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Australia captain Pat Cummins recently created a stir by leaving Virat Kohli out of his all-time India-Australia combined playing XI. While fans expected the Indian captain to feature, Cummins’ list surprised many cricket enthusiasts. Cummins, who has been ruled out of the ongoing white-ball series against India due to a lower-back injury, was asked by a broadcaster to pick his all-time India-Australia combined XI. He clarified that he would only include past players, a condition that naturally tilted the lineup in favour of Australian greats.&nbsp;The Australian captain picked David Warner to open alongside India’s stalwart Sachin Tendulkar. The middle order included Ricky Ponting, Steve Smith, Shane Watson, and Michael Bevan. MS Dhoni was chosen as the wicketkeeper. The bowling lineup featured top names like Brett Lee, Shane Warne, Zaheer Khan, and Glenn McGrath.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/top-5-teams-in-wtc-table-pakistan-surpasses-india-check-full-standings-india-pakistan-south-africa-australia-england-1760523498335">Top 5 teams in WTC 2025-27 points table: Pakistan surpass India, check full standings</a><h2>Only three Indians feature in the squad</h2>Interestingly, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were not included in the lineup. Only three Indian players made it to Cummins’ XI: Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, and Zaheer Khan. This decision sparked debates among cricket fans, as Kohli has been a consistent performer for India across formats.&nbsp;Cummins explained that his choices were based on past performances, and he focused on players who had already retired or were past their prime. The fast bowler’s approach clearly favoured Australian cricket legends, though he did ensure India had representation in the squad.<h2>Marsh to lead Australia in absence of Cummins</h2>While Cummins is currently out of action, Mitchell Marsh is expected to lead Australia in his absence. The team will also be without first-choice wicketkeepers Alex Carey and Josh Inglis for the opening match of the series. Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood remain key parts of the bowling attack. The ODI series will commence on Sunday (Oct 19), with the first ODI to be played at Optus stadium in Perth.

The Australian captain picked David Warner to open alongside India’s stalwart Sachin Tendulkar. The middle order included Ricky Ponting, Steve Smith, Shane Watson, and Michael Bevan. MS Dhoni was chosen as the wicketkeeper.

Australia captain Pat Cummins recently created a stir by leaving Virat Kohli out of his all-time India-Australia combined playing XI. While fans expected the Indian captain to feature, Cummins’ list surprised many cricket enthusiasts. Cummins, who has been ruled out of the ongoing white-ball series against India due to a lower-back injury, was asked by a broadcaster to pick his all-time India-Australia combined XI. He clarified that he would only include past players, a condition that naturally tilted the lineup in favour of Australian greats. The Australian captain picked David Warner to open alongside India’s stalwart Sachin Tendulkar. The middle order included Ricky Ponting, Steve Smith, Shane Watson, and Michael Bevan. MS Dhoni was chosen as the wicketkeeper. The bowling lineup featured top names like Brett Lee, Shane Warne, Zaheer Khan, and Glenn McGrath. Also read | Top 5 teams in WTC 2025-27 points table: Pakistan surpass India, check full standings Only three Indians feature in the squad Interestingly, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were not included in the lineup. Only three Indian players made it to Cummins’ XI: Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, and Zaheer Khan. This decision sparked debates among cricket fans, as Kohli has been a consistent performer for India across formats. Cummins explained that his choices were based on past performances, and he focused on players who had already retired or were past their prime. The fast bowler’s approach clearly favoured Australian cricket legends, though he did ensure India had representation in the squad. Marsh to lead Australia in absence of Cummins While Cummins is currently out of action, Mitchell Marsh is expected to lead Australia in his absence. The team will also be without first-choice wicketkeepers Alex Carey and Josh Inglis for the opening match of the series. Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood remain key parts of the bowling attack. The ODI series will commence on Sunday (Oct 19), with the first ODI to be played at Optus stadium in Perth.

The Australian captain picked David Warner to open alongside India’s stalwart Sachin Tendulkar. The middle order included Ricky Ponting, Steve Smith, Shane Watson, and Michael Bevan. MS Dhoni was chosen as the wicketkeeper.

Pat Cummins excludes Virat Kohli from all-time India-Australia XI, reason might surprise you

India’s premier domestic red-ball competition raised its curtain for the 2025-26 season as the Ranji Trophy started with 32 teams on Wednesday (Oct 15). While the competition serves as a platform for players to come into the spotlight for a place in the Indian team, that was certainly the case for Mumbai’s renowned pair of Musheer Khan and Sarfaraz Khan on Wednesday. Both brothers were part of a mistaken identity by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) scorers, as it left everyone in a state of surprise.<h2>Sarfaraz, Musheer part of chaos</h2>On Wednesday, on the opening day against Jammu and Kashmir, Mumbai started their innings on a poor note after they lost Musheer Khan for a three-ball duck. However, it was the BCCI that took the centre stage once Auqib Nabi scalped the batter. The BCCI scoreboard on it scoreboard read, Sarfaraz Khan was dismissed for a duck and came out to bat. However, that was not the case because Musheer was dismissed for a duck rather than Sarfaraz.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-runs-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-history-debbie-hockley-mithali-raj-janette-brittin-charlotte-edwards-suzie-bates-1757606297874">From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history</a>&nbsp;The mistake was later rectified as Sarfaraz came out to bat later in the innings. However, a mistaken identity was on the centre stage, which for a brief period left everyone guessing since the match was not broadcast on television.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-women-s-team-schedule-squad-fixtures-and-more-1758556378933">Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more</a><h2>Sarfaraz buying for a spot</h2>Heading into the Ranji Trophy contest, Sarfaraz is hoping for a spot in the Indian team, having missed out on the England tour and then the home series against the West Indies. The latest Ranji Trophy campaign could be the launch pad for Sarfaraz to make a way back into the Indian team. However, he will face stern competition from the likes of Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan and others.&nbsp;At Stumps on Day 1, Mumbai closed at 228/4 in 57 overs before bad lights took centre stage. Sarfaraz scored 42 while Siddhesh Lad was unbeaten on 86 and Shams Mulani was playing on 23. Ayush Mhatre (28) and Ajinkya Rahane (27) also got starts.

On Wednesday, on the opening day against Jammu and Kashmir, Mumbai started their innings on a poor note after they lost Musheer Khan for a three-ball duck. However, it was the BCCI that took the centre stage once Auqib Nabi scalped the batter. 

India’s premier domestic red-ball competition raised its curtain for the 2025-26 season as the Ranji Trophy started with 32 teams on Wednesday (Oct 15). While the competition serves as a platform for players to come into the spotlight for a place in the Indian team, that was certainly the case for Mumbai’s renowned pair of Musheer Khan and Sarfaraz Khan on Wednesday. Both brothers were part of a mistaken identity by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) scorers, as it left everyone in a state of surprise. Sarfaraz, Musheer part of chaos On Wednesday, on the opening day against Jammu and Kashmir, Mumbai started their innings on a poor note after they lost Musheer Khan for a three-ball duck. However, it was the BCCI that took the centre stage once Auqib Nabi scalped the batter. The BCCI scoreboard on it scoreboard read, Sarfaraz Khan was dismissed for a duck and came out to bat. However, that was not the case because Musheer was dismissed for a duck rather than Sarfaraz. ALSO READ | From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history The mistake was later rectified as Sarfaraz came out to bat later in the innings. However, a mistaken identity was on the centre stage, which for a brief period left everyone guessing since the match was not broadcast on television. ALSO READ | Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more Sarfaraz buying for a spot Heading into the Ranji Trophy contest, Sarfaraz is hoping for a spot in the Indian team, having missed out on the England tour and then the home series against the West Indies. The latest Ranji Trophy campaign could be the launch pad for Sarfaraz to make a way back into the Indian team. However, he will face stern competition from the likes of Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan and others. At Stumps on Day 1, Mumbai closed at 228/4 in 57 overs before bad lights took centre stage. Sarfaraz scored 42 while Siddhesh Lad was unbeaten on 86 and Shams Mulani was playing on 23. Ayush Mhatre (28) and Ajinkya Rahane (27) also got starts.

On Wednesday, on the opening day against Jammu and Kashmir, Mumbai started their innings on a poor note after they lost Musheer Khan for a three-ball duck. However, it was the BCCI that took the centre stage once Auqib Nabi scalped the batter.&nbsp;

Ranji Trophy 2025-26: BCCI blunder on Khan brothers leaves fans guessing, mistaken identity takes centre stage

Pakistan started their World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle with a comprehensive win against defending champions South Africa in the first Test in Lahore. Chasing 277 on a typical turning track, South Africa were 55/4 before a 73-ru stand between Ryan Rickelton and Dewald Brevis threatened to take game away. Pakistan spinner Noman Ali, however, derailed those plans and guided his team to a comfortable 93-run win with a 10-wicket haul in the match. His partner Sajid Khan also two wickets while pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi took 4/33 in a sublime display of pace bowling on a benign pitch.<h2>Pak skipper on pitch talk</h2>The match was stretched into the fourth day but it was the second and third day which moved the game heavily. A total of 27 wickets fell on the second and third day combined - 11 on day 2 and 16 on day 3 - once again highlighting the 'home advantage' Pakistan had by preparing the turners. The spinners accounted for 34 wickets in the match out of 40 while only two pacers, Kagiso Rabada from SA and Shaheen Afridi from Pakistan, were able to take wickets.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashwin-echoes-kohli-s-2019-views-on-test-venues-to-be-numbered-in-india-1760508424290">Ashwin echoes Kohli's 2019 views on Test venues to be numbered in India</a>"Historically, we've always played on such surfaces and produced fast bowlers that have gotten wickets, so we've always wanted reverse swing to be in play. It's very important to have our seamers with us because when you play Test cricket, it's a collective effort," said Pak Test skipper Shan Masood after the match.<h2>SA prepare for same condition in Rawalpindi</h2>South Africa skipper Aiden Markram, after the loss, conceded that they couldn't capitalize on certain situations and expect the same conditions in the next Test in Rawalpindi."I'm not sure what the conditions will be like in Rawalpindi. I don't think it will be too different from this. I was happy with the balance we had. We felt that with the two seamers and the three spinners, we had a nicely balanced team. But we'll have to get to Pindi and see what it's like," Markram said after the loss.

The spinners accounted for 34 wickets in the match out of 40 while only two pacers, Kagiso Rabada from SA and Shaheen Afridi from Pakistan, were able to take wickets.

Pakistan started their World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle with a comprehensive win against defending champions South Africa in the first Test in Lahore. Chasing 277 on a typical turning track, South Africa were 55/4 before a 73-ru stand between Ryan Rickelton and Dewald Brevis threatened to take game away. Pakistan spinner Noman Ali, however, derailed those plans and guided his team to a comfortable 93-run win with a 10-wicket haul in the match. His partner Sajid Khan also two wickets while pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi took 4/33 in a sublime display of pace bowling on a benign pitch. Pak skipper on pitch talk The match was stretched into the fourth day but it was the second and third day which moved the game heavily. A total of 27 wickets fell on the second and third day combined - 11 on day 2 and 16 on day 3 - once again highlighting the 'home advantage' Pakistan had by preparing the turners. The spinners accounted for 34 wickets in the match out of 40 while only two pacers, Kagiso Rabada from SA and Shaheen Afridi from Pakistan, were able to take wickets. Also Read - Ashwin echoes Kohli's 2019 views on Test venues to be numbered in India "Historically, we've always played on such surfaces and produced fast bowlers that have gotten wickets, so we've always wanted reverse swing to be in play. It's very important to have our seamers with us because when you play Test cricket, it's a collective effort," said Pak Test skipper Shan Masood after the match. SA prepare for same condition in Rawalpindi South Africa skipper Aiden Markram, after the loss, conceded that they couldn't capitalize on certain situations and expect the same conditions in the next Test in Rawalpindi. "I'm not sure what the conditions will be like in Rawalpindi. I don't think it will be too different from this. I was happy with the balance we had. We felt that with the two seamers and the three spinners, we had a nicely balanced team. But we'll have to get to Pindi and see what it's like," Markram said after the loss.

The spinners accounted for 34 wickets in the match out of 40 while only two pacers, Kagiso Rabada from SA and Shaheen Afridi from Pakistan, were able to take wickets.

Spinners take 34 out of 40 wickets and Pak skipper Masood calls Lahore Test win vs SA 'collective effort'

The Indian team has made a decent start to the ongoing Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, having won two matches and lost two close encounters. Now with three matches remaining in the league stage of the Women’s ODI World Cup, the Indian team will have an eye on the last four as they target a maiden World Cup win. However, that task will not be easy, as the Women in Blue will need to first secure their place in the semis before they can challenge for the ultimate prize.

Women's ODI World Cup 2025 Updated Points Table

<h2>Here’s how India qualify for the Women’s World Cup semis</h2>At the time of writing (Oct 15, after the Sri Lanka vs New Zealand match), India sit fourth in the standings with four points in four matches. The Indian team will have three more matches remaining in the league stage, meaning they can reach a maximum of 10 points in the league stage. India’s remaining three matches include England, New Zealand and Bangladesh.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-runs-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-history-debbie-hockley-mithali-raj-janette-brittin-charlotte-edwards-suzie-bates-1757606297874">From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history</a><h2>If India win all three matches</h2>In case India win all their three remaining matches, they will reach the semis no matter what happens in other fixtures. This scenario will mean India would have beaten both England and New Zealand in head-to-head battles. This would see New Zealand finish with seven points and below India in the standings.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-women-s-team-schedule-squad-fixtures-and-more-1758556378933">Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more</a><h2>If India win two matches and lose one match</h2>In case India win two matches and lose one, in this event, the Women in Blue will have to rely on other results as their head-to-head match against New Zealand will be key. In this scenario, India win against England and lose against New Zealand, they will need the Kiwis to lose at least one of their remaining matches.<h2>If India win one and lose two matches</h2>In case India win only one of their remaining three matches, the Women in Blue will be out of contention for a semi-spot. India will have six points in this scenario, but will almost need a miracle and a set of results to go their way to qualify for the semis.

 The Indian team will have three more matches remaining in the league stage, meaning they can reach a maximum of 10 points in the league stage.

The Indian team has made a decent start to the ongoing Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, having won two matches and lost two close encounters. Now with three matches remaining in the league stage of the Women’s ODI World Cup, the Indian team will have an eye on the last four as they target a maiden World Cup win. However, that task will not be easy, as the Women in Blue will need to first secure their place in the semis before they can challenge for the ultimate prize.

The Indian team will have three more matches remaining in the league stage, meaning they can reach a maximum of 10 points in the league stage.

Women's ODI World Cup 2025: Here's how India can qualify for semis after mix start

India are just days away from facing Australia in the first of the three ODIs and the hosts, known for their hostile and aggressiveness, appear to mock India's recent no-handshake policy against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2025. In a video doing round on the social media, Aussie players feature in the clip where they are seemingly mocking India's stance. The Indian team had taken the stand in the wake of horrific Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 and the video of Aussie mocking such a sensitive issue is definitely distasteful.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/overconfidence-or-just-not-important-aussie-skipper-marsh-looking-at-india-series-as-pre-cursor-to-ashes-1760344935786">Overconfidence or just not important? Aussie skipper Marsh looking at India series as pre-cursor to Ashes</a><h2>Aussies mock India's no-handshake gesture</h2>In a video uploaded by Kayo Sports, the anchor can be seen saying: "We all know India is on its way. But we've identified one critical weakness (no handshake gesture). We know that they're not huge fans of the traditional greeting (handshake), so we can throw them off before we've even bowled a ball," he added before a few of the Aussie players are featured doing different greeting gestures. Have a look at the video below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">AUS players pre-India clip mocks India no-handshake theatre vs Pak. Why Aussie media &amp; players laughing at stance sold as national pride? <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JayShah</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GautamGambhir</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MithunManhas?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MithunManhas</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/vikrantgupta73?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vikrantgupta73</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rawatrahul9?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rawatrahul9</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mufaddal_vohra</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PadmajaJoshi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PadmajaJoshi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ShivAroor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShivAroor</a> <a href="https://t.co/lSbuyhEcui">pic.twitter.com/lSbuyhEcui</a>&mdash; Maham Fazal (@MahamFazal_) <a href="https://twitter.com/MahamFazal_/status/1978126585828982793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>India vs Australia tour details and squad</h2>India ODI squad vs Australia: Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (VC), Axar Patel, KL Rahul (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Yashasvi JaiswalIndia T20I squad vs Australia: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill (VC), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, Washington SundarIndia vs Australia ODI schedule: 1st ODI on Oct 19 (Perth), 2nd ODI on Oct 23 (Adelaide), 3rd ODI on Oct 25 (Sydney)India vs Australia T20I schedule: 1st T20I on Oct 29 (Canberra), 2nst T20I on Oct 31 (Melbourne), 3rd T20I on Nov 2 (Hobart), 4th T20I on Nov 6 (Gold Coast), 5th T20I on Nov 8 (Brisbane)&nbsp;

India start Australia tour with a three-match ODI series which is followed by a five-match T20I series. The first match of the tour, an ODI, is set to be played on October 19 in Perth.

India are just days away from facing Australia in the first of the three ODIs and the hosts, known for their hostile and aggressiveness, appear to mock India's recent no-handshake policy against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2025. In a video doing round on the social media, Aussie players feature in the clip where they are seemingly mocking India's stance. The Indian team had taken the stand in the wake of horrific Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 and the video of Aussie mocking such a sensitive issue is definitely distasteful. Also Read - Overconfidence or just not important? Aussie skipper Marsh looking at India series as pre-cursor to Ashes Aussies mock India's no-handshake gesture In a video uploaded by Kayo Sports, the anchor can be seen saying: "We all know India is on its way. But we've identified one critical weakness (no handshake gesture). We know that they're not huge fans of the traditional greeting (handshake), so we can throw them off before we've even bowled a ball," he added before a few of the Aussie players are featured doing different greeting gestures. Have a look at the video below:

India start Australia tour with a three-match ODI series which is followed by a five-match T20I series. The first match of the tour, an ODI, is set to be played on October 19 in Perth.

Days ahead of 1st ODI, Aussies mock India's no-handshake gesture against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2025 - WATCH

India have won their first series in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle with clean sweep of West Indies in two-match home series. Before the series, India had drawn the five-Test series in England 2-2 and currently are at the third place on the WTC points table. Australia, who have won three out of three Tests played so far in the current cycle, are on the top while Sri Lanka are on the second spot with one win and one draw from two Tests played.<h2>Latest WTC 2025-27 Points table after India vs West Indies series</h2>India have played seven Tests so far in the current cycle and have managed to win four of them with two losses and one draw. They currently have 52 points or 61.90 per cent of total available and are at the third place. Australia are number one with 36 points (100 per cent) and Sri Lanka are second with 16 points (66.67 per cent). India's next Test series is against South Africa at home which begins mid-November after the upcoming white-ball tour of Australia where India are scheduled to play three ODIs, starting October 19 followed by five T20Is.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashwin-echoes-kohli-s-2019-views-on-test-venues-to-be-numbered-in-india-1760508424290">Ashwin echoes Kohli's 2019 views on Test venues to be numbered in India</a><h2>Updated WTC 2025-27 Points Table</h2>Each Test match win is worth 12 points in the ongoing cycle while six points are awarded for a tie and four points for a draw. Below is the latest points table after recently-concluded India vs West Indies Test series:<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Pos</td><td>Team</td><td>Matches</td><td>Won</td><td>Lost</td><td>Drawn</td><td>NR</td><td>Points</td><td>PCT</td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Australia</td><td>3</td><td>3</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>36</td><td>100.00</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Sri Lanka</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>16</td><td>66.67</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>India</td><td>7</td><td>4</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>52</td><td>61.90</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>England</td><td>5</td><td>2</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>26</td><td>43.33</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Bangladesh</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>4</td><td>16.67</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>West Indies</td><td>5</td><td>0</td><td>5</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0.00</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>New Zealand</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0.00</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Pakistan</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0.00</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>South Africa</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0.00</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

Australia are number one with 36 points (100 per cent) and Sri Lanka are second with 16 points (66.67 per cent). India currently have 52 points or 61.90 per cent of total available and are at the third place.

India have won their first series in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle with clean sweep of West Indies in two-match home series. Before the series, India had drawn the five-Test series in England 2-2 and currently are at the third place on the WTC points table. Australia, who have won three out of three Tests played so far in the current cycle, are on the top while Sri Lanka are on the second spot with one win and one draw from two Tests played. Latest WTC 2025-27 Points table after India vs West Indies series India have played seven Tests so far in the current cycle and have managed to win four of them with two losses and one draw. They currently have 52 points or 61.90 per cent of total available and are at the third place. Australia are number one with 36 points (100 per cent) and Sri Lanka are second with 16 points (66.67 per cent). India's next Test series is against South Africa at home which begins mid-November after the upcoming white-ball tour of Australia where India are scheduled to play three ODIs, starting October 19 followed by five T20Is. Also Read - Ashwin echoes Kohli's 2019 views on Test venues to be numbered in India Updated WTC 2025-27 Points Table Each Test match win is worth 12 points in the ongoing cycle while six points are awarded for a tie and four points for a draw. Below is the latest points table after recently-concluded India vs West Indies Test series: Pos Team Matches Won Lost Drawn NR Points PCT 1 Australia 3 3 0 0 0 36 100.00 2 Sri Lanka 2 1 0 1 0 16 66.67 3 India 7 4 2 1 0 52 61.90 4 England 5 2 2 1 0 26 43.33 5 Bangladesh 2 0 1 1 0 4 16.67 6 West Indies 5 0 5 0 0 0 0.00 7 New Zealand 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 8 Pakistan 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 9 South Africa 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00

Australia are number one with 36 points (100 per cent) and Sri Lanka are second with 16 points (66.67 per cent). India currently have 52 points or 61.90 per cent of total available and are at the third place.

World Test Championship 2025-27 Updated Points Table: India third, Australia first with Sri Lanka in between

India may have won the two-match home Test series against West Indies 2-0 but the crowd during both the Tests was disappointing as well as the pitches. After the series, India coach Gautam Gambhir advocated for better pitches in red-ball cricket for the 'nicks to carry.' Echoing his stance, former India spinner Ravi Ashwin has also called for Test venues in the country to be numbered - something former skipper Virat Kohli had said in 2019. Both, Virat and Ashwin retired from Test cricket this year along with Rohit Sharma as India started the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle under new skipper Shubman Gill.<h2>Ashwin wants Test venues numbered, just like Kohli had asked</h2>"Test centres is not about crowds alone. It is also about the familiarity of conditions. If we are playing a Test in Guwahati or Ranchi, I am not against these venues as a possibility. But the problem in India is every surface has a different identity. There is literally no bounce in the Eastern part of the country. It becomes a very ordinary Test match pitch then," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel after the series. &nbsp;"Otherwise, the only point is you are playing within that Indian map as home, but it is not home," he added.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-verbal-duel-truly-on-ex-england-pacer-broad-calls-australia-weakest-since-2010-1760500500148">Ashes verbal duel truly on - Ex-England pacer Broad calls Australia 'weakest since 2010'</a><h2>West Indies second innings in Delhi brings pitches in focus</h2>India had elected to bat first in Delhi Test, second of the series, and scored 515 runs in the first innings before declaring. In reply, West Indies were bowled out for 248 in the first innings and were given a follow-on. The visitors looked more settled on a benign pitch, scoring 390 runs with two centurions in the scorecard. The fact that India had to bat again and the Test was stretched into the fifth day, put focus on the quality of pitch and of the venue due to lack of crowd.

After Virat Kohli asked the Test venues to be numbered in India, Ashwin had echoed the same view post India's 2-0 series win against West Indies which failed to attract any crowd.

India may have won the two-match home Test series against West Indies 2-0 but the crowd during both the Tests was disappointing as well as the pitches. After the series, India coach Gautam Gambhir advocated for better pitches in red-ball cricket for the 'nicks to carry.' Echoing his stance, former India spinner Ravi Ashwin has also called for Test venues in the country to be numbered - something former skipper Virat Kohli had said in 2019. Both, Virat and Ashwin retired from Test cricket this year along with Rohit Sharma as India started the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle under new skipper Shubman Gill. Ashwin wants Test venues numbered, just like Kohli had asked "Test centres is not about crowds alone. It is also about the familiarity of conditions. If we are playing a Test in Guwahati or Ranchi, I am not against these venues as a possibility. But the problem in India is every surface has a different identity. There is literally no bounce in the Eastern part of the country. It becomes a very ordinary Test match pitch then," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel after the series. "Otherwise, the only point is you are playing within that Indian map as home, but it is not home," he added. Also Read - Ashes verbal duel truly on - Ex-England pacer Broad calls Australia 'weakest since 2010' West Indies second innings in Delhi brings pitches in focus India had elected to bat first in Delhi Test, second of the series, and scored 515 runs in the first innings before declaring. In reply, West Indies were bowled out for 248 in the first innings and were given a follow-on. The visitors looked more settled on a benign pitch, scoring 390 runs with two centurions in the scorecard. The fact that India had to bat again and the Test was stretched into the fifth day, put focus on the quality of pitch and of the venue due to lack of crowd.

After Virat Kohli asked the Test venues to be numbered in India, Ashwin had echoed the same view post India's 2-0 series win against West Indies which failed to attract any crowd.

Ashwin echoes Kohli's 2019 views on Test venues to be numbered in India

Ever since the announced of India's squad for the white-ball Australia tour, the selectors' role have come under scanner, especially on topic of replacing Rohit Sharma as the ODI skipper with Shubman Gill. The selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar also ignored pacer Mohammed Shami for the tour as well - hinting that the board is moving on from the pacer who has not played much international cricket since his brilliant exploits in 2023 ODI World Cup. Now, veteran India batter Ajinkya Rahane has called for changes in process of picking the selectors.<h2>Rahane bats for change in selector picking process</h2>"Players should not be scared of selectors. I want to talk about selectors, especially in domestic cricket. We should have selectors who have retired recently from playing top-flight cricket, those who have retired five-six years, seven-eight years ago," Rahane said while speaking on former teammate Cheteshwar Pujara’s YouTube channel. "I think it's very important that the mentality and mindset of the selectors match that and keep pace with the change,” Rahane explained further.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-verbal-duel-truly-on-ex-england-pacer-broad-calls-australia-weakest-since-2010-1760500500148">Ashes verbal duel truly on - Ex-England pacer Broad calls Australia 'weakest since 2010'</a><h2>What is the criteria of becoming a national selector?</h2>As per the rules set by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), a player who has retired from the international cricket at least five years ago is eligible to apply for the post of selector when the opportunity opens up. Most recently, former India spinner Pragyan Ojha was appointed one of the selectors.The BCCI has a total of five national selectors including a chairman who consults with zonal selectors as well as the Indian coach and captain while announcing a squads for the various tour and series. The selectors also get input from state associations about up and coming players to keep an eye on and are accordingly added to shadow or A tours for the national team.

The BCCI has a total of five national selectors including a chairman who consults with zonal selectors as well as the Indian coach and captain while announcing a squads for the various tour and series.

Ever since the announced of India's squad for the white-ball Australia tour, the selectors' role have come under scanner, especially on topic of replacing Rohit Sharma as the ODI skipper with Shubman Gill. The selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar also ignored pacer Mohammed Shami for the tour as well - hinting that the board is moving on from the pacer who has not played much international cricket since his brilliant exploits in 2023 ODI World Cup. Now, veteran India batter Ajinkya Rahane has called for changes in process of picking the selectors. Rahane bats for change in selector picking process "Players should not be scared of selectors. I want to talk about selectors, especially in domestic cricket. We should have selectors who have retired recently from playing top-flight cricket, those who have retired five-six years, seven-eight years ago," Rahane said while speaking on former teammate Cheteshwar Pujara’s YouTube channel. "I think it's very important that the mentality and mindset of the selectors match that and keep pace with the change,” Rahane explained further. Also Read - Ashes verbal duel truly on - Ex-England pacer Broad calls Australia 'weakest since 2010' What is the criteria of becoming a national selector? As per the rules set by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), a player who has retired from the international cricket at least five years ago is eligible to apply for the post of selector when the opportunity opens up. Most recently, former India spinner Pragyan Ojha was appointed one of the selectors. The BCCI has a total of five national selectors including a chairman who consults with zonal selectors as well as the Indian coach and captain while announcing a squads for the various tour and series. The selectors also get input from state associations about up and coming players to keep an eye on and are accordingly added to shadow or A tours for the national team.

The BCCI has a total of five national selectors including a chairman who consults with zonal selectors as well as the Indian coach and captain while announcing a squads for the various tour and series.

Veteran India batter Ajinkya Rahane says important to have selectors' 'mentality and mindset match the change'

The Ashes 2026 verbal duels are truly on with former England pacer Stuart Broad calling the current Australian team the weakest since 2010. The comments come on the back of uncertainty over second opener along with Usman Khawaja and skipper Pat Cummins unlikely to play the opening Test in Perth. The England side, however, looks strong now that extreme pacers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer are both fit and raring to go. The last time England won the Ashes in 2015 and it was in 2011 when they did it in Australia.<h2>Broad lights up verbal fuse ahead of Ashes</h2>"It's probably the worst Australian team since 2010 when England last won, and it's the best English team since 2010," Broad said on his BBC Podcast For The Love of Cricket hosted with Jos Buttler. "It's actually not an opinion, it's fact. So those things match up to the fact it's going to be a brilliant Ashes series. So I don't think anyone could argue that it's their weakest team since 2010."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-unfazed-by-matthew-hayden-s-naked-run-bet-on-century-drought-ahead-of-ashes-1759938810533">Joe Root unfazed by Matthew Hayden's 'naked run' bet on century drought ahead of Ashes</a>As for Australia, it was David Warner who said England are playing for 'moral victory' and has backed Sam Konstas for the opener's role in the marquee series.<h2>Joe Root in spotlight to end century drought in Australia</h2>England's best batter Joe Root has never hit a Test hundred in Australia and he's currently the format' second highest run scorer. While Aussie Matthew Hayden has backed the England batter to end the drought this time, Root isn't too unfazed by the comments. The former England skipper, however, acknowledges that him scoring runs gives the team best chance to win the series. England's last Test series was against a young India at home which they were not able to win and had to be content with a 2-2 draw in the five-match series.

The England side, however, looks strong now that extreme pacers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer are both fit and raring to go. The last time England won the Ashes in 2015 and it was in 2011 when they did it in Australia.

The Ashes 2026 verbal duels are truly on with former England pacer Stuart Broad calling the current Australian team the weakest since 2010. The comments come on the back of uncertainty over second opener along with Usman Khawaja and skipper Pat Cummins unlikely to play the opening Test in Perth. The England side, however, looks strong now that extreme pacers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer are both fit and raring to go. The last time England won the Ashes in 2015 and it was in 2011 when they did it in Australia. Broad lights up verbal fuse ahead of Ashes "It's probably the worst Australian team since 2010 when England last won, and it's the best English team since 2010," Broad said on his BBC Podcast For The Love of Cricket hosted with Jos Buttler. "It's actually not an opinion, it's fact. So those things match up to the fact it's going to be a brilliant Ashes series. So I don't think anyone could argue that it's their weakest team since 2010." Also Read - Joe Root unfazed by Matthew Hayden's 'naked run' bet on century drought ahead of Ashes As for Australia, it was David Warner who said England are playing for 'moral victory' and has backed Sam Konstas for the opener's role in the marquee series. Joe Root in spotlight to end century drought in Australia England's best batter Joe Root has never hit a Test hundred in Australia and he's currently the format' second highest run scorer. While Aussie Matthew Hayden has backed the England batter to end the drought this time, Root isn't too unfazed by the comments. The former England skipper, however, acknowledges that him scoring runs gives the team best chance to win the series. England's last Test series was against a young India at home which they were not able to win and had to be content with a 2-2 draw in the five-match series.

The England side, however, looks strong now that extreme pacers Mark Wood and Jofra Archer are both fit and raring to go. The last time England won the Ashes in 2015 and it was in 2011 when they did it in Australia.

Ashes verbal duel truly on - Ex-England pacer Broad calls Australia 'weakest since 2010'

From Rohit Sharma to Shubman Gill here is a look at five Indian batters with highest individual ODI score in 2025. The list also consists Virat Kohli as India take on Australia in the ODI series which starts on Sunday. 

From Rohit Sharma to Shubman Gill here is a look at five Indian batters with highest individual ODI score in 2025. The list also consists Virat Kohli as India take on Australia in the ODI series which starts on Sunday.&nbsp;

From Rohit Sharma to Shubman Gill, 5 Indian batters with highest individual ODI score in 2025

From Virender Sehwag to Rohit Sharma here is a look at five Indian batters with highest individual Test score vs South Africa. The list also features the likes of Mayank Agarwal and Virat Kohli as the India vs South Africa Test series nears. 

From Virender Sehwag to Rohit Sharma here is a look at five Indian batters with highest individual Test score vs South Africa. The list also features the likes of Mayank Agarwal and Virat Kohli as the India vs South Africa Test series nears.&nbsp;

From Virender Sehwag to Rohit Sharma, 5 Indian batters with highest individual Test score vs South Africa

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli here is a look at five Indian batters with Test most runs vs South Africa. The list also features the likes of Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman and Virender Sehwag. 

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli here is a look at five Indian batters with Test most runs vs South Africa. The list also features the likes of Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman and Virender Sehwag.&nbsp;

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with Test most runs vs South Africa

Sri Lanka and New Zealand were forced to share the points in their Women's World Cup fixture after heavy rain had the final say in Colombo on Tuesday, washing out play after the innings break.&nbsp;The hosts had done the hard yards, posting a competitive 258-6 and fancying their chances with a spin-heavy attack on a pitch made for the slow bowlers. The total was also the highest in the Colombo leg of the competition so far.&nbsp;"I thought Sri Lanka batted particularly well," said New Zealand captain Sophie Devine.&nbsp;"It was a good cricket wicket... Shame that the weather had to play its part in it. It would have been a really exciting chase."&nbsp;The innings belonged to lower order dynamo Nilakshika Silva, who threw caution to the wind to smash the fastest half-century of this World Cup.&nbsp;Coming in at number six, she turned the tide with a whirlwind knock, reaching her fifty in just 26 balls, bettering the previous mark of 34 deliveries set by Bangladesh's Shorna Akter earlier in the week.&nbsp;It was also a new Sri Lankan record, eclipsing Nilakshika's own milestone of 28 balls.&nbsp;It was her fourth half-century in ODIs and she crossed the 1,000 run mark in the process, becoming only the eighth Sri Lankan to do so.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-runs-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-history-debbie-hockley-mithali-raj-janette-brittin-charlotte-edwards-suzie-bates-1757606297874">From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history</a>&nbsp;For once, the hosts didn't have to lean solely on Chamari Athapaththu's broad shoulders.However, the captain returned to form with her 20th ODI fifty and stitched together an opening stand of 101 with Vishmi Gunaratne, who made a fluent 42.&nbsp;That solid foundation allowed Hasini Perera (44) and Harshitha Samarawickrama (26) to consolidate before Nilakshika's late fireworks took the innings from steady to sizzling.&nbsp;Sri Lanka plundered 80 runs in the last 10 overs, with 16 coming off the final over as they finished with a flourish.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-women-s-team-schedule-squad-fixtures-and-more-1758556378933">Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more</a>&nbsp;"We played good cricket. Unfortunately, we can't complete the game," Sri Lanka skipper Athapaththu said.&nbsp;"Nilakshika is an experienced player. Last 12 months, she has been playing good cricket."New Zealand captain Devine picked up three wickets, but may have missed a trick by under bowling left-armer Bree Illing, who extracted lively bounce and pace to claim two scalps in just seven overs.&nbsp;The Kiwis will stay in Colombo to face Pakistan on Saturday while Sri Lanka take on an in-form South Africa on Friday.&nbsp;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.

Sri Lanka had done the hard yards, posting a competitive 258-6 and fancying their chances with a spin-heavy attack on a pitch made for the slow bowlers. The total was also the highest in the Colombo leg of the competition so far.

Sri Lanka and New Zealand were forced to share the points in their Women's World Cup fixture after heavy rain had the final say in Colombo on Tuesday, washing out play after the innings break. The hosts had done the hard yards, posting a competitive 258-6 and fancying their chances with a spin-heavy attack on a pitch made for the slow bowlers. The total was also the highest in the Colombo leg of the competition so far. "I thought Sri Lanka batted particularly well," said New Zealand captain Sophie Devine. "It was a good cricket wicket... Shame that the weather had to play its part in it. It would have been a really exciting chase." The innings belonged to lower order dynamo Nilakshika Silva, who threw caution to the wind to smash the fastest half-century of this World Cup. Coming in at number six, she turned the tide with a whirlwind knock, reaching her fifty in just 26 balls, bettering the previous mark of 34 deliveries set by Bangladesh's Shorna Akter earlier in the week. It was also a new Sri Lankan record, eclipsing Nilakshika's own milestone of 28 balls. It was her fourth half-century in ODIs and she crossed the 1,000 run mark in the process, becoming only the eighth Sri Lankan to do so. ALSO READ | From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history For once, the hosts didn't have to lean solely on Chamari Athapaththu's broad shoulders. However, the captain returned to form with her 20th ODI fifty and stitched together an opening stand of 101 with Vishmi Gunaratne, who made a fluent 42. That solid foundation allowed Hasini Perera (44) and Harshitha Samarawickrama (26) to consolidate before Nilakshika's late fireworks took the innings from steady to sizzling. Sri Lanka plundered 80 runs in the last 10 overs, with 16 coming off the final over as they finished with a flourish. ALSO READ | Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more "We played good cricket. Unfortunately, we can't complete the game," Sri Lanka skipper Athapaththu said. "Nilakshika is an experienced player. Last 12 months, she has been playing good cricket." New Zealand captain Devine picked up three wickets, but may have missed a trick by under bowling left-armer Bree Illing, who extracted lively bounce and pace to claim two scalps in just seven overs. The Kiwis will stay in Colombo to face Pakistan on Saturday while Sri Lanka take on an in-form South Africa on Friday. 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.

Sri Lanka had done the hard yards, posting a competitive 258-6 and fancying their chances with a spin-heavy attack on a pitch made for the slow bowlers. The total was also the highest in the Colombo leg of the competition so far.

ICC Women's ODI World Cup: Rain stops Sri Lanka's momentum in New Zealand washout

The Indian team is all set to land in Australia ahead of the upcoming ODI series, as veteran batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will be the highlight reel. As the team prepares for the series, the rumours surrounding the retirements of Rohit-Virat have intensified, suggesting this could be their last tour with the Indian side. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice-president Rajeev Shukla has denied those rumours and welcomed the addition of Rohit-Virat in the Indian side.<h2>BCCI VP shuts down retirement rumours</h2>"This is very beneficial for us (Rohit and Virat being in the ODI squad). Because both of them are great batsmen, and in the presence of both of them, I think we will be successful in defeating Australia. And as far as this being their last series is concerned, it is nothing like that. We should never go into these things. It is up to the players when they would retire. To say this would be their last series is absolutely wrong," Shukla told ANI.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-women-s-team-schedule-squad-fixtures-and-more-1758556378933">Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more</a>&nbsp;The Indian team will leave for Australia on Wednesday (Oct 15), a day after winning the two-match Test series against the West Indies. However, the biggest focus will be on the addition of Rohit-Virat, who will be back in the team for the first time since the Champions Trophy 2025 in March. The biggest change on the side will see Shubman Gill lead the team while Rohit has been dropped from the captaincy duty.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-runs-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-history-debbie-hockley-mithali-raj-janette-brittin-charlotte-edwards-suzie-bates-1757606297874">From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history</a>&nbsp;The ODI series will start on Sunday (Oct 19) when India face Mitchell Marsh’s Australia at the Optus Stadium in Perth.<h2>India squad for Australia tour</h2>ODI squad:&nbsp;Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (VC), Axar Patel, KL Rahul (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Yashasvi Jaiswal.

The biggest focus will be on the addition of Rohit-Virat, who will be back in the ODI team for the first time since the Champions Trophy 2025 in March. 

The Indian team is all set to land in Australia ahead of the upcoming ODI series, as veteran batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will be the highlight reel. As the team prepares for the series, the rumours surrounding the retirements of Rohit-Virat have intensified, suggesting this could be their last tour with the Indian side. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice-president Rajeev Shukla has denied those rumours and welcomed the addition of Rohit-Virat in the Indian side. BCCI VP shuts down retirement rumours "This is very beneficial for us (Rohit and Virat being in the ODI squad). Because both of them are great batsmen, and in the presence of both of them, I think we will be successful in defeating Australia. And as far as this being their last series is concerned, it is nothing like that. We should never go into these things. It is up to the players when they would retire. To say this would be their last series is absolutely wrong," Shukla told ANI. ALSO READ | Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more The Indian team will leave for Australia on Wednesday (Oct 15), a day after winning the two-match Test series against the West Indies. However, the biggest focus will be on the addition of Rohit-Virat, who will be back in the team for the first time since the Champions Trophy 2025 in March. The biggest change on the side will see Shubman Gill lead the team while Rohit has been dropped from the captaincy duty. ALSO READ | From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history The ODI series will start on Sunday (Oct 19) when India face Mitchell Marsh’s Australia at the Optus Stadium in Perth. India squad for Australia tour ODI squad: Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (VC), Axar Patel, KL Rahul (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Yashasvi Jaiswal.

The biggest focus will be on the addition of Rohit-Virat, who will be back in the ODI team for the first time since the Champions Trophy 2025 in March.&nbsp;

BCCI VP denies Rohit, Virat retirement rumours as Team India jets off to Australia

India pacer Mohammed Shami has taken aim at chief selector Ajit Agarkar after the former was dropped from the white-ball tour of Australia. Shami, currently part of West Bengal’s Ranji Trophy squad, has been overlooked for the Australia series, which starts on Sunday (Oct 19). Speaking to the reporters, Shami said he is fit and was available for the series in Australia, but was never informed of his snub by Agarkar.<h2>Shami takes dig at Agarkar</h2>“I have said this before. Selection is not in my hands. If there is a fitness issue, I shouldn't be here playing for Bengal. I think I do not need to speak on this and create a controversy. If I can play four-dayers (Ranji Trophy), I can also play 50-overs cricket,” Shami told the reporters.&nbsp;“About giving an update, it's not my responsibility to give an update or ask for an update.“It's not my job to give updates on my fitness. My job is to go to the NCA, prepare and play matches. That's their matter who gives them updates or not. It's not my responsibility,” Shami added.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-runs-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-history-debbie-hockley-mithali-raj-janette-brittin-charlotte-edwards-suzie-bates-1757606297874">From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history</a>&nbsp;The Indian squad for the Australia series was announced last week when Shami was dropped from both squads. Instead, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana were preferred for the series. Despite being part of India’s Champions Trophy win, Shami’s exclusion came after there was stern competition for places within the Indian side.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-women-s-team-schedule-squad-fixtures-and-more-1758556378933">Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more</a><h2>India squad for Australia tour</h2>India’s ODI squad:&nbsp;Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (VC), Axar Patel, KL Rahul (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Yashasvi Jaiswal.India’s T20I squad:&nbsp;Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill (VC), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar.

The Indian squad for the Australia series was announced last week when Shami was dropped from both squads. Instead, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana were preferred for the series. 

India pacer Mohammed Shami has taken aim at chief selector Ajit Agarkar after the former was dropped from the white-ball tour of Australia. Shami, currently part of West Bengal’s Ranji Trophy squad, has been overlooked for the Australia series, which starts on Sunday (Oct 19). Speaking to the reporters, Shami said he is fit and was available for the series in Australia, but was never informed of his snub by Agarkar. Shami takes dig at Agarkar “I have said this before. Selection is not in my hands. If there is a fitness issue, I shouldn't be here playing for Bengal. I think I do not need to speak on this and create a controversy. If I can play four-dayers (Ranji Trophy), I can also play 50-overs cricket,” Shami told the reporters. “About giving an update, it's not my responsibility to give an update or ask for an update. “It's not my job to give updates on my fitness. My job is to go to the NCA, prepare and play matches. That's their matter who gives them updates or not. It's not my responsibility,” Shami added. ALSO READ | From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history The Indian squad for the Australia series was announced last week when Shami was dropped from both squads. Instead, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana were preferred for the series. Despite being part of India’s Champions Trophy win, Shami’s exclusion came after there was stern competition for places within the Indian side. ALSO READ | Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more India squad for Australia tour India’s ODI squad: Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (VC), Axar Patel, KL Rahul (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Yashasvi Jaiswal. India’s T20I squad: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill (VC), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar.

The Indian squad for the Australia series was announced last week when Shami was dropped from both squads. Instead, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana were preferred for the series.&nbsp;

Mohammed Shami takes dig at Ajit Agarkar after Australia tour snub, says 'if I can play...'

India dropped the curtain on a successful West Indies series as Shubman Gill lifted his maiden Test trophy as the hosts got the better of the visitors 2-0. The win on Tuesday (Oct 14) saw India build momentum in the World Test Championship (WTC); however, it was the birthday boy and head coach Gautam Gambhir who had demanded a lot, but not from players but from the pitch curators. He was left surprised by the quality of the wicket and did not expect a low wicket where the edges did not carry.<h2>Gambhir demands better wickets</h2>"I thought that we could have had a better wicket here," Gambhir said. "Yes, we did get the result on Day 5, but again, I think nicks need to carry."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-runs-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-history-debbie-hockley-mithali-raj-janette-brittin-charlotte-edwards-suzie-bates-1757606297874">From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history</a>&nbsp;"I think there has to be something for the fast bowlers as well," Gambhir offered. "I know we keep talking about spinners playing an important role, but when you've got probably two quality fast bowlers in your ranks, you still want them to be in the game as well. And it is okay that there's not enough, but there has to be carry. So where we all saw, I thought the carry wasn't there, which was a bit alarming."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-women-s-team-schedule-squad-fixtures-and-more-1758556378933">Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more</a><h2>India defeat West Indies to seal series win</h2>Shubman Gill won his first Test series as India captain as the hosts inflicted a series whitewash (2-0) on the touring West Indies with a seven-wicket win. A game that concluded on the final day, a rarity during the home season, saw India complete the moderate run chase early within the first session. Despite losing Sai Sudharsan and Gill, KL Rahul’s unbeaten 58 helped the Indian Team walk away with an easy win and claim their first series win this ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

Shubman Gill won his first Test series as India captain as the hosts inflicted a series whitewash (2-0) on the touring West Indies with a seven-wicket win. A game that concluded on the final day, a rarity during the home season, saw India complete the moderate run chase in an hour. 

India dropped the curtain on a successful West Indies series as Shubman Gill lifted his maiden Test trophy as the hosts got the better of the visitors 2-0. The win on Tuesday (Oct 14) saw India build momentum in the World Test Championship (WTC); however, it was the birthday boy and head coach Gautam Gambhir who had demanded a lot, but not from players but from the pitch curators. He was left surprised by the quality of the wicket and did not expect a low wicket where the edges did not carry. Gambhir demands better wickets "I thought that we could have had a better wicket here," Gambhir said. "Yes, we did get the result on Day 5, but again, I think nicks need to carry." ALSO READ | From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history "I think there has to be something for the fast bowlers as well," Gambhir offered. "I know we keep talking about spinners playing an important role, but when you've got probably two quality fast bowlers in your ranks, you still want them to be in the game as well. And it is okay that there's not enough, but there has to be carry. So where we all saw, I thought the carry wasn't there, which was a bit alarming." ALSO READ | Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more India defeat West Indies to seal series win Shubman Gill won his first Test series as India captain as the hosts inflicted a series whitewash (2-0) on the touring West Indies with a seven-wicket win. A game that concluded on the final day, a rarity during the home season, saw India complete the moderate run chase early within the first session. Despite losing Sai Sudharsan and Gill, KL Rahul’s unbeaten 58 helped the Indian Team walk away with an easy win and claim their first series win this ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

Shubman Gill won his first Test series as India captain as the hosts inflicted a series whitewash (2-0) on the touring West Indies with a seven-wicket win. A game that concluded on the final day, a rarity during the home season, saw India complete the moderate run chase in an hour.

IND vs WI, 2nd Test: Gautam Gambhir demands better wickets in red-ball, says 'nicks need to carry'

India made light work of the West Indies in the second Test match in Delhi as they got the better of the visitors by seven wickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. The win also saw India pocket the series 2-0, thereby strengthening their position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. However, the big question is whether Test cricket needs a two-tier promotion-relegation format, with the West Indies not standing tall against the elite sides.<h2>Is there a difference in standards?</h2>The Indian team on Tuesday (Oct 14) dismantled the West Indies to pocket the series, playing just eight days of cricket across two Test matches. When compared to India’s tour of England, Shubman Gill’s side was in action for all 25 days across the five Test matches. Compared to the West Indies series against Australia in July, competitive cricket was played on just 10 days for three Test matches.&nbsp;The gulf of quality gap was clearly evident between the opponents, indicating England, Australia and India are in a different bracket.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-runs-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-history-debbie-hockley-mithali-raj-janette-brittin-charlotte-edwards-suzie-bates-1757606297874">From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history</a><h2>Key outcomes for top teams</h2><ul><li>India vs West Indies – 8 days played out of possible 10 (India win series 2-0)</li><li>West Indies vs Australia – 10 days played out of possible 15 (Australia win series 3-0)</li><li>India vs England – 25 days played out of possible 25 (Series drawn at 2-2)</li></ul>While India, England, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand continue to blossom and show their class. That is not the case for Pakistan, Bangladesh, the West Indies and Sri Lanka as their quality has been on a drop in recent years. Meaning matches between upper-tier teams are often competitive, while the same can’t be said when either of these teams drops down to play against lower-ranked opposition.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-women-s-team-schedule-squad-fixtures-and-more-1758556378933">Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more</a><h2>Will promotion-relation format help?</h2>As things stand, head-to-head matches between India, England, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand are competitive, while matches between Pakistan, Bangladesh, West Indies and Sri Lanka have also produced good games. Meaning these two sets of teams could be divided into different groups for the WTC cycle.&nbsp;This could result in tight and more competitive matches in both upper and lower-tier sides. On the other hand, the team topping the lower tier could be promoted to the upper league while lower lower-ranked team in the upper league could be relegated to give more competitive edge for Test cricket.

The gulf of quality gap between teams is clearly evident between the opponents, indicating England, Australia and India are in a different bracket while rest of the nations are struggling to cope with demands of red-ball cricket. 

India made light work of the West Indies in the second Test match in Delhi as they got the better of the visitors by seven wickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. The win also saw India pocket the series 2-0, thereby strengthening their position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. However, the big question is whether Test cricket needs a two-tier promotion-relegation format, with the West Indies not standing tall against the elite sides. Is there a difference in standards? The Indian team on Tuesday (Oct 14) dismantled the West Indies to pocket the series, playing just eight days of cricket across two Test matches. When compared to India’s tour of England, Shubman Gill’s side was in action for all 25 days across the five Test matches. Compared to the West Indies series against Australia in July, competitive cricket was played on just 10 days for three Test matches. The gulf of quality gap was clearly evident between the opponents, indicating England, Australia and India are in a different bracket. ALSO READ | From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history Key outcomes for top teams India vs West Indies – 8 days played out of possible 10 (India win series 2-0) West Indies vs Australia – 10 days played out of possible 15 (Australia win series 3-0) India vs England – 25 days played out of possible 25 (Series drawn at 2-2) While India, England, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand continue to blossom and show their class. That is not the case for Pakistan, Bangladesh, the West Indies and Sri Lanka as their quality has been on a drop in recent years. Meaning matches between upper-tier teams are often competitive, while the same can’t be said when either of these teams drops down to play against lower-ranked opposition. ALSO READ | Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more Will promotion-relation format help? As things stand, head-to-head matches between India, England, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand are competitive, while matches between Pakistan, Bangladesh, West Indies and Sri Lanka have also produced good games. Meaning these two sets of teams could be divided into different groups for the WTC cycle. This could result in tight and more competitive matches in both upper and lower-tier sides. On the other hand, the team topping the lower tier could be promoted to the upper league while lower lower-ranked team in the upper league could be relegated to give more competitive edge for Test cricket.

The gulf of quality gap between teams is clearly evident between the opponents, indicating England, Australia and India are in a different bracket while rest of the nations are struggling to cope with demands of red-ball cricket.&nbsp;

Does Test cricket need two-tier system for World Test Championship?

The Indian fans, or rather cricket fans worldwide, know that a day will come when two batting stalwarts and former Indian captains, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, will announce their ODI retirements. Addressing their ODI retirement rumours, Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir, during the post-game presser in Delhi, said he cannot guarantee their places in the ODI side for the 2027 World Cup, which is more than two years away. While Gautam acknowledged their experience and dressing room presence and how good they still are, he urged everyone to stay in present as the committee will consider their selection with each passing game.&nbsp;“The 2027 World Cup is 2.5 years away. It’s important to stay in the present. Kohli and Rohit are both quality players. Hopefully, they have a successful tour in Australia,” Gambhir, who turned 44 on Tuesday, said.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/check-team-india-ranking-on-current-2025-2027-wtc-standings-after-west-indies-mauling-delhi-test-match-1760424614495">Check Team India's ranking on current WTC standings after West Indies mauling</a> &nbsp;Rohit and Kohli returned to the ODI side for the first time since March this year. During their last appearance in the ICC Champions Trophy, both played handy roles in helping the Men in Blue win their record third crown, and first since the 2017 edition, which they also won. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Gambhir’s comments have come shortly after Kohli landed in India for the first time in four months since winning his maiden IPL title with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) this season. After moving to London with his family, Kohli trained in the capital city for Australia ODIs and even had his mandatory pre-season fitness test conducted there. &nbsp;His batting partner, Rohit, who also last featured for India during the multi-team tournament, first trained at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) before practising at Mumbai’s Shivaji Park under former India batting coach Abhishek Nayar’s watchful eyes. &nbsp;These two, alongside the rest of the Indian Team, will leave for Australia on Wednesday (Oct 15).&nbsp; &nbsp;India’s ODI squad for Australia series -&nbsp;Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (VC), Axar Patel, KL Rahul (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Yashasvi Jaiswal.

While Gautam acknowledged their experience and dressing room presence and how good they still are, he urged everyone to stay in present as the committee will consider their selection with each passing game.

The Indian fans, or rather cricket fans worldwide, know that a day will come when two batting stalwarts and former Indian captains, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, will announce their ODI retirements. Addressing their ODI retirement rumours, Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir, during the post-game presser in Delhi, said he cannot guarantee their places in the ODI side for the 2027 World Cup, which is more than two years away. While Gautam acknowledged their experience and dressing room presence and how good they still are, he urged everyone to stay in present as the committee will consider their selection with each passing game. “The 2027 World Cup is 2.5 years away. It’s important to stay in the present. Kohli and Rohit are both quality players. Hopefully, they have a successful tour in Australia,” Gambhir, who turned 44 on Tuesday, said. Also read | Check Team India's ranking on current WTC standings after West Indies mauling Rohit and Kohli returned to the ODI side for the first time since March this year. During their last appearance in the ICC Champions Trophy, both played handy roles in helping the Men in Blue win their record third crown, and first since the 2017 edition, which they also won. Meanwhile, Gambhir’s comments have come shortly after Kohli landed in India for the first time in four months since winning his maiden IPL title with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) this season. After moving to London with his family, Kohli trained in the capital city for Australia ODIs and even had his mandatory pre-season fitness test conducted there. His batting partner, Rohit, who also last featured for India during the multi-team tournament, first trained at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) before practising at Mumbai’s Shivaji Park under former India batting coach Abhishek Nayar’s watchful eyes. These two, alongside the rest of the Indian Team, will leave for Australia on Wednesday (Oct 15). India’s ODI squad for Australia series - Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (VC), Axar Patel, KL Rahul (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Yashasvi Jaiswal.

While Gautam acknowledged their experience and dressing room presence and how good they still are, he urged everyone to stay in present as the committee will consider their selection with each passing game.

‘It’s important to stay in present,’ Gambhir prepares fans for heartbreak over Rohit, Kohli ODI future

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-2nd-test-kl-rahul-58-guides-india-home-in-delhi-as-hosts-complete-series-win-against-west-indies-1760419038095">Shubman Gill-led Indian team won the second Test against West Indies in Delhi</a> by seven wickets, inflicting a series whitewash on the visitors. After crushing them in Ahmedabad, the hosts won the second match on the final day at the Arun Jaitley Stadium to make it two wins in as many matches. With this win, India also strengthened their chances of staying in contention for a top-two finish on the current World Test Championship (WTC) standings. Still third on the list after second-place Sri Lanka (66.67 PCT) and table toppers Australia (100 PCT), Team India’s PCT now reads 61.90.&nbsp;In this current WTC cycle, India has won four, lost two and drew one game in seven contested ties thus far, with Sri Lanka sitting in the second spot with a win and loss in two games played; Australia, the 2025 WTC finalists and the former champions, enjoy leading the table with three wins in as many contested games, all coming against the West Indies. &nbsp;Gill’s Indian Team will next face South Africa at home in a two-match Test series starting next month at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Guwahati will host the second Test of this series.<h3>What happened in Delhi Test? &nbsp;</h3>India batted first at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, with openers providing a constructive start. After losing KL Rahul inside the first session, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan stitched a 193-run stand for the second wicket; Jaiswal completed his sixth Test hundred, while Sudharsan missed out on his maiden Test ton by 13 runs. Captain Gill, however, ensured he reached the three-digit mark, hitting an unbeaten 123 as India posted a mammoth 518 for five. &nbsp;India wrapped up West Indies’ first innings on 248, before the visitors put on a batting show in the second innings to make something out of this match. Shai Hope and opener John Campbell scored their respective hundreds, creating multiple records; however, the highlight of that innings was a 79-run partnership for the last wicket between Jayden Seales and Justin Greaves.&nbsp; &nbsp;West Indies set India a target of 121, which the hosts successfully chased with seven wickets remaining. Indian opener KL Rahul starred for his team in the second innings, hitting an unbeaten 58.

In seven contested matches in the 2025-27 WTC cycle, Team India has won four, lost two and drawn one thus far.

Shubman Gill-led Indian team won the second Test against West Indies in Delhi by seven wickets, inflicting a series whitewash on the visitors. After crushing them in Ahmedabad, the hosts won the second match on the final day at the Arun Jaitley Stadium to make it two wins in as many matches. With this win, India also strengthened their chances of staying in contention for a top-two finish on the current World Test Championship (WTC) standings. Still third on the list after second-place Sri Lanka (66.67 PCT) and table toppers Australia (100 PCT), Team India’s PCT now reads 61.90. In this current WTC cycle, India has won four, lost two and drew one game in seven contested ties thus far, with Sri Lanka sitting in the second spot with a win and loss in two games played; Australia, the 2025 WTC finalists and the former champions, enjoy leading the table with three wins in as many contested games, all coming against the West Indies. Gill’s Indian Team will next face South Africa at home in a two-match Test series starting next month at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Guwahati will host the second Test of this series. What happened in Delhi Test? India batted first at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, with openers providing a constructive start. After losing KL Rahul inside the first session, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan stitched a 193-run stand for the second wicket; Jaiswal completed his sixth Test hundred, while Sudharsan missed out on his maiden Test ton by 13 runs. Captain Gill, however, ensured he reached the three-digit mark, hitting an unbeaten 123 as India posted a mammoth 518 for five. India wrapped up West Indies’ first innings on 248, before the visitors put on a batting show in the second innings to make something out of this match. Shai Hope and opener John Campbell scored their respective hundreds, creating multiple records; however, the highlight of that innings was a 79-run partnership for the last wicket between Jayden Seales and Justin Greaves. West Indies set India a target of 121, which the hosts successfully chased with seven wickets remaining. Indian opener KL Rahul starred for his team in the second innings, hitting an unbeaten 58.

In seven contested matches in the 2025-27 WTC cycle, Team India has won four, lost two and drawn one thus far.

Check Team India's ranking on current WTC standings after West Indies mauling

Shubman Gill wins his first Test series as India captain as the hosts inflict a series whitewash (2-0) on the touring West Indies with a seven-wicket win in Delhi on Tuesday (Oct 14). A game that concluded on the final day, a rarity during the home season, saw India complete the moderate run chase early within the first session. Despite losing Sai Sudharsan and Gill, KL Rahul’s unbeaten 58 helped the Indian Team walk away with an easy win and claim their first series win this ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.&nbsp;“It's a big honour (to lead India). It's a really big honour, I'm kind of getting used to it. Managing all the players, leading this team is a great honour. It's about taking the right options in the given situation.&nbsp; &nbsp;“I try to make the most probable decision in the given situation that we are in that game. And sometimes you have to take a bold decision, depending on which player can get you certain runs or can get you those wickets,” captain Gill said after the game.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-2025-australia-adam-zampa-josh-inglis-odi-opener-perth-tie-1760418173884">IND vs AUS 2025: Australia make last-minute changes ahead of India ODI opener as 2 key players out of Perth tie</a> &nbsp;Beginning day five with nine wickets and 58 runs remaining for the win, Rahul and Sudharsan took the attack to the opposition, hitting bad balls for fours and defending the good ones. Although they succeeded in doing so for the longest time possible, West Indies captain Roston Chase broke the stand by removing Sai, caught in the first slip. His counterpart Gill, who smoked a six and a four in his brief stay, also got out to Chase as he miscued one straight to the mid-wicket area. &nbsp;This win, however, also marks birthday boy Gautam Gambhir’s first Test series victory as a head coach this season, and first since beating Bangladesh at home last season. &nbsp;“It feels really great to be honest. After a good series where we gave them a fight (in England), coming back to India and winning the series is special. I've learned a lot in these five games and I'm looking forward to improving on that, and obviously giving a bit more for the team,” said Sudharsan, who scored 87 and 39 in two innings against West Indies in the Delhi Test. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Kuldeep Yadav were India’s best players in this match. While Jaiswal completed his sixth Test hundred, hitting a brilliant 175 in the first innings, Kuldeep won the Player of the Year award for his eight wickets, including a five-for in the first.&nbsp; &nbsp;“This was a totally different wicket. Bowling a lot of overs was the challenge here; I enjoyed bowling here. There wasn't any drift here. The wicket was too dry. Bowling a lot of overs and getting the breakthrough is something I enjoy a lot,” Kuldeep said of his performance.

Despite losing two wickets early on day five, Team India walked away with an easy win in the second Test in Delhi.

Shubman Gill wins his first Test series as India captain as the hosts inflict a series whitewash (2-0) on the touring West Indies with a seven-wicket win in Delhi on Tuesday (Oct 14). A game that concluded on the final day, a rarity during the home season, saw India complete the moderate run chase early within the first session. Despite losing Sai Sudharsan and Gill, KL Rahul’s unbeaten 58 helped the Indian Team walk away with an easy win and claim their first series win this ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. “It's a big honour (to lead India). It's a really big honour, I'm kind of getting used to it. Managing all the players, leading this team is a great honour. It's about taking the right options in the given situation. “I try to make the most probable decision in the given situation that we are in that game. And sometimes you have to take a bold decision, depending on which player can get you certain runs or can get you those wickets,” captain Gill said after the game. Also read | IND vs AUS 2025: Australia make last-minute changes ahead of India ODI opener as 2 key players out of Perth tie Beginning day five with nine wickets and 58 runs remaining for the win, Rahul and Sudharsan took the attack to the opposition, hitting bad balls for fours and defending the good ones. Although they succeeded in doing so for the longest time possible, West Indies captain Roston Chase broke the stand by removing Sai, caught in the first slip. His counterpart Gill, who smoked a six and a four in his brief stay, also got out to Chase as he miscued one straight to the mid-wicket area. This win, however, also marks birthday boy Gautam Gambhir’s first Test series victory as a head coach this season, and first since beating Bangladesh at home last season. “It feels really great to be honest. After a good series where we gave them a fight (in England), coming back to India and winning the series is special. I've learned a lot in these five games and I'm looking forward to improving on that, and obviously giving a bit more for the team,” said Sudharsan, who scored 87 and 39 in two innings against West Indies in the Delhi Test. Meanwhile, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Kuldeep Yadav were India’s best players in this match. While Jaiswal completed his sixth Test hundred, hitting a brilliant 175 in the first innings, Kuldeep won the Player of the Year award for his eight wickets, including a five-for in the first. “This was a totally different wicket. Bowling a lot of overs was the challenge here; I enjoyed bowling here. There wasn't any drift here. The wicket was too dry. Bowling a lot of overs and getting the breakthrough is something I enjoy a lot,” Kuldeep said of his performance.

Despite losing two wickets early on day five, Team India walked away with an easy win in the second Test in Delhi.

IND vs WI 2nd Test: KL Rahul's fifty guides India home in Delhi as hosts complete series win

Cricket Australia has made two last-minute changes to their squad for the first ODI against India this Sunday (Oct 19) in Perth. The hosts will be without their premier white-ball spinner, Adam Zampa, and attacking gloveman Josh Inglis for the series opener, roping in spinner Matthew Kuhnemann and keeper-batter Josh Philippe as their replacements. While Zampa will miss the Perth tie to be home with his pregnant wife, Inglis is yet to recover from a calf strain.&nbsp;Philippe, who has played three ODIs to date, will keep wickets for the first time in One-Dayers. Test specialist Alex Carey, also a batting mainstay in Australia’s One-Day side, will also be absent for the first game to honour Sheffield Shield commitment as part of his Ashes preparation. Inglis shall also remain out of the selection fray for the second game in Adelaide on Thursday (Oct 23) when Carey returns; however, Australia is hopeful of his availability for the final ODI in Sydney on Saturday (Oct 25).&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/overconfidence-or-just-not-important-aussie-skipper-marsh-looking-at-india-series-as-pre-cursor-to-ashes-1760344935786">Overconfidence or just not important? Aussie skipper Marsh looking at India series as pre-cursor to Ashes</a> &nbsp;Out of the first game for paternity reasons, Zampa will re-link with the ODI team for the final two matches, as travelling home (northern New South Wales) to be with his wife, from those two cities, is convenient and takes less time. He is also due to feature in the five T20Is that follow, with all those matches being played on the east coast. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Kuhnemann, the left-arm orthodox spinner, will play his first ODI game in three years and in Australia, since last featuring against Sri Lanka in 2022. Although he has travelled with the squad throughout the winter on six different tours, he played just one game against the West Indies in the second T20I in Jamaica in July. &nbsp;Besides, all-rounder Cameron Green, a man in form for the hosts, will feature in the first two matches but could miss the final ODI to play a Shield game in Perth on Tuesday (Oct 28). He, however, is unlikely to bowl in all the matches he will feature in against India.<h3>Updated Australia squad for India ODIs –</h3>Mitchell Marsh (captain), Xavier Bartlett, Alex Carey (wk), Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Matthew Kuhnemann, Mitchell Owen, Josh Philippe (wk), Matt Renshaw, Matthew Short, Mitchell Starc and Adam Zampa

Australia will be without their ODI batting mainstay Alex Carey, who will honour Shield commitment as part of his Ashes preparation. 

Cricket Australia has made two last-minute changes to their squad for the first ODI against India this Sunday (Oct 19) in Perth. The hosts will be without their premier white-ball spinner, Adam Zampa, and attacking gloveman Josh Inglis for the series opener, roping in spinner Matthew Kuhnemann and keeper-batter Josh Philippe as their replacements. While Zampa will miss the Perth tie to be home with his pregnant wife, Inglis is yet to recover from a calf strain. Philippe, who has played three ODIs to date, will keep wickets for the first time in One-Dayers. Test specialist Alex Carey, also a batting mainstay in Australia’s One-Day side, will also be absent for the first game to honour Sheffield Shield commitment as part of his Ashes preparation. Inglis shall also remain out of the selection fray for the second game in Adelaide on Thursday (Oct 23) when Carey returns; however, Australia is hopeful of his availability for the final ODI in Sydney on Saturday (Oct 25). Also read | Overconfidence or just not important? Aussie skipper Marsh looking at India series as pre-cursor to Ashes Out of the first game for paternity reasons, Zampa will re-link with the ODI team for the final two matches, as travelling home (northern New South Wales) to be with his wife, from those two cities, is convenient and takes less time. He is also due to feature in the five T20Is that follow, with all those matches being played on the east coast. Meanwhile, Kuhnemann, the left-arm orthodox spinner, will play his first ODI game in three years and in Australia, since last featuring against Sri Lanka in 2022. Although he has travelled with the squad throughout the winter on six different tours, he played just one game against the West Indies in the second T20I in Jamaica in July. Besides, all-rounder Cameron Green, a man in form for the hosts, will feature in the first two matches but could miss the final ODI to play a Shield game in Perth on Tuesday (Oct 28). He, however, is unlikely to bowl in all the matches he will feature in against India. Updated Australia squad for India ODIs – Mitchell Marsh (captain), Xavier Bartlett, Alex Carey (wk), Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Matthew Kuhnemann, Mitchell Owen, Josh Philippe (wk), Matt Renshaw, Matthew Short, Mitchell Starc and Adam Zampa

Australia will be without their ODI batting mainstay Alex Carey, who will honour Shield commitment as part of his Ashes preparation.&nbsp;

IND vs AUS 2025: Australia make last-minute changes ahead of India ODI opener as 2 key players out of Perth tie

From Adil Rashid to Bernard Scholtz, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most ODI wickets in 2025. This list also includes Matt Henry, Shakeel Ahmed and Asitha Fernando

From Adil Rashid to Bernard Scholtz, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most ODI wickets in 2025. This list also includes Matt Henry, Shakeel Ahmed and Asitha Fernando

From Adil Rashid to Bernard Scholtz, 5 bowlers with most ODI wickets in 2025

South Africa strengthened their place at the third place of the points table with a three-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 on Monday (Oct 13) at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. Nadine de Klerk’s quick 37 at the end helped her team to defeat Bangladesh. After winning the toss, &nbsp;Bangladesh elected to bat first and scored 233 runs. Shorna Akter (51*), while Sharmin Akhter also made 50 before being run out by Sinalo Jafta. Openers Fargana Hoque (30) and Rubya Haider (25) were the other contributors. For South Africa, Nonkululeko Mlaba was the pick of the bowler with figures of 2/44, while Chloe Tryon and Nadine de Klerk took one wicket apiece.&nbsp;Also Check - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/top-5-bowlers-in-latest-icc-women-s-odi-rankings-2025-sophie-ecclestone-ashleigh-gardner-megan-schutt-kim-garth-marizanne-kapp-1760353768230">From Kim Garth to Sophie Ecclestone, top 5 bowlers in latest ICC Women's ODI rankings 2025</a><h2>South Africa marches on</h2>Scaling down the target on a pitch that didn't much offer to the batters, South Africa’s Marizanne Kapp (56) and Chloe Tryon (62) hit brilliant half-centuries to lead their team to victory. Laura Wolvaardt (31) and Nadine de Klerk (37*) also made key contributions. For Bangladesh, Nahida Akter (2/44) picked up two important wickets, while Ritu Moni (1/29) and Rabeya Khan (1/48) also took one wicket each.&nbsp;For her match-winning performance, South Africa's Chloe Tryon, who made 62 runs and also took a wicket, was given the Player of the Match award for her stellar performance.&nbsp;With this defeat, Bangladesh slipped to sixth place in the points table, while South Africa sealed their place at third spot with their third win in the tournament. South Africa will now look to carry this momentum into their next ICC Women's ODI World Cup 2025 matches.&nbsp;Also Check - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/top-5-batters-in-latest-icc-women-s-odi-rankings-2025-smriti-mandhana-nat-sciver-brunt-beth-mooney-tazmin-brits-ashleigh-gardner-1760028227456">From Smriti Mandhana to Tazmin Brits, top 5 batters in latest ICC Women's ODI rankings 2025</a><h2>Updated Points Table, ICC Women's ODI World Cup 2025</h2>

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Team</td><td>M</td><td>W</td><td>L</td><td>NR</td><td>NRR</td><td>Points</td></tr><tr><td>Australia Women</td><td>4</td><td>3</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>1.353</td><td>7</td></tr><tr><td>England Women</td><td>3</td><td>3</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>1.864</td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>South Africa Women</td><td>4</td><td>3</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>- 0.618</td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>India Women</td><td>4</td><td>2</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>Player0.682</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>New Zealand Women</td><td>3</td><td>1</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>-0.245</td><td>2</td></tr><tr><td>Bangladesh Women</td><td>4</td><td>1</td><td>3</td><td>0</td><td>-0.263</td><td>2</td></tr><tr><td>Sri Lanka Women</td><td>3</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>-1.526</td><td>1</td></tr><tr><td>Pakistan Women</td><td>3</td><td>0</td><td>3</td><td>0</td><td>-1.887</td><td>0</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

With this defeat, Bangladesh slipped to sixth place in the standings, while South Africa secured the fourth spot with their second win in the tournament.

South Africa strengthened their place at the third place of the points table with a three-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 on Monday (Oct 13) at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. Nadine de Klerk’s quick 37 at the end helped her team to defeat Bangladesh. After winning the toss, Bangladesh elected to bat first and scored 233 runs. Shorna Akter (51*), while Sharmin Akhter also made 50 before being run out by Sinalo Jafta. Openers Fargana Hoque (30) and Rubya Haider (25) were the other contributors. For South Africa, Nonkululeko Mlaba was the pick of the bowler with figures of 2/44, while Chloe Tryon and Nadine de Klerk took one wicket apiece. Also Check - From Kim Garth to Sophie Ecclestone, top 5 bowlers in latest ICC Women's ODI rankings 2025 South Africa marches on Scaling down the target on a pitch that didn't much offer to the batters, South Africa’s Marizanne Kapp (56) and Chloe Tryon (62) hit brilliant half-centuries to lead their team to victory. Laura Wolvaardt (31) and Nadine de Klerk (37*) also made key contributions. For Bangladesh, Nahida Akter (2/44) picked up two important wickets, while Ritu Moni (1/29) and Rabeya Khan (1/48) also took one wicket each. For her match-winning performance, South Africa's Chloe Tryon, who made 62 runs and also took a wicket, was given the Player of the Match award for her stellar performance. With this defeat, Bangladesh slipped to sixth place in the points table, while South Africa sealed their place at third spot with their third win in the tournament. South Africa will now look to carry this momentum into their next ICC Women's ODI World Cup 2025 matches. Also Check - From Smriti Mandhana to Tazmin Brits, top 5 batters in latest ICC Women's ODI rankings 2025 Updated Points Table, ICC Women's ODI World Cup 2025

With this defeat, Bangladesh slipped to sixth place in the points table, while South Africa sealed their place at third spot with their third win in the tournament.

ICC Women's ODI World Cup 2025: South Africa pull of dramatic escape against spirited Tigresses

Abhimanyu Easwaran has been part of India’s Test squad several times, but his wait for a debut cap continues. After being dropped from the recent series against the West Indies, the Bengal opener finally spoke about the disappointment of not getting a single game despite years of consistent domestic performances. Easwaran was part of India’s tour of England earlier this year but didn’t feature in any of the five Tests. Under captain Shubman Gill and coach Gautam Gambhir, India managed a 2-2 draw in the historic Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. While the young team earned praise for their fight, Easwaran and spinner Kuldeep Yadav were the only two players who didn’t get a game.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-star-virat-kohli-to-retire-from-ipl-here-s-what-reports-say-1760358964611">RCB star Virat Kohli to retire from IPL? Here's what reports say</a>&nbsp;In an interview with Revsportz, the 30-year-old admitted that being overlooked was tough to accept. “Yes, it does hurt sometimes. You put in all the effort, train hard, and the dream is to be in the middle – to perform and contribute to wins. But I’m lucky to have a strong support system in my family, friends, and coach. They keep me grounded and motivated,” he said.&nbsp;Easwaran added that he prefers to focus on things within his control. “The only way forward is to keep improving. I’m working on a couple of new shots this season, I won’t reveal which ones (laughs) – but hopefully, they’ll come off well. Playing for India is the biggest motivation for me.”&nbsp;The right-handed opener, who first got an India call-up in 2022, admitted that missing out hurts more now as competition for the top order keeps increasing. With youngsters like Yashasvi Jaiswal cementing their places, his chances appear slimmer. But Easwaran isn’t ready to give up. He takes inspiration from late bloomers like Michael Hussey and Suryakumar Yadav, who both made their international debuts after turning 30. “Their journeys show what perseverance can achieve. It’s always at the back of my mind – why not me?” Easwaran said.

Easwaran was part of India’s tour of England earlier this year but didn’t feature in any of the five Tests. Under captain Shubman Gill and coach Gautam Gambhir, India managed a 2-2 draw in the historic Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.

Abhimanyu Easwaran has been part of India’s Test squad several times, but his wait for a debut cap continues. After being dropped from the recent series against the West Indies, the Bengal opener finally spoke about the disappointment of not getting a single game despite years of consistent domestic performances. Easwaran was part of India’s tour of England earlier this year but didn’t feature in any of the five Tests. Under captain Shubman Gill and coach Gautam Gambhir, India managed a 2-2 draw in the historic Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. While the young team earned praise for their fight, Easwaran and spinner Kuldeep Yadav were the only two players who didn’t get a game. Also read | RCB star Virat Kohli to retire from IPL? Here's what reports say In an interview with Revsportz, the 30-year-old admitted that being overlooked was tough to accept. “Yes, it does hurt sometimes. You put in all the effort, train hard, and the dream is to be in the middle – to perform and contribute to wins. But I’m lucky to have a strong support system in my family, friends, and coach. They keep me grounded and motivated,” he said. Easwaran added that he prefers to focus on things within his control. “The only way forward is to keep improving. I’m working on a couple of new shots this season, I won’t reveal which ones (laughs) – but hopefully, they’ll come off well. Playing for India is the biggest motivation for me.” The right-handed opener, who first got an India call-up in 2022, admitted that missing out hurts more now as competition for the top order keeps increasing. With youngsters like Yashasvi Jaiswal cementing their places, his chances appear slimmer. But Easwaran isn’t ready to give up. He takes inspiration from late bloomers like Michael Hussey and Suryakumar Yadav, who both made their international debuts after turning 30. “Their journeys show what perseverance can achieve. It’s always at the back of my mind – why not me?” Easwaran said.

Easwaran was part of India’s tour of England earlier this year but didn’t feature in any of the five Tests. Under captain Shubman Gill and coach Gautam Gambhir, India managed a 2-2 draw in the historic Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.

‘Yes, it hurts sometimes’: Abhimanyu Easwaran opens up on India Test snub

From Zaheer Khan to Anil Kumble, here's a look at the top five Indian bowlers fastest to 250 wickets in One Day Internationals.

From Zaheer Khan to Anil Kumble, here's a look at the top five Indian bowlers fastest to 250 wickets in One Day Internationals.

From Zaheer Khan to Anil Kumble, 5 Indian bowlers fastest to 250 wickets in ODIs

Virat Kohli is undoubtedly one of the best Indian batters to play the game ever. His rise came along with the Indian Premier League (IPL) - a trophy he had to wait for 18 years before winning it in 2025 edition with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The batter, who has already called time on Tests and T20Is for India, is now reportedly mulling quitting the cash-rich league as well. Kohli has been associated with the franchise since 2008 - the inaugural edition of the league.<h2>Kohli to retire from IPL?</h2>Kohli had been the captain of side for many years but could not get them over the line despite being one of the most successful Indian skippers. RCB and Kohli eventually crossed the line in IPL 2025 by beating Punjab Kings in the final under Rajat Patidar's captaincy. With IPL retention deadline expected to be on November 15, Kohli has refused to sign the commercial contract with the franchise as per RevSportz.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-i-don-t-think-they-ex-india-coach-kumble-on-rohit-and-kohli-s-2027-odi-world-cup-chances-1760356184425">'I don’t think they...,' Ex-India coach on Rohit, Kohli's 2027 ODI WC chances</a><h2>What does it mean?</h2>While it is not clear what refusal of signing a commercial contract means, it could very well be Kohli's first step towards quitting the franchise. Although it might take a couple years and not an immediate decision, Kohli's intent is clear with the move. Former India cricketer Akash Chopra, however, says there's not much to read into the move by Kohli."He has reportedly refused a commercial contract, but what does that mean? He will definitely play for RCB. If he is playing, he is definitely going to turn out for the same franchise. He (Kohli) has just won the trophy. Why will he leave the franchise then? He isn’t going anywhere. What contract can be refused is in the realm of speculation. He might have a dual contract," Chopra said as reported by Inside Sport.

While it is not clear what refusal of signing a commercial contract means, it could very well be Kohli's first step towards quitting the franchise. Although it might take a couple years and not an immediate decision, Kohli's intent is clear with the move.

Virat Kohli is undoubtedly one of the best Indian batters to play the game ever. His rise came along with the Indian Premier League (IPL) - a trophy he had to wait for 18 years before winning it in 2025 edition with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The batter, who has already called time on Tests and T20Is for India, is now reportedly mulling quitting the cash-rich league as well. Kohli has been associated with the franchise since 2008 - the inaugural edition of the league. Kohli to retire from IPL? Kohli had been the captain of side for many years but could not get them over the line despite being one of the most successful Indian skippers. RCB and Kohli eventually crossed the line in IPL 2025 by beating Punjab Kings in the final under Rajat Patidar's captaincy. With IPL retention deadline expected to be on November 15, Kohli has refused to sign the commercial contract with the franchise as per RevSportz. Also Read - 'I don’t think they...,' Ex-India coach on Rohit, Kohli's 2027 ODI WC chances What does it mean? While it is not clear what refusal of signing a commercial contract means, it could very well be Kohli's first step towards quitting the franchise. Although it might take a couple years and not an immediate decision, Kohli's intent is clear with the move. Former India cricketer Akash Chopra, however, says there's not much to read into the move by Kohli. "He has reportedly refused a commercial contract, but what does that mean? He will definitely play for RCB. If he is playing, he is definitely going to turn out for the same franchise. He (Kohli) has just won the trophy. Why will he leave the franchise then? He isn’t going anywhere. What contract can be refused is in the realm of speculation. He might have a dual contract," Chopra said as reported by Inside Sport.

While it is not clear what refusal of signing a commercial contract means, it could very well be Kohli's first step towards quitting the franchise. Although it might take a couple years and not an immediate decision, Kohli's intent is clear with the move.

RCB star Virat Kohli to retire from IPL? Here's what reports say

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