and I tried to hit the ball through backward point, skidded on a little bit more, and I got a bit late, and (Yashasvi Jaiswal) took a very good catch. It’s a two-edged sword.” “Week before, I wasn’t playing enough shots, and then this week, people are unhappy because you’re playing too many shots. So at the end of the day, I’m not here to please everyone. I’m here to win games for Australia,” the batter continued. Meanwhile, Marnus will aim to score big at the Gabba against India, a venue he scored a stunning hundred the last time both these teams played here. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: ‘Everyone’s here to write articles,’ Labuschagne hits back at Warner over batting criticism

<p>South Africa finally won a T20I series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the first time since August 2022, the 2024 T20 World Cup runners-up prevailed in a bilateral T20I series, this time against Pakistan following their impressive win in the second game in Centurion on Friday (Dec 13). Opener Reeza Hendricks broke the deadlock and hit his maiden T20I hundred as the hosts chased 207 inside the 20th over with seven wickets remaining.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bangladeshs-shakib-al-hasan-banned-from-all-ecb-competitions-over-illegal-action-783882">Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan banned from all ECB competitions over illegal action</a></strong></p>

<p>Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first at the SuperSport Park, with skipper Mohammed Rizwan opening with rookie Saim Ayub. Medium pacer Ottneil Baartman removed Rizwan, caught in the deep on 11 before Ayub and Babar Azam stitched a 100-plus stand to keep Pakistan ahead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Three quick wickets held Pakistan’s momentum, but Ayub kept the run rate ticking with explosive stroke play. The left-handed batter was on song, closing in on his maiden T20I ton aged 22; however, he remained unbeaten on 98 at the other end as all-rounder Abbas Afridi slammed a four and a six in the last over to see Pakistan hit 206 for five.</p>

<h2>Reeza wins it for Proteas</h2>

<p>South Africa lost two wickets early inside the Powerplay, with Ryan Rickelton and Matthew Breetzke back in the hut. What followed afterwards was a complete mayhem.</p>

<p>Hendricks, a T20 specialist, began the onslaught, with seasoned Rassie van der Dussen accompanying him with the same energy at the other end. The right-handed Hendricks kept finding gaps at will, hitting sixes and fours for fun.&nbsp;Though Rassie’s contributions released some pressure off Reeza, he closed in on his first T20I hundred, later completing it with a six and cheer from the crowd and the dressing room.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Reeza Hendricks is absolute class 👌</p>
— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) <a href="https://twitter.com/DaleSteyn62/status/1867653420150403277?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>By then, the Proteas had almost already pocked the game.</p>

<p>Hendricks departed soon after on 117 before Rassie finished the game with a four.</p>

<p>With this win, the hosts won the first two games, with the Wanderers in Johannesburg scheduled to host the final match on Saturday (Dec 14). The three-match ODIs follow this, while two Tests in Centurion and Cape Town will mark the end of this bilateral series.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, South Africa leads the WTC standings and needs only one win in two matches to seal the spot in the WTC Final 2025. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


South Africa finally won a T20I series. For the first time since August 2022, the 2024 T20 World Cup runners-up prevailed in a bilateral T20I series, this time against Pakistan following their impressive win in the second game in Centurion on Friday (Dec 13).

South Africa finally won a T20I series. For the first time since August 2022, the 2024 T20 World Cup runners-up prevailed in a bilateral T20I series, this time against Pakistan following their impressive win in the second game in Centurion on Friday (Dec 13). Opener Reeza Hendricks broke the deadlock and hit his maiden T20I hundred as the hosts chased 207 inside the 20th over with seven wickets remaining. ALSO READ: Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan banned from all ECB competitions over illegal action Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first at the SuperSport Park, with skipper Mohammed Rizwan opening with rookie Saim Ayub. Medium pacer Ottneil Baartman removed Rizwan, caught in the deep on 11 before Ayub and Babar Azam stitched a 100-plus stand to keep Pakistan ahead. Three quick wickets held Pakistan’s momentum, but Ayub kept the run rate ticking with explosive stroke play. The left-handed batter was on song, closing in on his maiden T20I ton aged 22; however, he remained unbeaten on 98 at the other end as all-rounder Abbas Afridi slammed a four and a six in the last over to see Pakistan hit 206 for five. Reeza wins it for Proteas South Africa lost two wickets early inside the Powerplay, with Ryan Rickelton and Matthew Breetzke back in the hut. What followed afterwards was a complete mayhem. Hendricks, a T20 specialist, began the onslaught, with seasoned Rassie van der Dussen accompanying him with the same energy at the other end. The right-handed Hendricks kept finding gaps at will, hitting sixes and fours for fun. Though Rassie’s contributions released some pressure off Reeza, he closed in on his first T20I hundred, later completing it with a six and cheer from the crowd and the dressing room. Reeza Hendricks is absolute class 👌 — Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) December 13, 2024 × By then, the Proteas had almost already pocked the game. Hendricks departed soon after on 117 before Rassie finished the game with a four. With this win, the hosts won the first two games, with the Wanderers in Johannesburg scheduled to host the final match on Saturday (Dec 14). The three-match ODIs follow this, while two Tests in Centurion and Cape Town will mark the end of this bilateral series. Meanwhile, South Africa leads the WTC standings and needs only one win in two matches to seal the spot in the WTC Final 2025. (With inputs from agencies)

Reeza Hendricks’ maiden T20I hundred seals first series win for South Africa in over two years

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