National Handloom Day 2026: From Alia Bhatt to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; Actresses who celebrated India's textile heritage as brides

The Royals enter the Doctor Who universe: King Charles and Queen Camilla beam into Commonwealth Games in TARDIS

Unitree Robotics targets $9 billion valuation in landmark IPO backed by DeepSeek and Tencent

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata OTT: When will Kangana Ranaut's film stream online?

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

Shakib Al Hasan ready to return to Bangladesh—under one condition

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

Drug-resistant fungus that hides in hair and enters bloodstream reported in 23 US states

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

New Friday OTT releases (August 7, 2026): Operation Safed Sagar, Vadhandhi, Main Vaapis Aaunga- 6 movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth scripts history as Indian Air Force gets its first woman ‘Top Gun’ pilot

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'

IAF officer held for sharing sensitive information in 'honey trap' case, booked under Official Secrets Act

Stray Kids under scrutiny? Fans react to Grammy submission silence after BTS boycott

Why the Su-30MKI doesn't need external fuel tanks to fly vast distances

Jugal Hansraj reunites with Shekhar Kapur after 40 years for Masoom: The Next Generation

New speed limits, automatic challans: Big traffic change coming to Delhi-Meerut Expressway. All you need to know

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Why the Su-30MKI is one of the heaviest fighters ever built

Uttarakhand young innovator builds India's own flying vehicle, conducts first test flight: WATCH

Chilling video shows students take cover as teen opens fire at Thai school

Reese Witherspoon's father hospitalised after poolside incident in Nashville: Report

Former Australia pacer Mitchell Johnson has said that young opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sam-konstas">Sam Konstas</a> 'shouldn't have engaged with Jasprit Bumrah' on first day of the Sydney Test in Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Bumrah vs Konstas was the highlight of the series ever since the Aussie made his debut in the Boxing Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
<h2>Bumrah vs Konstas Lit Up BGT</h2>
"Konstas&rsquo; inexperience showed when he inserted himself into a situation he probably shouldn&rsquo;t have. Khawaja, being an experienced player, knows how to manage such moments, and the teenager should have left it to him," Johnson wrote in his column for the local media outlet The Nightly.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/world-test-championship-scenario-how-sl-can-still-enter-wtc-final-over-australia-after-india-wtc-chances-over-8596595">WTC 2025 Scenario: Sri Lanka can still pip Australia to enter final</a>
Konstas' partner Usman Khawaja was delaying the game in order to avoid one more over before the end of day 1 on the Test. Bumrah was visibly not happy and Konstas had a chat with him in the meantime.
The Indian bowler, however, had the last laugh and dismissed Khawaja on the last ball and celebrated it with a stare to Konstas.
After the incident, Australia head coach Andrew McDonald called out India for 'intimidating Konstas' - an accusation which India head coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/gautam-gambhir-sam-konstas-intimidation-accusation-jasprit-bumrah-vs-konstas-scg-test-bgt-india-vs-australia-8593277">Gautam Gambhir refuted</a> completely.
"I appreciate what Konstas was trying to do by supporting his teammate, but it was simply the wrong time for that kind of engagement. At that late stage of the day, there could only be one winner. I wonder if Khawaja had a chat with Konstas or if any of the other senior players offered him some advice after the day&rsquo;s play on how to navigate such situations," Johnson added.
Bumrah vs Konstas started as soon as the teen batter swatted the Indian pacer for 16 runs at the MCG - the most he has given in his Test career in an over. Bumrah, however, got better of Konstas and even <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bumrah-vs-konstas-bumrah-celebration-on-konstas-wicket-video-mcg-boxing-day-test-day-4-bgt-india-vs-australia-8575527">mimed him</a> after bowling him out in the second innings at the MCG.
&nbsp;

Cricket Sports Bumrah vs Konstas was the highlight of the series ever since the Aussie made his debut in the Boxing Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Former Australia pacer Mitchell Johnson has said that young opener Sam Konstas 'shouldn't have engaged with Jasprit Bumrah' on first day of the Sydney Test in Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Bumrah vs Konstas was the highlight of the series ever since the Aussie made his debut in the Boxing Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Bumrah vs Konstas Lit Up BGT "Konstas’ inexperience showed when he inserted himself into a situation he probably shouldn’t have. Khawaja, being an experienced player, knows how to manage such moments, and the teenager should have left it to him," Johnson wrote in his column for the local media outlet The Nightly. Also Read: WTC 2025 Scenario: Sri Lanka can still pip Australia to enter final Konstas' partner Usman Khawaja was delaying the game in order to avoid one more over before the end of day 1 on the Test. Bumrah was visibly not happy and Konstas had a chat with him in the meantime. The Indian bowler, however, had the last laugh and dismissed Khawaja on the last ball and celebrated it with a stare to Konstas. After the incident, Australia head coach Andrew McDonald called out India for 'intimidating Konstas' - an accusation which India head coach Gautam Gambhir refuted completely. "I appreciate what Konstas was trying to do by supporting his teammate, but it was simply the wrong time for that kind of engagement. At that late stage of the day, there could only be one winner. I wonder if Khawaja had a chat with Konstas or if any of the other senior players offered him some advice after the day’s play on how to navigate such situations," Johnson added. Bumrah vs Konstas started as soon as the teen batter swatted the Indian pacer for 16 runs at the MCG - the most he has given in his Test career in an over. Bumrah, however, got better of Konstas and even mimed him after bowling him out in the second innings at the MCG.

Ex-Aussie bowler Mitch Johnson slams Konstas for Bumrah chat at SCG

India had a few bright spots during their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/australia-beat-india-in-sydney-test-to-win-bgt-after-ten-years-qualify-for-wtc-final-2025-8592251">1-3 series loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a> (BGT) against Australia and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/yashasvi-jaiswal" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Yashasvi Jasiwal</a> was one of those spots. The young opener, touring Down Under first time, was India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/cricket/bgt-2025-stats-batters-to-score-most-runs-in-series-head-jaiswal-smith-reddy-rahul-pant-labuschagne-8594071">highest run scorer in the series</a>. The southpaw scored 391 runs in 10 innings across five Tests.
Taking to social media platform Instagram Jaiswal, however, vowed to 'come back stronger.'
"Learnt a lot in Australia&hellip; Unfortunately the result wasn&rsquo;t what we had hoped for but we&rsquo;ll be back stronger. Your support means everything," wrote the young batter in his post.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/world-test-championship-scenario-how-sl-can-still-enter-wtc-final-over-australia-after-india-wtc-chances-over-8596595">WTC 2025 Scenario: Sri Lanka can still pip Australia to enter final</a>
<h2>How Jaiswal fared in BGT 2024-25</h2>
Jaiswal started the series with a duck in the first innings of first Test in Perth but corrected the course quickly. He scored 161 in the second innings - the highest individual score in series across sides - as India won the the Test to take a 1-0 lead.
In the second Test in Adelaide, Jaiswal scored a duck again as he failed to get going in the first innings once more but this time under the lights with a pink ball. He followed it up with a 24 in the second innings as India lost the match.
Come Brisbane, he failed in the first innings again and managed just four runs. As the match was curtailed by rain, he could bat only six balls in the second innings and managed four runs while remaining not out.
In the Boxing Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Jaiswal scored 82 and 84 in two innings respectively, but failed to help India win the match.
The batter could not do much in the last Test in Sydney and managed the scores of 10 and 22 in the two innings as India lost the match and the series.
Jaiswal, however, was one of the three batters across sides and only one from India to score 300+ runs in the series. His 391 runs were also the second highest in the series behind Travis Head's 448.

Cricket Sports Touring Down Under first time, Yashasvi Jaiswal was India's highest run scorer in the series. The southpaw scored 391 runs in 10 innings across five Tests.

India had a few bright spots during their 1-3 series loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) against Australia and Yashasvi Jasiwal was one of those spots. The young opener, touring Down Under first time, was India's highest run scorer in the series. The southpaw scored 391 runs in 10 innings across five Tests. Taking to social media platform Instagram Jaiswal, however, vowed to 'come back stronger.' "Learnt a lot in Australia… Unfortunately the result wasn’t what we had hoped for but we’ll be back stronger. Your support means everything," wrote the young batter in his post. Also Read: WTC 2025 Scenario: Sri Lanka can still pip Australia to enter final How Jaiswal fared in BGT 2024-25 Jaiswal started the series with a duck in the first innings of first Test in Perth but corrected the course quickly. He scored 161 in the second innings - the highest individual score in series across sides - as India won the the Test to take a 1-0 lead. In the second Test in Adelaide, Jaiswal scored a duck again as he failed to get going in the first innings once more but this time under the lights with a pink ball. He followed it up with a 24 in the second innings as India lost the match. Come Brisbane, he failed in the first innings again and managed just four runs. As the match was curtailed by rain, he could bat only six balls in the second innings and managed four runs while remaining not out. In the Boxing Day Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Jaiswal scored 82 and 84 in two innings respectively, but failed to help India win the match. The batter could not do much in the last Test in Sydney and managed the scores of 10 and 22 in the two innings as India lost the match and the series. Jaiswal, however, was one of the three batters across sides and only one from India to score 300+ runs in the series. His 391 runs were also the second highest in the series behind Travis Head's 448.

BGT 2024-25:  Yashasvi Jaiswal reflects on his maiden Australia tour

Australia are all but through the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 against South Africa in June later this year after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/australia-beat-india-in-sydney-test-to-win-bgt-after-ten-years-qualify-for-wtc-final-2025-8592251" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">winning the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series</a> 3-1 against India. There's, however, still an outside chance for Sri Lanka to pip Australia for a place in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wtc-final-scenarios-2025-south-africa-enter-final-after-win-over-pakistan-india-australia-in-contention-8575588" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">WTC Final</a>.
<h2>How can Australia miss and Sri Lanka still make it to WTC Final</h2>
Australia currently are second on the WTC standing with 63.73 percent points - way ahead of fifth place Sri Lanka with 45.45 percent points. The two teams, however, have to play a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/steve-smith-to-captain-australia-for-sri-lanka-tests-in-pat-cummins-absence-report-8587859">two-Test series in Sri Lanka</a> from January 29 which can still throw a twist.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/harbhajan-singh-criticizes-indian-cricket-team-selection-coach-gautam-gambhir-tenure-india-results-under-gambhir-8596283">'Fallen apart,' ex-spinner on India's last six months under Gambhir</a>
For Sri Lanka, beating Australia 2-0 in the series won't suffice if they were to make it to the WTC Final 2025. SL rely Australia to bowl at slow over rates as much as it leads to a deduction of eight points from Australia's overall tally to have a chance at the WTC Final.
According to the ICC rules, one point is deducted from the team's WTC points tally for each over short than the required over-rate.&nbsp;
If Australia lose 0-2 and fail to deliver eight overs less throughout their two-Test series, then Sri Lanka will overtake them on the points tally and make it to their maiden WTC Final.
A team bowling eight overs less than required rate rarely happens, but cricket is called a game of uncertainty for a reason. There's also a case from 2023 Ashes when England were docked 19 points for slow over rates while Australia were penalized 10 points for the same.
The ICC, however, doesn't impose slow over rate penalty if a team bowls out the opposition inside 80 overs in an innings.
The standard over rate by ICC is 15 overs per hour but the umpires determine the actual over rate by factoring in various interruptions such as injuries, drinks, ball change, etc.

Cricket Sports WTC Scenario: After India WTC chances were rendered moot, Australia are all but through WTC Final 2025. SL, however, have an outside chance in the upcoming series.

Australia are all but through the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 against South Africa in June later this year after winning the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series 3-1 against India. There's, however, still an outside chance for Sri Lanka to pip Australia for a place in the WTC Final. How can Australia miss and Sri Lanka still make it to WTC Final Australia currently are second on the WTC standing with 63.73 percent points - way ahead of fifth place Sri Lanka with 45.45 percent points. The two teams, however, have to play a two-Test series in Sri Lanka from January 29 which can still throw a twist. Also Read: 'Fallen apart,' ex-spinner on India's last six months under Gambhir For Sri Lanka, beating Australia 2-0 in the series won't suffice if they were to make it to the WTC Final 2025. SL rely Australia to bowl at slow over rates as much as it leads to a deduction of eight points from Australia's overall tally to have a chance at the WTC Final. According to the ICC rules, one point is deducted from the team's WTC points tally for each over short than the required over-rate. If Australia lose 0-2 and fail to deliver eight overs less throughout their two-Test series, then Sri Lanka will overtake them on the points tally and make it to their maiden WTC Final. A team bowling eight overs less than required rate rarely happens, but cricket is called a game of uncertainty for a reason. There's also a case from 2023 Ashes when England were docked 19 points for slow over rates while Australia were penalized 10 points for the same. The ICC, however, doesn't impose slow over rate penalty if a team bowls out the opposition inside 80 overs in an innings. The standard over rate by ICC is 15 overs per hour but the umpires determine the actual over rate by factoring in various interruptions such as injuries, drinks, ball change, etc.

WTC 2025 Scenario: Sri Lanka can still pip Australia to enter final

Former India cricketer Harbhajan Singh has questioned India's performance and the results in the last six months. The comments come after India <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/australia-beat-india-in-sydney-test-to-win-bgt-after-ten-years-qualify-for-wtc-final-2025-8592251">lost the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series</a> 1-3 Down Under - their first in a decade. Harbhajan also seems to have thrown shades at head coach Gautam Gambhir's tenure so far.
"Everything was fine till Rahul Dravid was there. India won the World Cup, and everything was fine. But what happened suddenly?" Harbhajan said while talking on his YouTube channel.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jasprit-bumrah-news-back-spasm-injury-latest-update-india-vs-australia-5th-test-sydney-bgt-8595911">'Real worry,' says Ricky Ponting on Jasprit Bumrah's back spasm</a>
"In the past six months, we lost to Sri Lanka, a series whitewash against New Zealand, and now a 3-1 defeat in Australia. Everything seems to have fallen apart," said the former spinner.
<h2>Non-performing seniors face heat</h2>
After the loss in BGT, questions have been raised about the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-retirement-news-sanjay-manjrekar-says-playing-for-india-not-rohit-decision-8593625">place of seniors</a> who failed to perform in the series. Skipper Rohit Sharma is on the top of the list after scoring just 31 runs in six innings. Rohit eventually&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bgt-2024-25-rohit-sharma-opts-out-of-sydney-test-amid-poor-form-shubman-gill-set-to-return-report-8585557">decided to sit out</a> of the last BGT Test in Sydney.
The other player in question was Virat Kohli who has been out of form for nearly a couple of years. Kohli scored 190 runs in BGT with 100 runs coming in one innings.
Harbhajan pointed out that no player should be picked on reputation in the next Test series which is in England in June later this year.
"Abhimanyu Easwaran was taken on tour (Australia), but he didn't play. He can become a player for India if he is given the opportunity. Sarfaraz is the same case. The player who performs should go [to England]. You should not pick players on reputation," Harbhajan added.
The former spinner said that 'the ball is in the selectors' court' about Rohit and Kohli's place in the Test side.

Cricket Sports Harbhajan Singh criticizes Indian cricket team selection after 1-3 loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) - the second consecutive series loss under coach Gambhir.

Former India cricketer Harbhajan Singh has questioned India's performance and the results in the last six months. The comments come after India lost the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series 1-3 Down Under - their first in a decade. Harbhajan also seems to have thrown shades at head coach Gautam Gambhir's tenure so far. "Everything was fine till Rahul Dravid was there. India won the World Cup, and everything was fine. But what happened suddenly?" Harbhajan said while talking on his YouTube channel. Also Read: 'Real worry,' says Ricky Ponting on Jasprit Bumrah's back spasm "In the past six months, we lost to Sri Lanka, a series whitewash against New Zealand, and now a 3-1 defeat in Australia. Everything seems to have fallen apart," said the former spinner. Non-performing seniors face heat After the loss in BGT, questions have been raised about the place of seniors who failed to perform in the series. Skipper Rohit Sharma is on the top of the list after scoring just 31 runs in six innings. Rohit eventually decided to sit out of the last BGT Test in Sydney. The other player in question was Virat Kohli who has been out of form for nearly a couple of years. Kohli scored 190 runs in BGT with 100 runs coming in one innings. Harbhajan pointed out that no player should be picked on reputation in the next Test series which is in England in June later this year. "Abhimanyu Easwaran was taken on tour (Australia), but he didn't play. He can become a player for India if he is given the opportunity. Sarfaraz is the same case. The player who performs should go [to England]. You should not pick players on reputation," Harbhajan added. The former spinner said that 'the ball is in the selectors' court' about Rohit and Kohli's place in the Test side.

'Fallen apart,' Harbhajan on India's last six months under Gambhir

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan lauded Nitish Kumar Reddy post his success in the just-concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 edition, in Australia. On Sunday (Jan 5), India lost the fifth and final Test versus Australia, at the SCG, Sydney, on Day 3, to concede the series 3-1. While Jasprit Bumrah had a terrific run with the ball, taking 32 wickets, the most in this edition, Nitish Reddy was one of the very few Indian batters who made a mark Down Under.
Reddy ended with three 40-plus scores, one 38 and a brilliant 114, in the fourth and penultimate Test at the MCG, Melbourne, to leave a mark in his maiden Test series. Thus, Pathan lavished huge praise on the batting all-rounder.&nbsp;
<h2>'India have got a terrific player'</h2>
"You have got an excellent prospect. It's not easy at all for any batter to make his debut in Australia. We might show his century, but he was batting very well before that, he was reaching the 40-run mark regularly," Irfan told Star Sports.
<div id="checktheseout2" class="checktheseout2">
<div class="story__recommended__chunk">
<div class="recommended__story">Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-its-crazy-when-sanjay-manjrekar-criticises-indias-team-selection-after-series-loss-vs-australia-8595812" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT: 'It's crazy when...', Manjrekar criticises India's team selection after series loss vs Australia</a></div>
<div class="recommended__story">
"However, when he scored a century, all of us started to feel that we got a player who could bat not at No. 8 or No. 7 but at No. 6. If he can consistently bat at No. 6, I feel he has that potential, India have got a terrific player, who can solve the combination to a large extent," he added.
Reddy, the medium-pacer, also accounted for five wickets in as many Tests in the 2024-25 BGT edition.&nbsp;
India are out of the race to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final in 2025, following a 1-3 series loss to Australia. Australia and South Africa will meet in the WTC final, to be held at Lord's in mid-June.
<div id="teads-ad"></div>
<div id="div-gpt-ad-1663140560142-0" data-google-query-id="CPW-roH74IoDFa-lZgId6w8j3A"></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>

Cricket, Sports | Nitish Reddy could be a consistent No 6 for India: Irfan Pathan lauds youngster after success in 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan lauded Nitish Kumar Reddy post his success in the just-concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 edition, in Australia. On Sunday (Jan 5), India lost the fifth and final Test versus Australia, at the SCG, Sydney, on Day 3, to concede the series 3-1. While Jasprit Bumrah had a terrific run with the ball, taking 32 wickets, the most in this edition, Nitish Reddy was one of the very few Indian batters who made a mark Down Under. Reddy ended with three 40-plus scores, one 38 and a brilliant 114, in the fourth and penultimate Test at the MCG, Melbourne, to leave a mark in his maiden Test series. Thus, Pathan lavished huge praise on the batting all-rounder. 'India have got a terrific player' "You have got an excellent prospect. It's not easy at all for any batter to make his debut in Australia. We might show his century, but he was batting very well before that, he was reaching the 40-run mark regularly," Irfan told Star Sports. Also read: BGT: 'It's crazy when...', Manjrekar criticises India's team selection after series loss vs Australia "However, when he scored a century, all of us started to feel that we got a player who could bat not at No. 8 or No. 7 but at No. 6. If he can consistently bat at No. 6, I feel he has that potential, India have got a terrific player, who can solve the combination to a large extent," he added. Reddy, the medium-pacer, also accounted for five wickets in as many Tests in the 2024-25 BGT edition. India are out of the race to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final in 2025, following a 1-3 series loss to Australia. Australia and South Africa will meet in the WTC final, to be held at Lord's in mid-June.

Nitish Reddy could be a consistent No 6 for India: Pathan lauds youngster after BGT success

Australia all-rounder Mitchell Marsh will play for Perth Scorchers in the BBL for the first time since January 2022. Australia dropped Marsh from the XI for the decisive SCG Test against India, bringing in lanky Beau Webster as his replacement, who scored the winning runs on day three.&nbsp;
Unlike (Marsh and) Jhye Richardson, part of the last two Tests as a bowling reserve and named in the Scorchers&rsquo; squad to face Melbourne Renegades at Optus Stadium on Tuesday, star batter Travis Head is unlikely to join Adelaide Striker&rsquo;s team for the remainder of the tournament.&nbsp;
Head, who will be part of Australia&rsquo;s Test squad for two matches against Sri Lanka starting January 29, effectively ruled himself out from playing in the Big Bash League.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jasprit-bumrah-to-be-rohit-sharmas-deputy-in-champions-trophy-2025-report-8595262" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah to be Rohit&rsquo;s deputy in Champions Trophy 2025 &ndash; Report</a>
"I'm wrecked," Head said, as quoted by Fox Cricket at the SCG on Sunday. "I don't know what I'm going to do in the next few days, but we've got 10 or 12 days off now before we go to Sri Lanka, and I'm going to use every little bit of that."
Marsh returned to Perth on Monday after Australia completed a 3-1 series win over India in the BGT; he could extend his stay with the Scorchers should the selectors decide against picking him for Sri Lanka Tests, with the squad likely to be named later this week.
On the other hand, Webster would return to play for Melbourne Stars against Sydney Sixers on Thursday while remaining available for the return derby against Renegades on January 12.
<h2>Test stars to feature in BBL</h2>
Following the conclusion of the five-match Test series between India and Australia, several Test stars might turn up for their respective BBL franchise, with Steven Smith (Sydney Sixers), Sam Konstas (Sydney Thunder), Marnus Labuschagne (Brisbane Heat), Usman Khawaja (Brisbane Heat), Alex Carey (Adelaide Strikers), Nathan Lyon (Melbourne Renegades) and Sean Abbott (Sydney Sixers) being some of them.&nbsp;
Scott Boland, the Player of the Match in the final Test, could be rested to manage his workload.&nbsp;
Besides, most of these names will return to the Test side for the Sri Lanka series, for which the Aussies will have a week-long training camp in Dubai.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: Head, who will be part of Australia’s Test squad for two matches against Sri Lanka starting January 29, effectively ruled himself out from playing in BBL. 

Australia all-rounder Mitchell Marsh will play for Perth Scorchers in the BBL for the first time since January 2022. Australia dropped Marsh from the XI for the decisive SCG Test against India, bringing in lanky Beau Webster as his replacement, who scored the winning runs on day three. Unlike (Marsh and) Jhye Richardson, part of the last two Tests as a bowling reserve and named in the Scorchers’ squad to face Melbourne Renegades at Optus Stadium on Tuesday, star batter Travis Head is unlikely to join Adelaide Striker’s team for the remainder of the tournament. Head, who will be part of Australia’s Test squad for two matches against Sri Lanka starting January 29, effectively ruled himself out from playing in the Big Bash League. Also read | Jasprit Bumrah to be Rohit’s deputy in Champions Trophy 2025 – Report "I'm wrecked," Head said, as quoted by Fox Cricket at the SCG on Sunday. "I don't know what I'm going to do in the next few days, but we've got 10 or 12 days off now before we go to Sri Lanka, and I'm going to use every little bit of that." Marsh returned to Perth on Monday after Australia completed a 3-1 series win over India in the BGT; he could extend his stay with the Scorchers should the selectors decide against picking him for Sri Lanka Tests, with the squad likely to be named later this week. On the other hand, Webster would return to play for Melbourne Stars against Sydney Sixers on Thursday while remaining available for the return derby against Renegades on January 12. Test stars to feature in BBL Following the conclusion of the five-match Test series between India and Australia, several Test stars might turn up for their respective BBL franchise, with Steven Smith (Sydney Sixers), Sam Konstas (Sydney Thunder), Marnus Labuschagne (Brisbane Heat), Usman Khawaja (Brisbane Heat), Alex Carey (Adelaide Strikers), Nathan Lyon (Melbourne Renegades) and Sean Abbott (Sydney Sixers) being some of them. Scott Boland, the Player of the Match in the final Test, could be rested to manage his workload. Besides, most of these names will return to the Test side for the Sri Lanka series, for which the Aussies will have a week-long training camp in Dubai. (With inputs from agencies)

Mitchell Marsh to play for Perth Scorchers in BBL after three years

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting believes that India pacer Jasprit Bumrah's latest injury is more than 'back spasm.' Bumrah had left the field on day 2 of the final Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test in Sydney. The pacer also didn't bowl in the final innings of the Test which India lost by six wickets inside three days.
&ldquo;It seemed like a real worry for me," Ponting said on Channel 7. &ldquo;They said back spasms when he got back (to the SCG). [But] he&rsquo;s running up the stairs. He ran off the field. Those are not signs or symptoms of back spasms. I will keep my fingers crossed and hope it is. I would love to see him take further part in this game and not be out for an extended period of time again like he was with the stress fractures a couple of years ago."
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-spicy-scg-wicket-impresses-india-coach-gautam-gambhir-says-its-good-for-test-cricket-8594563">BGT - 'Spicy' SCG wicket impresses Gambhir, says &lsquo;it&rsquo;s good for Tests&rsquo;</a>
India pacer Prasidh Krishna had said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bgt-2024-25-injured-jasprit-bumrah-unlikely-to-bowl-in-last-innings-report-8590838">Bumrah 'had a back spasm'</a> after the end of play on day 2 at the press conference.
<h2>Only Bumrah Showed Up for India in BGT</h2>
The 31-year-old pacer was the only effective bowler for India in the BGT Down Under which the visitors <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/australia-beat-india-in-sydney-test-to-win-bgt-after-ten-years-qualify-for-wtc-final-2025-8592251" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">lost by 3-1 margin</a> with the third Test in Brisbane being a draw.
Bumrah was the Player of the Series for his 32 wickets - the most in the series. His wickets came at an average of 13 and a strike rate of 28. He took five wickets in an innings three times in the series along with two four-fors as well.
Bumrah's contribution can be highlighted by the fact that the second best India bowler in terms of wickets was Mohammed Siraj with 20 and Prasidh Krishna, who played only one Test, was third best with six wickets.
Bumrah <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-frustrated-jasprit-bumrah-takes-positives-from-series-defeat-against-australia-8592640" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">wasn't happy about 'missing out on the spiciest pitch'</a> of the series after he was ruled out of bowling from the last innings but acknowledged that one has to 'respect your body' at times.

Sports Cricket Jasprit Bumrah News: Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting says that the India pacer's injury he suffered in India vs Australia 5th Test is more than back spasm.

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting believes that India pacer Jasprit Bumrah's latest injury is more than 'back spasm.' Bumrah had left the field on day 2 of the final Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test in Sydney. The pacer also didn't bowl in the final innings of the Test which India lost by six wickets inside three days. “It seemed like a real worry for me," Ponting said on Channel 7. “They said back spasms when he got back (to the SCG). [But] he’s running up the stairs. He ran off the field. Those are not signs or symptoms of back spasms. I will keep my fingers crossed and hope it is. I would love to see him take further part in this game and not be out for an extended period of time again like he was with the stress fractures a couple of years ago." Also Read: BGT - 'Spicy' SCG wicket impresses Gambhir, says ‘it’s good for Tests’ India pacer Prasidh Krishna had said that Bumrah 'had a back spasm' after the end of play on day 2 at the press conference. Only Bumrah Showed Up for India in BGT The 31-year-old pacer was the only effective bowler for India in the BGT Down Under which the visitors lost by 3-1 margin with the third Test in Brisbane being a draw. Bumrah was the Player of the Series for his 32 wickets - the most in the series. His wickets came at an average of 13 and a strike rate of 28. He took five wickets in an innings three times in the series along with two four-fors as well. Bumrah's contribution can be highlighted by the fact that the second best India bowler in terms of wickets was Mohammed Siraj with 20 and Prasidh Krishna, who played only one Test, was third best with six wickets. Bumrah wasn't happy about 'missing out on the spiciest pitch' of the series after he was ruled out of bowling from the last innings but acknowledged that one has to 'respect your body' at times.

'Real worry,' says Ricky Ponting on Jasprit Bumrah's back spasm

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar slammed India's team selection after their 1-3 Test series loss to Australia on Day 3 of the fifth and final Test at the SCG, Sydney on Sunday (Jan 5). India lost the five-match Test series and conceded the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) for the first time since 2017. Manjrekar, thus, criticised the team combination for India during the marquee series, especially pointing out Washington Sundar's inclusion in the XI for the series finale in Sydney.
<h2>'India didn't have a single player who was played because of his second skill'</h2>
"It's crazy when you think of an important place in that Indian Test XI in a marquee series. Barring that fifty, Washington Sundar hasn't contributed with the bat much. I think he's a highly talented bowler. But, he has a place when the pitch is turning overseas. And with Jadeja already there, Nitish Kumar Reddy as well, plus Washington Sundar as well. I thought his selection was a blunder on a pitch like this," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/border-gavaskar-trophy-2024-25-truth-is-we-are-just-white-ball-bullies-former-player-slams-india-after-test-series-loss-vs-australia-8595455" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT: 'Truth is we are just white-ball bullies,' Former player SLAMS India after Test series loss vs Australia</a>
"The last two tours to Australia, India didn't have a single player who was played because of his second skill. They always focused on his main skill and that was good enough to get him into the side. The other skill was a bonus. Here, I thought India went the England way, when England was not winning," he further added.
Talking about Sundar, the left-arm spinner&mdash;who had a great run in India's forgettable Test series versus New Zealand at home&mdash;he ended with three wickets, bowling only 37 overs in the series (playing three Tests). He returned with 114 runs with the bat, including a handy fifty in the fourth and penultimate Test at the MCG, Melbourne.
India will now shift their focus on the 2025 Champions Trophy, which kicks off next month in Pakistan and the UAE. Their next Test assignment is in July in England, comprising five Tests.
<div id="teads-ad"></div>
<div id="div-gpt-ad-1663140560142-0" data-google-query-id="CKa8zODm4IoDFSGpZgId0LYVDA"></div>

Cricket, Sports | Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25: Sanjay Manjrekar lashed out at India's team selection after their 1-3 series loss versus Australia on Sunday (Jan 5). 

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar slammed India's team selection after their 1-3 Test series loss to Australia on Day 3 of the fifth and final Test at the SCG, Sydney on Sunday (Jan 5). India lost the five-match Test series and conceded the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) for the first time since 2017. Manjrekar, thus, criticised the team combination for India during the marquee series, especially pointing out Washington Sundar's inclusion in the XI for the series finale in Sydney. 'India didn't have a single player who was played because of his second skill' "It's crazy when you think of an important place in that Indian Test XI in a marquee series. Barring that fifty, Washington Sundar hasn't contributed with the bat much. I think he's a highly talented bowler. But, he has a place when the pitch is turning overseas. And with Jadeja already there, Nitish Kumar Reddy as well, plus Washington Sundar as well. I thought his selection was a blunder on a pitch like this," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo. Also read: BGT: 'Truth is we are just white-ball bullies,' Former player SLAMS India after Test series loss vs Australia "The last two tours to Australia, India didn't have a single player who was played because of his second skill. They always focused on his main skill and that was good enough to get him into the side. The other skill was a bonus. Here, I thought India went the England way, when England was not winning," he further added. Talking about Sundar, the left-arm spinner—who had a great run in India's forgettable Test series versus New Zealand at home—he ended with three wickets, bowling only 37 overs in the series (playing three Tests). He returned with 114 runs with the bat, including a handy fifty in the fourth and penultimate Test at the MCG, Melbourne. India will now shift their focus on the 2025 Champions Trophy, which kicks off next month in Pakistan and the UAE. Their next Test assignment is in July in England, comprising five Tests.

BGT: 'It's crazy when...', Manjrekar criticises India's team selection after series loss vs Australia

Former Indian player Mohammed Kaif slammed the national side following their 1-3 Test series loss to Australia on Day 3 of the fifth and final Test at the SCG, Sydney, on Sunday (Jan 5). Setting a 162-run target for the hosts, India suffered a six-wicket loss to concede a 3-1 lead to Pat Cummins &amp; Co. and lose the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) for the first time since 2017. Kaif regarded the team as 'white-ball bullies' and lashed out at them for missing domestic cricket.
<h2>'If we have to win WTC, then players will have to play domestic cricket'</h2>
Kaif said in a video posted on his social media page, "On 23rd February India will earn a lot of praise by beating Pakistan (in Champions Trophy) and everyone will say we are a champion team in white-ball cricket. But if India want to team the World Test Championship then we will have to make a Test match team, will have to learn to play on seaming tracks. The truth is that we are just white-ball bullies. We are lagging too far behind. If we have to win WTC, then players will have to play domestic cricket on turning tracks, will have to practice on seaming tracks, otherwise we will not be able to win."
<div id="checktheseout2" class="checktheseout2">
<div class="story__recommended__chunk">
<div class="recommended__story">Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jasprit-bumrah-to-be-rohit-sharmas-deputy-in-champions-trophy-2025-report-8595262" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Jasprit Bumrah to be Rohit&rsquo;s deputy in Champions Trophy 2025 &ndash; Report</a></div>
<div class="recommended__story">
Kaif added, "India lost 1-3, and I think this is a wake-up call, because now we have to pay our attention towards Test cricket. It's not just Gautam Gambhir who is at fault. All players get the chance to play Ranji Trophy, but it gets tiresome for the players and they prefer rest over playing Ranji Trophy. They don't play Ranji Trophy, they don't play practice matches then how will they become better players? It's tough to play on turning tracks in India and tougher to play on seaming tracks in Australia and South Africa. So if you don't practice well, WTC will keep eluding you. What has happened, it has happened for the good and now Team India needs to work hard in Test cricket."
In the last 10 Tests, India have lost six and won only three (with two against Bangladesh at home). Rohit Sharma-led side were whitewashed by New Zealand in a three-match series at home before conceding the BGT to Australia.
At present, their focus will shift to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 edition, which kicks off next month in Pakistan and the UAE. India's next Test assignment is a five-match Test series versus England in England. It will be interesting to see what all changes India makes in the red-ball side by then.
</div>
</div>
</div>

Cricket, Sports | Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25: 'Truth is we are just white-ball bullies,' Former player SLAMS India after Test series loss vs Australia 

Former Indian player Mohammed Kaif slammed the national side following their 1-3 Test series loss to Australia on Day 3 of the fifth and final Test at the SCG, Sydney, on Sunday (Jan 5). Setting a 162-run target for the hosts, India suffered a six-wicket loss to concede a 3-1 lead to Pat Cummins & Co. and lose the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) for the first time since 2017. Kaif regarded the team as 'white-ball bullies' and lashed out at them for missing domestic cricket. 'If we have to win WTC, then players will have to play domestic cricket' Kaif said in a video posted on his social media page, "On 23rd February India will earn a lot of praise by beating Pakistan (in Champions Trophy) and everyone will say we are a champion team in white-ball cricket. But if India want to team the World Test Championship then we will have to make a Test match team, will have to learn to play on seaming tracks. The truth is that we are just white-ball bullies. We are lagging too far behind. If we have to win WTC, then players will have to play domestic cricket on turning tracks, will have to practice on seaming tracks, otherwise we will not be able to win." Also read: Jasprit Bumrah to be Rohit’s deputy in Champions Trophy 2025 – Report Kaif added, "India lost 1-3, and I think this is a wake-up call, because now we have to pay our attention towards Test cricket. It's not just Gautam Gambhir who is at fault. All players get the chance to play Ranji Trophy, but it gets tiresome for the players and they prefer rest over playing Ranji Trophy. They don't play Ranji Trophy, they don't play practice matches then how will they become better players? It's tough to play on turning tracks in India and tougher to play on seaming tracks in Australia and South Africa. So if you don't practice well, WTC will keep eluding you. What has happened, it has happened for the good and now Team India needs to work hard in Test cricket." In the last 10 Tests, India have lost six and won only three (with two against Bangladesh at home). Rohit Sharma-led side were whitewashed by New Zealand in a three-match series at home before conceding the BGT to Australia. At present, their focus will shift to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 edition, which kicks off next month in Pakistan and the UAE. India's next Test assignment is a five-match Test series versus England in England. It will be interesting to see what all changes India makes in the red-ball side by then.

BGT: 'Truth is we are just white-ball bullies,' Former player SLAMS India after Test series loss vs Australia

Ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah will be Team India&rsquo;s vice-captain for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 should he remain fit, reports said. Bumrah played no role in the fourth innings of the just-concluded SCG Test due to a back spasm. India lost the match by six wickets, conceding the BGT and the chance to seal direct qualification for the WTC Final 2025.
Though neither the team management nor the board has officially communicated any update on Bumrah&rsquo;s injury, the Indian quick might attain full fitness for the eight-team tournament scheduled for the February 19 start.&nbsp;
Regular captain Rohit Sharma will lead the Men in Blue.
Meanwhile, Pakistan and UAE will co-host the mega tournament.
While Pakistan will play all its matches in their country, including the knockouts (subject to qualification), India&rsquo;s games will take place in Dubai, including the semis and the final, should they qualify.
Pakistan was supposed to host the entire tournament, but BCCI&rsquo;s official refusal to send its team across the border due to security concerns forced the ICC to rope in an alternative venue.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-cricket-australia-and-ecb-in-talks-with-icc-chair-jay-shah-over-potential-test-structure-split-report-8594969" rel="dofollow">Cricket's Big 3 in talks with ICC chair over potential Test structure split - Report</a>
Though it took longer for the apex body to have everyone on the same page, adapting the hybrid model for all ICC tournaments till 2028 was the deal-breaker. This formula means neither India will travel to Pakistan for any tournament till that window, nor will Pakistan come to India for any ICC event or even Asia Cup, with the concerned parent body to bring in an alternative venue every time.
Meanwhile, eight teams are divided into two groups. India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and New Zealand are in Group A, while Australia, South Africa, England and Afghanistan are in Group B.
India will play the tournament opener against Bangladesh on February 19, with the marquee clash against Pakistan scheduled for February 23. India&rsquo;s last group match will be against New Zealand on March 2, with Dubai hosting all India matches.
<h2>Contrasting BGT for Rohit, Bumrah</h2>
Rohit and Bumrah had contrasting outings against Australia.&nbsp;
Bumrah, who led the team in two Tests, the first Test in Perth and the final one at the SCG, picked 32 wickets in nine innings &ndash; the most by an Indian bowler in a single edition Down Under. He also topped the wickets chart across teams; winning captain Pat Cummins was second with 25 scalps.
On the other hand, Rohit had a forgettable tour.
Having missed the series opener at the Optus Stadium for personal reasons, Rohit returned to the playing XI from the next Test onwards.
That, however, was the beginning of his horrid outing Down Under.&nbsp;
Playing three Tests, Rohit scored just 31 runs, averaging just above ten. Because of his poor form, Rohit sat out of the final Test in Sydney, as Bumrah captained in his absence.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: Champions Trophy 2025 - Pakistan will play all its matches in their country, while all India games, including the knockouts, will take place in Dubai. 

Ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah will be Team India’s vice-captain for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 should he remain fit, reports said. Bumrah played no role in the fourth innings of the just-concluded SCG Test due to a back spasm. India lost the match by six wickets, conceding the BGT and the chance to seal direct qualification for the WTC Final 2025. Though neither the team management nor the board has officially communicated any update on Bumrah’s injury, the Indian quick might attain full fitness for the eight-team tournament scheduled for the February 19 start. Regular captain Rohit Sharma will lead the Men in Blue. Meanwhile, Pakistan and UAE will co-host the mega tournament. While Pakistan will play all its matches in their country, including the knockouts (subject to qualification), India’s games will take place in Dubai, including the semis and the final, should they qualify. Pakistan was supposed to host the entire tournament, but BCCI’s official refusal to send its team across the border due to security concerns forced the ICC to rope in an alternative venue. Also read | Cricket's Big 3 in talks with ICC chair over potential Test structure split - Report Though it took longer for the apex body to have everyone on the same page, adapting the hybrid model for all ICC tournaments till 2028 was the deal-breaker. This formula means neither India will travel to Pakistan for any tournament till that window, nor will Pakistan come to India for any ICC event or even Asia Cup, with the concerned parent body to bring in an alternative venue every time. Meanwhile, eight teams are divided into two groups. India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and New Zealand are in Group A, while Australia, South Africa, England and Afghanistan are in Group B. India will play the tournament opener against Bangladesh on February 19, with the marquee clash against Pakistan scheduled for February 23. India’s last group match will be against New Zealand on March 2, with Dubai hosting all India matches. Contrasting BGT for Rohit, Bumrah Rohit and Bumrah had contrasting outings against Australia. Bumrah, who led the team in two Tests, the first Test in Perth and the final one at the SCG, picked 32 wickets in nine innings – the most by an Indian bowler in a single edition Down Under. He also topped the wickets chart across teams; winning captain Pat Cummins was second with 25 scalps. On the other hand, Rohit had a forgettable tour. Having missed the series opener at the Optus Stadium for personal reasons, Rohit returned to the playing XI from the next Test onwards. That, however, was the beginning of his horrid outing Down Under. Playing three Tests, Rohit scored just 31 runs, averaging just above ten. Because of his poor form, Rohit sat out of the final Test in Sydney, as Bumrah captained in his absence. (With inputs from agencies)

Jasprit Bumrah to be Rohit’s deputy in Champions Trophy 2025 – Report

A day after the conclusion of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 &ndash; the fourth best-attended Test series Down Under and reportedly the most-watched one of all time - reports said that cricket&rsquo;s Big 3 &ndash; India, Australia and England are in talks with the new ICC chair Jay Shah on formulating a two-tier Test cricket structure.
Shah would meet Cricket Australia (CA) chair Mike Baird and Richard Thompson of the England Cricket Board later this month. Discussion on splitting Tests into two is on the agenda, as per the reports.
The purpose, however, is to ensure India, Australia and England can play each other often &ndash; a push coming from the record crowds and broadcast audiences for the BGT.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-spicy-scg-wicket-impresses-india-coach-gautam-gambhir-says-its-good-for-test-cricket-8594563" rel="dofollow">BGT - 'Spicy' SCG wicket impresses Gambhir, says &lsquo;it&rsquo;s good for Tests&rsquo;</a>
Although nothing is on record, if things go according to plan, a two-division Test cricket structure will get underway after the Future Tours Program (FTP) in 2027, which will also host the 150th Anniversary Test between England and Australia in March of that year.
Several influential cricket personalities like Ravi Shastri have indicated the same earlier, saying that with the rapid growth of franchise-based T20 Leagues worldwide, the &lsquo;best versus the best&rsquo; in Tests can help the oldest format sustain in a packed cricket calendar.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;ve been a firm believer in that if you want Test cricket to survive and be alive and thriving, I think that&rsquo;s the way to go,&rdquo; Shastri said in a chat with SEN during the SCG Test. &ldquo;The top teams play against each other more often, so there is a contest; you want contests.&rdquo;
<h2>More &lsquo;best vs best&rsquo; matches</h2>
Given a significant disparity between the quality, revenue and engagement of top-tier teams and those languishing at the bottom of the current World Test Championship (WTC) table and on Test rankings, the two-division Test structure could be a way forward.
Should India, Australia and England be let go of facing others more often, they would be taking on each other at least twice in three years rather than twice in four years under the current cycle.
The idea of a two-division Test structure was floated around 2016, where the top seven teams will make up the top tier, while five in the second.
The then BCCI head Anurag Thakur snubbed this idea, saying this would cut smaller nations&rsquo; right to enter the exclusive Test cricket club.
&ldquo;The BCCI is against the two-tier Test system because the smaller countries will lose out, and the BCCI wants to take care of them. It is necessary to protect their interests.
&ldquo;In the two-tier system, they will lose out on a lot, including revenue and the opportunity to play against top teams. We don&rsquo;t want that to happen. We want to work in the best interests of world cricket, and that is why our team plays against all the countries,&rdquo; Thakur said in 2016.
Back then, the BCCI, Sri Lanka Cricket, the BCB and Zimbabwe Cricket opposed the proposal, while Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand, Pakistan and West Indies supported it.
Eventually, it couldn&rsquo;t come into reality.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: Big 3 of international cricket - India, Australia and England would play more often should the Test structure be divided into two divisions. 

A day after the conclusion of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 – the fourth best-attended Test series Down Under and reportedly the most-watched one of all time - reports said that cricket’s Big 3 – India, Australia and England are in talks with the new ICC chair Jay Shah on formulating a two-tier Test cricket structure. Shah would meet Cricket Australia (CA) chair Mike Baird and Richard Thompson of the England Cricket Board later this month. Discussion on splitting Tests into two is on the agenda, as per the reports. The purpose, however, is to ensure India, Australia and England can play each other often – a push coming from the record crowds and broadcast audiences for the BGT. Also read | BGT - 'Spicy' SCG wicket impresses Gambhir, says ‘it’s good for Tests’ Although nothing is on record, if things go according to plan, a two-division Test cricket structure will get underway after the Future Tours Program (FTP) in 2027, which will also host the 150th Anniversary Test between England and Australia in March of that year. Several influential cricket personalities like Ravi Shastri have indicated the same earlier, saying that with the rapid growth of franchise-based T20 Leagues worldwide, the ‘best versus the best’ in Tests can help the oldest format sustain in a packed cricket calendar. “I’ve been a firm believer in that if you want Test cricket to survive and be alive and thriving, I think that’s the way to go,” Shastri said in a chat with SEN during the SCG Test. “The top teams play against each other more often, so there is a contest; you want contests.” More ‘best vs best’ matches Given a significant disparity between the quality, revenue and engagement of top-tier teams and those languishing at the bottom of the current World Test Championship (WTC) table and on Test rankings, the two-division Test structure could be a way forward. Should India, Australia and England be let go of facing others more often, they would be taking on each other at least twice in three years rather than twice in four years under the current cycle. The idea of a two-division Test structure was floated around 2016, where the top seven teams will make up the top tier, while five in the second. The then BCCI head Anurag Thakur snubbed this idea, saying this would cut smaller nations’ right to enter the exclusive Test cricket club. “The BCCI is against the two-tier Test system because the smaller countries will lose out, and the BCCI wants to take care of them. It is necessary to protect their interests. “In the two-tier system, they will lose out on a lot, including revenue and the opportunity to play against top teams. We don’t want that to happen. We want to work in the best interests of world cricket, and that is why our team plays against all the countries,” Thakur said in 2016. Back then, the BCCI, Sri Lanka Cricket, the BCB and Zimbabwe Cricket opposed the proposal, while Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand, Pakistan and West Indies supported it. Eventually, it couldn’t come into reality. (With inputs from agencies)

Cricket's Big 3 in talks with ICC chair over potential Test structure split - Report

Babar Azam might have returned to form with twin fifties against South Africa in the Newlands Test in Cape Town, but someone seemed to be irked with that. During the 32nd over of Pakistan&rsquo;s second innings on day three, Protean seamer Wiaan Mulder&rsquo;s wild return throw hit Babar&rsquo;s foot, which fueled a verbal confrontation, leading to Babar losing his cool over the incident while walking towards Mulder.
Babar played a straight drive for Mulder to grab it in his follow-through and throw it back, only for the ball to hit Babar&rsquo;s right foot, which was far from the wicket.
Babar, however, was out of his crease, with South African keeper-batter Kyle Verreynne attempting a Carey-Bairstow throw upon collecting the ball.
Mulder, seemingly frustrated with an unbeaten stand, recorded saying to Babar, 'You were out of your crease,' explaining his wild throw.
<h3>Watch Video &ndash;</h3>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5km3fge-9ndoy1ng-lcojtskm">
Fight moment between Babar Azam and Wiaan Mulder. 🥵 Wiaan Mulder unnecessary throws the ball at Babar Azam &amp; showing him verbal aggression. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BabarAzam%F0%93%83%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BabarAzam𓃵</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvsSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvsSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/PZnPNTWELZ">pic.twitter.com/PZnPNTWELZ</a>
&mdash; Ahtasham Riaz (@ahtashamriaz22) <a href="https://twitter.com/ahtashamriaz22/status/1875922601970933981?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Pakistan alive in second Test</h2>
South Africa batted first at the Newlands, hitting a whopping 615 in the first innings, thanks to three centurions &ndash; Ryan Rickelton (259), skipper Temba Bavuma (106) and Verreynne, who hit a hundred.&nbsp;
The hosts floored Pakistan in the first innings, wrapping them up on a mere 194 inside 55 overs, with Babar being their top scorer (58).&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-spicy-scg-wicket-impresses-india-coach-gautam-gambhir-says-its-good-for-test-cricket-8594563" rel="dofollow">BGT - 'Spicy' SCG wicket impresses Gambhir, says &lsquo;it&rsquo;s good for Tests&rsquo;</a>
The right-handed batter entered this match with a fifty in the series opener in Centurion, his first in the format since December 2022.
Out of form for an extended period, with his last international hundred coming in August 2023 (against Nepal in Asia Cup), Babar looked determined to turn his fortune in the second innings after South Africa enforced a follow-on.&nbsp;
With regular opener Saim Ayub ruled out of the ongoing Test with an injured ankle, Babar opened with Masood in both innings for the first time in Tests. Though his first shot at this position fetched him some runs, his knock in the second innings cheered up the Pakistan dressing room and million fans watching worldwide.
The pair made merry on day three, hitting runs for fun and cutting the deficit. While captain Masood completed his hundred, staying unbeaten on 102 at stumps, Babar missed out on his, getting out on 82.&nbsp;
Their 205-run stand for the first wicket broke several records, including the most runs for the opening pair while following on in Tests. It also is the second-highest partnership for any wicket for Pakistan against South Africa in Tests and fourth overall while following on for any pair.
Speaking on his poor shot selection, which led to his wicket, Babar said he should&rsquo;ve capitalised on his chance but feels unfortunate to miss out.
"I should have capitalised during our partnership, but unfortunately, it didn't happen. In the second innings, my partnership with Shan has helped us come back into the game a little. Tomorrow, we have to try and build a partnership, and the longer those partnerships are the more pressure there'll be on South Africa,&rdquo; Babar said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: Pakistan is 213 for one at stumps on day three, with captain Masood batting at unbeaten 102. The visitors are trailing behind by 208 runs with nine wickets left. 

Babar Azam might have returned to form with twin fifties against South Africa in the Newlands Test in Cape Town, but someone seemed to be irked with that. During the 32nd over of Pakistan’s second innings on day three, Protean seamer Wiaan Mulder’s wild return throw hit Babar’s foot, which fueled a verbal confrontation, leading to Babar losing his cool over the incident while walking towards Mulder. Babar played a straight drive for Mulder to grab it in his follow-through and throw it back, only for the ball to hit Babar’s right foot, which was far from the wicket. Babar, however, was out of his crease, with South African keeper-batter Kyle Verreynne attempting a Carey-Bairstow throw upon collecting the ball. Mulder, seemingly frustrated with an unbeaten stand, recorded saying to Babar, 'You were out of your crease,' explaining his wild throw. Watch Video – Fight moment between Babar Azam and Wiaan Mulder. 🥵 Wiaan Mulder unnecessary throws the ball at Babar Azam & showing him verbal aggression. #BabarAzam𓃵 #PAKvsSA #SAvPAK pic.twitter.com/PZnPNTWELZ — Ahtasham Riaz (@ahtashamriaz22) January 5, 2025 Pakistan alive in second Test South Africa batted first at the Newlands, hitting a whopping 615 in the first innings, thanks to three centurions – Ryan Rickelton (259), skipper Temba Bavuma (106) and Verreynne, who hit a hundred. The hosts floored Pakistan in the first innings, wrapping them up on a mere 194 inside 55 overs, with Babar being their top scorer (58). Also read | BGT - 'Spicy' SCG wicket impresses Gambhir, says ‘it’s good for Tests’ The right-handed batter entered this match with a fifty in the series opener in Centurion, his first in the format since December 2022. Out of form for an extended period, with his last international hundred coming in August 2023 (against Nepal in Asia Cup), Babar looked determined to turn his fortune in the second innings after South Africa enforced a follow-on. With regular opener Saim Ayub ruled out of the ongoing Test with an injured ankle, Babar opened with Masood in both innings for the first time in Tests. Though his first shot at this position fetched him some runs, his knock in the second innings cheered up the Pakistan dressing room and million fans watching worldwide. The pair made merry on day three, hitting runs for fun and cutting the deficit. While captain Masood completed his hundred, staying unbeaten on 102 at stumps, Babar missed out on his, getting out on 82. Their 205-run stand for the first wicket broke several records, including the most runs for the opening pair while following on in Tests. It also is the second-highest partnership for any wicket for Pakistan against South Africa in Tests and fourth overall while following on for any pair. Speaking on his poor shot selection, which led to his wicket, Babar said he should’ve capitalised on his chance but feels unfortunate to miss out. "I should have capitalised during our partnership, but unfortunately, it didn't happen. In the second innings, my partnership with Shan has helped us come back into the game a little. Tomorrow, we have to try and build a partnership, and the longer those partnerships are the more pressure there'll be on South Africa,” Babar said. (With inputs from agencies)

Babar Azam loses cool over wild throw during Newlands Test - Watch

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir was impressed with the wicket on offer in the just concluded New Year&rsquo;s Test in Sydney, which Australia won by six wickets inside three days. Even though India conceded the BGT for the first time since 2017 and the chance to qualify for the WTC Final 2025, Gambhir voiced for such wickets in Tests, saying it keeps the format alive and exciting.
Speaking to the media after the conclusion of the fifth and final match of the series, Gambhir said the SCG track had something for everyone, adding there was enough for both bowlers and batters to extract purchase. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jasprit-bumrah-news-india-vs-australia-5th-test-never-met-anyone-so-arrogant-says-aussie-usman-khawaja-about-india-pacer-8593869" rel="dofollow">'Never met anyone so arrogant,' Aussie Usman Khawaja on Jasprit Bumrah</a>
"It's been some really nice wickets (overall in the series). It's good for Test cricket. There was enough for the bowlers and enough for batters as well. This is how Test cricket needs to be played, (on) result-oriented wickets. We talk a lot about turning pitches back home. This was as spicy as what we get back home," Gambhir said at the post-match presser in Sydney.&nbsp;
<h2>SCG surface &lsquo;not ideal&rsquo;</h2>
However, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar had contrasting views on the track, which saw 15 wickets fall on day two of the decisive fifth Test.&nbsp; Surprised with the amount of grass on it on day one, Gavaskar opined such pitches lead to the game ending quickly, labelling it &lsquo;not ideal&rsquo; for the five-day format.
"When I saw the pitch, I did say the cows could have gone and grazed on it," Sunil Gavaskar said on ABC Radio. "This is not the pitch you want because you want it to go to the fourth or fifth day. Former players who've played here were so surprised. If 15 wickets fell a day in India, there would be hell.&rdquo;
"Everything boils down to the temperament and how much you want to play out those tough moments. Test cricket is all about playing out the sessions; seeing off a (good) spell. That's one issue we need to look at, how we can convert those 40s into big hundreds and set the game for our bowlers,&rdquo; the veteran batter added.
Meanwhile, India and Australia made changes to their playing XI for the series decider. While regular Indian captain Rohit Sharma opted out from the&nbsp;final match due to poor form, with Shubman Gill replacing him, Australia sat Mitchell Marsh while handing a debut Test cap to lanky all-rounder Beau Webster.
The newcomer had a memorable outing, scoring his maiden international fifty in the first innings and later hitting the winning runs for his team, remaining unbeaten on 39. Besides, he also returned with one wicket, enough to help Australia reclaim the BGT after ten years.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: Even though India conceded the BGT for the first time since 2017, Gambhir voiced for such wickets in Tests, saying it keeps the format alive and exciting.

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir was impressed with the wicket on offer in the just concluded New Year’s Test in Sydney, which Australia won by six wickets inside three days. Even though India conceded the BGT for the first time since 2017 and the chance to qualify for the WTC Final 2025, Gambhir voiced for such wickets in Tests, saying it keeps the format alive and exciting. Speaking to the media after the conclusion of the fifth and final match of the series, Gambhir said the SCG track had something for everyone, adding there was enough for both bowlers and batters to extract purchase. Also read | 'Never met anyone so arrogant,' Aussie Usman Khawaja on Jasprit Bumrah "It's been some really nice wickets (overall in the series). It's good for Test cricket. There was enough for the bowlers and enough for batters as well. This is how Test cricket needs to be played, (on) result-oriented wickets. We talk a lot about turning pitches back home. This was as spicy as what we get back home," Gambhir said at the post-match presser in Sydney. SCG surface ‘not ideal’ However, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar had contrasting views on the track, which saw 15 wickets fall on day two of the decisive fifth Test. Surprised with the amount of grass on it on day one, Gavaskar opined such pitches lead to the game ending quickly, labelling it ‘not ideal’ for the five-day format. "When I saw the pitch, I did say the cows could have gone and grazed on it," Sunil Gavaskar said on ABC Radio. "This is not the pitch you want because you want it to go to the fourth or fifth day. Former players who've played here were so surprised. If 15 wickets fell a day in India, there would be hell.” "Everything boils down to the temperament and how much you want to play out those tough moments. Test cricket is all about playing out the sessions; seeing off a (good) spell. That's one issue we need to look at, how we can convert those 40s into big hundreds and set the game for our bowlers,” the veteran batter added. Meanwhile, India and Australia made changes to their playing XI for the series decider. While regular Indian captain Rohit Sharma opted out from the final match due to poor form, with Shubman Gill replacing him, Australia sat Mitchell Marsh while handing a debut Test cap to lanky all-rounder Beau Webster. The newcomer had a memorable outing, scoring his maiden international fifty in the first innings and later hitting the winning runs for his team, remaining unbeaten on 39. Besides, he also returned with one wicket, enough to help Australia reclaim the BGT after ten years. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT - 'Spicy' SCG wicket impresses Gambhir, says ‘it’s good for Tests’

Australia batter Usman Khawaja says that he's never met anyone 'as arrogant as Jasprit Bumrah.' Khawaja made the comments after Australia won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) after winning the Sydney Test on Sunday (Jan 5). Bumrah, however, was absent from Australia's second innings owing to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bgt-2024-25-injured-jasprit-bumrah-unlikely-to-bowl-in-last-innings-report-8590838">back injury he sustained</a> during the first innings.&nbsp;
"I've never met anyone so arrogant but so endearing at the same time. He's a very lovable character. He's got this sense of being arrogant but saying it with a smile on his face," said Khawaja on ABC Sport after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/australia-beat-india-in-sydney-test-to-win-bgt-after-ten-years-qualify-for-wtc-final-2025-8592251">Australia took BGT 3-1</a>.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-vs-australia-5th-test-sydney-cricket-australia-reacts-to-not-inviting-sunil-gavaskar-for-trophy-ceremony-8593715">BGT: Cricket Australia reacts to Sunil Gavaskar's award ceremony snub</a>
Khawaja also expressed sigh of relief on Bumrah not bowling in Australia's second innings. Khawaja got 41 runs as Australia chased 163-run target with ease. This was the southpaw's only second 40-plus score in the series of five Test.
"I was just getting Bumrah'd. It's a shame he was (injured) but thank god for us. Today would've been an absolute nightmare facing him on that wicket. As soon as we didn't see him out there, we thought 'alright, we've got a chance here'. He's the toughest bowler I've ever faced," the batter said.
<h2>Jasprit Bumrah rewrites records in BGT</h2>
Bumrah was the only Indian bowler to show up in the series - taking 32 wickets in 9 innings he bowled that too at an average of just 13.06. Bumrah's strike rate was 28 throughout the series, with three five-for and two four-for.
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-frustrated-jasprit-bumrah-takes-positives-from-series-defeat-against-australia-8592640">pacer, however, was disappointed</a> for missing out bowling 'on the liveliest series of the series.'
"A little frustrating, but sometimes you have to respect your body. You can't fight your body," said Bumrah. "A little disappointing that I probably missed out on the spiciest wicket of the series, but that's the way it is. I felt a bit of discomfort during my second spell in the first innings," he added.

Sports Cricket Jasprit Bumrah news Aussie Usman Khawaja says he was happy that India pacer didn't bowl in second innings of India vs Australia 5th Test.

Australia batter Usman Khawaja says that he's never met anyone 'as arrogant as Jasprit Bumrah.' Khawaja made the comments after Australia won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) after winning the Sydney Test on Sunday (Jan 5). Bumrah, however, was absent from Australia's second innings owing to the back injury he sustained during the first innings. "I've never met anyone so arrogant but so endearing at the same time. He's a very lovable character. He's got this sense of being arrogant but saying it with a smile on his face," said Khawaja on ABC Sport after Australia took BGT 3-1. Also Read: BGT: Cricket Australia reacts to Sunil Gavaskar's award ceremony snub Khawaja also expressed sigh of relief on Bumrah not bowling in Australia's second innings. Khawaja got 41 runs as Australia chased 163-run target with ease. This was the southpaw's only second 40-plus score in the series of five Test. "I was just getting Bumrah'd. It's a shame he was (injured) but thank god for us. Today would've been an absolute nightmare facing him on that wicket. As soon as we didn't see him out there, we thought 'alright, we've got a chance here'. He's the toughest bowler I've ever faced," the batter said. Jasprit Bumrah rewrites records in BGT Bumrah was the only Indian bowler to show up in the series - taking 32 wickets in 9 innings he bowled that too at an average of just 13.06. Bumrah's strike rate was 28 throughout the series, with three five-for and two four-for. The pacer, however, was disappointed for missing out bowling 'on the liveliest series of the series.' "A little frustrating, but sometimes you have to respect your body. You can't fight your body," said Bumrah. "A little disappointing that I probably missed out on the spiciest wicket of the series, but that's the way it is. I felt a bit of discomfort during my second spell in the first innings," he added.

'Never met anyone so arrogant,' Aussie Usman Khawaja on Jasprit Bumrah

Cricket Australia has acknowledged the controversy around not inviting Sunil Gavaskar for the trophy ceremony of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) on Sunday (Jan 5). Australia skipper Pat Cummins was given the trophy by Allan Border - one half of the BGT.
"We acknowledge it would have been preferable if both Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar had been asked to go on stage," a CA spokesperson said in a statement regarding Gavaskar's snub.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-we-dont-know-cricket-we-just-speak-sunil-gavaskar-livid-with-indias-performance-down-under-8592966">&lsquo;We don&rsquo;t know cricket...,&rsquo; Gavaskar livid with India&rsquo;s poor BGT show</a>
<h2>Sunil Gavaskar calls out BGT Award Ceremony snub</h2>
The former India skipper was a key presenter throughout the series, but being left out from the award ceremony didn't sit well with him.
"I certainly would have loved to have been there for the presentation. After all, it is the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and it is about Australia and India," Gavaskar was quoted as saying by Code Sports after Australia win in Sydney.
"I mean, I am here on the ground. To me it should not matter that Australia won when it comes to the presentation. They played better cricket, so they won. That's fine."
"Just because I am an Indian. I would have been happy to present the trophy with my good friend Allan Border," he added.
The five-Test series ended with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/australia-beat-india-in-sydney-test-to-win-bgt-after-ten-years-qualify-for-wtc-final-2025-8592251">India losing 1-3</a> as Australia regained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after 10 years. With the series win, Australia also booked their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against South Africa.
Among the many reasons for India's loss was the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-retirement-news-sanjay-manjrekar-says-playing-for-india-not-rohit-decision-8593625">poor run of form for Rohit Sharma</a>. Besides, Virat Kohli was the biggest dark spot for India.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohli-news-pat-cummins-reacts-on-virat-kohli-not-able-to-tour-australia-again-bgt-india-vs-australia-8593395">Virat Kohli</a> scored 190 runs in nine innings across five Tests at an average of 23.75. Over half of Kohli's runs came in one innings when he scored 100 not out in second innings in Perth. Skipper Rohit also failed miserably in the series, scoring just 31 runs in five innings across three Tests at an average of 6.20.&nbsp;

Sports Cricket Cricket Australia acknowledged the controversy around not inviting Sunil Gavaskar for BGT trophy ceremony after India vs Australia 5th Test.

Cricket Australia has acknowledged the controversy around not inviting Sunil Gavaskar for the trophy ceremony of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) on Sunday (Jan 5). Australia skipper Pat Cummins was given the trophy by Allan Border - one half of the BGT. "We acknowledge it would have been preferable if both Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar had been asked to go on stage," a CA spokesperson said in a statement regarding Gavaskar's snub. Also Read: ‘We don’t know cricket...,’ Gavaskar livid with India’s poor BGT show Sunil Gavaskar calls out BGT Award Ceremony snub The former India skipper was a key presenter throughout the series, but being left out from the award ceremony didn't sit well with him. "I certainly would have loved to have been there for the presentation. After all, it is the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and it is about Australia and India," Gavaskar was quoted as saying by Code Sports after Australia win in Sydney. "I mean, I am here on the ground. To me it should not matter that Australia won when it comes to the presentation. They played better cricket, so they won. That's fine." "Just because I am an Indian. I would have been happy to present the trophy with my good friend Allan Border," he added. The five-Test series ended with India losing 1-3 as Australia regained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after 10 years. With the series win, Australia also booked their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against South Africa. Among the many reasons for India's loss was the poor run of form for Rohit Sharma. Besides, Virat Kohli was the biggest dark spot for India. Virat Kohli scored 190 runs in nine innings across five Tests at an average of 23.75. Over half of Kohli's runs came in one innings when he scored 100 not out in second innings in Perth. Skipper Rohit also failed miserably in the series, scoring just 31 runs in five innings across three Tests at an average of 6.20.

BGT: Cricket Australia reacts to Sunil Gavaskar's award ceremony snub

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar says that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/sports/7-best-innings-of-rohit-sharma-in-odis-ft-264-vs-sri-lanka-8589453">Rohit Sharma</a> might find it difficult to get a place in the Test side if his form doesn't improve soon. Manjrekar also opined that being in the test side is not Rohit's decision; instead, it lies with the selectors. The comments come after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-this-is-not-a-retirement-decision-rohit-sharma-breaks-silence-on-scg-test-omission-8590113">Rohit opted to sit out of the Sydney Test</a> in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) due to a poor run of form.
"One thing that a lot of players say is that &lsquo;I will decide my future'. I have a problem with that. You can decide your future with regards to retirement, but somebody else has got the job to decide your future as a player and captain," said Manjrekar during the post-match show on official broadcaster Star after India's defeat in the Sydney Test on Sunday (Jan 5).
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohli-news-pat-cummins-reacts-on-virat-kohli-not-able-to-tour-australia-again-bgt-india-vs-australia-8593395">Pat Cummins reacts on possibility of Virat Kohli not touring Australia again</a>
"That's the chairman of selectors. You have got to respect the hierarchy, however big you are. If the chairman of selectors is strong and he believes in the long-term health of Indian cricket, he has the power to decide whether your career should end now, or you get a few more matches, or one more series. Retirement is in your hands, but playing for India is not," he added.
<h2>Rohit Sharma retirement talk heats up</h2>
Rohit Sharma failed miserably in the series, scoring just 31 runs in five innings across three Tests at an average of 6.20. The skipper missed the first Test of the series due to the birth of his second child before missing the Sydney Test due to poor form.
On day 2 of the Test, however, Rohit did address the situation around his future and quashed reports of his retirement.
"This decision is not a retirement decision, nor am I going to take myself out of the game. I sat out of this match because runs are not coming off my bat. There is no guarantee runs won't come five or two months down the line. I have seen a lot in cricket that life changes every second, every minute, every day," said the skipper.
The five-Test series ended with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/australia-beat-india-in-sydney-test-to-win-bgt-after-ten-years-qualify-for-wtc-final-2025-8592251">India losing 1-3 as Australia regained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a> after 10 years. With the series win, Australia also booked their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against South Africa.

Cricket Sports Rohit Sharma Retirement news Sanjay Manjrekar says Rohit getting a place in Indian Test side is not his decision but it lies with the selectors.

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar says that Rohit Sharma might find it difficult to get a place in the Test side if his form doesn't improve soon. Manjrekar also opined that being in the test side is not Rohit's decision; instead, it lies with the selectors. The comments come after Rohit opted to sit out of the Sydney Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) due to a poor run of form. "One thing that a lot of players say is that ‘I will decide my future'. I have a problem with that. You can decide your future with regards to retirement, but somebody else has got the job to decide your future as a player and captain," said Manjrekar during the post-match show on official broadcaster Star after India's defeat in the Sydney Test on Sunday (Jan 5). Also Read: Pat Cummins reacts on possibility of Virat Kohli not touring Australia again "That's the chairman of selectors. You have got to respect the hierarchy, however big you are. If the chairman of selectors is strong and he believes in the long-term health of Indian cricket, he has the power to decide whether your career should end now, or you get a few more matches, or one more series. Retirement is in your hands, but playing for India is not," he added. Rohit Sharma retirement talk heats up Rohit Sharma failed miserably in the series, scoring just 31 runs in five innings across three Tests at an average of 6.20. The skipper missed the first Test of the series due to the birth of his second child before missing the Sydney Test due to poor form. On day 2 of the Test, however, Rohit did address the situation around his future and quashed reports of his retirement. "This decision is not a retirement decision, nor am I going to take myself out of the game. I sat out of this match because runs are not coming off my bat. There is no guarantee runs won't come five or two months down the line. I have seen a lot in cricket that life changes every second, every minute, every day," said the skipper. The five-Test series ended with India losing 1-3 as Australia regained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after 10 years. With the series win, Australia also booked their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against South Africa.

Ex-India batter says 'playing for India' not Rohit Sharma's decision

Australia skipper Pat Cummins said on Sunday that it'll be 'sad' if Virat Kohli doesn't come to Australia again. The comments come after questions on Virat Kohli's future amid his poor performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/australia-beat-india-in-sydney-test-to-win-bgt-after-ten-years-qualify-for-wtc-final-2025-8592251">India lost 1-3</a>.&nbsp;
"It's always been a wonderful contest. More than just the runs that he scored, he brings a bit of theatre to the game which is sometimes good and sometimes it can rile you up as an opposition, which I'm sure is part of his plans," Cummins said while talking to reporters after winning the Sydney Test on Sunday (Jan 5).
Also Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-virat-kohli-teases-australian-crowd-with-sandpaper-gesture-during-scg-test-watch-8593275">BGT: Kohli teases Australian crowd with &lsquo;sandpaper&rsquo; gesture during SCG Test</a>
"Really enjoyed playing with him. You know, he's been one of the the star batters for the last decade or so. You know, if you get his wicket it goes a long way to winning a game so yeah, it will be sad if it's his last series." he added.
<h2>Shadow over Virat Kohli's Test Future&nbsp;</h2>
Virat Kohli scored 190 runs in nine innings across five Test at an average of 23.75. Over half of Kohli's runs came in one innings when he scored 100 not out in second innings in Perth.
The major concern was how Kohli got out rather the runs he scored. The batter was dismissed poking outside the off-stump seven times in the series - showcasing that the cover drive, once his strength, has now turned into his weakness.
Apart from Kohli, skipper Rohit Sharma also failed miserably in the series, scoring just 31 runs in five innings across three Tests at an average of 6.20. Rohit missed the first Test of the series due to the birth of his second child and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-this-is-not-a-retirement-decision-rohit-sharma-breaks-silence-on-scg-test-omission-8590113">sat out of Sydney Test</a> owing to poor form.
India head coach Gautam Gambhir, however, has left the ball in the players' court <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-i-would-like-everyone-to-play-domestic-cricket-coach-gautam-gambhir-reflects-on-indias-second-test-series-loss-on-trot-8592547">when asked about the retirement</a> plans of Kohli and Rohit.

Sports, Cricket Virat Kohli News Australia skipper Pat Cummins lauds India's Kohli for bringing theatric to game after India lost BGT 1-3 following the Sydney Test loss.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins said on Sunday that it'll be 'sad' if Virat Kohli doesn't come to Australia again. The comments come after questions on Virat Kohli's future amid his poor performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) which India lost 1-3. "It's always been a wonderful contest. More than just the runs that he scored, he brings a bit of theatre to the game which is sometimes good and sometimes it can rile you up as an opposition, which I'm sure is part of his plans," Cummins said while talking to reporters after winning the Sydney Test on Sunday (Jan 5). Also Watch: BGT: Kohli teases Australian crowd with ‘sandpaper’ gesture during SCG Test "Really enjoyed playing with him. You know, he's been one of the the star batters for the last decade or so. You know, if you get his wicket it goes a long way to winning a game so yeah, it will be sad if it's his last series." he added. Shadow over Virat Kohli's Test Future Virat Kohli scored 190 runs in nine innings across five Test at an average of 23.75. Over half of Kohli's runs came in one innings when he scored 100 not out in second innings in Perth. The major concern was how Kohli got out rather the runs he scored. The batter was dismissed poking outside the off-stump seven times in the series - showcasing that the cover drive, once his strength, has now turned into his weakness. Apart from Kohli, skipper Rohit Sharma also failed miserably in the series, scoring just 31 runs in five innings across three Tests at an average of 6.20. Rohit missed the first Test of the series due to the birth of his second child and sat out of Sydney Test owing to poor form. India head coach Gautam Gambhir, however, has left the ball in the players' court when asked about the retirement plans of Kohli and Rohit.

Pat Cummins reacts on possibility of Virat Kohli not touring Australia again

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has lashed out at Australia for accusing the Indian team of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bgt-202425-andrew-mcdonald-takes-aim-at-team-india-says-the-way-they-celebrated-was-intimidating-8591020">intimidating Aussie opener Sam Konstas</a>. Gambhir said that a player 'cant be that soft' while addressing the post-match press conference in Sydney on Sunday (Jan 5).
"Look, it's a tough sport played by tough men. You can't be that soft," Gambhir said while talking to the reporters. "That's as simple as it can get. I don't think there was anything intimidating about it.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-we-dont-know-cricket-we-just-speak-sunil-gavaskar-livid-with-indias-performance-down-under-8592966">&lsquo;We don&rsquo;t know cricket...,&rsquo; Gavaskar livid with India&rsquo;s poor BGT show</a>
"He [Konstas] had no right to be talking to Jasprit Bumrah when Usman Khawaja was taking time. He had no right and no business to be involved with Jasprit Bumrah. That was a job for the umpire and for the guy who is batting at the [other] end," he added.
<h2>What is Jasprit Bumrah vs Sam Konstas clash?</h2>
The incident Gambhir referred to happened on the last ball of day 1 during Australia's batting in Sydney Test. Bumrah and Konstas had a spicy chat when the other Aussie opener Usman Khawaja was taking time to bat.
Bumrah, however, had the last laugh and dismissed Khawaja and stared down at Konstas at the non-striker's end after taking the wicket in an unusual celebration.
Both players had also engaged in antics during the Boxing Day Test where&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bumrah-vs-konstas-bumrah-celebration-on-konstas-wicket-video-mcg-boxing-day-test-day-4-bgt-india-vs-australia-8575527">Bumrah mimed Konstas</a> after bowling him out through the gates.
As for the match, India surrendered meekly on a lively Sydney pitch as they were bowled out for a paltry 157 in their second innings, leaving Australia a mere 163 to chase. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/australia-beat-india-in-sydney-test-to-win-bgt-after-ten-years-qualify-for-wtc-final-2025-8592251">Australia reached the target</a> shortly before tea for the loss of four wickets.
The five-Test series ended with India losing 1-3 as Australia regained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after 10 years. With the series win, Australia also booked their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against South Africa.

Sports, Cricket: Gautam Gambhir slams Sam Konstas intimidation accusation made by the Australian cricket team against India on day 1 of the Sydney Test in BGT.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has lashed out at Australia for accusing the Indian team of intimidating Aussie opener Sam Konstas. Gambhir said that a player 'cant be that soft' while addressing the post-match press conference in Sydney on Sunday (Jan 5). "Look, it's a tough sport played by tough men. You can't be that soft," Gambhir said while talking to the reporters. "That's as simple as it can get. I don't think there was anything intimidating about it. Also Read: ‘We don’t know cricket...,’ Gavaskar livid with India’s poor BGT show "He [Konstas] had no right to be talking to Jasprit Bumrah when Usman Khawaja was taking time. He had no right and no business to be involved with Jasprit Bumrah. That was a job for the umpire and for the guy who is batting at the [other] end," he added. What is Jasprit Bumrah vs Sam Konstas clash? The incident Gambhir referred to happened on the last ball of day 1 during Australia's batting in Sydney Test. Bumrah and Konstas had a spicy chat when the other Aussie opener Usman Khawaja was taking time to bat. Bumrah, however, had the last laugh and dismissed Khawaja and stared down at Konstas at the non-striker's end after taking the wicket in an unusual celebration. Both players had also engaged in antics during the Boxing Day Test where Bumrah mimed Konstas after bowling him out through the gates. As for the match, India surrendered meekly on a lively Sydney pitch as they were bowled out for a paltry 157 in their second innings, leaving Australia a mere 163 to chase. Australia reached the target shortly before tea for the loss of four wickets. The five-Test series ended with India losing 1-3 as Australia regained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after 10 years. With the series win, Australia also booked their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against South Africa.

Gautam Gambhir slams Sam Konstas intimidation accusation by Australia

Virat Kohli loves playing in and against Australia. Over the years, he has scored tons of runs Down Under, including several match-winning hundreds. Even though he has been a thorn in the flesh of the Aussies, the crowd loves him dearly, and so does the media. Meanwhile, known for engaging with the opposition players and fans with his antics, Kohli teased the SCG crowd with the infamous &lsquo;sandpaper&rsquo; gesture on day three.
India got all out on 157 early on the third day, giving Australia a target of 162. With Jasprit Bumrah out with a back spasm, Kohli put on the captain&rsquo;s hat, trying to help India defend a modest total on a spicy SCG track.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-we-dont-know-cricket-we-just-speak-sunil-gavaskar-livid-with-indias-performance-down-under-8592966" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;We don&rsquo;t know cricket...,&rsquo; Gavaskar livid with India&rsquo;s poor BGT show</a>
Midway through Australia&rsquo;s run chase, Kohli, standing in the slip cordon alongside keeper Rishabh Pant, teased the loud Australian crowd by putting his hands in his pockets, showing it's empty.&nbsp;
For those unaware of what this gesture meant, Cameron Bancroft, an out-of-favour Australian opener, did the same when he was found guilty of carrying and using a sandpaper to change the ball's condition during the infamous Newlands Test against South Africa in 2018. Though that incident involving now-retired David Warner and Test veteran Steve Smith led to a controversy, with all three facing severe punishments, Kohli imitated the same actions during the day.
<h3>Watch Video &ndash;&nbsp;</h3>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5ji0ncv-dphonlxf-5o2mhvpl">
"What is that about?"<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/HwNZXhKW1S">pic.twitter.com/HwNZXhKW1S</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1875718379253706767?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Kohli&rsquo;s poor run with the bat</h2>
Virat scored his first Test hundred since June 2023 during the second innings of the Perth Test, hitting an unbeaten 100, but failed to contribute enough in any of the eight innings he batted in, scoring just 90 in those. Even at the venues he averages the most, Kohli looked like a pale shadow of himself.&nbsp;
Besides, what worried the Indian fans throughout was Kohli&rsquo;s manner of dismissals across innings&mdash;identical, to say the least. His knack for flirting with the fifth and sixth stump line cost him and India in this five-match series, with Virat getting out caught behind on almost all occasions.
Even in the just concluded SCG Test, which Australia won by six wickets, Virat surrendered to pacer Scott Boland, getting out caught in the slips.
<h2>Australia qualify for WTC Final 2025</h2>
After beating India in the home Test series for the first time in a decade, Australia reclaimed the coveted BGT and sealed their direct qualification in the WTC Final 2025. Australia will face South Africa in the summit clash in June (11-15) at Lord&rsquo;s.&nbsp;

Sports, cricket: Known for engaging with the opposition players and fans with his antics, Kohli teased the SCG crowd with the infamous ‘sandpaper’ gesture on day three.

Virat Kohli loves playing in and against Australia. Over the years, he has scored tons of runs Down Under, including several match-winning hundreds. Even though he has been a thorn in the flesh of the Aussies, the crowd loves him dearly, and so does the media. Meanwhile, known for engaging with the opposition players and fans with his antics, Kohli teased the SCG crowd with the infamous ‘sandpaper’ gesture on day three. India got all out on 157 early on the third day, giving Australia a target of 162. With Jasprit Bumrah out with a back spasm, Kohli put on the captain’s hat, trying to help India defend a modest total on a spicy SCG track. Also read | ‘We don’t know cricket...,’ Gavaskar livid with India’s poor BGT show Midway through Australia’s run chase, Kohli, standing in the slip cordon alongside keeper Rishabh Pant, teased the loud Australian crowd by putting his hands in his pockets, showing it's empty. For those unaware of what this gesture meant, Cameron Bancroft, an out-of-favour Australian opener, did the same when he was found guilty of carrying and using a sandpaper to change the ball's condition during the infamous Newlands Test against South Africa in 2018. Though that incident involving now-retired David Warner and Test veteran Steve Smith led to a controversy, with all three facing severe punishments, Kohli imitated the same actions during the day. Watch Video – "What is that about?"#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/HwNZXhKW1S — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 5, 2025 Kohli’s poor run with the bat Virat scored his first Test hundred since June 2023 during the second innings of the Perth Test, hitting an unbeaten 100, but failed to contribute enough in any of the eight innings he batted in, scoring just 90 in those. Even at the venues he averages the most, Kohli looked like a pale shadow of himself. Besides, what worried the Indian fans throughout was Kohli’s manner of dismissals across innings—identical, to say the least. His knack for flirting with the fifth and sixth stump line cost him and India in this five-match series, with Virat getting out caught behind on almost all occasions. Even in the just concluded SCG Test, which Australia won by six wickets, Virat surrendered to pacer Scott Boland, getting out caught in the slips. Australia qualify for WTC Final 2025 After beating India in the home Test series for the first time in a decade, Australia reclaimed the coveted BGT and sealed their direct qualification in the WTC Final 2025. Australia will face South Africa in the summit clash in June (11-15) at Lord’s.

BGT: Kohli teases Australian crowd with ‘sandpaper’ gesture during SCG Test - Watch

Sunil Gavaskar was livid by Team India&rsquo;s performance against Australia in the just-concluded BGT Down Under. India lost the decisive Sydney Test by six wickets, conceding the series, the coveted trophy and the chance to qualify for the WTC Final 2025. Speaking to the host broadcaster following the third day&rsquo;s play at the SCG, Gavaskar sounded disappointed with the series result (3-1 to Australia), showing no interest in suggesting anything to Team India.
When asked about his thoughts on India&rsquo;s performance across all five Tests, Gavaskar - known for speaking his heart out, for which he even faced social media wrath earlier, said, "Who are we? We don't know cricket. We just speak just for the sake of TV and get money, don't listen to us, we're nothing. Listen from one ear, remove from another."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-frustrated-jasprit-bumrah-takes-positives-from-series-defeat-against-australia-8592640" rel="dofollow">BGT - Frustrated Bumrah takes positives from series defeat Down Under</a>
His comments reflect how the Indian team failed to play as per the match situation, having gone past the 200-run mark only thrice in nine innings. Even in the final Test at the SCG, India got all out on 181 in the first innings before Aussie quick Scott Boland bagged a six-wicket haul in the second to dismiss India on 157.&nbsp;
The 162-run target never bothered the Aussies enough, even though they lost three quick wickets before lunch during the chase. Usman Khawaja roared back to form with 41, while Travis Head (34*) and debutant Beau Webster (39*) completed the chase as Australia won the match by six wickets.
<h2>No Sunny G at presentation</h2>
In a shocking turn of events, Sunil Gavaskar, one of the two people on whose names the series is named, wasn&rsquo;t present at the presentation ceremony, while former Australia captain Allan Border was there, handing over the medals and trophy to the players.&nbsp;
Gavaskar was watching the presentation ceremony from a distance.
When asked about his absence from the stage, Gavaskar said, "I certainly would have loved to have been there for the presentation. After all, it is the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and it is about Australia and India.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I mean, I am here on the ground. To me, it should not matter that Australia won when it comes to the presentation. They played better cricket so they won. That&rsquo;s fine. Just because I am an Indian (I did not present the trophy). I would have been happy to present the trophy with my good friend Allan Border,&rdquo; Gavaskar said, as quoted by Code Sports.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: Gavaskar's comments reflect how the Indian team failed to play as per the match situation, having gone past the 200-run mark only thrice in nine innings.

Sunil Gavaskar was livid by Team India’s performance against Australia in the just-concluded BGT Down Under. India lost the decisive Sydney Test by six wickets, conceding the series, the coveted trophy and the chance to qualify for the WTC Final 2025. Speaking to the host broadcaster following the third day’s play at the SCG, Gavaskar sounded disappointed with the series result (3-1 to Australia), showing no interest in suggesting anything to Team India. When asked about his thoughts on India’s performance across all five Tests, Gavaskar - known for speaking his heart out, for which he even faced social media wrath earlier, said, "Who are we? We don't know cricket. We just speak just for the sake of TV and get money, don't listen to us, we're nothing. Listen from one ear, remove from another." Also read | BGT - Frustrated Bumrah takes positives from series defeat Down Under His comments reflect how the Indian team failed to play as per the match situation, having gone past the 200-run mark only thrice in nine innings. Even in the final Test at the SCG, India got all out on 181 in the first innings before Aussie quick Scott Boland bagged a six-wicket haul in the second to dismiss India on 157. The 162-run target never bothered the Aussies enough, even though they lost three quick wickets before lunch during the chase. Usman Khawaja roared back to form with 41, while Travis Head (34*) and debutant Beau Webster (39*) completed the chase as Australia won the match by six wickets. No Sunny G at presentation In a shocking turn of events, Sunil Gavaskar, one of the two people on whose names the series is named, wasn’t present at the presentation ceremony, while former Australia captain Allan Border was there, handing over the medals and trophy to the players. Gavaskar was watching the presentation ceremony from a distance. When asked about his absence from the stage, Gavaskar said, "I certainly would have loved to have been there for the presentation. After all, it is the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and it is about Australia and India. “I mean, I am here on the ground. To me, it should not matter that Australia won when it comes to the presentation. They played better cricket so they won. That’s fine. Just because I am an Indian (I did not present the trophy). I would have been happy to present the trophy with my good friend Allan Border,” Gavaskar said, as quoted by Code Sports. (With inputs from agencies)

‘We don’t know cricket...,’ Gavaskar livid with India’s poor BGT show

Stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah said it was frustrating that he missed the crunch finale to their Test series against Australia Sunday, but said he was buoyed by what he saw from India.<o:p></o:p>
The star quick bowler suffered a back niggle during the fifth Test in Sydney on Saturday and went for scans, ultimately forced to watch from the sidelines as Australia chased 162 to win. He was the standout bowler, taking 32 wickets at 13.02 to be named player-of-the series, and his absence was a major blow to the team's hopes of retaining the Border-Gavaskar trophy.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-i-would-like-everyone-to-play-domestic-cricket-coach-gautam-gambhir-reflects-on-indias-second-test-series-loss-on-trot-8592547" rel="dofollow">BGT &ndash; &lsquo;I would like everyone to play domestic cricket,&rsquo; coach Gautam Gambhir reflects on India&rsquo;s series loss</a>
"A little frustrating but sometimes you have to respect your body. You can't fight your body," he said after the six-wicket loss and 3-1 series defeat. "A little disappointing that I probably missed out on the spiciest wicket of the series but that's the way it is.<o:p></o:p>
"I felt a bit of discomfort during my second spell in the first innings."<o:p></o:p>
India coach Gautam Gambhir said it was too early to assess the extent of the injury.<o:p></o:p>
"Not at the moment, the medical team is working on it," he said, while praising his strike bowler. "Absolutely outstanding," he said of Bumrah. "I can't say more than that. He led the attack really well, bowled a lot of overs and whenever he went out to bowl he did a fabulous job.<o:p></o:p>
"But he was being helped a lot from the other end. There's been a lot of other contributions as well."<o:p></o:p>
Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna led the attack on Sunday and while they did well, it was not enough.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>'A lot of talent'<o:p></o:p></h2>
Despite the defeat, India will take plenty of positives from the five Tests, with young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal further cementing his position in the side.<o:p></o:p>
All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy impressed in his debut series, as did Washington Sundar, while Rishabh Pant proved once again why he is one of the most exciting players in the game.<o:p></o:p>
"They've gained a lot of experience, they'll go from strength to strength," said Bumrah, captaining the side after the out-of-form Rohit Sharma "rested". "We've shown that we have a lot of talent in our group. A lot of the youngsters are keen, they're disappointed that we haven't won but they'll take learnings from this experience."<o:p></o:p>
Gambhir agreed there had been "a lot of positives".<o:p></o:p>
"It's been really tough, they weren't the results we were expecting in these last three Test matches, but that is what sport is all about," he said. "All I can expect from the dressing room is to keep fighting, that's all we can do ... we all play for results and it hasn't gone our way, it's as simple as it can be."<o:p></o:p>
Reflecting on letting the series, and the decisive fifth Test, slip away, Bumrah added: "Lots of ifs and buts because the whole series was well fought.<o:p></o:p>
"Today as well. We were in the game. It was not like it was totally one-sided.<o:p></o:p>
"This is how Test series go in the nervy moments, whichever team holds their nerve for the longest time and sticks together will win the series.<o:p></o:p>
"It was a well fought series, a lot of good learnings for us ... being in the game for longer, creating pressure and sometimes absorbing pressure when the wickets are difficult and sometimes playing to the situation."
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, cricket: Bumrah was the standout bowler, taking 32 wickets at 13.02, and his absence was a major blow to the team's hopes of retaining the Border-Gavaskar trophy.

Stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah said it was frustrating that he missed the crunch finale to their Test series against Australia Sunday, but said he was buoyed by what he saw from India. The star quick bowler suffered a back niggle during the fifth Test in Sydney on Saturday and went for scans, ultimately forced to watch from the sidelines as Australia chased 162 to win. He was the standout bowler, taking 32 wickets at 13.02 to be named player-of-the series, and his absence was a major blow to the team's hopes of retaining the Border-Gavaskar trophy. Also read | BGT – ‘I would like everyone to play domestic cricket,’ coach Gautam Gambhir reflects on India’s series loss "A little frustrating but sometimes you have to respect your body. You can't fight your body," he said after the six-wicket loss and 3-1 series defeat. "A little disappointing that I probably missed out on the spiciest wicket of the series but that's the way it is. "I felt a bit of discomfort during my second spell in the first innings." India coach Gautam Gambhir said it was too early to assess the extent of the injury. "Not at the moment, the medical team is working on it," he said, while praising his strike bowler. "Absolutely outstanding," he said of Bumrah. "I can't say more than that. He led the attack really well, bowled a lot of overs and whenever he went out to bowl he did a fabulous job. "But he was being helped a lot from the other end. There's been a lot of other contributions as well." Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna led the attack on Sunday and while they did well, it was not enough. 'A lot of talent' Despite the defeat, India will take plenty of positives from the five Tests, with young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal further cementing his position in the side. All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy impressed in his debut series, as did Washington Sundar, while Rishabh Pant proved once again why he is one of the most exciting players in the game. "They've gained a lot of experience, they'll go from strength to strength," said Bumrah, captaining the side after the out-of-form Rohit Sharma "rested". "We've shown that we have a lot of talent in our group. A lot of the youngsters are keen, they're disappointed that we haven't won but they'll take learnings from this experience." Gambhir agreed there had been "a lot of positives". "It's been really tough, they weren't the results we were expecting in these last three Test matches, but that is what sport is all about," he said. "All I can expect from the dressing room is to keep fighting, that's all we can do ... we all play for results and it hasn't gone our way, it's as simple as it can be." Reflecting on letting the series, and the decisive fifth Test, slip away, Bumrah added: "Lots of ifs and buts because the whole series was well fought. "Today as well. We were in the game. It was not like it was totally one-sided. "This is how Test series go in the nervy moments, whichever team holds their nerve for the longest time and sticks together will win the series. "It was a well fought series, a lot of good learnings for us ... being in the game for longer, creating pressure and sometimes absorbing pressure when the wickets are difficult and sometimes playing to the situation." 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.

BGT - Frustrated Bumrah takes positives from series defeat Down Under

Matt Henry claimed four wickets and Will Young scored an unbeaten 90 Sunday as New Zealand coasted to a nine-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the first one-day international. <o:p></o:p>
The tourists never recovered after slumping to 23-4 inside 10 overs, dismissed in the 44th over for 178 after being asked to bat in cold, windy Wellington. In response, Young was barely flustered during a fluent 86-ball knock, putting on 93 for the opening stand with Rachin Ravindra, who scored 45.<o:p></o:p>
Mark Chapman was not out 29 as the home side reached the target from 26.2 overs in an emphatic start to the three-match series.<o:p></o:p>
Coming off a productive Test series against England, Henry was a handful with the new ball in seam-friendly conditions, taking the key wicket of opener Pathum Nissanka for nine in the fifth over.<o:p></o:p>
The relentless seamer returned to help mop up the tail, finishing with 4-19 off 10 overs.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-i-would-like-everyone-to-play-domestic-cricket-coach-gautam-gambhir-reflects-on-indias-second-test-series-loss-on-trot-8592547" rel="dofollow">BGT &ndash; &lsquo;I would like everyone to play domestic cricket,&rsquo; coach Gautam Gambhir reflects on India&rsquo;s series loss</a>
Seamers Nathan Smith and Jacob Duffy snared two wickets each, capitalising on bouncy conditions offering some sideways movement at the Basin Reserve.<o:p></o:p>
Captain Mitchell Santner praised the patience shown by his pace attack.<o:p></o:p>
"The boys up front did the job with the ball but when there's movement there, you're expected to take wickets," Santner said. "We were patient, especially at the start, and were able to chip our wickets out that way. All four seamers did a hell of a job."<o:p></o:p>
Opener Avishka Fernando rode out the early storm to top score with 56 off 63 balls, hitting six fours and a six. <o:p></o:p>He put on 87 for the fifth wicket with Janith Liyanage, who departed for 36, caught in the deep.<o:p></o:p>
Off-spinner Santner took one wicket and three catches, as well as executing a sharp run-out of danger man Kamindu Mendis with a direct hit.<o:p></o:p>
Tailenders Wanindu Hasaranga (35) and Chamidu Wickramasinghe (22) scored late runs before both were caught off Henry.<o:p></o:p>
Batting conditions improved and the in-form Young took advantage, hitting 12 fours.<o:p></o:p>
The 32-year-old was named player of the series following the 3-0 Test sweep in India and scored 42 and 60 in his only appearance during the home Test series loss to England before Christmas.<o:p></o:p>
Wickramsinghe took the only wicket, when Ravindra was caught on the deep square leg boundary.<o:p></o:p>
Visiting skipper Charith Asalanka refused to blame the cold and blustery conditions for a substandard display.<o:p></o:p>
"We knew when we came here it's too windy and it's going be hard for us but that is not the reason we lost," he said. "As professionals we have to play any kind of situation.<o:p></o:p>
"I think they bowled really nicely up front and it's hard for us to come back."<o:p></o:p>
The second game is in Hamilton on Wednesday.<o:p></o:p>
New Zealand won the preceding Twenty20 series against Sri Lanka 2-1.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, cricket: Sri Lanka never recovered after slumping to 23-4 inside 10 overs, dismissed in the 44th over for 178 after being asked to bat in cold, windy Wellington.

Matt Henry claimed four wickets and Will Young scored an unbeaten 90 Sunday as New Zealand coasted to a nine-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the first one-day international. The tourists never recovered after slumping to 23-4 inside 10 overs, dismissed in the 44th over for 178 after being asked to bat in cold, windy Wellington. In response, Young was barely flustered during a fluent 86-ball knock, putting on 93 for the opening stand with Rachin Ravindra, who scored 45. Mark Chapman was not out 29 as the home side reached the target from 26.2 overs in an emphatic start to the three-match series. Coming off a productive Test series against England, Henry was a handful with the new ball in seam-friendly conditions, taking the key wicket of opener Pathum Nissanka for nine in the fifth over. The relentless seamer returned to help mop up the tail, finishing with 4-19 off 10 overs. Also read | BGT – ‘I would like everyone to play domestic cricket,’ coach Gautam Gambhir reflects on India’s series loss Seamers Nathan Smith and Jacob Duffy snared two wickets each, capitalising on bouncy conditions offering some sideways movement at the Basin Reserve. Captain Mitchell Santner praised the patience shown by his pace attack. "The boys up front did the job with the ball but when there's movement there, you're expected to take wickets," Santner said. "We were patient, especially at the start, and were able to chip our wickets out that way. All four seamers did a hell of a job." Opener Avishka Fernando rode out the early storm to top score with 56 off 63 balls, hitting six fours and a six. He put on 87 for the fifth wicket with Janith Liyanage, who departed for 36, caught in the deep. Off-spinner Santner took one wicket and three catches, as well as executing a sharp run-out of danger man Kamindu Mendis with a direct hit. Tailenders Wanindu Hasaranga (35) and Chamidu Wickramasinghe (22) scored late runs before both were caught off Henry. Batting conditions improved and the in-form Young took advantage, hitting 12 fours. The 32-year-old was named player of the series following the 3-0 Test sweep in India and scored 42 and 60 in his only appearance during the home Test series loss to England before Christmas. Wickramsinghe took the only wicket, when Ravindra was caught on the deep square leg boundary. Visiting skipper Charith Asalanka refused to blame the cold and blustery conditions for a substandard display. "We knew when we came here it's too windy and it's going be hard for us but that is not the reason we lost," he said. "As professionals we have to play any kind of situation. "I think they bowled really nicely up front and it's hard for us to come back." The second game is in Hamilton on Wednesday. New Zealand won the preceding Twenty20 series against Sri Lanka 2-1. 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.

Matt Henry and Will Young help New Zealand beat Sri Lanka in 1st ODI

Head coach Gautam Gambhir didn&rsquo;t mince his words in admitting that everyone must play domestic cricket to improve their red-ball game after Team India lost the coveted Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. Australia won the decisive SCG Test by six wickets, clinching their first series win over India in this format in ten years and qualifying for their second-straight WTC Final. Meanwhile, it was India&rsquo;s second Test series loss under Gambhir, having suffered a shocking series whitewash against New Zealand at home earlier.
Gambhir attended the final presser at the SCG, reflecting on Rohit Sharma&rsquo;s decision to opt out of the XI for the final Test and what the future holds for the batting duo following BGT 2024-25.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/australia-captain-pat-cummins-rates-bgt-2024-25-his-favourite-test-series-says-lived-up-to-all-hype-8592442" rel="dofollow">Aussie captain Pat Cummins rates BGT 2024-25 his favourite Test series</a>
Rohit and Virat had a below-par series against Australia, perhaps their last Down Under. While the regular skipper looked out of element since his return to the XI in the second Test, scoring just 31 runs in three games, averaging 6.20, Kohli managed 190 runs across nine innings, including a hundred at the Optus Stadium.
Such was the impact of their dry run that India crossed the 200-run-mark just thrice across nine innings on this tour. Although Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul and Nitish Kumar Reddy displayed individual brilliance at some point during the series, the others failed to provide any assistance, mounting pressure on the bowlers to compensate.
<h2>Gambhir on Kohli, Rohit&rsquo;s Test future</h2>
Given India will next tour England for five Tests in June, all eyes will be on the batting duo, with Gambhir denying commenting on anyone&rsquo;s future, adding it&rsquo;s up to the players.&nbsp;
"I can't talk about the future of any player. It's up to them as well. But yes, what I can say is that they still have the hunger, they still have the passion. They're tough people, and hopefully, they can continue to take Indian cricket forward. But ultimately, as we all know, that whatever they plan, they will plan for the best interest of Indian cricket," Gambhir said at the post-match presser in Sydney.
"My job is to be honest with everyone. It's not like I prioritize only a few players. But my job is to see every player on the same page, whether he's debuting or whoever played 100 Test Matches. Have to be fair to everyone," the head coach continued.&nbsp;
Besides, Gautam also said those available for the second season of Ranji Trophy, starting later this month, should play.&nbsp;
"I would always like everyone to play domestic cricket if they're available. If you've the commitment to play red-ball cricket then play domestic," Gambhir noted.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Team India will host England for three T20Is and as many ODIs starting January 22, with the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 being their next major assignment.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: Head coach Gautam Gambhir attended the final presser at the SCG, reflecting on Rohit Sharma’s decision to opt out from the XI for the final Test.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir didn’t mince his words in admitting that everyone must play domestic cricket to improve their red-ball game after Team India lost the coveted Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. Australia won the decisive SCG Test by six wickets, clinching their first series win over India in this format in ten years and qualifying for their second-straight WTC Final. Meanwhile, it was India’s second Test series loss under Gambhir, having suffered a shocking series whitewash against New Zealand at home earlier. Gambhir attended the final presser at the SCG, reflecting on Rohit Sharma’s decision to opt out of the XI for the final Test and what the future holds for the batting duo following BGT 2024-25. Also read | Aussie captain Pat Cummins rates BGT 2024-25 his favourite Test series Rohit and Virat had a below-par series against Australia, perhaps their last Down Under. While the regular skipper looked out of element since his return to the XI in the second Test, scoring just 31 runs in three games, averaging 6.20, Kohli managed 190 runs across nine innings, including a hundred at the Optus Stadium. Such was the impact of their dry run that India crossed the 200-run-mark just thrice across nine innings on this tour. Although Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul and Nitish Kumar Reddy displayed individual brilliance at some point during the series, the others failed to provide any assistance, mounting pressure on the bowlers to compensate. Gambhir on Kohli, Rohit’s Test future Given India will next tour England for five Tests in June, all eyes will be on the batting duo, with Gambhir denying commenting on anyone’s future, adding it’s up to the players. "I can't talk about the future of any player. It's up to them as well. But yes, what I can say is that they still have the hunger, they still have the passion. They're tough people, and hopefully, they can continue to take Indian cricket forward. But ultimately, as we all know, that whatever they plan, they will plan for the best interest of Indian cricket," Gambhir said at the post-match presser in Sydney. "My job is to be honest with everyone. It's not like I prioritize only a few players. But my job is to see every player on the same page, whether he's debuting or whoever played 100 Test Matches. Have to be fair to everyone," the head coach continued. Besides, Gautam also said those available for the second season of Ranji Trophy, starting later this month, should play. "I would always like everyone to play domestic cricket if they're available. If you've the commitment to play red-ball cricket then play domestic," Gambhir noted. Meanwhile, Team India will host England for three T20Is and as many ODIs starting January 22, with the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 being their next major assignment. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT – ‘I would like everyone to play domestic cricket,’ coach Gautam Gambhir reflects on India’s series loss

Australian captain Pat Cummins knows how to walk the talk. After suffering defeat in the series opener in Perth, Cummins commented that Australia is still ranked the number one Test side in the world and going down at the Optus Stadium will not change that. Well, he proved it all over again, as he did before against India during the previous WTC Final and the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Cummins had never won a Test series against India before, nor did several players picked in the squad for this marquee series. Though they began with a loss, the hosts picked themselves up and marched towards realising their dream of beating India and qualifying for their second-straight WTC Final 2025.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/australia-beat-india-in-sydney-test-to-win-bgt-after-ten-years-qualify-for-wtc-final-2025-8592251" rel="dofollow">BGT - Australia qualify for WTC Final 2025 after beating India at SCG</a>
Australia brought in Scott Boland for the second Test in Adelaide, a wonder move that saw them winning the Pink-Ball Test by ten wickets. After rain forced a draw at the Gabba, Australia won the next two at the MCG and SCG, respectively, to clinch the BGT for the first time in ten years and qualify for the WTC Final 2025.
&ldquo;Unreal! It is one that a few of us didn't have. The boys have had their eye on it, and it has lived up to the hype,&rdquo; Cummins said at the post-match presentation in Sydney. &ldquo;Some success along the way is always nice. It has been such a special group. We feel so privileged to have achieved what we have. Really proud. We are also having the best times of our lives,&rdquo; he continued.
<h2>Superstar Pat!</h2>
Cummins picked 25 wickets across five matches against India, the second-most after the Player of the Series Jasprit Bumrah (32), and scored 159 runs.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5j55acs-znmyszv4-zzphj4j8">
What a pearler from Pat Cummins to knock over Washington Sundar! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DeliveredWithSpeed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DeliveredWithSpeed</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/NBN_Australia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBN_Australia</a> <a href="https://t.co/MCs7wTp78M">pic.twitter.com/MCs7wTp78M</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1875695568938324190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
He led from the front and felt no shame in acknowledging his performance, adding it was one of his favourite Test series.&nbsp;
&ldquo;(I am) Pretty happy with how I played throughout the series. It will go down as one of my favourite series. The fans have made this series. MCG was great, and three sellouts in Sydney. It is such a special day in the calendar. It is something I grew up with. We are celebrating such a great cause,&rdquo; the captain noted.
Meanwhile, Australia will now travel to Sri Lanka for two Tests starting January 29; although that series is also part of the current WTC cycle, its result will have no impact on the standings, as Australia has locked their place in a summit clash against South Africa, a marquee match scheduled for June (11-15) at Lord&rsquo;s.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, cricket: After the Perth Test loss, Cummins said Australia is still ranked the number one Test side in the world and going down at the Optus Stadium will not change that.

Australian captain Pat Cummins knows how to walk the talk. After suffering defeat in the series opener in Perth, Cummins commented that Australia is still ranked the number one Test side in the world and going down at the Optus Stadium will not change that. Well, he proved it all over again, as he did before against India during the previous WTC Final and the 2023 ODI World Cup. Cummins had never won a Test series against India before, nor did several players picked in the squad for this marquee series. Though they began with a loss, the hosts picked themselves up and marched towards realising their dream of beating India and qualifying for their second-straight WTC Final 2025. Also read | BGT - Australia qualify for WTC Final 2025 after beating India at SCG Australia brought in Scott Boland for the second Test in Adelaide, a wonder move that saw them winning the Pink-Ball Test by ten wickets. After rain forced a draw at the Gabba, Australia won the next two at the MCG and SCG, respectively, to clinch the BGT for the first time in ten years and qualify for the WTC Final 2025. “Unreal! It is one that a few of us didn't have. The boys have had their eye on it, and it has lived up to the hype,” Cummins said at the post-match presentation in Sydney. “Some success along the way is always nice. It has been such a special group. We feel so privileged to have achieved what we have. Really proud. We are also having the best times of our lives,” he continued. Superstar Pat! Cummins picked 25 wickets across five matches against India, the second-most after the Player of the Series Jasprit Bumrah (32), and scored 159 runs. What a pearler from Pat Cummins to knock over Washington Sundar! #AUSvIND | #DeliveredWithSpeed | @NBN_Australia pic.twitter.com/MCs7wTp78M — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 5, 2025 He led from the front and felt no shame in acknowledging his performance, adding it was one of his favourite Test series. “(I am) Pretty happy with how I played throughout the series. It will go down as one of my favourite series. The fans have made this series. MCG was great, and three sellouts in Sydney. It is such a special day in the calendar. It is something I grew up with. We are celebrating such a great cause,” the captain noted. Meanwhile, Australia will now travel to Sri Lanka for two Tests starting January 29; although that series is also part of the current WTC cycle, its result will have no impact on the standings, as Australia has locked their place in a summit clash against South Africa, a marquee match scheduled for June (11-15) at Lord’s. (With inputs from agencies)

Aussie captain Pat Cummins rates BGT 2024-25 his favourite Test series

Australia has reclaimed the coveted Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) for the first time in ten years after beating India in the decisive fifth Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) by six wickets on Sunday (Jan 5). Beau Webster and Travis Head completed the run chase inside the second session on day three to hand the hosts their first series win over India since 2014/15.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5j3gphy-p7dukovi-n59om0rj">
Beau Webster finishes it off and Australia claims the Border-Gavaskar Trophy! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayOfTheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayOfTheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/fl5tmIMPPd">pic.twitter.com/fl5tmIMPPd</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1875746279625462180?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
While India won the first Test in Perth, they lost the next in Adelaide by ten wickets before Australia clinched the last two (the Boxing Day Test at the MCG and Sydney&rsquo;s New Year&rsquo;s Test) to win back the BGT.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bgt-202425-rohit-should-play-in-ranji-trophy-says-sunil-gavaskar-as-india-captain-struggles-with-bat-8591953" rel="dofollow">BGT 2024/25: 'Rohit should play in Ranji Trophy,' says Sunil Gavaskar as India captain struggles with bat</a>
India missed their stand-in captain, Jasprit Bumrah, on day three as they failed to defend 162 on a spicy SCG surface. Bumrah was out with a back spasm, playing no role since completing eight overs on the second day before heading for a medical checkup. Though he batted in India&rsquo;s second innings, Virat Kohli, who wore the captain&rsquo;s hat in his absence, used just four bowlers, mainly the two pacers, in the fourth innings.
For his unparalleled performance in this series, where he returned with 32 wickets &ndash; the most by an Indian bowler in a single edition Down Under, Bumrah won the Player of the Series award.
However, with Australia winning the BGT 2024-25, they sealed the WTC Final 2025 qualification and will face South Africa in the summit clash at the Lord&rsquo;s in June (11-15).
<h2>Australia bag SCG Test</h2>
The hosts entered the final match of the series with a stunning 185-run win in the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG. Beaming confidently, Australia made just one change to their winning XI, replacing underfire Mitchell Marsh with debutant Beau Webster.&nbsp;
On the other hand, India made some shocking calls, with Shubman Gill roped in place of regular captain Rohit Sharma, who &lsquo;opted out&rsquo; due to poor form, while Prasidh Krishna replaced injured Akash Deep. That move, however, did no good to India, as Gill failed to cross the 20-run mark across both innings, with others continuing their horror run with the bat.
In Rohit&rsquo;s absence, the entire onus fell on star batter Kohli, who collected just 23 runs (17, 6) in two outings, ending the series with 190 runs in nine innings, averaging 23.75.
Meanwhile, India had their chances in the second innings when Rishabh Pant was at the crease, but the wickets fell like the pack of cards following his dismissal on 61 off 33 balls. Scott Boland, roped in as injured Josh Hazlewood&rsquo;s replacement, took ten wickets across two innings, including six for 45 in the second. He won the Player of the Match award for his performance.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5j3hbcj-7j4skkyr-c4l47d8m">
This one was for Scott Boland's fifth! And it didn't take long for him to get his sixth either. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MilestoneMoment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MilestoneMoment</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/3NkgSYmOaN">pic.twitter.com/3NkgSYmOaN</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1875698026884251975?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
Bumrah&rsquo;s absence in the second innings cost India big time, as despite picking three wickets inside the first session, the visitors failed to put Australia under pressure and conceded the Test, the series and the golden chance to qualify for their third-straight WTC Final.&nbsp;

Sports, cricket: Australia beat India by six wickets in the final Test at the SCG to claim the BGT. With this win, they also qualified for the WTC Final 2025. 

Australia has reclaimed the coveted Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) for the first time in ten years after beating India in the decisive fifth Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) by six wickets on Sunday (Jan 5). Beau Webster and Travis Head completed the run chase inside the second session on day three to hand the hosts their first series win over India since 2014/15. Beau Webster finishes it off and Australia claims the Border-Gavaskar Trophy! #AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/fl5tmIMPPd — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 5, 2025 While India won the first Test in Perth, they lost the next in Adelaide by ten wickets before Australia clinched the last two (the Boxing Day Test at the MCG and Sydney’s New Year’s Test) to win back the BGT. Also read | BGT 2024/25: 'Rohit should play in Ranji Trophy,' says Sunil Gavaskar as India captain struggles with bat India missed their stand-in captain, Jasprit Bumrah, on day three as they failed to defend 162 on a spicy SCG surface. Bumrah was out with a back spasm, playing no role since completing eight overs on the second day before heading for a medical checkup. Though he batted in India’s second innings, Virat Kohli, who wore the captain’s hat in his absence, used just four bowlers, mainly the two pacers, in the fourth innings. For his unparalleled performance in this series, where he returned with 32 wickets – the most by an Indian bowler in a single edition Down Under, Bumrah won the Player of the Series award. However, with Australia winning the BGT 2024-25, they sealed the WTC Final 2025 qualification and will face South Africa in the summit clash at the Lord’s in June (11-15). Australia bag SCG Test The hosts entered the final match of the series with a stunning 185-run win in the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG. Beaming confidently, Australia made just one change to their winning XI, replacing underfire Mitchell Marsh with debutant Beau Webster. On the other hand, India made some shocking calls, with Shubman Gill roped in place of regular captain Rohit Sharma, who ‘opted out’ due to poor form, while Prasidh Krishna replaced injured Akash Deep. That move, however, did no good to India, as Gill failed to cross the 20-run mark across both innings, with others continuing their horror run with the bat. In Rohit’s absence, the entire onus fell on star batter Kohli, who collected just 23 runs (17, 6) in two outings, ending the series with 190 runs in nine innings, averaging 23.75. Meanwhile, India had their chances in the second innings when Rishabh Pant was at the crease, but the wickets fell like the pack of cards following his dismissal on 61 off 33 balls. Scott Boland, roped in as injured Josh Hazlewood’s replacement, took ten wickets across two innings, including six for 45 in the second. He won the Player of the Match award for his performance. This one was for Scott Boland's fifth! And it didn't take long for him to get his sixth either. #AUSvIND | #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/3NkgSYmOaN — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 5, 2025 Bumrah’s absence in the second innings cost India big time, as despite picking three wickets inside the first session, the visitors failed to put Australia under pressure and conceded the Test, the series and the golden chance to qualify for their third-straight WTC Final.

BGT - Australia qualify for WTC Final 2025 after beating India at SCG

A total of 15 wickets fell on day two of the ongoing BGT Test in Sydney, and Sunil Gavaskar wasn&rsquo;t having any of it. The former India captain tore into the lush green SCG pitch, where seamers across both camps enjoyed success. While Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna picked three wickets each for India, Scott Boland impressed everyone with four wickets thus far in the second innings.
Speaking on an exciting day of cricket, which leaves the game well-poised, Gavaskar came down hard on how the media reacted to the second day&rsquo;s play, mentioning that had 15 wickets fallen on a day during a Test in India, everyone would have lost their minds, including the Australians and Englishmen.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5i2u6ww-smtzrbi0-5fuk6wr1">
Jasprit Bumrah strikes early on Day Two, dismissing the in-form Marnus Labuschagne. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/jDHO6Si0W7">pic.twitter.com/jDHO6Si0W7</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1875329166406467618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-scg-test-hangs-in-balance-after-rishabh-pants-whirlwind-knock-on-day-2-8590387" rel="dofollow">BGT: SCG Test hangs in balance after Pant&rsquo;s whirlwind knock on day 2</a>
&ldquo;Former (Australian and English cricketers are) all the time talking about Indian pitches and conditions. We are not moaners; we are not whiners. You will never find us complaining. But 15 wickets in a day in India; man, there would be hell,&rdquo; Gavaskar said during a chat with ABC Sport following day two play in Sydney.
Referring to Glenn McGrath&rsquo;s comments on the SCG pitch before the game even began, who said he&rsquo;d never seen so much grass in Sydney, Gavaskar pointed out how no one would ever see anyone from the Indian camp and broadcasters complaining about the surface, knowing how tough it is to win outside of Asia .
<h2>Great day for pacers</h2>
Batters struggled on day two, even the best of them. While Aussie debutant Beau Webster scored his maiden Test fifty, hitting 57, Rishabh Pant made headlines for his whirlwind knock of 61 off 33 balls, including four fours and six sixes.&nbsp;
However, bowlers were the ones who made merry on this track. Boland struck gold up front for the hosts, removing both openers and Virat Kohli off wicket-taking balls, while Shubman Gill&rsquo;s dismissal had more to do with his mistake.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5i2tu2e-c7yvvqza-y7mbgqpr">
The Scott Boland show is delivering at the SCG! He's got Virat Kohli now. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/12xG5IWL2j">pic.twitter.com/12xG5IWL2j</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1875415306694164522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
Pant got a good wider one from captain Cummins, while Boland&rsquo;s brilliance accounted for Nitish Kumar Reddy for his third single-digit score since his maiden Test hundred.
"If 15 wickets fell [on one day] in India, all hell would have broken loose. We had Glenn McGrath saying he'd never seen so much grass. Did you hear any former India cricketer moan about the pitch?" Gavaskar said. "When we go out and play cricket, we will toughen it out. And if we are beaten, we are beaten. Overseas, it's very difficult to beat home teams.
"I did say that when we saw the pitch yesterday, the cows could have gone and grazed on it.
"This is not the ideal Test match pitch that you want because you want it to go into a fourth and fifth day. Unless there is rain, I don't see us being here on day four,&rdquo; he continued.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, as things stand, India is 141 for six, leading by 145 runs, with three days of cricket remaining.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: Speaking on an exciting day of cricket, which leaves the game well-poised, Gavaskar slammed how the media reacted to the second day’s play. 

A total of 15 wickets fell on day two of the ongoing BGT Test in Sydney, and Sunil Gavaskar wasn’t having any of it. The former India captain tore into the lush green SCG pitch, where seamers across both camps enjoyed success. While Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna picked three wickets each for India, Scott Boland impressed everyone with four wickets thus far in the second innings. Speaking on an exciting day of cricket, which leaves the game well-poised, Gavaskar came down hard on how the media reacted to the second day’s play, mentioning that had 15 wickets fallen on a day during a Test in India, everyone would have lost their minds, including the Australians and Englishmen. Jasprit Bumrah strikes early on Day Two, dismissing the in-form Marnus Labuschagne. #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/jDHO6Si0W7 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 3, 2025 Also read | BGT: SCG Test hangs in balance after Pant’s whirlwind knock on day 2 “Former (Australian and English cricketers are) all the time talking about Indian pitches and conditions. We are not moaners; we are not whiners. You will never find us complaining. But 15 wickets in a day in India; man, there would be hell,” Gavaskar said during a chat with ABC Sport following day two play in Sydney. Referring to Glenn McGrath’s comments on the SCG pitch before the game even began, who said he’d never seen so much grass in Sydney, Gavaskar pointed out how no one would ever see anyone from the Indian camp and broadcasters complaining about the surface, knowing how tough it is to win outside of Asia . Great day for pacers Batters struggled on day two, even the best of them. While Aussie debutant Beau Webster scored his maiden Test fifty, hitting 57, Rishabh Pant made headlines for his whirlwind knock of 61 off 33 balls, including four fours and six sixes. However, bowlers were the ones who made merry on this track. Boland struck gold up front for the hosts, removing both openers and Virat Kohli off wicket-taking balls, while Shubman Gill’s dismissal had more to do with his mistake. The Scott Boland show is delivering at the SCG! He's got Virat Kohli now. #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/12xG5IWL2j — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 4, 2025 Pant got a good wider one from captain Cummins, while Boland’s brilliance accounted for Nitish Kumar Reddy for his third single-digit score since his maiden Test hundred. "If 15 wickets fell [on one day] in India, all hell would have broken loose. We had Glenn McGrath saying he'd never seen so much grass. Did you hear any former India cricketer moan about the pitch?" Gavaskar said. "When we go out and play cricket, we will toughen it out. And if we are beaten, we are beaten. Overseas, it's very difficult to beat home teams. "I did say that when we saw the pitch yesterday, the cows could have gone and grazed on it. "This is not the ideal Test match pitch that you want because you want it to go into a fourth and fifth day. Unless there is rain, I don't see us being here on day four,” he continued. Meanwhile, as things stand, India is 141 for six, leading by 145 runs, with three days of cricket remaining. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT - ‘We are not moaners…,’ Gavaskar tears into SCG pitch after 15 wickets fall on day 2

cricket

Cricket, News on Cricket, stories on Cricket, articles on Cricket, Cricket stories at Wion, Cricket news, Cricket latest news