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South African coach Shukri Conrad brushed off criticism about the uneven scheduling of the World Test Championship after his team qualified for the final.<o:p></o:p>
South Africa beat Pakistan in a dramatic two-wicket win in Centurion on Sunday to earn their sixth successive Test win.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-but-because-he-is-the-captain-irfan-pathans-honest-assessment-of-rohit-sharmas-place-in-team-after-mcg-test-debacle-8578745" rel="dofollow">BGT - Irfan Pathan reveals reason behind Rohit Sharma's selection amid form worry</a>
On the average points system used for the championship, the South Africans are guaranteed a place in the final next June, even if they lose their last match, the second Test against Pakistan, starting in Cape Town on Friday.<o:p></o:p>
"People abroad will be shouting that we had an easy draw. Well, I'm not going to apologise for that. We're just thrilled that we can be at Lord's next year," Conrad said after the victory against Pakistan.<o:p></o:p>
Australia's win against India in Melbourne on Monday put them in pole position to join South Africa at Lord's, although they still have to play a fifth Test against India and two matches away against Sri Lanka.<o:p></o:p>
South Africa's path to the final illustrated the imbalance in the quantity and quality of the fixtures for the nine teams contesting the World Test Championship (WTC), a fact highlighted by former England captain Michael Vaughan, who called for a revamp of the format.<o:p></o:p>
"At the moment every team plays a wildly different number of games, and that just does not create a balanced outcome or totally fair league table," Vaughan wrote in a column for British daily The Telegraph.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>Different teams, different schedule</h2>
South Africa&rsquo;s programme consisted of just 12 matches, the joint lowest number together with Bangladesh.<o:p></o:p>
England played 22 Tests, and Australia and India, the other members of cricket&rsquo;s 'big three', had 19 fixtures each.<o:p></o:p>
South Africa had six series, all of only two matches. They shared a series against India 1-1 but did not play against Australia or England.<o:p></o:p>
Australia, India, and England, by contrast, played each other in a five-match 'marquee' series.<o:p></o:p>
With no team dominating, they all shed points, affecting their average points standings.<o:p></o:p>
After sharing the honours against India, South Africa effectively forfeited a series in New Zealand because their governing body prioritised a Twenty20 tournament.<o:p></o:p>
Conrad could not select any players contracted by the T20 franchises, which ruled out most of his first-choice players.<o:p></o:p>
Since then, though, South Africa have won away series in the West Indies and Bangladesh and beaten Sri Lanka at home before scraping home against Pakistan.<o:p></o:p>
Conrad admitted that his team were far from their best at Centurion, needing an unbeaten ninth wicket stand of 51 between Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada to secure the win.<o:p></o:p>
"The WTC weighs on you, you really want to get to the final, but we need to be a lot more resilient and clinical. We saw what pressure did to some of our players, but they will grow enormously from the experience."<o:p></o:p>
"We are so much better than we showed in this match, but we want this team to never know when they are beaten, and we want the opposition to know that too," said Conrad.
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.

Cricket: Conrad admitted that his team were far from their best at Centurion, needing an unbeaten ninth wicket stand of 51 between Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada to secure the win.

South African coach Shukri Conrad brushed off criticism about the uneven scheduling of the World Test Championship after his team qualified for the final. South Africa beat Pakistan in a dramatic two-wicket win in Centurion on Sunday to earn their sixth successive Test win. Also read | BGT - Irfan Pathan reveals reason behind Rohit Sharma's selection amid form worry On the average points system used for the championship, the South Africans are guaranteed a place in the final next June, even if they lose their last match, the second Test against Pakistan, starting in Cape Town on Friday. "People abroad will be shouting that we had an easy draw. Well, I'm not going to apologise for that. We're just thrilled that we can be at Lord's next year," Conrad said after the victory against Pakistan. Australia's win against India in Melbourne on Monday put them in pole position to join South Africa at Lord's, although they still have to play a fifth Test against India and two matches away against Sri Lanka. South Africa's path to the final illustrated the imbalance in the quantity and quality of the fixtures for the nine teams contesting the World Test Championship (WTC), a fact highlighted by former England captain Michael Vaughan, who called for a revamp of the format. "At the moment every team plays a wildly different number of games, and that just does not create a balanced outcome or totally fair league table," Vaughan wrote in a column for British daily The Telegraph. Different teams, different schedule South Africa’s programme consisted of just 12 matches, the joint lowest number together with Bangladesh. England played 22 Tests, and Australia and India, the other members of cricket’s 'big three', had 19 fixtures each. South Africa had six series, all of only two matches. They shared a series against India 1-1 but did not play against Australia or England. Australia, India, and England, by contrast, played each other in a five-match 'marquee' series. With no team dominating, they all shed points, affecting their average points standings. After sharing the honours against India, South Africa effectively forfeited a series in New Zealand because their governing body prioritised a Twenty20 tournament. Conrad could not select any players contracted by the T20 franchises, which ruled out most of his first-choice players. Since then, though, South Africa have won away series in the West Indies and Bangladesh and beaten Sri Lanka at home before scraping home against Pakistan. Conrad admitted that his team were far from their best at Centurion, needing an unbeaten ninth wicket stand of 51 between Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada to secure the win. "The WTC weighs on you, you really want to get to the final, but we need to be a lot more resilient and clinical. We saw what pressure did to some of our players, but they will grow enormously from the experience." "We are so much better than we showed in this match, but we want this team to never know when they are beaten, and we want the opposition to know that too," said Conrad. 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.

Coach Conrad unapologetic about South Africa's easy route to WTC Final

Indian captain Rohit Sharma is under massive scrutiny for his below-par performance in the ongoing BGT Down Under. Having failed with the bat since his return to the Test side, Rohit&rsquo;s future in the whites has started to look gloomy, with Irfan Pathan saying that wearing the captain&rsquo;s hat has been saving his place in the Test team.
India lost the fourth Test at the MCG by 184 runs, conceding the lead they took with a staggering win in the series opener in Perth, where Rohit remained absent for personal reasons and ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah captained in his place. Rohit, however, returned to the XI from the second game at the Adelaide Oval, where Australia won by ten wickets.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5b6e65j-jbqscx7p-xfudxat0">
LYON DOES IT! What a remarkable win for Australia! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/SGbA3R797X">pic.twitter.com/SGbA3R797X</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873617184385077618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
India was on the back foot in the next two matches at the Gabba and MCG, respectively. Though the third Test ended in a draw, thanks to several rain interruptions, the hosts beat India at the &lsquo;G&rsquo; for the first time since 2011, taking a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-awards-2024-jasprit-bumrah-nominated-for-sir-garfield-sobers-trophy-for-mens-cricketer-of-the-year-8578356" rel="dofollow">Bumrah rewarded with twin ICC Awards nominations for a staggering 2024</a>
Besides the results, Rohit&rsquo;s poor performance across five innings has been no short of an embarrassment; having scored just 31 runs on this tour, Rohit not finding his groove at all is a worrying point for the veteran batter and the team management.
Amidst reports of the selectors contemplating Rohit&rsquo;s future in the longer format beyond the fifth and final BGT Test at the SCG, starting January 3, the right-handed batter will continue as the captain and an opener in Sydney.&nbsp;
Pathan, a cricketer-turned-broadcaster, explains what, despite his horrible show with the bat, helped Rohit retain his place in the XI.
<h2>What&rsquo;s going wrong with Rohit&rsquo;s form?</h2>
&ldquo;A player who has made about 20,000 runs&mdash;yet the way Rohit is struggling now, it seems his form is not supporting him at all,&rdquo; Pathan said on Star Sports following the MCG Test loss.
&ldquo;What&rsquo;s happening now is that he is the captain, so he is playing. If he were not the captain, he might not be playing right now. You would have had a set team. K.L. Rahul would have been playing at the top, Jaiswal would have been there, and Shubman Gill would have been there. If we talk about reality, considering how he is struggling with the bat, there might not have been a place for him in the playing XI,&rdquo; he continued.&nbsp;
Now, with Rohit back at the top after a few failures down the order, KL Rahul is demoted to number three, with Shubman Gill out of the XI. Considering India has to win the next Test in Sydney to give them any chance of qualifying for the WTC Final 2025, they might press the panic button, bringing in Gill and continuing playing Bumrah despite fearing burnout.&nbsp;
&ldquo;But because he is the captain, and you want to win the next match to draw the series, he stays in the team.&nbsp;
&ldquo;But his form is so poor. Even in India, even before coming here, he wasn&rsquo;t scoring runs, and he still hasn&rsquo;t scored runs. This is a very disappointing scene when I see Rohit Sharma batting.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Because whenever I see Rohit Sharma batting, I always want to see him bat, whether it is Test cricket or one-day cricket. But now, his form, the way he is going forward, whether it is his mindset or the coordination with his body, I can&rsquo;t see that at all,&rdquo; he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket: Having scored just 31 runs on this tour thus far, Rohit Sharma not finding his groove at all is a worrying point for the veteran batter and the team management.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma is under massive scrutiny for his below-par performance in the ongoing BGT Down Under. Having failed with the bat since his return to the Test side, Rohit’s future in the whites has started to look gloomy, with Irfan Pathan saying that wearing the captain’s hat has been saving his place in the Test team. India lost the fourth Test at the MCG by 184 runs, conceding the lead they took with a staggering win in the series opener in Perth, where Rohit remained absent for personal reasons and ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah captained in his place. Rohit, however, returned to the XI from the second game at the Adelaide Oval, where Australia won by ten wickets. LYON DOES IT! What a remarkable win for Australia! #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/SGbA3R797X — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 30, 2024 India was on the back foot in the next two matches at the Gabba and MCG, respectively. Though the third Test ended in a draw, thanks to several rain interruptions, the hosts beat India at the ‘G’ for the first time since 2011, taking a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Also read | Bumrah rewarded with twin ICC Awards nominations for a staggering 2024 Besides the results, Rohit’s poor performance across five innings has been no short of an embarrassment; having scored just 31 runs on this tour, Rohit not finding his groove at all is a worrying point for the veteran batter and the team management. Amidst reports of the selectors contemplating Rohit’s future in the longer format beyond the fifth and final BGT Test at the SCG, starting January 3, the right-handed batter will continue as the captain and an opener in Sydney. Pathan, a cricketer-turned-broadcaster, explains what, despite his horrible show with the bat, helped Rohit retain his place in the XI. What’s going wrong with Rohit’s form? “A player who has made about 20,000 runs—yet the way Rohit is struggling now, it seems his form is not supporting him at all,” Pathan said on Star Sports following the MCG Test loss. “What’s happening now is that he is the captain, so he is playing. If he were not the captain, he might not be playing right now. You would have had a set team. K.L. Rahul would have been playing at the top, Jaiswal would have been there, and Shubman Gill would have been there. If we talk about reality, considering how he is struggling with the bat, there might not have been a place for him in the playing XI,” he continued. Now, with Rohit back at the top after a few failures down the order, KL Rahul is demoted to number three, with Shubman Gill out of the XI. Considering India has to win the next Test in Sydney to give them any chance of qualifying for the WTC Final 2025, they might press the panic button, bringing in Gill and continuing playing Bumrah despite fearing burnout. “But because he is the captain, and you want to win the next match to draw the series, he stays in the team. “But his form is so poor. Even in India, even before coming here, he wasn’t scoring runs, and he still hasn’t scored runs. This is a very disappointing scene when I see Rohit Sharma batting.” “Because whenever I see Rohit Sharma batting, I always want to see him bat, whether it is Test cricket or one-day cricket. But now, his form, the way he is going forward, whether it is his mindset or the coordination with his body, I can’t see that at all,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT - Irfan Pathan reveals reason behind Rohit Sharma's selection amid form worry

Ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah got rewarded for his supreme performance in Tests this year with two nominations in the latest ICC Awards 2024 - Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for Men&rsquo;s Cricketer of the Year and ICC Men&rsquo;s Test Cricketer of the Year. Bumrah is among four Indians, including fellow seamer Arshdeep Singh and two women&rsquo;s cricketers, Shreyanka Patil and Smriti Mandhana, zeroed in for the coveted individual awards.
Bumrah was the vital cog in the wheel for India across formats this year, helping them win their second T20 World Cup in the Americas in June. He won the Player of the Tournament for his 15 wickets in eight outings, two of which came in the final against South Africa in Barbados.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Arshdeep Singh, nominated for his maiden ICC Men&rsquo;s T20I Cricketer of the Year award, was the tournament&rsquo;s highest wicket-taker with 17 scalps. Overall, in the shortest format this year, the emerging left-arm quick picked 36 wickets in 18 matches, averaging 13.5. Even in the summit clash against the Proteas, Arshdeep conceded just four runs in the penultimate over during the chase.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/explained-how-india-can-reach-the-wtc-final-2025-after-losing-mcg-test-to-australia-8578119" rel="dofollow">Explained - How India can reach the WTC Final after losing MCG Test</a>
Suryakumar Yadav, the winner of the ICC Men's T20I Cricketer of the Year for the last two years and who picked perhaps the catch of the year in that final, dismissing David Miller off Hardik Pandya, missed out on the cut this time.
Moving to women&rsquo;s cricket, Mandhana and Patil are two names who made headlines for star performances this year.&nbsp;
While Mandhana has been nominated for the ICC Women&rsquo;s ODI Cricketer of the Year, having scored 747 runs from 13 innings at an average of 57.46, the off-spinner Patil earned a nomination for the ICC Emerging Women&rsquo;s Cricketer of the Year. In 17 matches (13 T20Is and 4 ODIs) played this year, the youngster bagged 19 wickets.
<h2>Bumrah, the superstar!</h2>
Bumrah has had his best cricketing year, finishing at the top of the wickets chart in Tests. He picked a staggering 71 wickets in 2024 in 13 matches, averaging 14.92 and an economy of 2.96. He bagged five five-wicket hauls this year, with his best of 6/45 coming against England in February.
In the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Bumrah leads the wicket-takers tally with 30 scalps from four contested matches, including three five-fors and two four-wicket hauls. Even in the recently concluded MCG Test, which the hosts won by 184 runs, Bumrah picked nine wickets, including a five-for in the second innings.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5b1wym9-5z1ulwr4-rouprik2">
Jasprit Bumrah's fifth wicket was an absolute belter! <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/vfDI5gEN3n">pic.twitter.com/vfDI5gEN3n</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873509891110846966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
During this Test, he created history by becoming the quickest Indian and the fourth overall to bag 200 Test wickets.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket: Bumrah was the vital cog in the wheel for India across formats this year, helping them win their second T20 World Cup. He won the Player of the Tournament.

Ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah got rewarded for his supreme performance in Tests this year with two nominations in the latest ICC Awards 2024 - Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for Men’s Cricketer of the Year and ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year. Bumrah is among four Indians, including fellow seamer Arshdeep Singh and two women’s cricketers, Shreyanka Patil and Smriti Mandhana, zeroed in for the coveted individual awards. Bumrah was the vital cog in the wheel for India across formats this year, helping them win their second T20 World Cup in the Americas in June. He won the Player of the Tournament for his 15 wickets in eight outings, two of which came in the final against South Africa in Barbados. Meanwhile, Arshdeep Singh, nominated for his maiden ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year award, was the tournament’s highest wicket-taker with 17 scalps. Overall, in the shortest format this year, the emerging left-arm quick picked 36 wickets in 18 matches, averaging 13.5. Even in the summit clash against the Proteas, Arshdeep conceded just four runs in the penultimate over during the chase. Also read | Explained - How India can reach the WTC Final after losing MCG Test Suryakumar Yadav, the winner of the ICC Men's T20I Cricketer of the Year for the last two years and who picked perhaps the catch of the year in that final, dismissing David Miller off Hardik Pandya, missed out on the cut this time. Moving to women’s cricket, Mandhana and Patil are two names who made headlines for star performances this year. While Mandhana has been nominated for the ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year, having scored 747 runs from 13 innings at an average of 57.46, the off-spinner Patil earned a nomination for the ICC Emerging Women’s Cricketer of the Year. In 17 matches (13 T20Is and 4 ODIs) played this year, the youngster bagged 19 wickets. Bumrah, the superstar! Bumrah has had his best cricketing year, finishing at the top of the wickets chart in Tests. He picked a staggering 71 wickets in 2024 in 13 matches, averaging 14.92 and an economy of 2.96. He bagged five five-wicket hauls this year, with his best of 6/45 coming against England in February. In the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Bumrah leads the wicket-takers tally with 30 scalps from four contested matches, including three five-fors and two four-wicket hauls. Even in the recently concluded MCG Test, which the hosts won by 184 runs, Bumrah picked nine wickets, including a five-for in the second innings. Jasprit Bumrah's fifth wicket was an absolute belter! #AUSvIND | #DeliveredWithSpeed | @NBN_Australia pic.twitter.com/vfDI5gEN3n — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 During this Test, he created history by becoming the quickest Indian and the fourth overall to bag 200 Test wickets. (With inputs from agencies)

Bumrah rewarded with twin ICC Awards nominations for a staggering 2024

India, Australia and Sri Lanka - all remain in contention for the one remaining spot in the WTC Final 2025. After South Africa became the first team to qualify directly for the summit clash scheduled for June 2025 at Lord&rsquo;s, Australia strengthened their chances of reaching their second WTC Final on the trot after beating India in the fourth BGT Test at the MCG by 184 runs.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5azks8z-2rgj202h-drhmkm1o">
LYON DOES IT! What a remarkable win for Australia! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/SGbA3R797X">pic.twitter.com/SGbA3R797X</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873617184385077618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
Though that win hasn&rsquo;t guaranteed them a spot in the grand finale yet, it squashed India&rsquo;s chances of making it thrice in a row, leaving the final match of the marquee series at the SCG to decide their fate. It remains bleak, but they still have an outside chance of reaching the WTC Final and completing their trophy cabinet with the only ICC title that has eluded them till now.
<h2>How can India still qualify for WTC Final after MCG loss?</h2>
India lost the fourth Test at the MCG&mdash;their second of the series to the hosts, conceding the lead they took after bagging a massive win in the series opener in Perth. With the scoreline reading 2-1 in Australia&rsquo;s favour, they are beaming confidently, entering the fifth Test of the series with an upper hand over India.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-pat-cummins-rates-mcg-test-win-over-india-his-greatest-ever-in-australian-jersey-8577760" rel="dofollow">BGT &ndash; Pat Cummins rates MCG Test win over India his &lsquo;greatest ever&rsquo;</a>
For India to reach the WTC Final 2025, they must not only beat Australia significantly but also hope for other results to fall in place for them. Should India win at the SCG, their PCT (of 55.26) would be enough for them to finish second if Australia achieves no more than just a draw in two Tests in Sri Lanka. In that case, Australia&rsquo;s PCT would read 53.51, while Sri Lanka would finish at 48.72 (with one win).&nbsp;
However, in case of a draw in the final match of the series, India&rsquo;s PCT would drop to 51.75, ruling them out of the WTC Final race; and this is because even if Australia play a draw at the SCG and lose to Sri Lanka 0-2, they would finish on 53.51, while Sri Lanka would climb up to 53.85, piping India and Australia to qualify for their maiden WTC Final.
<h3>Which team stands a better chance?</h3>
Following the win in the MCG Test, Australia is a frontrunner to qualify for the WTC Final 2025 and face South Africa in the clash of titans.&nbsp;
Should they beat India at the SCG Test starting January 3 next year, Australia will qualify regardless of the result against Sri Lanka that follows.&nbsp;
If they win the final Test in Sydney, which sees them bagging the coveted BGT after ten years, and lose the two games in the Island Nation, their PCT would read 57.02 compared to India&rsquo;s 50 and Sri Lanka&rsquo;s 53.85.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket: South Africa qualified for their maiden WTC Final 2025 after beating Pakistan in the first Test in Centurion. India, Australia and Sri Lanka, all remain active in race. 

India, Australia and Sri Lanka - all remain in contention for the one remaining spot in the WTC Final 2025. After South Africa became the first team to qualify directly for the summit clash scheduled for June 2025 at Lord’s, Australia strengthened their chances of reaching their second WTC Final on the trot after beating India in the fourth BGT Test at the MCG by 184 runs. LYON DOES IT! What a remarkable win for Australia! #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/SGbA3R797X — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 30, 2024 Though that win hasn’t guaranteed them a spot in the grand finale yet, it squashed India’s chances of making it thrice in a row, leaving the final match of the marquee series at the SCG to decide their fate. It remains bleak, but they still have an outside chance of reaching the WTC Final and completing their trophy cabinet with the only ICC title that has eluded them till now. How can India still qualify for WTC Final after MCG loss? India lost the fourth Test at the MCG—their second of the series to the hosts, conceding the lead they took after bagging a massive win in the series opener in Perth. With the scoreline reading 2-1 in Australia’s favour, they are beaming confidently, entering the fifth Test of the series with an upper hand over India. Also read | BGT – Pat Cummins rates MCG Test win over India his ‘greatest ever’ For India to reach the WTC Final 2025, they must not only beat Australia significantly but also hope for other results to fall in place for them. Should India win at the SCG, their PCT (of 55.26) would be enough for them to finish second if Australia achieves no more than just a draw in two Tests in Sri Lanka. In that case, Australia’s PCT would read 53.51, while Sri Lanka would finish at 48.72 (with one win). However, in case of a draw in the final match of the series, India’s PCT would drop to 51.75, ruling them out of the WTC Final race; and this is because even if Australia play a draw at the SCG and lose to Sri Lanka 0-2, they would finish on 53.51, while Sri Lanka would climb up to 53.85, piping India and Australia to qualify for their maiden WTC Final. Which team stands a better chance? Following the win in the MCG Test, Australia is a frontrunner to qualify for the WTC Final 2025 and face South Africa in the clash of titans. Should they beat India at the SCG Test starting January 3 next year, Australia will qualify regardless of the result against Sri Lanka that follows. If they win the final Test in Sydney, which sees them bagging the coveted BGT after ten years, and lose the two games in the Island Nation, their PCT would read 57.02 compared to India’s 50 and Sri Lanka’s 53.85. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained - How India can reach the WTC Final after losing MCG Test

Crucial wickets to Jacob Duffy and a rollicking batting cameo by Mitchell Hay saw New Zealand beat Sri Lanka to win the Twenty20 series with a game to spare at Mount Maunganui on Monday.<o:p></o:p>
New Zealand made 186-5 in their 20 overs, with player-of-the-match Hay cracking an unbeaten 41 from 19 deliveries.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-pat-cummins-rates-mcg-test-win-over-india-his-greatest-ever-in-australian-jersey-8577760" rel="dofollow">BGT &ndash; Pat Cummins rates MCG Test win over India his &lsquo;greatest ever&rsquo;</a>
Sri Lanka, in reply, were all out for 141, with Duffy taking four wickets for a miserly 15 runs, including the tourists' top scorers Kusal Perera for 48 and Pathum Nissanka for 37.<o:p></o:p>
"I said at the start whoever could use the wind the best would do pretty well, and we were able to do that with the bat," New Zealand captain Mitchell Santer said, while also praising Duffy's bowling. <o:p></o:p>"Every time I bring him back, he gets a pole."<o:p></o:p>
"The best way to slow a run rate down is to take wickets, and that's what we were able to do in the middle."<o:p></o:p>
The 45-run victory, following their eight-run win on Saturday, put New Zealand 2-0 up in the three-match series.<o:p></o:p>
"I'm really disappointed with the results," Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka said, adding his side needed to adapt more quickly to New Zealand pitches. "They're more bouncy than at home, that's the main thing, and we have to adjust to that. At the same time, they (New Zealand) were brilliant."<o:p></o:p>
Sri Lanka started their run race cautiously with eight off the first two overs before Nissanka launched into New Zealand's strike bowler Matt Henry, taking 16 off his next over. But, no sooner had Sri Lanka started to fire, Santner came into the attack into the fifth over and removed Kusal Mendis for 10 with his first delivery. <o:p></o:p>
Nissanka and Perera had lifted the score to 71 by the 10th over when Duffy, who turned the first game in New Zealand's favour, again made a crucial breakthrough. <o:p></o:p>
A slower delivery to Nissanka was scooped to Henry at fine leg, and the Sri Lankan talisman was gone for 37.<o:p></o:p>
When Perera was bowled at the start of the 16th over, it was the beginning of the end for Sri Lanka, as their last seven wickets fell for just 14 runs.<o:p></o:p>
New Zealand, who again lost the toss and were told to bat first, produced a steady performance until Hay opened up with three overs remaining.<o:p></o:p>
In the final 18 deliveries, New Zealand scored 43 runs, 35 of them coming from Hay as he atoned for his first-ball duck in game one.<o:p></o:p>
After New Zealand lost Rachin Ravindra for just one early, Tim Robinson and Mark Chapman put on 69 for the second wicket.<o:p></o:p>
But in the 10th over, after belting the first ball from Wanindu Hasaranga over the midwicket fence, Robinson misread the next delivery and was bowled for 41.<o:p></o:p>
Another "wrong un" from Hasaranga undid Chapman, who was stumped for 42 off 29 deliveries.<o:p></o:p>
Hasaranga returned the best figures for Sri Lanka with 2-28.
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.

Cricket: The 45-run victory following their eight-run win on Saturday put New Zealand 2-0 up in the three-match series. Saxton Oval in Nelson will host the final match. 

Crucial wickets to Jacob Duffy and a rollicking batting cameo by Mitchell Hay saw New Zealand beat Sri Lanka to win the Twenty20 series with a game to spare at Mount Maunganui on Monday. New Zealand made 186-5 in their 20 overs, with player-of-the-match Hay cracking an unbeaten 41 from 19 deliveries. Also read | BGT – Pat Cummins rates MCG Test win over India his ‘greatest ever’ Sri Lanka, in reply, were all out for 141, with Duffy taking four wickets for a miserly 15 runs, including the tourists' top scorers Kusal Perera for 48 and Pathum Nissanka for 37. "I said at the start whoever could use the wind the best would do pretty well, and we were able to do that with the bat," New Zealand captain Mitchell Santer said, while also praising Duffy's bowling. "Every time I bring him back, he gets a pole." "The best way to slow a run rate down is to take wickets, and that's what we were able to do in the middle." The 45-run victory, following their eight-run win on Saturday, put New Zealand 2-0 up in the three-match series. "I'm really disappointed with the results," Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka said, adding his side needed to adapt more quickly to New Zealand pitches. "They're more bouncy than at home, that's the main thing, and we have to adjust to that. At the same time, they (New Zealand) were brilliant." Sri Lanka started their run race cautiously with eight off the first two overs before Nissanka launched into New Zealand's strike bowler Matt Henry, taking 16 off his next over. But, no sooner had Sri Lanka started to fire, Santner came into the attack into the fifth over and removed Kusal Mendis for 10 with his first delivery. Nissanka and Perera had lifted the score to 71 by the 10th over when Duffy, who turned the first game in New Zealand's favour, again made a crucial breakthrough. A slower delivery to Nissanka was scooped to Henry at fine leg, and the Sri Lankan talisman was gone for 37. When Perera was bowled at the start of the 16th over, it was the beginning of the end for Sri Lanka, as their last seven wickets fell for just 14 runs. New Zealand, who again lost the toss and were told to bat first, produced a steady performance until Hay opened up with three overs remaining. In the final 18 deliveries, New Zealand scored 43 runs, 35 of them coming from Hay as he atoned for his first-ball duck in game one. After New Zealand lost Rachin Ravindra for just one early, Tim Robinson and Mark Chapman put on 69 for the second wicket. But in the 10th over, after belting the first ball from Wanindu Hasaranga over the midwicket fence, Robinson misread the next delivery and was bowled for 41. Another "wrong un" from Hasaranga undid Chapman, who was stumped for 42 off 29 deliveries. Hasaranga returned the best figures for Sri Lanka with 2-28. 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.

Duffy, Hay star for Kiwis in series-clinching 2nd T20I win against Sri Lanka

Pat Cummins said on Monday he rates the fourth Test victory over India by 184 runs as "right at the top" of the greatest games he has played in for Australia. <o:p></o:p>
A rollicking match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was won late on day five when the home side blasted out seven Indian wickets in the final session.<o:p></o:p>
Cummins was named player of the match for his all-round deeds, including taking three key wickets on the final day as the tourists were skittled for 155. He did it in front of a final-day crowd of nearly 75,000, pushing the combined attendance across five days to 373,691, easily the highest for any match played in Australia.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-i-think-he-did-rohit-on-jaiswals-controversial-dismissal-after-indias-mcg-test-loss-vs-australia-8577295" rel="dofollow">'I think he did...', Rohit on Jaiswal's controversial dismissal after India's MCG Test loss vs Australia</a>
The 66-Test veteran said he agreed with several team-mates that the Test was among the best they'd played in.<o:p></o:p>
"I just felt everyone was talking, trying to work out where it sits. I reckon that it's right at the top," Cummins said. "When you take it all into account, it's probably the best Test match I've been involved in."<o:p></o:p>
"I don't know what the crowd was today, but it was huge," he said. "It felt like the match swung a lot as well. It never felt like we were so far ahead of the game that a win looked certain."<o:p></o:p>
"So overall, just one of those great wins."<o:p></o:p>
While Australia's attack was devastating late on day five, Cummins believed victory was set up in the morning when the key trio of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli was dismissed cheaply.<o:p></o:p>
"I reckon that first session today was close to perfection from a bowling point of view," he said.<o:p></o:p>
Australia can reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy if they win or draw the fifth and final Test starting in Sydney on Friday.<o:p></o:p>
Cummins expected Mitchell Starc to be fit to play, even though the pace bowler was wincing throughout the second innings, favouring what is believed to be a rib complaint.<o:p></o:p>
"We'll reassess in a couple of days, but he's a warrior, he gets through," Cummins said. "He never even contemplates not being an option to bowl."<o:p></o:p>
"So yeah, other than being in pain, he's fully fit and available."
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.

Cricket: While Australia's attack was devastating late on day five, Cummins believed victory was set up in the morning when key trio of Rohit, Rahul, and Kohli was dismissed cheaply.

Pat Cummins said on Monday he rates the fourth Test victory over India by 184 runs as "right at the top" of the greatest games he has played in for Australia. A rollicking match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was won late on day five when the home side blasted out seven Indian wickets in the final session. Cummins was named player of the match for his all-round deeds, including taking three key wickets on the final day as the tourists were skittled for 155. He did it in front of a final-day crowd of nearly 75,000, pushing the combined attendance across five days to 373,691, easily the highest for any match played in Australia. Also read | 'I think he did...', Rohit on Jaiswal's controversial dismissal after India's MCG Test loss vs Australia The 66-Test veteran said he agreed with several team-mates that the Test was among the best they'd played in. "I just felt everyone was talking, trying to work out where it sits. I reckon that it's right at the top," Cummins said. "When you take it all into account, it's probably the best Test match I've been involved in." "I don't know what the crowd was today, but it was huge," he said. "It felt like the match swung a lot as well. It never felt like we were so far ahead of the game that a win looked certain." "So overall, just one of those great wins." While Australia's attack was devastating late on day five, Cummins believed victory was set up in the morning when the key trio of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli was dismissed cheaply. "I reckon that first session today was close to perfection from a bowling point of view," he said. Australia can reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy if they win or draw the fifth and final Test starting in Sydney on Friday. Cummins expected Mitchell Starc to be fit to play, even though the pace bowler was wincing throughout the second innings, favouring what is believed to be a rib complaint. "We'll reassess in a couple of days, but he's a warrior, he gets through," Cummins said. "He never even contemplates not being an option to bowl." "So yeah, other than being in pain, he's fully fit and available." 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 – Pat Cummins rates MCG Test win over India his ‘greatest ever’

India lost the MCG Test to Australia by 184 runs on Day 5 in Melbourne on Monday (Dec 30). With this, Pat Cummins-led hosts took an unassailable 2-1 lead and have a chance to regain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) with a win, or draw, in the series finale in Sydney. Chasing 340, India were never in the hunt but Yashasvi Jaiswal's dismissal led to their eventual downfall. Jaiswal was controversially out for 84, when side on replays showed he hit a delivery, off Cummins, with the gloves but Real Time Snickometer (RTS) showed no spike.
Eventually, the visual evidence helped the third umpire overturn the initial call and adjudge Jaiswal out. In the post-match presser, Indian captain Rohit Sharma shared his take on his opening partner's dismissal.
<h2>'He did touch the ball...'</h2>
Rohit said, "In all fairness, I think he did touch the ball. The technology is not always 100 per cent. More often than not, we are the ones falling on the wrong side of it (decision-making by DRS). I believe it was a little unfortunate."
&ldquo;He showed great character and a lot of fight, batting there in the middle. I just hope he goes from strength to strength. There is a lot more to look forward to from him," he added.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/border-gavaskar-trophy-2024-25-australia-beat-india-by-184-runs-in-melbourne-test-to-take-unassailable-2-1-lead-in-series-8576888" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT: Australia beat India by 184 runs in MCG Test to take unassailable 2-1 lead</a>
India had a lot of chances in the fourth and penultimate Test, i.e. the Boxing Day match, but eventually lost by a big margin. Opting to bowl first, India conceded 474 with Steve Smith (140) and other Aussie batters chipping in with valuable knocks. In reply, India's famed batters fell flat but Nitish Reddy's 114 took visitors to 369, conceding a 105-run lead.
In the third innings, India reduced Australia to 91-6 but Marnus Labuschagne's 70 and 41 apiece from Cummins and Nathan Lyon took the hosts to 234 all-out on Day 5, setting a 340-run target.&nbsp;
India's flop batting show and fielding errors, dropping three catches on Day 4, cost them dearly at the MCG, Melbourne.
Hitman added, "We had our chances but didn&rsquo;t take them. I know things can get difficult, but that is what we are here for."
India will now look for a 2-2 scoreline with a win in the SCG Test whereas Australia will be desperate to regain the BGT with a 3-1 margin and also keep their hopes alive of playing the WTC final, where South Africa have booked a slot. The finale is scheduled for mid-June, 2025.

Cricket, Sports | Border-Gavaskar Trophy: 'I think he did...', Rohit Sharma on Yashasvi Jaiswal's controversial dismissal after India's MCG Test loss vs Australia

India lost the MCG Test to Australia by 184 runs on Day 5 in Melbourne on Monday (Dec 30). With this, Pat Cummins-led hosts took an unassailable 2-1 lead and have a chance to regain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) with a win, or draw, in the series finale in Sydney. Chasing 340, India were never in the hunt but Yashasvi Jaiswal's dismissal led to their eventual downfall. Jaiswal was controversially out for 84, when side on replays showed he hit a delivery, off Cummins, with the gloves but Real Time Snickometer (RTS) showed no spike. Eventually, the visual evidence helped the third umpire overturn the initial call and adjudge Jaiswal out. In the post-match presser, Indian captain Rohit Sharma shared his take on his opening partner's dismissal. 'He did touch the ball...' Rohit said, "In all fairness, I think he did touch the ball. The technology is not always 100 per cent. More often than not, we are the ones falling on the wrong side of it (decision-making by DRS). I believe it was a little unfortunate." “He showed great character and a lot of fight, batting there in the middle. I just hope he goes from strength to strength. There is a lot more to look forward to from him," he added. Also read: BGT: Australia beat India by 184 runs in MCG Test to take unassailable 2-1 lead India had a lot of chances in the fourth and penultimate Test, i.e. the Boxing Day match, but eventually lost by a big margin. Opting to bowl first, India conceded 474 with Steve Smith (140) and other Aussie batters chipping in with valuable knocks. In reply, India's famed batters fell flat but Nitish Reddy's 114 took visitors to 369, conceding a 105-run lead. In the third innings, India reduced Australia to 91-6 but Marnus Labuschagne's 70 and 41 apiece from Cummins and Nathan Lyon took the hosts to 234 all-out on Day 5, setting a 340-run target. India's flop batting show and fielding errors, dropping three catches on Day 4, cost them dearly at the MCG, Melbourne. Hitman added, "We had our chances but didn’t take them. I know things can get difficult, but that is what we are here for." India will now look for a 2-2 scoreline with a win in the SCG Test whereas Australia will be desperate to regain the BGT with a 3-1 margin and also keep their hopes alive of playing the WTC final, where South Africa have booked a slot. The finale is scheduled for mid-June, 2025.

'I think he did...', Rohit on Jaiswal's controversial dismissal after India's MCG Test loss vs Australia

Australia beat India by 184 runs on Day 5 of the MCG Test, Melbourne on Monday (Dec 30) to take an unassailable 2-1 lead in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Chasing 340, in the fourth and penultimate tie, India managed 155 with only Yashasvi Jaiswal (84) showing resistance in the middle before a controversial call adjudged him out. India's top-order struggle continued as their hopes of playing the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, in June 2025, keeps fading away. For Pat Cummins-led Australia, the win marked their first versus India at the G and keeps them on course to meet South Africa in the WTC finale.
Day 5 of the MCG Test kicked off with Australia adding six more runs to their score bundling out for 234, setting a 340-run target. The last-wicket stand between Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland added 61 to frustrate India before Bumrah cleaned up Lyon. Bumrah claimed his third five-fer of the series. He now has 30 wickets in 2024-25 BGT; most by miles. In addition, Bumrah became the first pacer to claim 30 wickets in a BGT (second overall after Harbhajan Singh's 32 in 2001).
Moreover, Bumrah became the first visiting bowler to take 30 wickets in a Test series in Australia since West Indies great Curtly Ambrose (in 1992-93). Also, he is only the second Indian to touch the 30-wicket mark after spin legend Bishan Singh Bedi. Bedi achieved the feat during India's 1967-68 tour of Australia.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-kohli-can-play-3-to-4-more-years-for-rohit-shastri-on-indian-duos-test-future-after-flop-show-in-mcg-test-8576550" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT: 'Kohli can play 3 to 4 more years, for Rohit....' - Shastri on Indian duo's Test future after flop show in MCG Test</a>
<h2>Top order struggles and fielding lapses cost India</h2>
Talking about the MCG Test, India opted to bowl first but Steve Smith's 140, fifties from debutant Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne and lower-order's vital contributions, headed by skipper Pat Cummins (49), took the hosts to 474. In reply, India's famed batters -- Rohit, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, etc. -- fell flat but Nitish Reddy's 114 and Washington Sundar's 50 took India to 369.
Buoyed by Reddy and Sundar's fightback, India reduced Australia to 91-6, with their overall lead being 196. Bumrah once again led the charge with the ball but also found rare support from the other end, with Mohammed Siraj looking in good rhythm. However, Marnus Labuschagne's 70, Cummins and Lyon's 41 apiece took Australia to 234, also courtesy of India giving plenty of lifelines with several fielding errors.
India had a chance to save the Test match but the likes of Rohit and Kohli failed once again. Jaiswal led the charge but fell short of partners before eventually losing his wicket. The left-hander pulled a delivery off Cummins and was given out, caught-behind. While there was no spike on the Real Time Snickometer (RTS), the side-on replays showed it hit the gloves. Eventually, visual evidence was enough to overturn the decision. Jaiswal, thus, ended the year with the most Test runs by an Indian, second overall -- 1,478.
The MCG Test also scripted history, with 350,700 spectators (a record attendance) flocking to the iconic venue during the course of the game.
The ongoing BGT series is in Australia's favour (with a 2-1 lead), however, India will be desperate to end at 2-2 with a win in the series finale, at the SCG, Sydney. If India succeeds, they will manage to retain the BGT once again, since 2016-17. For the Aussies, they are eager to regain the elusive trophy, having last won in 2014-15.
The final Test of the five-match series commences on Jan 3 (Friday) in Sydney.

Cricket, Sports | Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25: Australia beat India by 184 runs in the Melbourne Test to take an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series

Australia beat India by 184 runs on Day 5 of the MCG Test, Melbourne on Monday (Dec 30) to take an unassailable 2-1 lead in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Chasing 340, in the fourth and penultimate tie, India managed 155 with only Yashasvi Jaiswal (84) showing resistance in the middle before a controversial call adjudged him out. India's top-order struggle continued as their hopes of playing the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, in June 2025, keeps fading away. For Pat Cummins-led Australia, the win marked their first versus India at the G and keeps them on course to meet South Africa in the WTC finale. Day 5 of the MCG Test kicked off with Australia adding six more runs to their score bundling out for 234, setting a 340-run target. The last-wicket stand between Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland added 61 to frustrate India before Bumrah cleaned up Lyon. Bumrah claimed his third five-fer of the series. He now has 30 wickets in 2024-25 BGT; most by miles. In addition, Bumrah became the first pacer to claim 30 wickets in a BGT (second overall after Harbhajan Singh's 32 in 2001). Moreover, Bumrah became the first visiting bowler to take 30 wickets in a Test series in Australia since West Indies great Curtly Ambrose (in 1992-93). Also, he is only the second Indian to touch the 30-wicket mark after spin legend Bishan Singh Bedi. Bedi achieved the feat during India's 1967-68 tour of Australia. Also read: BGT: 'Kohli can play 3 to 4 more years, for Rohit....' - Shastri on Indian duo's Test future after flop show in MCG Test Top order struggles and fielding lapses cost India Talking about the MCG Test, India opted to bowl first but Steve Smith's 140, fifties from debutant Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne and lower-order's vital contributions, headed by skipper Pat Cummins (49), took the hosts to 474. In reply, India's famed batters -- Rohit, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, etc. -- fell flat but Nitish Reddy's 114 and Washington Sundar's 50 took India to 369. Buoyed by Reddy and Sundar's fightback, India reduced Australia to 91-6, with their overall lead being 196. Bumrah once again led the charge with the ball but also found rare support from the other end, with Mohammed Siraj looking in good rhythm. However, Marnus Labuschagne's 70, Cummins and Lyon's 41 apiece took Australia to 234, also courtesy of India giving plenty of lifelines with several fielding errors. India had a chance to save the Test match but the likes of Rohit and Kohli failed once again. Jaiswal led the charge but fell short of partners before eventually losing his wicket. The left-hander pulled a delivery off Cummins and was given out, caught-behind. While there was no spike on the Real Time Snickometer (RTS), the side-on replays showed it hit the gloves. Eventually, visual evidence was enough to overturn the decision. Jaiswal, thus, ended the year with the most Test runs by an Indian, second overall -- 1,478. The MCG Test also scripted history, with 350,700 spectators (a record attendance) flocking to the iconic venue during the course of the game. The ongoing BGT series is in Australia's favour (with a 2-1 lead), however, India will be desperate to end at 2-2 with a win in the series finale, at the SCG, Sydney. If India succeeds, they will manage to retain the BGT once again, since 2016-17. For the Aussies, they are eager to regain the elusive trophy, having last won in 2014-15. The final Test of the five-match series commences on Jan 3 (Friday) in Sydney.

BGT: Australia beat India by 184 runs in MCG Test to take unassailable 2-1 lead

Melbourne,&nbsp;Australia:&nbsp; The blockbuster clash against India on Monday became the best attended&nbsp;Test&nbsp;in Australia's history as fans flocked to the Melbourne Cricket Ground for the final day.&nbsp;
Early on day five of the fourth&nbsp;Test, a bumper crowd of 51,371 had swelled the total number of spectators since the start of the match on Boxing Day to 350,700, with still more expected through the gates.
That beat the previous record of 350,534 at the same ground during the 1936-37 Ashes series against England, when Donald Bradman ruled the sport and Tests were played over six days.
"Thank you, Melbourne. An Australian cricketing record, an&nbsp;MCG&nbsp;record and history made," Cricket Australia tweeted.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5aixu9g-0281t786-x1xahjez">
Thank you, Melbourne. An Australian cricketing record, an MCG record and history made ❤️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/VVvfwKWd6J">pic.twitter.com/VVvfwKWd6J</a>
&mdash; Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/1873539536367869992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-kohli-can-play-3-to-4-more-years-for-rohit-shastri-on-indian-duos-test-future-after-flop-show-in-mcg-test-8576550" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT: 'Kohli can play 3 to 4 more years, for Rohit....' - Shastri on Indian duo's Test future after flop show in MCG Test</a>
In terms of Boxing Day Tests, the previous record was 271,865 during the 2013-14 Ashes.
"I think what's been particularly special about this series is the number of India fans, from not just India but all around the world," Cricket Australia chief Nick Hockley told reporters during the&nbsp;Test.
"I have met fans from the UK, from Canada, from the US.
"Obviously it is a fantastic time of year but it talks to the&nbsp;MCG&nbsp;has almost got this spiritual place in cricketing folklore."
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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.
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Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25: UNBELIEVABLE! Bumper crowd flock to witness Australia-India MCG Test in Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia: The blockbuster clash against India on Monday became the best attended Test in Australia's history as fans flocked to the Melbourne Cricket Ground for the final day. Early on day five of the fourth Test, a bumper crowd of 51,371 had swelled the total number of spectators since the start of the match on Boxing Day to 350,700, with still more expected through the gates. That beat the previous record of 350,534 at the same ground during the 1936-37 Ashes series against England, when Donald Bradman ruled the sport and Tests were played over six days. "Thank you, Melbourne. An Australian cricketing record, an MCG record and history made," Cricket Australia tweeted. Thank you, Melbourne. An Australian cricketing record, an MCG record and history made ❤️ #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/VVvfwKWd6J — Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) December 30, 2024 Also read: BGT: 'Kohli can play 3 to 4 more years, for Rohit....' - Shastri on Indian duo's Test future after flop show in MCG Test In terms of Boxing Day Tests, the previous record was 271,865 during the 2013-14 Ashes. "I think what's been particularly special about this series is the number of India fans, from not just India but all around the world," Cricket Australia chief Nick Hockley told reporters during the Test. "I have met fans from the UK, from Canada, from the US. "Obviously it is a fantastic time of year but it talks to the MCG has almost got this spiritual place in cricketing folklore." 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: UNBELIEVABLE! Bumper crowd flock to witness Australia-India MCG Test

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli departed for cheap in India's 340-run chase versus Australia on Day 5 of the fourth and penultimate Test, of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), at the MCG, Melbourne on Monday (Dec 30). Apart from a hundred, Kohli has struggled in the five-match series whereas captain Rohit has had a torrid run in Tests in 2024. Hence, former India coach Ravi Shastri opined on the duo's red-ball future.
<h2>'Virat will play 3-4 more years, it's a call for Rohit'</h2>
Shastri told the broadcaster Star Sports during Day 5's proceedings, at the MCG, Melbourne, "No, I think Virat Kohli will play. Virat will play for some time, forget the way he got out today. I think he will play for 3 or 4 more years."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-chances-for-wtc-final-2025-qualification-scenarios-for-india-wtc-scenario-chances-8575746" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">WTC Final 2025: India's qualification chances and scenarios | Read</a>
"As far as Rohit is concerned, it&rsquo;s a call. At the top of the order, his footwork isn&rsquo;t the same. He is probably, at times, a little late in meeting the ball. So it&rsquo;s his call at the end of the series," Shastri added.
Rohit has had scores of 3, 6, 10, 3 and 9 in the ongoing BGT in Australia. Kohli, meanwhile, has scores of 5, 7, 11, 3, 36 and 5 apart from a 100*. Both have struggled in whites in 2024. While Rohit ended the calendar year with 619 runs at an average of 24.76, Kohli fared poorly as well -- 417 runs in 10 Tests, averaging 24.52 in 2024.
Rohit and Kohli fell for 9 and 5, respectively, in India's tall run-chase of 340 in the MCG Test on Day 5. At the time of publishing this report, India are 99-3 in 48 overs with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant batting well in the middle.
The 2024/25 BGT is currently tied at 1-1 with one more Test to play.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: 'Virat Kohli can play 3 to 4 more years, for Rohit Sharma....' - Ravi Shastri on Indian duo's Test future after flop show in MCG Test

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli departed for cheap in India's 340-run chase versus Australia on Day 5 of the fourth and penultimate Test, of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), at the MCG, Melbourne on Monday (Dec 30). Apart from a hundred, Kohli has struggled in the five-match series whereas captain Rohit has had a torrid run in Tests in 2024. Hence, former India coach Ravi Shastri opined on the duo's red-ball future. 'Virat will play 3-4 more years, it's a call for Rohit' Shastri told the broadcaster Star Sports during Day 5's proceedings, at the MCG, Melbourne, "No, I think Virat Kohli will play. Virat will play for some time, forget the way he got out today. I think he will play for 3 or 4 more years." Also read: WTC Final 2025: India's qualification chances and scenarios | Read "As far as Rohit is concerned, it’s a call. At the top of the order, his footwork isn’t the same. He is probably, at times, a little late in meeting the ball. So it’s his call at the end of the series," Shastri added. Rohit has had scores of 3, 6, 10, 3 and 9 in the ongoing BGT in Australia. Kohli, meanwhile, has scores of 5, 7, 11, 3, 36 and 5 apart from a 100*. Both have struggled in whites in 2024. While Rohit ended the calendar year with 619 runs at an average of 24.76, Kohli fared poorly as well -- 417 runs in 10 Tests, averaging 24.52 in 2024. Rohit and Kohli fell for 9 and 5, respectively, in India's tall run-chase of 340 in the MCG Test on Day 5. At the time of publishing this report, India are 99-3 in 48 overs with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant batting well in the middle. The 2024/25 BGT is currently tied at 1-1 with one more Test to play.

BGT: 'Kohli can play 3 to 4 more years, for Rohit....' - Shastri on Indian duo's Test future after flop show in MCG Test

India all-rounder and first-inning centurion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/nitish-kumar-reddy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Nitish Kumar</a> says that India need to go 'instinctively' on the fifth day of the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bgt" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT)</a> Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The Boxing Day Test has one day left, and Australia lead by 330+ plus runs with their last wicket still standing.
&ldquo;If you ask me, everyone is capable of playing on this pitch," said Nitish to reporters after the end of play on the fourth day (Sunday, Dec 29). He was India's last wicket to fall earlier in the morning after scoring 114 runs.
Also Watch: <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">BGT 2024-25: Bumrah mimes like Konstas after bowling him out</a>
&ldquo;We'll come back strong, we'll rectify the mistakes we made in the first innings. We have to first take the last wicket and then bat accordingly,&rdquo; he added.
&ldquo;I feel like you need to get one or two good partnerships. From the first day, we knew the movement was there, the pitch is doing something.
&ldquo;Later on, on the fourth day, it was doing a bit more. We don't need to put more pressure (on ourselves). We need to go instinctively, according to the situation,&rdquo; further said India's first-inning centurion.
<h2>Bumrah brings India back in contest</h2>
India were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-mcg-test-jasprit-bumrah-strikes-double-blow-on-day-4-to-complete-200-test-wickets-watch-8574484" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">brought back into the game by Jasprit Bumrah</a> after the visitors were bowled out for 369 in the first innings - conceding a 104-run lead. Australia were sitting pretty at 80/2 in the second innings when Mohammed Siraj got Steve Smith to play a rash shot and get the game open.
Bumrah then delivered a breathtaking spell, taking three wickets in 18 balls as Australia went from 80/3 to 91/6 in no time. A 57-run partnership between Marnus Labuschagne (70) and Pat Cummins (41) took Australia's lead past 250. Siraj then trapped Labuschagne LBW to break the partnership.
A run-out and a good catch by Rohit Sharma in the slips brought Australia to nine wickets down before Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland added unbeaten 55 runs for the 10th wicket. Australia finished the day at 228/9 and a lead of 333 runs, with the final day promising to be a cracker.&nbsp;

Sports Cricket: India's Nitish Kumar says 'instinctive' is the way to go on fifth day of Boxing Day Test in BGT after Australia took their lead past 300 on the penultimate day.

India all-rounder and first-inning centurion Nitish Kumar says that India need to go 'instinctively' on the fifth day of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The Boxing Day Test has one day left, and Australia lead by 330+ plus runs with their last wicket still standing. “If you ask me, everyone is capable of playing on this pitch," said Nitish to reporters after the end of play on the fourth day (Sunday, Dec 29). He was India's last wicket to fall earlier in the morning after scoring 114 runs. Also Watch: BGT 2024-25: Bumrah mimes like Konstas after bowling him out “We'll come back strong, we'll rectify the mistakes we made in the first innings. We have to first take the last wicket and then bat accordingly,” he added. “I feel like you need to get one or two good partnerships. From the first day, we knew the movement was there, the pitch is doing something. “Later on, on the fourth day, it was doing a bit more. We don't need to put more pressure (on ourselves). We need to go instinctively, according to the situation,” further said India's first-inning centurion. Bumrah brings India back in contest India were brought back into the game by Jasprit Bumrah after the visitors were bowled out for 369 in the first innings - conceding a 104-run lead. Australia were sitting pretty at 80/2 in the second innings when Mohammed Siraj got Steve Smith to play a rash shot and get the game open. Bumrah then delivered a breathtaking spell, taking three wickets in 18 balls as Australia went from 80/3 to 91/6 in no time. A 57-run partnership between Marnus Labuschagne (70) and Pat Cummins (41) took Australia's lead past 250. Siraj then trapped Labuschagne LBW to break the partnership. A run-out and a good catch by Rohit Sharma in the slips brought Australia to nine wickets down before Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland added unbeaten 55 runs for the 10th wicket. Australia finished the day at 228/9 and a lead of 333 runs, with the final day promising to be a cracker.

BGT: Nitish Reddy says best way is 'to go instinctively' on MCG Day 5

India's World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 qualification chances took a severe hit after South Africa beat Pakistan on Sunday (Dec 29) to become the first finalist. India, looking for their third consecutive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wtc-final-2025" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">WTC Final</a>, will now have to win the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 3-1 to stay independent of other results.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wtc-final-scenarios-2025-south-africa-enter-final-after-win-over-pakistan-india-australia-in-contention-8575588">WTC 2025: South Africa enter final with thrilling win over Pakistan</a>
<h2>India's Chances for WTC Final Scenarios</h2>
India were firmly in control of their own fate, but a 0-3 loss at home vs New Zealand before BGT left them with too many fires to douse. The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-pink-ball-test-australia-level-series-in-adelaide-after-cummins-starc-heroics-782394" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">loss in the second BGT Test in Adelaide</a> also added fuel to those fires, and India now stare at a huge task ahead of them to make it to the WTC Final. Here's how India can make it to the WTC Final 2025:
<h3>India Beat Australia 3-1 in BGT</h3>
The fourth Test of the series at MCG has one day left, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-mcg-test-aussie-tail-frustrates-india-after-jasprit-bumrahs-heroic-spell-on-day-4-8574972" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Australia lead by 330+ plus runs</a>. India would have to produce a chase for the history to win the game before the series, tied at 1-1, goes to Sydney.
If India somehow manages to win both Melbourne and Sydney ties, they'll face South Africa in the WTC Final 2025.
<h3>India Beat Australia 2-1 in BGT</h3>
If India draw the ongoing Melbourne game and win the fifth Test in Sydney to take the series 2-1, then Australia would need to win their upcoming away two-Test series against Sri Lanka 2-0. If Australia fail to win their series in Sri Lanka, India take the second spot in the final.
<h3>India Draw BGT 2-2 vs Australia</h3>
In case Australia win the Melbourne Test and then lose the Sydney one or vice-versa, Australia will then have to lose their series against Sri Lanka at least 0-1. Any other result will see Australia taking the second WTC Final 2025 spot alongside South Africa.
<h3>India Draw BGT 1-1 vs Australia</h3>
If India and Australia play the ongoing Test and next one in Sydney as draw then Australia would have to lose the series 0-1 or draw for India to qualify.
In case Sri Lanka win the series 2-0 vs Australia after BGT ends in 1-1 draw, then both India and Australia would be knocked out, and Sri Lanka will play the WTC 2025 Final.

Sports Cricket: India's World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 qualification chances took a severe hit after South Africa beat Pakistan to become the first finalist.

India's World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 qualification chances took a severe hit after South Africa beat Pakistan on Sunday (Dec 29) to become the first finalist. India, looking for their third consecutive WTC Final, will now have to win the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 3-1 to stay independent of other results. Also Read: WTC 2025: South Africa enter final with thrilling win over Pakistan India's Chances for WTC Final Scenarios India were firmly in control of their own fate, but a 0-3 loss at home vs New Zealand before BGT left them with too many fires to douse. The loss in the second BGT Test in Adelaide also added fuel to those fires, and India now stare at a huge task ahead of them to make it to the WTC Final. Here's how India can make it to the WTC Final 2025: India Beat Australia 3-1 in BGT The fourth Test of the series at MCG has one day left, and Australia lead by 330+ plus runs. India would have to produce a chase for the history to win the game before the series, tied at 1-1, goes to Sydney. If India somehow manages to win both Melbourne and Sydney ties, they'll face South Africa in the WTC Final 2025. India Beat Australia 2-1 in BGT If India draw the ongoing Melbourne game and win the fifth Test in Sydney to take the series 2-1, then Australia would need to win their upcoming away two-Test series against Sri Lanka 2-0. If Australia fail to win their series in Sri Lanka, India take the second spot in the final. India Draw BGT 2-2 vs Australia In case Australia win the Melbourne Test and then lose the Sydney one or vice-versa, Australia will then have to lose their series against Sri Lanka at least 0-1. Any other result will see Australia taking the second WTC Final 2025 spot alongside South Africa. India Draw BGT 1-1 vs Australia If India and Australia play the ongoing Test and next one in Sydney as draw then Australia would have to lose the series 0-1 or draw for India to qualify. In case Sri Lanka win the series 2-0 vs Australia after BGT ends in 1-1 draw, then both India and Australia would be knocked out, and Sri Lanka will play the WTC 2025 Final.

WTC Final 2025: India's qualification chances and scenarios | Read

South Africa has become the first team to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 after a thrilling win over Pakistan in the first Test on Sunday (Dec 29). The Proteas just needed to win one of the two games of their home Test series against Pakistan to enter their maiden WTC Final.
The Internatioal Cricket Council (ICC) also confirmed the same with a post on social medial platform X. Here's the post below:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m59jga4l-qno0uto1-r1qxvcgh">
𝙁𝙄𝙍𝙎𝙏 𝙁𝙄𝙉𝘼𝙇𝙄𝙎𝙏 𝘾𝙊𝙉𝙁𝙄𝙍𝙈𝙀𝘿 🇿🇦 South Africa are headed to Lord's for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC25?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC25</a> Final 🤩 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvPAK</a> ➡ <a href="https://t.co/vWLh4MSQjm">https://t.co/vWLh4MSQjm</a> <a href="https://t.co/sZ5QBnDAYD">pic.twitter.com/sZ5QBnDAYD</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1873329612169552313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
South Africa's chances were bightened up after India's 0-3 loss to New Zealand at home but them making it to the final speaks volume about their abilities too.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wtc-standings-gabba-draw-puts-india-in-must-win-territory-ahead-of-boxing-day-test-784931" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">WTC Standings: Gabba draw puts India in 'must-win' territory ahead of Boxing Day Test</a>
Chasing a modest 148 to win the first Test against Pakistan, SA were cruising alsong at 62/3 before the visiting bowlers wrested back the control. SA went into the lunch on day 4 at 99/8, still needing 48 runs to win with two wickets left.
Kagiso Rabada (31 off 26 balls) and Marco Jansen (16 off 24) then added 51 runs for the ninth wicket to take SA to a thrilling win.
<h2>WTC Final 2025 Scenarios</h2>
With SA being confirmed as one of the finalists, only one of Australia and India can grab the second spot. Australia, which are second on the points tally, can still make it to the final despite drawing their ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series 2-2 vs India. Australia, however, would need to win their next series against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka after BGT ends in draw.
For India, they have to win the ongoing BGT 3-1 to ensure their qualification in the WTC Final and if they fail to do so, their qualification will rest on the other teams' results, especially Australia vs Sri Lanka.

Sports Cricket - WTC Final Scenarios: As SA enter their maiden WTC Final 2025, only one of India and Australia will be taking the second spot.

South Africa has become the first team to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 after a thrilling win over Pakistan in the first Test on Sunday (Dec 29). The Proteas just needed to win one of the two games of their home Test series against Pakistan to enter their maiden WTC Final. The Internatioal Cricket Council (ICC) also confirmed the same with a post on social medial platform X. Here's the post below: 𝙁𝙄𝙍𝙎𝙏 𝙁𝙄𝙉𝘼𝙇𝙄𝙎𝙏 𝘾𝙊𝙉𝙁𝙄𝙍𝙈𝙀𝘿 🇿🇦 South Africa are headed to Lord's for the #WTC25 Final 🤩 #SAvPAK ➡ https://t.co/vWLh4MSQjm pic.twitter.com/sZ5QBnDAYD — ICC (@ICC) December 29, 2024 South Africa's chances were bightened up after India's 0-3 loss to New Zealand at home but them making it to the final speaks volume about their abilities too. Also Read: WTC Standings: Gabba draw puts India in 'must-win' territory ahead of Boxing Day Test Chasing a modest 148 to win the first Test against Pakistan, SA were cruising alsong at 62/3 before the visiting bowlers wrested back the control. SA went into the lunch on day 4 at 99/8, still needing 48 runs to win with two wickets left. Kagiso Rabada (31 off 26 balls) and Marco Jansen (16 off 24) then added 51 runs for the ninth wicket to take SA to a thrilling win. WTC Final 2025 Scenarios With SA being confirmed as one of the finalists, only one of Australia and India can grab the second spot. Australia, which are second on the points tally, can still make it to the final despite drawing their ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series 2-2 vs India. Australia, however, would need to win their next series against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka after BGT ends in draw. For India, they have to win the ongoing BGT 3-1 to ensure their qualification in the WTC Final and if they fail to do so, their qualification will rest on the other teams' results, especially Australia vs Sri Lanka.

WTC 2025: South Africa enter final with thrilling win over Pakistan

India pacer Jasprit Bumrah seemingly mimicked Aussie debutant Sam Konstas after bowling him out through the gates on day 4 (Sunday, Dec 29) of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The two players have been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-could-have-dismissed-him-6-7-times-jasprit-bumrah-on-sam-konstas-attacking-him-on-day-1-at-mcg-8573029" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">exchanging barbs back and forth</a> after Konstas hit Bumrah for 18 runs in an over in first innings.
During the second innings, Bumrah got better of the Aussie teenager and bowled him with a ripper. Afterwards, Bumrah gestured crowd with his hands to get involved, something Konstas did while fielding and scoring runs off Bumrah in the first innings. Have a look at the video below:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
MIDDLE STUMP! Jasprit Bumrah gets Sam Konstas with a pearler. <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/A1BzrcHJB8">pic.twitter.com/A1BzrcHJB8</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873158270518468857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Konstas has been in the news for other reasons than his brilliant 60 in the first innings as well. The batter was 'shoulder pushed' by Virat Kohli and then the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/news-kohli-vs-konstas-video-konsats-mimics-virat-kohli-day-3-boxing-day-test-bgt-india-vs-australia-8573268" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Aussie mimicked Kohli</a> during the fielding.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-social-media-in-awe-of-best-ever-jasprit-bumrahs-test-milestone-at-mcg-8574641">BGT - Social media in awe of Jasprit Bumrah&rsquo;s Test milestone at MCG</a>
<h2>Bumrah brings India back in contest</h2>
Bumrah, however, was at his best again as he <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-mcg-test-jasprit-bumrah-strikes-double-blow-on-day-4-to-complete-200-test-wickets-watch-8574484" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">brought India back into the game</a> after the visitors were bowled out for 369 in the first innings - conceding a 104-run lead. Australia were sitting pretty at 80/2 in the second innings when Mohammed Siraj got Steve Smith to play a rash shot and get the game open.
Bumrah then delivered a breathtaking spell, taking three wickets in 18 balls as Australia went from 80/3 to 91/6 in no time. A 57-run partnership between Marnus Labuschagne (70) and Pat Cummins (41) took Australia's lead past 250. Siraj then trapped Labuschagne LBW to break the partnership.
A run-out and a good catch by Rohit Sharma in the slips brought Australia to nine wickets down before Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland added unbeaten 55 runs for the 10th wicket.
Australia finished the day at 228/9 and a lead of 333 runs with just one more day left in the Test.&nbsp;

Sports-Cricket Bumrah vs Konstas: The two players have been exchanging barbs back and forth after Sam Konstas hit Jasprit Bumrah for 18 runs in an over in first innings.

India pacer Jasprit Bumrah seemingly mimicked Aussie debutant Sam Konstas after bowling him out through the gates on day 4 (Sunday, Dec 29) of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The two players have been exchanging barbs back and forth after Konstas hit Bumrah for 18 runs in an over in first innings. During the second innings, Bumrah got better of the Aussie teenager and bowled him with a ripper. Afterwards, Bumrah gestured crowd with his hands to get involved, something Konstas did while fielding and scoring runs off Bumrah in the first innings. Have a look at the video below: MIDDLE STUMP! Jasprit Bumrah gets Sam Konstas with a pearler. #AUSvIND | #DeliveredWithSpeed | @NBN_Australia pic.twitter.com/A1BzrcHJB8 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 Konstas has been in the news for other reasons than his brilliant 60 in the first innings as well. The batter was 'shoulder pushed' by Virat Kohli and then the Aussie mimicked Kohli during the fielding. Also Read: BGT - Social media in awe of Jasprit Bumrah’s Test milestone at MCG Bumrah brings India back in contest Bumrah, however, was at his best again as he brought India back into the game after the visitors were bowled out for 369 in the first innings - conceding a 104-run lead. Australia were sitting pretty at 80/2 in the second innings when Mohammed Siraj got Steve Smith to play a rash shot and get the game open. Bumrah then delivered a breathtaking spell, taking three wickets in 18 balls as Australia went from 80/3 to 91/6 in no time. A 57-run partnership between Marnus Labuschagne (70) and Pat Cummins (41) took Australia's lead past 250. Siraj then trapped Labuschagne LBW to break the partnership. A run-out and a good catch by Rohit Sharma in the slips brought Australia to nine wickets down before Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland added unbeaten 55 runs for the 10th wicket. Australia finished the day at 228/9 and a lead of 333 runs with just one more day left in the Test.

BGT 2024-25: WATCH | Bumrah mimes like Konstas after bowling him out

Mark Waugh wants Australia&rsquo;s next &lsquo;Andrew Symonds&rsquo; Beau Webster to replace under-fire Mitchell Marsh in the XI for the final BGT Test at the SCG starting January 3 next year.&nbsp;Marsh hasn&rsquo;t done justice to his selection in four Tests he played against India this time, scoring just 73 runs across seven innings, averaging 10.42. Even on Sunday (Dec 29), day four at the &lsquo;G&rsquo;, he got out on a duck off Jasprit Bumrah.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m59e35n8-6586l6p7-9ggiwo0j">
Jasprit Bumrah takes his 200th Test wicket and follows it up with 201 just moments later!<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/NpiXDBaVDI">pic.twitter.com/NpiXDBaVDI</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873203596919025985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
Considering he's bowling limited overs for whatever reasons and has been failing with the bat throughout this crucial series, the selectors are bound to discuss his selection ahead of the final Test in Sydney.
Coming in at number six, Marsh hasn&rsquo;t replicated his past performances for which he won the Allan Border medal lately, putting pressure on Alex Carey and the tail, though they have found some runs across all Tests this time.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-mcg-test-aussie-tail-frustrates-india-after-jasprit-bumrahs-heroic-spell-on-day-4-8574972" rel="dofollow">BGT, MCG Test: Aussie tail frustrates India after Bumrah&rsquo;s heroic spell on day 4</a>
Waugh reckoned Australia could try uncapped Webster at number seven, with Carey getting promotion in the batting order &ndash; a role late Aussie all-rounder Andrew Symonds used to play in his time. Like Symonds, who used to bowl seam and spin regularly, a rarity, Webster can do both and comes across as a handy lower-order batter.
Speaking to Fox Sports, Waugh said, &ldquo;There will be (a debate), depending on the conditions and the balance of the team. Beau Webster&rsquo;s in the squad, (Marsh has made) no runs in this game.&rdquo;
&ldquo;In theory, you could bat Alex Carey at six, have Beau Webster at seven, that could be an option as well.
&ldquo;(Webster) is a batting all-rounder, but he will bowl more overs, plus he can bowl off-spin and seam. That will be a discussion point depending on what happens in the next two days here, the fitness of Mitchell Starc for example,&rdquo; Waugh continued.
<h2>Langer differs</h2>
Though Marsh isn&rsquo;t the only weak link in Australia&rsquo;s batting order, with opener Usman Khawaja also under scrutiny for lack of runs and impact at the top, former coach Justin Langer believes otherwise, saying Pat Cummins and the team management must stick with Marsh for the final Test.
Sharing his thoughts in a conversation on Channel 7, Langer said dropping Marsh for the final game, regardless of the result of the ongoing Test, will not send a positive message.
Meanwhile, Australia&rsquo;s tail Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland added 55 runs for the tenth wicket, helping the hosts cross the 330-run lead (333), with their scorecard reading 228 for nine at stumps on day four.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Like Andrew Symonds, who used to bowl seam and spin regularly, a rarity, Beau Webster can do both and comes across as a handy lower-order batter.

Mark Waugh wants Australia’s next ‘Andrew Symonds’ Beau Webster to replace under-fire Mitchell Marsh in the XI for the final BGT Test at the SCG starting January 3 next year. Marsh hasn’t done justice to his selection in four Tests he played against India this time, scoring just 73 runs across seven innings, averaging 10.42. Even on Sunday (Dec 29), day four at the ‘G’, he got out on a duck off Jasprit Bumrah. Jasprit Bumrah takes his 200th Test wicket and follows it up with 201 just moments later!#AUSvIND | #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/NpiXDBaVDI — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 Considering he's bowling limited overs for whatever reasons and has been failing with the bat throughout this crucial series, the selectors are bound to discuss his selection ahead of the final Test in Sydney. Coming in at number six, Marsh hasn’t replicated his past performances for which he won the Allan Border medal lately, putting pressure on Alex Carey and the tail, though they have found some runs across all Tests this time. Also read | BGT, MCG Test: Aussie tail frustrates India after Bumrah’s heroic spell on day 4 Waugh reckoned Australia could try uncapped Webster at number seven, with Carey getting promotion in the batting order – a role late Aussie all-rounder Andrew Symonds used to play in his time. Like Symonds, who used to bowl seam and spin regularly, a rarity, Webster can do both and comes across as a handy lower-order batter. Speaking to Fox Sports, Waugh said, “There will be (a debate), depending on the conditions and the balance of the team. Beau Webster’s in the squad, (Marsh has made) no runs in this game.” “In theory, you could bat Alex Carey at six, have Beau Webster at seven, that could be an option as well. “(Webster) is a batting all-rounder, but he will bowl more overs, plus he can bowl off-spin and seam. That will be a discussion point depending on what happens in the next two days here, the fitness of Mitchell Starc for example,” Waugh continued. Langer differs Though Marsh isn’t the only weak link in Australia’s batting order, with opener Usman Khawaja also under scrutiny for lack of runs and impact at the top, former coach Justin Langer believes otherwise, saying Pat Cummins and the team management must stick with Marsh for the final Test. Sharing his thoughts in a conversation on Channel 7, Langer said dropping Marsh for the final game, regardless of the result of the ongoing Test, will not send a positive message. Meanwhile, Australia’s tail Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland added 55 runs for the tenth wicket, helping the hosts cross the 330-run lead (333), with their scorecard reading 228 for nine at stumps on day four. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Mark Waugh voices for Australia's next ‘Symonds’ to replace Marsh in SCG Test

An unbeaten 55-run stand between Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland for the tenth wicket frustrated India as Australia scored 228 for nine at stumps (in their second innings) on day four at the MCG, leading by 333. Despite getting reduced to 91 for six at one stage, having lost four wickets for 21 balls, the hosts recovered to give themselves a chance of winning the Boxing Day Test.
Bumrah floored Australia post lunch with three quick wickets, four in total, including bagging his 200th Test wicket &ndash; the fastest for an Indian pacer, besides doing at an average of 19.56, again the best-ever.
Meanwhile, day four began with Nitish Kumar Reddy and Mohammed Siraj at the crease, with the pair adding just 11 runs to the overnight tally before Lyon removed Reddy on 114 to wrap up India&rsquo;s innings on 369.&nbsp;
With a lead of 105, Australia was ahead in the game; however, not for long. Bumrah accounted for opener Sam Konstas, who bowled on eight before Siraj removed his partner Usman Khawaja on 21 off 65 balls.&nbsp;
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MIDDLE STUMP! Jasprit Bumrah gets Sam Konstas with a pearler. <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/A1BzrcHJB8">pic.twitter.com/A1BzrcHJB8</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873158270518468857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith played through lunch, only for Siraj to return and send Smith packing shortly after.&nbsp;
His dismissal, however, triggered a middle-order collapse, with Bumrah, in the first over of his second spell, removing Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh.
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Jasprit Bumrah takes his 200th Test wicket and follows it up with 201 just moments later!<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/NpiXDBaVDI">pic.twitter.com/NpiXDBaVDI</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873203596919025985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
In his next over, he cleaned bowled gloveman Alex Carey to put Australia&rsquo;s back against the wall.&nbsp;
A situation like that could panic most teams when much more than just a win is on the line, but Captain Pat Cummins and Marnus showed nerves of steel to bail them out of trouble. The pair added 57 runs for the seventh wicket before Siraj got Marnus&rsquo; number, leaving the skipper with the tail.
Later, a huge mix-up led to Mitchell Starc&rsquo;s run out, bringing Lyon to the crease. Cummins departed soon after on 41, scoring 90 runs across both innings in this Test.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-mark-waugh-voices-for-next-australias-andrew-symonds-to-replace-under-fire-mitchell-marsh-in-scg-test-8575226" rel="dofollow">Also read: BGT: Mark Waugh voices for Australia's next &lsquo;Symonds&rsquo; to replace Marsh in SCG Test</a>
<h2>Tail frustrates India</h2>
Lyon and Boland had plenty riding on their shoulders, with the earliest aim being to add as many runs as possible.
In an attempt to curb Australia&rsquo;s ticking run rate, Rohit kept throwing the ball to Bumrah, tiring the Indian pacer after another decisive day at work. Nothing worked.
The pair completed the 50-plus run stand only to save the best for the last over of the day.
After India took the new ball in the penultimate over, Bumrah bowled the last, finding the edge off Lyon, caught in the slips only for him to overstep on that delivery. However, Lyon hitting a four off the last ball was like the final nail in the coffin for India, as the lead now reads 333.
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In the last over of Day Four, Jasprit Bumrah thought he taken the final wicket. But it was called a no-ball. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Yc9kjO3bVc">pic.twitter.com/Yc9kjO3bVc</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873264849716650238?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
With just one day left in the game, all results are possible.&nbsp;

Despite getting reduced to 91 for six at one stage, having lost four wickets for 21 balls, the hosts recovered to give themselves a chance of winning the Boxing Day Test. 

An unbeaten 55-run stand between Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland for the tenth wicket frustrated India as Australia scored 228 for nine at stumps (in their second innings) on day four at the MCG, leading by 333. Despite getting reduced to 91 for six at one stage, having lost four wickets for 21 balls, the hosts recovered to give themselves a chance of winning the Boxing Day Test. Bumrah floored Australia post lunch with three quick wickets, four in total, including bagging his 200th Test wicket – the fastest for an Indian pacer, besides doing at an average of 19.56, again the best-ever. Meanwhile, day four began with Nitish Kumar Reddy and Mohammed Siraj at the crease, with the pair adding just 11 runs to the overnight tally before Lyon removed Reddy on 114 to wrap up India’s innings on 369. With a lead of 105, Australia was ahead in the game; however, not for long. Bumrah accounted for opener Sam Konstas, who bowled on eight before Siraj removed his partner Usman Khawaja on 21 off 65 balls. MIDDLE STUMP! Jasprit Bumrah gets Sam Konstas with a pearler. #AUSvIND | #DeliveredWithSpeed | @NBN_Australia pic.twitter.com/A1BzrcHJB8 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith played through lunch, only for Siraj to return and send Smith packing shortly after. His dismissal, however, triggered a middle-order collapse, with Bumrah, in the first over of his second spell, removing Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh. Jasprit Bumrah takes his 200th Test wicket and follows it up with 201 just moments later!#AUSvIND | #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/NpiXDBaVDI — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 In his next over, he cleaned bowled gloveman Alex Carey to put Australia’s back against the wall. A situation like that could panic most teams when much more than just a win is on the line, but Captain Pat Cummins and Marnus showed nerves of steel to bail them out of trouble. The pair added 57 runs for the seventh wicket before Siraj got Marnus’ number, leaving the skipper with the tail. Later, a huge mix-up led to Mitchell Starc’s run out, bringing Lyon to the crease. Cummins departed soon after on 41, scoring 90 runs across both innings in this Test. Also read: BGT: Mark Waugh voices for Australia's next ‘Symonds’ to replace Marsh in SCG Test Tail frustrates India Lyon and Boland had plenty riding on their shoulders, with the earliest aim being to add as many runs as possible. In an attempt to curb Australia’s ticking run rate, Rohit kept throwing the ball to Bumrah, tiring the Indian pacer after another decisive day at work. Nothing worked. The pair completed the 50-plus run stand only to save the best for the last over of the day. After India took the new ball in the penultimate over, Bumrah bowled the last, finding the edge off Lyon, caught in the slips only for him to overstep on that delivery. However, Lyon hitting a four off the last ball was like the final nail in the coffin for India, as the lead now reads 333. In the last over of Day Four, Jasprit Bumrah thought he taken the final wicket. But it was called a no-ball. #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/Yc9kjO3bVc — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 With just one day left in the game, all results are possible.

BGT, MCG Test: Aussie tail frustrates India after Bumrah’s heroic spell on day 4

Nitish Kumar Reddy broke the internet with his maiden Test hundred at the MCG against Australia. His 105* (at stumps on day three) in the Boxing Day Test made headlines worldwide, with the rookie all-rounder realising his dream in front of his family sitting in the stands. His father, Mutyala Reddy, was in tears watching his son hammer the best bowling quartet, saving India&rsquo;s grace.
However, the best moment came when his father met Sunil Gavaskar on the sidelines.
Emotional over his son&rsquo;s achievement, which even made the man the series is named after (Border-Gavaskar Trophy) super proud, Reddy&rsquo;s father touched Sunil Gavaskar's feet in the most heartwarming moment of the day.
In a video doing rounds on the internet, Reddy&rsquo;s family met Gavaskar, with his father and sister touching Gavaskar&rsquo;s feet while his mother greeted the Indian legend from a distance. Gavaskar reciprocated with similar generosity.
"We know how much he has sacrificed. He has struggled a lot. Because of you, I am tearing up. Because of you, India has got a diamond, Indian cricket has got a diamond," Gavaskar said to Reddy&rsquo;s father during the meetup.
<h3>Watch the Video &ndash;</h3>
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Nitish Kumar Reddy&rsquo;s family meet the great Sunil Gavaskar <a href="https://twitter.com/abcsport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@abcsport</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/hUBOghxM2e">pic.twitter.com/hUBOghxM2e</a>
&mdash; Ben Cameron (@BenCameron23) <a href="https://twitter.com/BenCameron23/status/1873185643112869900?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
<h2>Reddy&rsquo;s rise and father&rsquo;s sacrifice</h2>
Nitish Reddy made his Test debut during the BGT series opener in Perth and played all four games since. Though he impressed everyone with his temperament and handy knocks in the lead-up to the Boxing Day Test, his 114 at MCG earned him praises from all quarters.&nbsp;
After India got reduced to 191 for six following Pant&rsquo;s dismissal, Reddy entered the scene and made the whole day about himself. He stitched a 100-plus stand for the eighth wicket with Washington Sundar, completing his maiden Test century soon after and carrying the bat.
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Nitish Kumar Reddy&rsquo;s family meet the great Sunil Gavaskar <a href="https://twitter.com/abcsport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@abcsport</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/hUBOghxM2e">pic.twitter.com/hUBOghxM2e</a>
&mdash; Ben Cameron (@BenCameron23) <a href="https://twitter.com/BenCameron23/status/1873185643112869900?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
The Indian all-rounder got out on 114 early on day four, with India scoring 369 in their first innings.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Nitish shed light on how his father&rsquo;s sacrifice led to him standing at the MCG.
"My father left his job for me, and there has been a lot of sacrifice behind my story. One day, I saw him crying because of the financial problems we were facing, and I was like, 'this is not how you can be'. Then I got serious. " I gave my first jersey to him and saw the happiness in his face," Nitish said in a video posted by the BCCI.
(With inputs from agencies)

Emotional over his son’s achievement, which even Gavaskar was super proud of, Reddy’s father touched his feet in the most heartwarming moment of the day.

Nitish Kumar Reddy broke the internet with his maiden Test hundred at the MCG against Australia. His 105* (at stumps on day three) in the Boxing Day Test made headlines worldwide, with the rookie all-rounder realising his dream in front of his family sitting in the stands. His father, Mutyala Reddy, was in tears watching his son hammer the best bowling quartet, saving India’s grace. However, the best moment came when his father met Sunil Gavaskar on the sidelines. Emotional over his son’s achievement, which even made the man the series is named after (Border-Gavaskar Trophy) super proud, Reddy’s father touched Sunil Gavaskar's feet in the most heartwarming moment of the day. In a video doing rounds on the internet, Reddy’s family met Gavaskar, with his father and sister touching Gavaskar’s feet while his mother greeted the Indian legend from a distance. Gavaskar reciprocated with similar generosity. "We know how much he has sacrificed. He has struggled a lot. Because of you, I am tearing up. Because of you, India has got a diamond, Indian cricket has got a diamond," Gavaskar said to Reddy’s father during the meetup. Watch the Video – Nitish Kumar Reddy’s family meet the great Sunil Gavaskar @abcsport #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/hUBOghxM2e — Ben Cameron (@BenCameron23) December 29, 2024 Reddy’s rise and father’s sacrifice Nitish Reddy made his Test debut during the BGT series opener in Perth and played all four games since. Though he impressed everyone with his temperament and handy knocks in the lead-up to the Boxing Day Test, his 114 at MCG earned him praises from all quarters. After India got reduced to 191 for six following Pant’s dismissal, Reddy entered the scene and made the whole day about himself. He stitched a 100-plus stand for the eighth wicket with Washington Sundar, completing his maiden Test century soon after and carrying the bat. Nitish Kumar Reddy’s family meet the great Sunil Gavaskar @abcsport #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/hUBOghxM2e — Ben Cameron (@BenCameron23) December 29, 2024 The Indian all-rounder got out on 114 early on day four, with India scoring 369 in their first innings. Meanwhile, Nitish shed light on how his father’s sacrifice led to him standing at the MCG. "My father left his job for me, and there has been a lot of sacrifice behind my story. One day, I saw him crying because of the financial problems we were facing, and I was like, 'this is not how you can be'. Then I got serious. " I gave my first jersey to him and saw the happiness in his face," Nitish said in a video posted by the BCCI. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Nitish Reddy’s father touching Gavaskar’s feet wins internet - WATCH

Australia's back-up wicketkeeper Josh Inglis was on Sunday ruled out of the fifth Test against India with a calf strain. 
Inglis suffered the injury while fielding as a substitute during day two of the fourth Test in Melbourne, a Cricket Australia statement said.<o:p></o:p>
The 29-year-old aims to be fit for the two-Test series in Sri Lanka beginning in Galle on January 29.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-social-media-in-awe-of-best-ever-jasprit-bumrahs-test-milestone-at-mcg-8574641" rel="dofollow">BGT - Social media in awe of Jasprit Bumrah&rsquo;s Test milestone at MCG</a> 
"A replacement in the squad for the fifth Test match in Sydney will be announced in due course," CA said.<o:p></o:p>
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Josh Inglis picked up an injury as the sub fielder on Day Two of the Boxing Day Test. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873178157148455155?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
Uncapped at Test level, Inglis has played in 26 one-day internationals and 29 Twenty20 internationals since making his international debut in 2022.<o:p></o:p>
The fifth and final Test against India will be played in Sydney beginning on January 3.<o:p></o:p>
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.
&nbsp;

Inglis suffered the injury while fielding as a substitute during day two of the fourth Test in Melbourne, a Cricket Australia statement said.

Australia's back-up wicketkeeper Josh Inglis was on Sunday ruled out of the fifth Test against India with a calf strain. Inglis suffered the injury while fielding as a substitute during day two of the fourth Test in Melbourne, a Cricket Australia statement said. The 29-year-old aims to be fit for the two-Test series in Sri Lanka beginning in Galle on January 29. Also read | BGT - Social media in awe of Jasprit Bumrah’s Test milestone at MCG "A replacement in the squad for the fifth Test match in Sydney will be announced in due course," CA said. Josh Inglis picked up an injury as the sub fielder on Day Two of the Boxing Day Test. #AUSvIND — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 Uncapped at Test level, Inglis has played in 26 one-day internationals and 29 Twenty20 internationals since making his international debut in 2022. The fifth and final Test against India will be played in Sydney beginning on January 3. 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 - Blow to Australia as World Cup winner ruled out of Sydney Test

Jasprit Bumrah can do no wrong; as a matter of fact, he hasn&rsquo;t done much wrong in his career thus far. On Sunday (Dec 29), day four of the ongoing Boxing Day Test at the MCG, Bumrah broke Australia&rsquo;s back with four wickets in the second innings, including picking three of just 11 balls in his second spell. Bumrah completed his 200 Test wickets &ndash; the quickest by an Indian and fourth overall regarding balls bowled (8484).
The ace Indian quick began proceedings with Sam Konstas&rsquo; wicket early in the innings, bowled him on eight before returning to wreak havoc in the first over of his second spell, picking two wickets of Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh.&nbsp;
Having dismissed Head for a duck earlier in the first innings, Bumrah removed him again on just one, unlocking the milestone of picking 200 wickets in this format. Head&rsquo;s wicket saw him accomplish this feat at the lowest average recorded for a bowler (19.56), creating history.
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Jasprit Bumrah takes his 200th Test wicket and follows it up with 201 just moments later!<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/NpiXDBaVDI">pic.twitter.com/NpiXDBaVDI</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873203596919025985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-mcg-test-jasprit-bumrah-strikes-double-blow-on-day-4-to-complete-200-test-wickets-watch-8574484" rel="dofollow">BGT, MCG Test: Bumrah becomes quickest Indian to 200 Test wickets</a>
Social media went berserk over Bumrah&rsquo;s incredible feat, with fans and former cricketers going to a limit to call him perhaps the best pacer of all time.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Bumrah wasn&rsquo;t done with those two wickets, as he got rid of keeper-batter Alex Carey in his next over to complete a four-for thus far in the second innings. Australia lost four wickets in 21 balls post lunch, with Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj (picked up Steve Smith) sharing honours.
From 80 for two at one stage, Australia got reduced to 91 for six and at tea on day four, their scorecard read 135 for six, with Marnus Labuschagne and captain Pat Cummins at the crease.
Check out social media reactions to Bumrah&rsquo;s incredible feat -
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200 sticks at 19.56. Unreal. What a bowler. Mind-boggling stuff. Well done Boom Boom. <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bumrah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bumrah</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BGT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BGT</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZTtjkUuTga">pic.twitter.com/ZTtjkUuTga</a>
&mdash; Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc/status/1873203093153956082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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We only believe in Jassi bhai 😎 200 Test Wickets for Boom Boom Bumrah 🔥🔥 He brings up this milestone with the big wicket of Travis Head.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a> <a href="https://t.co/QiiyaCi7BX">pic.twitter.com/QiiyaCi7BX</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1873202014798397870?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Best Bowling average after 200th Test wicket Jasprit Bumrah - 19.56 Joel Garner - 20.34 Shaun Pollock - 20.39 Waqar Younis - 20.60 or 20.61
&mdash; Krishna Kumar (@KrishnaKRM) <a href="https://twitter.com/KrishnaKRM/status/1873201729204043873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Jasprit Bumrah the first bowler in Test history to take his 200th wicket with an average under 20. Best bowler of this generation. Best bowler ever. And not just in terms of numbers <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusvInd?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusvInd</a>
&mdash; Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) <a href="https://twitter.com/beastieboy07/status/1873201725827690505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Bumrah, Best bowler in the world atm
&mdash; Darren Lehmann (@darren_lehmann) <a href="https://twitter.com/darren_lehmann/status/1873206630969688313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Long after I am done with this game, I will remember Bumrah's opening bursts in this series and smile. Truly, it has been a master at work.
&mdash; Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1873167504203497917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Yeah, Bumrah&rsquo;s the best I&rsquo;ve seen.
&mdash; Neal 🇦🇺 (@NealGardner_) <a href="https://twitter.com/NealGardner_/status/1873202745370657018?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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JASPRIT BUMRAH in Tests 🔹 First ever player to reach 200 wickets at an average under 20 🔹 Fewest balls by Indian bowler to 200 wickets (8484) 🔹 Fewest matches by Indian pacer to 200 wickets (44)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/a8QaGQAc8R">pic.twitter.com/a8QaGQAc8R</a>
&mdash; Kausthub Gudipati (@kaustats) <a href="https://twitter.com/kaustats/status/1873227574836642007?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
Australia's lead crossed 240 with four wickets remaining at the time of publishing this article.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Having dismissed Head for a duck earlier in the first innings, Bumrah removed him again on just one, unlocking the milestone of picking 200 wickets in this format.

Jasprit Bumrah can do no wrong; as a matter of fact, he hasn’t done much wrong in his career thus far. On Sunday (Dec 29), day four of the ongoing Boxing Day Test at the MCG, Bumrah broke Australia’s back with four wickets in the second innings, including picking three of just 11 balls in his second spell. Bumrah completed his 200 Test wickets – the quickest by an Indian and fourth overall regarding balls bowled (8484). The ace Indian quick began proceedings with Sam Konstas’ wicket early in the innings, bowled him on eight before returning to wreak havoc in the first over of his second spell, picking two wickets of Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh. Having dismissed Head for a duck earlier in the first innings, Bumrah removed him again on just one, unlocking the milestone of picking 200 wickets in this format. Head’s wicket saw him accomplish this feat at the lowest average recorded for a bowler (19.56), creating history. Jasprit Bumrah takes his 200th Test wicket and follows it up with 201 just moments later!#AUSvIND | #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/NpiXDBaVDI — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 Also read | BGT, MCG Test: Bumrah becomes quickest Indian to 200 Test wickets Social media went berserk over Bumrah’s incredible feat, with fans and former cricketers going to a limit to call him perhaps the best pacer of all time. Meanwhile, Bumrah wasn’t done with those two wickets, as he got rid of keeper-batter Alex Carey in his next over to complete a four-for thus far in the second innings. Australia lost four wickets in 21 balls post lunch, with Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj (picked up Steve Smith) sharing honours. From 80 for two at one stage, Australia got reduced to 91 for six and at tea on day four, their scorecard read 135 for six, with Marnus Labuschagne and captain Pat Cummins at the crease. Check out social media reactions to Bumrah’s incredible feat - 200 sticks at 19.56. Unreal. What a bowler. Mind-boggling stuff. Well done Boom Boom. @Jaspritbumrah93 #AUSvIND #Bumrah #BGT pic.twitter.com/ZTtjkUuTga — Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) December 29, 2024 We only believe in Jassi bhai 😎 200 Test Wickets for Boom Boom Bumrah 🔥🔥 He brings up this milestone with the big wicket of Travis Head.#TeamIndia #AUSvIND @Jaspritbumrah93 pic.twitter.com/QiiyaCi7BX — BCCI (@BCCI) December 29, 2024 Best Bowling average after 200th Test wicket Jasprit Bumrah - 19.56 Joel Garner - 20.34 Shaun Pollock - 20.39 Waqar Younis - 20.60 or 20.61 — Krishna Kumar (@KrishnaKRM) December 29, 2024 Jasprit Bumrah the first bowler in Test history to take his 200th wicket with an average under 20. Best bowler of this generation. Best bowler ever. And not just in terms of numbers #AusvInd — Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) December 29, 2024 Bumrah, Best bowler in the world atm — Darren Lehmann (@darren_lehmann) December 29, 2024 Long after I am done with this game, I will remember Bumrah's opening bursts in this series and smile. Truly, it has been a master at work. — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) December 29, 2024 Yeah, Bumrah’s the best I’ve seen. — Neal 🇦🇺 (@NealGardner_) December 29, 2024 JASPRIT BUMRAH in Tests 🔹 First ever player to reach 200 wickets at an average under 20 🔹 Fewest balls by Indian bowler to 200 wickets (8484) 🔹 Fewest matches by Indian pacer to 200 wickets (44)#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/a8QaGQAc8R — Kausthub Gudipati (@kaustats) December 29, 2024 Australia's lead crossed 240 with four wickets remaining at the time of publishing this article. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT - Social media in awe of Jasprit Bumrah’s Test milestone at MCG

Jasprit Bumrah, remember the name!
The ace Indian quick has been on a rampage Down Under since day one of this tour, picking 29 wickets in four contested matches thus far. On day four of the ongoing Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG, Bumrah triggered Australia&rsquo;s collapse after lunch, picking three wickets in two overs, including bagging his 200th Test wicket in Travis Head on just one.
He first removed opener Sam Konstas, bowled on eight before making merry in the first over his second spell, picking up dangerous Head and under-firing Mitchell Marsh.&nbsp;
While Head&rsquo;s wicket, caught on the square leg on one, was his 200th Test scalp - becoming the fourth quickest to reach the milestone regarding balls bowled (8484), Marsh&rsquo;s dismissal was a testament to his status as perhaps the best bowler of his time.
<h3>Watch Video &ndash;</h3>
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Jasprit Bumrah takes his 200th Test wicket and follows it up with 201 just moments later!<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/NpiXDBaVDI">pic.twitter.com/NpiXDBaVDI</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873203596919025985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
Those two wickets also saw him becoming the fastest Indian to 200 wickets in this format, besides doing it with the best bowling average of all time (19.56). However, Bumrah didn&rsquo;t stop there, removing keeper-batter Alex Carey next (on two) in his following over to reduce Australia to 91 for six in their second innings.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-social-media-in-awe-of-best-ever-jasprit-bumrahs-test-milestone-at-mcg-8574641" rel="dofollow">BGT - Social media in awe of Jasprit Bumrah&rsquo;s Test milestone at MCG</a>
<h2>India on top at the &lsquo;G&rsquo;</h2>
India began day four on 358 for nine, with centurion Nitish Kumar Reddy and Mohammed Siraj at the crease. The visitors could add 11 runs to their overnight tally before veteran spinner Nathan Lyon accounted for Reddy on 114, wrapping up India&rsquo;s innings on 369.&nbsp;
With the 105-run lead, Australia hoped to make the most of it but knew weathering the Bumrah storm would be their toughest challenge, and it unfolded that way.
Unlike how the debutant Konstas reverse ramped Bumrah for fours and a six in the first innings, he failed to replicate the same in the second. Looking clueless against the best seamer in world cricket, Konstas fell prey to Bumrah&rsquo;s seed in the seventh over, with the Indian quick tearing through his middle stump.
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MIDDLE STUMP! Jasprit Bumrah gets Sam Konstas with a pearler. <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/A1BzrcHJB8">pic.twitter.com/A1BzrcHJB8</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873158270518468857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
Usman Khawaja stood his ground for good ten overs before Siraj&rsquo;s incoming delivery got the better of him, dismissing him for 21. Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith played through lunch, with India winning the session hands down.
In the second session, Siraj gave India a massive breakthrough in Smith, picking his second of the day. That wicket, however, was the turning point of the Australian innings, with them losing three quick wickets soon after, denting their momentum.&nbsp;

Seamer Jasprit Bumrah is the quickest Indian to 200 wickets in this format, besides doing it with the best bowling average of all time (19.56).

Jasprit Bumrah, remember the name! The ace Indian quick has been on a rampage Down Under since day one of this tour, picking 29 wickets in four contested matches thus far. On day four of the ongoing Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG, Bumrah triggered Australia’s collapse after lunch, picking three wickets in two overs, including bagging his 200th Test wicket in Travis Head on just one. He first removed opener Sam Konstas, bowled on eight before making merry in the first over his second spell, picking up dangerous Head and under-firing Mitchell Marsh. While Head’s wicket, caught on the square leg on one, was his 200th Test scalp - becoming the fourth quickest to reach the milestone regarding balls bowled (8484), Marsh’s dismissal was a testament to his status as perhaps the best bowler of his time. Watch Video – Jasprit Bumrah takes his 200th Test wicket and follows it up with 201 just moments later!#AUSvIND | #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/NpiXDBaVDI — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 Those two wickets also saw him becoming the fastest Indian to 200 wickets in this format, besides doing it with the best bowling average of all time (19.56). However, Bumrah didn’t stop there, removing keeper-batter Alex Carey next (on two) in his following over to reduce Australia to 91 for six in their second innings. Also Read: BGT - Social media in awe of Jasprit Bumrah’s Test milestone at MCG India on top at the ‘G’ India began day four on 358 for nine, with centurion Nitish Kumar Reddy and Mohammed Siraj at the crease. The visitors could add 11 runs to their overnight tally before veteran spinner Nathan Lyon accounted for Reddy on 114, wrapping up India’s innings on 369. With the 105-run lead, Australia hoped to make the most of it but knew weathering the Bumrah storm would be their toughest challenge, and it unfolded that way. Unlike how the debutant Konstas reverse ramped Bumrah for fours and a six in the first innings, he failed to replicate the same in the second. Looking clueless against the best seamer in world cricket, Konstas fell prey to Bumrah’s seed in the seventh over, with the Indian quick tearing through his middle stump. MIDDLE STUMP! Jasprit Bumrah gets Sam Konstas with a pearler. #AUSvIND | #DeliveredWithSpeed | @NBN_Australia pic.twitter.com/A1BzrcHJB8 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 Usman Khawaja stood his ground for good ten overs before Siraj’s incoming delivery got the better of him, dismissing him for 21. Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith played through lunch, with India winning the session hands down. In the second session, Siraj gave India a massive breakthrough in Smith, picking his second of the day. That wicket, however, was the turning point of the Australian innings, with them losing three quick wickets soon after, denting their momentum.

BGT, MCG Test: Bumrah becomes quickest Indian to 200 Test wickets

<div data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-final-india-beat-south-africa-in-nail-biter-to-win-second-title-736405" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">triumph in 2024 T20 World Cup</a> not only ended their drought of ICC silverware but also ended an era for them when two of their finest batters retired along with an ace all-rounder. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-captain-rohit-sharma-announces-t20i-retirement-after-world-cup-win-barbados-736430" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Rohit Sharma</a>, who led India to glory in the tournament and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohli-bows-out-on-high-as-legendary-batter-confirms-t20i-retirement-after-world-cup-win-736412" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Virat Kohli</a> - the Player of the Match in the Final - retired after lifting the T20 WC trophy. All rounder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ravindra-jadeja-announces-retirement-from-t20is-after-indias-world-cup-victory-736512" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ravindra Jadeja also announced his retirement</a> a day after.</div>
<div></div>
<div>With three big players out of the squad in a blink of an eye, India had a huge gap to fill but thanks to the Indian Premier League (IPL), they had some options which not only filled those places but came out flying under 360-degree player and new skipper Suryakumar Yadav.</div>
<div></div>
<div><iframe width="600" height="400" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BKUJrNnxr8Y?feature=oembed" title="Team India's open bus victory parade in Mumbai | WION Fineprint" class="publive-iframes-block publive-YouTube-block" id="PL_iframe_block-m58c0rl8-nmapw474-zozye9cq"></iframe></div>
<h2>India T20I Team Results After World Cup Win</h2>
<div>India vs Zimbabwe (won 4-1)</div>
<div></div>
<div>The series started with a shocker of loss but India, under make-shift skipper and potentially future one, gathered pieces quickly to win the next four games. The highlight of the series was Abhishek Sharma at the top and multi-dimensional abilities of Shivam Dube.</div>
<div></div>
<div>India vs Sri Lanka (3-0)</div>
<div aria-hidden="true">&nbsp;</div>
<div>India won the first T20I by scoring in excess of 200 runs in the first innings - second time in five games and they countered rain to score quickly to win the second one. The third game was a humdinger before India won the super over. The highlight was Arshdeep Singh and Ravi Bishnoi further cementing their place in the new set up as it showed the mettle to hold the nerves in crucial situations.</div>
<div></div>
<div>India vs Bangladesh (3-0)</div>
<div></div>
<div>India won the first T20I by seven wickets, scored 221 in the second match and 297 - the highest T20I score by a full member in the third T20I. Bangladesh had no answers to India's batting powered by find of the series all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy and Sanju Samson finally realising potential in opening slot.</div>
<div></div>
<div>India vs South Africa (3-1)</div>
<div></div>
<div>India crossed 200-run mark three times in the series by the fourth T20I. They had crossed the barrier seven times in 12 matches since the World Cup. Also, in the last seven T20Is, they were past 200-mark five times! By the time series came to an end, Samson had scored two more T20I hundreds while another youngster Tilak Verma also scored a century.</div>
<div></div>
<div>All the four series highlighted that the new world champion India is fearless and believes in attacking more than anything else. It is safe to say this new-look India has enough depth and options available to them for the coming years and are well placed to defend their title in 2026 edition.</div>

Sports-Cricket Indian team went on attack under new skipper Suryakumar Yadav and crossed 200-run mark seven times in 12 T20Is played after T20 World Cup win.

India's triumph in 2024 T20 World Cup not only ended their drought of ICC silverware but also ended an era for them when two of their finest batters retired along with an ace all-rounder. Rohit Sharma, who led India to glory in the tournament and Virat Kohli - the Player of the Match in the Final - retired after lifting the T20 WC trophy. All rounder Ravindra Jadeja also announced his retirement a day after. With three big players out of the squad in a blink of an eye, India had a huge gap to fill but thanks to the Indian Premier League (IPL), they had some options which not only filled those places but came out flying under 360-degree player and new skipper Suryakumar Yadav. India T20I Team Results After World Cup Win India vs Zimbabwe (won 4-1) The series started with a shocker of loss but India, under make-shift skipper and potentially future one, gathered pieces quickly to win the next four games. The highlight of the series was Abhishek Sharma at the top and multi-dimensional abilities of Shivam Dube. India vs Sri Lanka (3-0) India won the first T20I by scoring in excess of 200 runs in the first innings - second time in five games and they countered rain to score quickly to win the second one. The third game was a humdinger before India won the super over. The highlight was Arshdeep Singh and Ravi Bishnoi further cementing their place in the new set up as it showed the mettle to hold the nerves in crucial situations. India vs Bangladesh (3-0) India won the first T20I by seven wickets, scored 221 in the second match and 297 - the highest T20I score by a full member in the third T20I. Bangladesh had no answers to India's batting powered by find of the series all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy and Sanju Samson finally realising potential in opening slot. India vs South Africa (3-1) India crossed 200-run mark three times in the series by the fourth T20I. They had crossed the barrier seven times in 12 matches since the World Cup. Also, in the last seven T20Is, they were past 200-mark five times! By the time series came to an end, Samson had scored two more T20I hundreds while another youngster Tilak Verma also scored a century. All the four series highlighted that the new world champion India is fearless and believes in attacking more than anything else. It is safe to say this new-look India has enough depth and options available to them for the coming years and are well placed to defend their title in 2026 edition.

India’s evolution: Analysing performances post T20 World Cup 2024 win

A late bowling fightback sparked by Jacob Duffy produced a remarkable eight-run victory for New Zealand against Sri Lanka at Mount Maunganui on Saturday (Dec 28)
Sri Lanka, with openers Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis in sparkling form, were cruising towards the 173-run target when they reached 95 without loss at the halfway stage.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-scott-boland-backs-tough-guy-mitchell-starc-for-mcg-cracker-despite-injury-scare-8573327" rel="dofollow">BGT &ndash; Boland backs 'tough guy' Starc for MCG cracker despite injury scare</a>
But in the 14th over, with Sri Lanka poised at a comfortable 121-0, Duffy changed the game with three wickets in four balls, all caught behind by Mitchell Hay, beginning with the dismissal of Mendis on 46 off 36 deliveries.<o:p></o:p>
Nissanka went on to make 90 off 60, which included seven fours and three sixes for his highest Twenty20 score, while no other Sri Lankan reached double figures.<o:p></o:p>
"We should have done better," was the succinct summary from Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka who was out for three and also dropped a catch. "Pathum and Kusal batted well, the rest including me should take responsibility for this loss."<o:p></o:p>
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner said Duffy changed the game with his 3-21 after the home side reached 172-8 in their 20 overs with the innings propped up by a century stand by Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell.<o:p></o:p>
The pair came together in the 10th over with New Zealand struggling at 65-5 and put on 105 before both were dismissed in the final over.<o:p></o:p>
Mitchell was stumped for 62 off 42 deliveries while Bracewell was caught behind for 59 off 33.<o:p></o:p>
"It was a massive partnership for us, the way they went about it, they soaked it up for a bit then put the pressure back on to put up a pretty good score," Santner said.<o:p></o:p>
Binura Fernando, who removed both New Zealand openers in his second over, finished with 2-22.<o:p></o:p>
Tim Robinson was caught and bowled for 11 when he drove a short-pitched delivery straight back to the bowler.<o:p></o:p>
Three balls later Rachin Ravindra, on eight, nicked an outswinger and was caught behind.<o:p></o:p>
Mark Chapman, dropped on four, reached 15 before he was caught on the boundary by Kamindu Mendis off the bowling of Matheesha Pathirana.<o:p></o:p>
Glenn Phillips had made eight off nine deliveries when he was trapped in front and Mitchell Hay went first ball when he played and missed at a delivery drifting into the pads.
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.

Cricket | Sri Lanka, with openers Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis in sparkling form, were cruising towards the 173-run target when they reached 95 without loss at the halfway stage.

A late bowling fightback sparked by Jacob Duffy produced a remarkable eight-run victory for New Zealand against Sri Lanka at Mount Maunganui on Saturday (Dec 28) Sri Lanka, with openers Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis in sparkling form, were cruising towards the 173-run target when they reached 95 without loss at the halfway stage. Also read | BGT – Boland backs 'tough guy' Starc for MCG cracker despite injury scare But in the 14th over, with Sri Lanka poised at a comfortable 121-0, Duffy changed the game with three wickets in four balls, all caught behind by Mitchell Hay, beginning with the dismissal of Mendis on 46 off 36 deliveries. Nissanka went on to make 90 off 60, which included seven fours and three sixes for his highest Twenty20 score, while no other Sri Lankan reached double figures. "We should have done better," was the succinct summary from Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka who was out for three and also dropped a catch. "Pathum and Kusal batted well, the rest including me should take responsibility for this loss." New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner said Duffy changed the game with his 3-21 after the home side reached 172-8 in their 20 overs with the innings propped up by a century stand by Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell. The pair came together in the 10th over with New Zealand struggling at 65-5 and put on 105 before both were dismissed in the final over. Mitchell was stumped for 62 off 42 deliveries while Bracewell was caught behind for 59 off 33. "It was a massive partnership for us, the way they went about it, they soaked it up for a bit then put the pressure back on to put up a pretty good score," Santner said. Binura Fernando, who removed both New Zealand openers in his second over, finished with 2-22. Tim Robinson was caught and bowled for 11 when he drove a short-pitched delivery straight back to the bowler. Three balls later Rachin Ravindra, on eight, nicked an outswinger and was caught behind. Mark Chapman, dropped on four, reached 15 before he was caught on the boundary by Kamindu Mendis off the bowling of Matheesha Pathirana. Glenn Phillips had made eight off nine deliveries when he was trapped in front and Mitchell Hay went first ball when he played and missed at a delivery drifting into the pads. 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.

Jacob Duffy powers New Zealand to stunning win over Sri Lanka in 1st T20I

Australian quick Mitchell Starc suffered an injury scare on day three of the Boxing Day Test against India at the MCG, putting his participation in the remainder of the series under a dark cloud. Though the 34-year-old appeared to have pulled up sometime during the first two sessions, having played four Tests on the trot now, his teammate and fellow pacer Scott Boland expects &lsquo;tough guy&rsquo; Starc to remain fit for the MCG cracker.
Starc bowled through pain in the first two sessions on Saturday (Dec 28), but after returning to the attack following tea, he clocked over 140 kmph, though he held his back during this.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-could-have-dismissed-him-6-7-times-jasprit-bumrah-on-sam-konstas-attacking-him-on-day-1-at-mcg-8573029" rel="dofollow">BGT: &lsquo;Could have dismissed him 6-7 times&hellip;,&rsquo; Bumrah on Konstas' attack</a>
Boland reckons despite the team doctor working on him for the final hour, Starc would take his time before rejoining Captain Pat Cummins and Boland for the final innings against India at the 'G'. &nbsp;
"He's okay. I think he's just had a bit of a niggle in his back or rib, but he came out after the (tea) break and was bowling 140 (kmph), so I think he'll be fine," Boland said to the ABC reporters after the third day&rsquo;s play. "Playing a Test match is pretty hard on your body, and he's played all four Tests so far. I think he's just a little bit stiff in his back."
<h2>Been there, done that</h2>
Two years ago, against South Africa during the Boxing Day Test, Starc bowled with a broken thumb and won the game for his country, gaining a reputation of a tough guy. Speaking on the same lines, Boland said he is confident that Starc would be returning to his best for India&rsquo;s second innings and pushing the host for a plausible win.
"I think he's underrated for how tough he is," Boland said. "A couple of years ago here at the MCG he had a broken finger and we were planning for him not to bowl at all &ndash; and then he came out and bowled 140k swingers.
"He's someone who can play through a lot of pain. You can tell he's played (93) Test matches now. As a fast bowler, there's not many Tests you play without any niggle at all. He's someone who can still bowl the same pace even when he is really sore &ndash; which is a great trait to have,&rdquo; he continued.
Meanwhile, should Starc fail to recover from a potential niggle for the remainder of the series, Australia would be without two of their premier seamers &ndash; Starc and Josh Hazlewood, who is out for side strain, mounting pressure on the hosts.&nbsp;
Though they have Jhye Richardson and Seam Abbott as reserves, with Brendan Doggett also shadowing the Aussie team for the first three Tests, Australia will have to take a call to decide who replaces Starc in the XI. Given Doggett and Abbott haven't made their Test debuts, Richardson remains the only capped option for the hosts.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket sports | Starc bowled through pain in the first two sessions on day three, but after returning to the attack following tea, he clocked over 140 kmph, though he held his back during this.

Australian quick Mitchell Starc suffered an injury scare on day three of the Boxing Day Test against India at the MCG, putting his participation in the remainder of the series under a dark cloud. Though the 34-year-old appeared to have pulled up sometime during the first two sessions, having played four Tests on the trot now, his teammate and fellow pacer Scott Boland expects ‘tough guy’ Starc to remain fit for the MCG cracker. Starc bowled through pain in the first two sessions on Saturday (Dec 28), but after returning to the attack following tea, he clocked over 140 kmph, though he held his back during this. Also read | BGT: ‘Could have dismissed him 6-7 times…,’ Bumrah on Konstas' attack Boland reckons despite the team doctor working on him for the final hour, Starc would take his time before rejoining Captain Pat Cummins and Boland for the final innings against India at the 'G'. "He's okay. I think he's just had a bit of a niggle in his back or rib, but he came out after the (tea) break and was bowling 140 (kmph), so I think he'll be fine," Boland said to the ABC reporters after the third day’s play. "Playing a Test match is pretty hard on your body, and he's played all four Tests so far. I think he's just a little bit stiff in his back." Been there, done that Two years ago, against South Africa during the Boxing Day Test, Starc bowled with a broken thumb and won the game for his country, gaining a reputation of a tough guy. Speaking on the same lines, Boland said he is confident that Starc would be returning to his best for India’s second innings and pushing the host for a plausible win. "I think he's underrated for how tough he is," Boland said. "A couple of years ago here at the MCG he had a broken finger and we were planning for him not to bowl at all – and then he came out and bowled 140k swingers. "He's someone who can play through a lot of pain. You can tell he's played (93) Test matches now. As a fast bowler, there's not many Tests you play without any niggle at all. He's someone who can still bowl the same pace even when he is really sore – which is a great trait to have,” he continued. Meanwhile, should Starc fail to recover from a potential niggle for the remainder of the series, Australia would be without two of their premier seamers – Starc and Josh Hazlewood, who is out for side strain, mounting pressure on the hosts. Though they have Jhye Richardson and Seam Abbott as reserves, with Brendan Doggett also shadowing the Aussie team for the first three Tests, Australia will have to take a call to decide who replaces Starc in the XI. Given Doggett and Abbott haven't made their Test debuts, Richardson remains the only capped option for the hosts. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT – Boland backs 'tough guy' Starc for MCG cracker despite injury scare

Australia debutant Sam Konstas is certainly enjoying his first Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) both with the bat and on the field. After scoring a quick-fire 60 in his maiden Test innings Konstas, while fielding, mimicked Virat Kohli's shoulder push on the field.
The batter had his face towards the fans and moved his right shoulder, recreating the same one he got from Kohli on day 1 while batting. Have a look at the video below:
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After the altercation on day 1, the match referee also fined Kohli 20 percent of his match fees.
<h2>Nitish Reddy saves India on day 3</h2>
As for the match, the visitors still trail by 116 runs in the first innings but with rain predicted for next two days - India may have done enough to escape with a draw at the MCG. India were 358/9 before rain forced an early end of the day with Reddy unbeaten on 105 and Siraj on the other end.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-nitish-kumar-reddy-news-hundred-record-third-youngest-in-australia-india-vs-australia-boxing-day-test-8573009">BGT 2024-25: Nitish Reddy achieves historic feat with maiden Test ton</a>
After starting the day from the overnight score of 164/5, India were in a pickle at 221/7 before Nitish Kumar Reddy took the charge with fellow all-rounder Washington Sundar. The duo added 127 runs for the eighth wicket - the second highest ever for India in Australia and third joint-highest overall between two countries for the last three wickets.
The partnership was broken when Nathan Lyon got Sundar caught at slips after the all-rounder reached his 50. Reddy, who was batting at 97 at the time, had a scare of not reaching his ton as Jasprit Bumrah was also taken out with only one wicket remaining in the innings.&nbsp;
Mohammed Siraj, however, stood his ground which gave Reddy opportunity to reach his maiden Test ton. The youngster has 275 runs in the series as of now - highest for India and second highest overall behind Travis Head's 409.
The five-Test series currently stands equal at 1-1 with one more Test to go after the ongoing Boxing Day Test.

Cricket Sports News Kohli vs Konstas: The Aussie had his face towards the fans and moved his right shoulder, recreating the same one he got from Kohli on day 1 while batting.

Australia debutant Sam Konstas is certainly enjoying his first Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) both with the bat and on the field. After scoring a quick-fire 60 in his maiden Test innings Konstas, while fielding, mimicked Virat Kohli's shoulder push on the field. The batter had his face towards the fans and moved his right shoulder, recreating the same one he got from Kohli on day 1 while batting. Have a look at the video below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by The 28 Year Old Male (@the28yearoldmale) After the altercation on day 1, the match referee also fined Kohli 20 percent of his match fees. Nitish Reddy saves India on day 3 As for the match, the visitors still trail by 116 runs in the first innings but with rain predicted for next two days - India may have done enough to escape with a draw at the MCG. India were 358/9 before rain forced an early end of the day with Reddy unbeaten on 105 and Siraj on the other end. Also Read: BGT 2024-25: Nitish Reddy achieves historic feat with maiden Test ton After starting the day from the overnight score of 164/5, India were in a pickle at 221/7 before Nitish Kumar Reddy took the charge with fellow all-rounder Washington Sundar. The duo added 127 runs for the eighth wicket - the second highest ever for India in Australia and third joint-highest overall between two countries for the last three wickets. The partnership was broken when Nathan Lyon got Sundar caught at slips after the all-rounder reached his 50. Reddy, who was batting at 97 at the time, had a scare of not reaching his ton as Jasprit Bumrah was also taken out with only one wicket remaining in the innings. Mohammed Siraj, however, stood his ground which gave Reddy opportunity to reach his maiden Test ton. The youngster has 275 runs in the series as of now - highest for India and second highest overall behind Travis Head's 409. The five-Test series currently stands equal at 1-1 with one more Test to go after the ongoing Boxing Day Test.

BGT 2024-25: WATCH | Sam Konstas mimics Virat Kohli in Boxing Day Test

Nitish Kumar Reddy entered the record books with his unbeaten century on day 3 (Saturday, Dec 28) of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test in Melbourne. Reddy is now the third youngest batter to score his maiden Test ton in Australia behind legendary Sachin Tendulkar and Rishabh Pant.
Sachin had scored his first Test hundred in Australia at the age of 18 years and 256 days in 1992 while Pant had done so aged 21 years and 92 days in Sydney in 2019. Reddy, who is still unbeaten, is 21 years and 216 days old.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/border-gavaskar-trophy-bgt-sunil-gavaskar-statement-rishabh-pant-shot-on-day-3-mcg-india-vs-australia-bgt-2024-boxing-day-test-8572816">BGT 2024-25: Gavaskar livid with 'terrible selection' of Rishabh Pant</a>
<h2>Nitish Kumar Reddy recues India along with Wasington Sundar</h2>
India were staring at a huge first innings deficit at 221/7 when Reddy took the charge with fellow all-rounder Washington Sundar. The duo added 127 runs for the eighth wicket - the second highest ever for India in Australia and third joint-highest overall between two countries for the last three wickets.
The partnership was broken when Nathan Lyon got Sundar caught at slips after the all-rounder reached his 50. Reddy, who was batting at 97 at the time, had a scare of not reaching his ton as Jasprit Bumrah was also taken out with only one wicket remaining in the innings.&nbsp;
Mohammed Siraj, however, stood his ground which gave Reddy opportunity to reach his maiden Test ton. The youngster has 275 runs in the series as of now - highest for India and second highest overall behind Travis Head's 409.
India were 358/9 before rain forced an early end of the day with Reddy unbeaten on 105 with Siraj on the other end. The visitors still trail by 116 runs in the first innings but with rain predicted for next two days - India may have done enough to escape with a draw at the MCG.
The five-Test series currently stands equal at 1-1 with one more Test to go after the ongoing Boxing Day Test.

Sports Cricket Nitish Kumar Reddy is now the third youngest batter to score his maiden Test ton in Australia behind legendary Sachin Tendulkar and Rishabh Pant.

Nitish Kumar Reddy entered the record books with his unbeaten century on day 3 (Saturday, Dec 28) of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test in Melbourne. Reddy is now the third youngest batter to score his maiden Test ton in Australia behind legendary Sachin Tendulkar and Rishabh Pant. Sachin had scored his first Test hundred in Australia at the age of 18 years and 256 days in 1992 while Pant had done so aged 21 years and 92 days in Sydney in 2019. Reddy, who is still unbeaten, is 21 years and 216 days old. Also Read: BGT 2024-25: Gavaskar livid with 'terrible selection' of Rishabh Pant Nitish Kumar Reddy recues India along with Wasington Sundar India were staring at a huge first innings deficit at 221/7 when Reddy took the charge with fellow all-rounder Washington Sundar. The duo added 127 runs for the eighth wicket - the second highest ever for India in Australia and third joint-highest overall between two countries for the last three wickets. The partnership was broken when Nathan Lyon got Sundar caught at slips after the all-rounder reached his 50. Reddy, who was batting at 97 at the time, had a scare of not reaching his ton as Jasprit Bumrah was also taken out with only one wicket remaining in the innings. Mohammed Siraj, however, stood his ground which gave Reddy opportunity to reach his maiden Test ton. The youngster has 275 runs in the series as of now - highest for India and second highest overall behind Travis Head's 409. India were 358/9 before rain forced an early end of the day with Reddy unbeaten on 105 with Siraj on the other end. The visitors still trail by 116 runs in the first innings but with rain predicted for next two days - India may have done enough to escape with a draw at the MCG. The five-Test series currently stands equal at 1-1 with one more Test to go after the ongoing Boxing Day Test.

BGT 2024-25: Nitish Reddy achieves historic feat with maiden Test ton

Jasprit Bumrah is the number one ranked Test bowler in the world with 904 rating points, the most for an Indian pacer ever recorded. Besides his accolades as an all-format bowler, his impact across every phase of an innings is unparalleled. However, a day after topping the bowling chart, a 19-year-old Test debutant Sam Konstas smashed him for 34 runs in his first spell &ndash; the most by any batter against him in Tests thus far.
The rookie batter hit Bumrah for 18 runs in his fourth over, including hitting him for a six off a ramp shot over the slip cordon. Adding two fours to that led to extra cheers from the crowd, with Sam smashing Bumrah over the deep long-on for his second six of the innings in the 11th over, becoming the second batter after Jos Buttler to hit him for two sixes in Tests.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m57yv7gs-08ttekdn-6udq479m">
WHAT ARE WE SEEING! Sam Konstas just whipped Jasprit Bumrah for six 😱<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/ZuNdtCncLO">pic.twitter.com/ZuNdtCncLO</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1872071914895659053?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-social-media-bursts-into-joy-over-nitish-reddys-maiden-test-hundred-check-reactions-8572794" rel="dofollow">BGT: Social media erupts in joy at Nitish Reddy&rsquo;s maiden Test hundred; check reactions</a>
Though Konstas agreed to have enjoyed this little battle against perhaps the best seamer, Bumrah said he nearly dismissed Konstas six or seven times in his first three overs.&nbsp;
Speaking to the host broadcaster ahead of the third day's play at the MCG, Bumrah reflected on Konstas&rsquo; unexpected attack against him, which earned him quite some praise worldwide. The Indian pacer said he wasn&rsquo;t surprised with Sam&rsquo;s approach, adding he had been playing T20 cricket for over a decade, and several newcomers have come and tried it against him, calling the Aussie teenager an interesting batter on the contrary.
"I have experienced heaps of it. I have played T20s for the last 12 years of my life. Interesting batsman," Bumrah said.
"I always felt that I was in the game, I never felt that I was far away from taking his wicket, maybe even 6-7 times in the first two overs. But you know, that's how cricket goes. Some days it pays off, it looks good, and some days it does not. I love different challenges, and I am always looking forward to it," the Indian pacer continued.
<h2>Reddy master class highlights day three</h2>
Nitish Kumar Reddy made a name for himself with a Boxing Day hundred against Australia on day three of the ongoing MCG Test, slamming an unbeaten 105* at the stumps.&nbsp;
Though India is still behind by 116 runs, they avoided the follow-on and cut the deficit after losing two big wickets early on in the day. Washington Sundar played a handy knock of 50, but it was Reddy&rsquo;s day at the &lsquo;G&rsquo;.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m57z188a-mq7cb80l-jcwrw4p1">
Nitish Kumar Reddy hits his maiden Test century and receives a standing ovation from the MCG crowd ❤️ <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/Vbqq5C26gz">pic.twitter.com/Vbqq5C26gz</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1872890790956974365?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
As things stand, India and Australia are both in for the win, with the rain interruption over the next two days expected to play spoilsport again.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

A day after topping the bowling chart, a 19-year-old Test debutant Sam Konstas smashed him for 34 runs in his first spell – the most by any batter against him in Tests thus far.

Jasprit Bumrah is the number one ranked Test bowler in the world with 904 rating points, the most for an Indian pacer ever recorded. Besides his accolades as an all-format bowler, his impact across every phase of an innings is unparalleled. However, a day after topping the bowling chart, a 19-year-old Test debutant Sam Konstas smashed him for 34 runs in his first spell – the most by any batter against him in Tests thus far. The rookie batter hit Bumrah for 18 runs in his fourth over, including hitting him for a six off a ramp shot over the slip cordon. Adding two fours to that led to extra cheers from the crowd, with Sam smashing Bumrah over the deep long-on for his second six of the innings in the 11th over, becoming the second batter after Jos Buttler to hit him for two sixes in Tests. WHAT ARE WE SEEING! Sam Konstas just whipped Jasprit Bumrah for six 😱#AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/ZuNdtCncLO — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 26, 2024 Also read | BGT: Social media erupts in joy at Nitish Reddy’s maiden Test hundred; check reactions Though Konstas agreed to have enjoyed this little battle against perhaps the best seamer, Bumrah said he nearly dismissed Konstas six or seven times in his first three overs. Speaking to the host broadcaster ahead of the third day's play at the MCG, Bumrah reflected on Konstas’ unexpected attack against him, which earned him quite some praise worldwide. The Indian pacer said he wasn’t surprised with Sam’s approach, adding he had been playing T20 cricket for over a decade, and several newcomers have come and tried it against him, calling the Aussie teenager an interesting batter on the contrary. "I have experienced heaps of it. I have played T20s for the last 12 years of my life. Interesting batsman," Bumrah said. "I always felt that I was in the game, I never felt that I was far away from taking his wicket, maybe even 6-7 times in the first two overs. But you know, that's how cricket goes. Some days it pays off, it looks good, and some days it does not. I love different challenges, and I am always looking forward to it," the Indian pacer continued. Reddy master class highlights day three Nitish Kumar Reddy made a name for himself with a Boxing Day hundred against Australia on day three of the ongoing MCG Test, slamming an unbeaten 105* at the stumps. Though India is still behind by 116 runs, they avoided the follow-on and cut the deficit after losing two big wickets early on in the day. Washington Sundar played a handy knock of 50, but it was Reddy’s day at the ‘G’. Nitish Kumar Reddy hits his maiden Test century and receives a standing ovation from the MCG crowd ❤️ #AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/Vbqq5C26gz — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 28, 2024 As things stand, India and Australia are both in for the win, with the rain interruption over the next two days expected to play spoilsport again. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: ‘Could have dismissed him 6-7 times…,’ Bumrah on Konstas' attack

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