Spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and paceman Mohammed Shami combined to tear through <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2018-19-schedule-teams-time-and-venue-177740">Australia</a>'s top order and bring India within six wickets of victory in the series-opening Test on Sunday.

Shaun Marsh was 31 not out and Travis Head on 11, the pair fighting a desperate rearguard action to nudge Australia to 104 for four at stumps on day four, still 219 runs short of their victory target of 323.

Australia will need to defy history to chase down the total and survive the wiles of Ashwin on a fifth-day pitch.

The highest successful run chase was in 1902, when the hosts scored 315 for six to beat England.

Also Read | <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-here-is-why-australian-players-are-wearing-black-armbands-182613">Why Australian players are wearing black armbands</a>

Since the second World War, no team has bettered West Indies' 239 for five to defeat Australia by five wickets in 1982.

Having bowled India out for 307 after lunch, with spinner Nathan Lyon taking six wickets, Australia's openers proceeded to 28 without loss before Ashwin broke through.

The spinner dismissed Aaron Finch in bizarre circumstances, the opener given out caught for 11 after a fuller delivery pitched, pinged off his pad and whistled by his glove.

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Fifties from Pujara and Rahane, followed by disciplined bowling help India finish the day on top in Adelaide.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> DAY 4 REPORT ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/iC3EFznfsn">https://t.co/iC3EFznfsn</a> <a href="https://t.co/ad351Vp6Fz">pic.twitter.com/ad351Vp6Fz</a>
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Finch conferred with fellow opener Marcus Harris then declined to review the decision, trudging off as the technology showed no clear evidence that he had gloved the ball.

Opener Harris and number three Usman Khawaja were soon living dangerously.

Harris, on 14, flashed his bat at Shami's fifth ball after tea and nicked behind to the slips where a diving Cheteshwar Pujara put a difficult chance down.

The debutant was eventually out for a second successive 26, edging through to wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant with another aggressive swipe at Shami.

Pinned down by Ashwin, Khawaja tried to break the shackles with aggression but skied a catch to Rohit Sharma in the deep to fall for a scratchy eight from 42 balls.

Handscomb was given a life on 13, a half-chance put down by Lokesh Rahul in close after he smashed Ashwin hard into the fielder's hands.

He squandered the reprieve, adding only one run before lobbing a miscued pull to Pujara at midwicket, with Shami making the breakthrough.

India's celebrations were tempered moments later when fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah hurt his left shoulder while fielding and promptly exited the ground with the team physio.

Marsh rode his luck, all but chopping Shami onto his stumps with 10 overs to play.

Australia will hope the number four can bring his Sheffield Shield form on day five, having scored an unbeaten 163 as Western Australia chased down 313 in the fourth innings to beat South Australia in the most recent match at the venue.

India had earlier blown a chance to bat Australia out of the match with a quick and shambolic collapse after lunch.

Having resumed on 260 for five in complete control, the tourists lost their last four wickets for four runs in a panicky bout of tail-end slogging.

Hard-hitting wicketkeeper Pant was out for 28 blasting Lyon into the deep, before Ashwin pulled Mitchell Starc straight to Harris at deep backward point to fall for five.

Having compiled a patient 70, Ajinkya Rahane caught his teammates' disease and reverse-swept Lyon straight to Starc.

The offspinner claimed tailender Shami for a duck the next ball to finish with 6-122, having dismissed Pujara for 71 before lunch and Kohli (34) late on day three.

Starc (3-40) wrapped up India's innings with a short ball removing Ishant for a duck.

Spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and paceman Mohammed Shami combined to tear through Australia's top order and bring India within six wickets of victory in the series-opening Test on Sunday.

Spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and paceman Mohammed Shami combined to tear through Australia's top order and bring India within six wickets of victory in the series-opening Test on Sunday. Shaun Marsh was 31 not out and Travis Head on 11, the pair fighting a desperate rearguard action to nudge Australia to 104 for four at stumps on day four, still 219 runs short of their victory target of 323. Australia will need to defy history to chase down the total and survive the wiles of Ashwin on a fifth-day pitch. The highest successful run chase was in 1902, when the hosts scored 315 for six to beat England. Also Read | Why Australian players are wearing black armbands Since the second World War, no team has bettered West Indies' 239 for five to defeat Australia by five wickets in 1982. Having bowled India out for 307 after lunch, with spinner Nathan Lyon taking six wickets, Australia's openers proceeded to 28 without loss before Ashwin broke through. The spinner dismissed Aaron Finch in bizarre circumstances, the opener given out caught for 11 after a fuller delivery pitched, pinged off his pad and whistled by his glove. Fifties from Pujara and Rahane, followed by disciplined bowling help India finish the day on top in Adelaide.#AUSvIND DAY 4 REPORT ⬇️ https://t.co/iC3EFznfsn pic.twitter.com/ad351Vp6Fz — ICC (@ICC) December 9, 2018 × Finch conferred with fellow opener Marcus Harris then declined to review the decision, trudging off as the technology showed no clear evidence that he had gloved the ball. Opener Harris and number three Usman Khawaja were soon living dangerously. Harris, on 14, flashed his bat at Shami's fifth ball after tea and nicked behind to the slips where a diving Cheteshwar Pujara put a difficult chance down. The debutant was eventually out for a second successive 26, edging through to wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant with another aggressive swipe at Shami. Pinned down by Ashwin, Khawaja tried to break the shackles with aggression but skied a catch to Rohit Sharma in the deep to fall for a scratchy eight from 42 balls. Handscomb was given a life on 13, a half-chance put down by Lokesh Rahul in close after he smashed Ashwin hard into the fielder's hands. He squandered the reprieve, adding only one run before lobbing a miscued pull to Pujara at midwicket, with Shami making the breakthrough. India's celebrations were tempered moments later when fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah hurt his left shoulder while fielding and promptly exited the ground with the team physio. Marsh rode his luck, all but chopping Shami onto his stumps with 10 overs to play. Australia will hope the number four can bring his Sheffield Shield form on day five, having scored an unbeaten 163 as Western Australia chased down 313 in the fourth innings to beat South Australia in the most recent match at the venue. India had earlier blown a chance to bat Australia out of the match with a quick and shambolic collapse after lunch. Having resumed on 260 for five in complete control, the tourists lost their last four wickets for four runs in a panicky bout of tail-end slogging. Hard-hitting wicketkeeper Pant was out for 28 blasting Lyon into the deep, before Ashwin pulled Mitchell Starc straight to Harris at deep backward point to fall for five. Having compiled a patient 70, Ajinkya Rahane caught his teammates' disease and reverse-swept Lyon straight to Starc. The offspinner claimed tailender Shami for a duck the next ball to finish with 6-122, having dismissed Pujara for 71 before lunch and Kohli (34) late on day three. Starc (3-40) wrapped up India's innings with a short ball removing Ishant for a duck.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 4: India sniff victory after Australia collapse in Adelaide

Travis Head scored an unbeaten half-century on his home debut to give Australia hope of reeling in India's first innings lead at the close of day two of the first test on Friday.

Australia were 191 for seven, with Head 61 not out and tailender Mitchell Starc on eight, still 59 runs short of India's modest total of 250 after another baking hot day at Adelaide Oval.

"It's nice to do a good job for the team," South Australia captain Head said after scoring his second fifty in his third test.

"We're hanging in there, India bowled exceptionally well and put us under pressure.

"Fantastic little fight-back at the end there and sets up a really important first hour in the morning. If we can get close it's game on."

Tim Paine's side resumed on 117 for four after tea, with Peter Handscomb and Head tasked with salvaging the innings after spinner Ravichandran Ashwin tore through the top order with three wickets.

Handscomb promptly threw away his wicket for 34 trying to fend Jasprit Bumrah to third man with an angled bat, a thick edge pouched by Rishabh Pant.

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Stumps on Day 2! 
 
Australia head back in at 191/7, with Travis Head's 61* keeping them in the fight.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> SCORECARD 
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Australia were soon reduced to 127 for six when captain Tim Paine edged a leaden-footed drive behind off Ishant Sharma to be out for five after a tortured 20-ball innings.

The home side looked primed for a collapse but Pat Cummins and Head combined for a rare bout of resistance.

After a grinding afternoon at the crease, Head tried to lift the run-rate against an ageing ball, smashing Mohammed Shami with a couple of fine drives to the fence.

He cut a Murali Vijay delivery through the covers for a single to raise warm applause from the sun-baked crowd.

He and Cummins carved out Australia's first 50-run partnership but their stand was broken as soon as the second new ball was taken.

Cummins declined to play a shot against a searing Bumrah delivery and was given out lbw. He then squandered a review attempting to overturn the decision despite the ball thudding into his rear pad, directly in front.

Starc and Head negotiated the nervous final overs to give Australia hope of mustering enough runs on day three to remain competitive.

India lost their final wicket on the first ball of the morning but Australia's batsmen were equally quick to squander the advantage.

Opener Aaron Finch was bowled for a third-ball duck by Ishant Sharma, while debutant Marcus Harris was caught for 26, with Ashwin breaking a 45-run partnership with Usman Khawaja.

The crafty spinner ratcheted up the pressure with two wickets after lunch, continuing Shaun Marsh's dreadful run of form in tests by enticing the number four to chop on his stumps for two, then captured the key wicket of Khawaja for 28.

The recalled Handscomb made a better fist of partnering Khawaja, but Ashwin returned to break the partnership with a pearl of a delivery that flicked Khawaja's glove on the way through to the keeper.

Travis Head scored an unbeaten half-century on his home debut to give Australia hope of reeling in India's first innings lead at the close of day two of the first test on Friday.

Travis Head scored an unbeaten half-century on his home debut to give Australia hope of reeling in India's first innings lead at the close of day two of the first test on Friday. Australia were 191 for seven, with Head 61 not out and tailender Mitchell Starc on eight, still 59 runs short of India's modest total of 250 after another baking hot day at Adelaide Oval. "It's nice to do a good job for the team," South Australia captain Head said after scoring his second fifty in his third test. "We're hanging in there, India bowled exceptionally well and put us under pressure. "Fantastic little fight-back at the end there and sets up a really important first hour in the morning. If we can get close it's game on." Tim Paine's side resumed on 117 for four after tea, with Peter Handscomb and Head tasked with salvaging the innings after spinner Ravichandran Ashwin tore through the top order with three wickets. Handscomb promptly threw away his wicket for 34 trying to fend Jasprit Bumrah to third man with an angled bat, a thick edge pouched by Rishabh Pant. Stumps on Day 2! Australia head back in at 191/7, with Travis Head's 61* keeping them in the fight.#AUSvIND SCORECARD ➡️ https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/HylQSYoLCC — ICC (@ICC) December 7, 2018 × Australia were soon reduced to 127 for six when captain Tim Paine edged a leaden-footed drive behind off Ishant Sharma to be out for five after a tortured 20-ball innings. The home side looked primed for a collapse but Pat Cummins and Head combined for a rare bout of resistance. After a grinding afternoon at the crease, Head tried to lift the run-rate against an ageing ball, smashing Mohammed Shami with a couple of fine drives to the fence. He cut a Murali Vijay delivery through the covers for a single to raise warm applause from the sun-baked crowd. He and Cummins carved out Australia's first 50-run partnership but their stand was broken as soon as the second new ball was taken. Cummins declined to play a shot against a searing Bumrah delivery and was given out lbw. He then squandered a review attempting to overturn the decision despite the ball thudding into his rear pad, directly in front. Starc and Head negotiated the nervous final overs to give Australia hope of mustering enough runs on day three to remain competitive. India lost their final wicket on the first ball of the morning but Australia's batsmen were equally quick to squander the advantage. Opener Aaron Finch was bowled for a third-ball duck by Ishant Sharma, while debutant Marcus Harris was caught for 26, with Ashwin breaking a 45-run partnership with Usman Khawaja. The crafty spinner ratcheted up the pressure with two wickets after lunch, continuing Shaun Marsh's dreadful run of form in tests by enticing the number four to chop on his stumps for two, then captured the key wicket of Khawaja for 28. The recalled Handscomb made a better fist of partnering Khawaja, but Ashwin returned to break the partnership with a pearl of a delivery that flicked Khawaja's glove on the way through to the keeper.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 2: Travis Head gives Australia hope in Adelaide

R Ashwin and Shradul Thakur on Sunday took India's lead to 56 runs after the team was bowled out for 367 runs at lunch on the third day of the 2nd Test match. &nbsp;

India made 367 in reply to Windies 311 runs.&nbsp;

Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant top scored with 92 after being involved in a 152-run fifth-wicket stand with Ajinkya Rahane, who made 80.

Ashwin made 35 before being bowled by Shannon Gabriel in an extended first session. His was the last wicket Windies took to end Men in blue's innings.&nbsp;

Windies captain and pacer Jason Holder took five wickets to end India's inning and gave just 56 runs in 23 overs he bowled.&nbsp;

Shannon Gabriel took three wickets but gave 107 runs in 20 overs he bowled.&nbsp;

R Ashwin and Shradul Thakur on Sunday took India's lead to 56 runs after the team was bowled out for 367 runs at lunch on the third day of the 2nd Test match. India made 367 in reply to Windies 311 runs.

R Ashwin and Shradul Thakur on Sunday took India's lead to 56 runs after the team was bowled out for 367 runs at lunch on the third day of the 2nd Test match. India made 367 in reply to Windies 311 runs. Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant top scored with 92 after being involved in a 152-run fifth-wicket stand with Ajinkya Rahane, who made 80. Ashwin made 35 before being bowled by Shannon Gabriel in an extended first session. His was the last wicket Windies took to end Men in blue's innings. Windies captain and pacer Jason Holder took five wickets to end India's inning and gave just 56 runs in 23 overs he bowled. Shannon Gabriel took three wickets but gave 107 runs in 20 overs he bowled.

WI vs Ind, 2nd Test: India all out for 367, lead by 56

Hyderabad defeated Punjab in a neck-to-neck encounter and defended a low score at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Thursday.

Earlier, Punjab won the toss and opted to bowl and it appeared that Ashwin had taken the advantage by making the decision of bowling first as Punjab restricted Hyderabad at a very low score.

Batting first Hyderabad set a 133-run target for Punjab but the bowlers, especially Rashid Khan was outstanding as he took three crucial wickets.

Rashid Khan and Shakib Al Hasan shared five wickets between them and shattered the massive batting strength of Punjab.

The orange army is now placed at number two on the points table of and has gained confidence now.

The credit for today's game must go to the bowling department and as the batting of Hyderabad failed miserably.

The star batsmen could not perform. Shikhar Dhawan lost his wicket after scoring 11 runs and another opener Kane Williamson went back to pavilion after scoring a duck.

Wicket-keeper batsman Wriddhiman Saha scored just six runs. The middle order batsmen salvaged the Hyderabad batting and pushed the run rate.

Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan and Yusuf Pathan scored 54, 28 and 21 runs respectively and made crucial contributions to the team.

The score suggested that Punjab will easily win the match but bowlers turned the result and displayed an outstanding show to snatch the victory from Punjab's side.

Fall of wickets:

55-1 (Lokesh Rahul, 7.5), 57-2 (Chris Gayle, 8.2), 77-3 (Mayank Agarwal, 12.1), 82-4 (Karun Nair, 13.4), 88-5 (Aaron Finch, 14.2), 92-6 (Manoj Tiwary, 15.3), 96-7 (Andrew Tye, 15.5), 99-8 (Barinder Sra, 16.5), 101-9 (Ravichandran Ashwin, 17.2), 119-10 (Ankit Rajpoot, 19.2)

&nbsp;

Batting first Hyderabad set a 133-run target for Punjab but the bowlers, especially Rashid Khan was outstanding as he took three crucial wickets

Hyderabad defeated Punjab in a neck-to-neck encounter and defended a low score at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Thursday. Earlier, Punjab won the toss and opted to bowl and it appeared that Ashwin had taken the advantage by making the decision of bowling first as Punjab restricted Hyderabad at a very low score. Batting first Hyderabad set a 133-run target for Punjab but the bowlers, especially Rashid Khan was outstanding as he took three crucial wickets. Rashid Khan and Shakib Al Hasan shared five wickets between them and shattered the massive batting strength of Punjab. The orange army is now placed at number two on the points table of and has gained confidence now. The credit for today's game must go to the bowling department and as the batting of Hyderabad failed miserably. The star batsmen could not perform. Shikhar Dhawan lost his wicket after scoring 11 runs and another opener Kane Williamson went back to pavilion after scoring a duck. Wicket-keeper batsman Wriddhiman Saha scored just six runs. The middle order batsmen salvaged the Hyderabad batting and pushed the run rate. Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan and Yusuf Pathan scored 54, 28 and 21 runs respectively and made crucial contributions to the team. The score suggested that Punjab will easily win the match but bowlers turned the result and displayed an outstanding show to snatch the victory from Punjab's side. Fall of wickets: 55-1 (Lokesh Rahul, 7.5), 57-2 (Chris Gayle, 8.2), 77-3 (Mayank Agarwal, 12.1), 82-4 (Karun Nair, 13.4), 88-5 (Aaron Finch, 14.2), 92-6 (Manoj Tiwary, 15.3), 96-7 (Andrew Tye, 15.5), 99-8 (Barinder Sra, 16.5), 101-9 (Ravichandran Ashwin, 17.2), 119-10 (Ankit Rajpoot, 19.2)

IPL 2018: Rashid Khan shines as Hyderabad outplay Punjab to defend 132 runs

Hyderabad set 133-run target for Punjab at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium against Hyderabad on Thursday. Earlier, Punjab won the toss and opted to bowl. Ashwin took the advantage of the pitch by making the decision of bowling first.

The batting department of Hyderabad failed as the star batsmen could not perform. Shikhar Dhawan lost his wicket after scoring 11 runs and another opener Kane Williamson went back to pavilion after scoring a duck.

Wicket-keeper batsman Wriddhiman Saha scored just six runs. The middle order batsmen salvaged the Hyderabad batting and pushed the run rate.

Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan and Yusuf Pathan scored 54, 28 and 21 runs respectively and made crucial contributions to the team.

Fall of wickets:

1-1 (Kane Williamson, 0.4), 16-2 (Shikhar Dhawan, 2.2), 27-3 (Wriddhiman Saha, 4.5), 79-4 (Shakib Al Hasan, 13.4), 128-5 (Manish Pandey, 19.4), 132-6 (Mohammad Nabi, 19.6)

The batting department of Hyderabad failed as the star batsmen did not perform

Hyderabad set 133-run target for Punjab at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium against Hyderabad on Thursday. Earlier, Punjab won the toss and opted to bowl. Ashwin took the advantage of the pitch by making the decision of bowling first. The batting department of Hyderabad failed as the star batsmen could not perform. Shikhar Dhawan lost his wicket after scoring 11 runs and another opener Kane Williamson went back to pavilion after scoring a duck. Wicket-keeper batsman Wriddhiman Saha scored just six runs. The middle order batsmen salvaged the Hyderabad batting and pushed the run rate. Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan and Yusuf Pathan scored 54, 28 and 21 runs respectively and made crucial contributions to the team. Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Kane Williamson, 0.4), 16-2 (Shikhar Dhawan, 2.2), 27-3 (Wriddhiman Saha, 4.5), 79-4 (Shakib Al Hasan, 13.4), 128-5 (Manish Pandey, 19.4), 132-6 (Mohammad Nabi, 19.6)

IPL 2018: Hyderabad set 133-run target for Punjab

Punjab won the toss and opted to bowl first at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium against Hyderabad on Thursday.

The pitch is appearing to be batting friendly and Hyderabad need to put up a giant score in order to win the clash.

Kane Williamson mentioned about Chris Gayle's performance and said that he is a "dangerous player". Williamson has not any changes in the squad.

On the other hand, Ashwin has taken advantage of the pitch by making the decision of bowling first.

For Punjab, 'hit machine' Gayle is back as he missed the last game due to a sore back and also Manoj Tiwari is in the playing XI.

Playing XI:

Hyderabad: Shikhar Dhawan, Kane Williamson(c), Wriddhiman Saha(w), Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Basil Thampi, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma

Punjab: Lokesh Rahul(w), Chris Gayle, Mayank Agarwal, Karun Nair, Aaron Finch, Manoj Tiwary, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Andrew Tye, Barinder Sran, Ankit Rajpoot, Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Punjab won the toss and opted to bowl first at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium against Hyderabad on Thursday. The pitch is appearing to be batting friendly and Hyderabad need to put up a giant score in order to win the clash. Kane Williamson mentioned about Chris Gayle's performance and said that he is a "dangerous player". Williamson has not any changes in the squad. On the other hand, Ashwin has taken advantage of the pitch by making the decision of bowling first. For Punjab, 'hit machine' Gayle is back as he missed the last game due to a sore back and also Manoj Tiwari is in the playing XI. Playing XI: Hyderabad: Shikhar Dhawan, Kane Williamson(c), Wriddhiman Saha(w), Manish Pandey, Shakib Al Hasan, Yusuf Pathan, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Basil Thampi, Siddarth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma Punjab: Lokesh Rahul(w), Chris Gayle, Mayank Agarwal, Karun Nair, Aaron Finch, Manoj Tiwary, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Andrew Tye, Barinder Sran, Ankit Rajpoot, Mujeeb Ur Rahman

IPL 2018: Ashwin opts to bowl against Hyderabad

Despite setting a mammoth target of 198 runs, Punjab struggled to defeat Chennai as it's skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni returned to form to smash former's bowlers.&nbsp;

Dhoni played a captain's innings to lead his team from the front and lost the match by just 4 runs.&nbsp;

The wicketkeeper-batsman remained unbeaten at 79 runs to reach 193, just 5 runs short of victory. &nbsp;

His 44 balls innings included 6 fours and five sixes. &nbsp;This is Dhoni's highest total in the Indian Premier League.

Apart from him, Ambati Rayudu was the second top scorer for Chennai.

At a point, Rayudu's batting had almost taken the match away from Punjab.

But the hitter lost his wicket after he was run-out by Punjab captain Ashwin.

During Punjab innings, Chris Gayle ended his wait to bat in the 2018 Indian Premier League (IPL) in style as he smashed a 22-ball half-century to give Punjab a rollicking start.

Gayle's 63 off 33 balls helped Punjab set 198 runs target after they were put in to bat by Chennai at home in Mohali.

The Jamaican then unleashed himself against the veteran Indian offspinner Harbhajan Singh's second over in which he hit him for 11 runs in 3 balls, including a four and a six.

In the last Powerplay over bowled by Chahar, Gayle cut loose after his opening partner KL Rahul gave the West Indian strike with a single off the first ball. The next five balls read 6, 4, 4, 1wd, 6, 0.&nbsp;

His innings included seven fours and four sixes.&nbsp;

To support Gayle was opener KL Rahul, who fashioned victory by smashing fastest ever IPL fifty.

Rahul played a superb 22 ball 37 run knock to give a decent start to the team. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Other than the two, the middle and lower order batsmen failed to contribute much.

While Yuvraj was sent back to the pavilion after making just 20 runs, Aaron finch again failed to open his account after being LBW by Tahir.

MS Dhoni won the toss and opted to field first against Ashwin-led Punjab.&nbsp;

Chennai, on the other hand, have clinched wins from the clutches of their opponents twice now, and they will want to put in a much improved performance.&nbsp;

Against Mumbai, Bravo’s end-overs pyrotechnics took them across the line. While against Kolkata, it was Sam Billings who did the rescue job.&nbsp;

Ambati Rayudu was the second top scorer for Chennai.

Despite setting a mammoth target of 198 runs, Punjab struggled to defeat Chennai as it's skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni returned to form to smash former's bowlers. Dhoni played a captain's innings to lead his team from the front and lost the match by just 4 runs. The wicketkeeper-batsman remained unbeaten at 79 runs to reach 193, just 5 runs short of victory. His 44 balls innings included 6 fours and five sixes. This is Dhoni's highest total in the Indian Premier League. Apart from him, Ambati Rayudu was the second top scorer for Chennai. At a point, Rayudu's batting had almost taken the match away from Punjab. But the hitter lost his wicket after he was run-out by Punjab captain Ashwin. During Punjab innings, Chris Gayle ended his wait to bat in the 2018 Indian Premier League (IPL) in style as he smashed a 22-ball half-century to give Punjab a rollicking start. Gayle's 63 off 33 balls helped Punjab set 198 runs target after they were put in to bat by Chennai at home in Mohali. The Jamaican then unleashed himself against the veteran Indian offspinner Harbhajan Singh's second over in which he hit him for 11 runs in 3 balls, including a four and a six. In the last Powerplay over bowled by Chahar, Gayle cut loose after his opening partner KL Rahul gave the West Indian strike with a single off the first ball. The next five balls read 6, 4, 4, 1wd, 6, 0. His innings included seven fours and four sixes. To support Gayle was opener KL Rahul, who fashioned victory by smashing fastest ever IPL fifty. Rahul played a superb 22 ball 37 run knock to give a decent start to the team. Other than the two, the middle and lower order batsmen failed to contribute much. While Yuvraj was sent back to the pavilion after making just 20 runs, Aaron finch again failed to open his account after being LBW by Tahir. MS Dhoni won the toss and opted to field first against Ashwin-led Punjab. Chennai, on the other hand, have clinched wins from the clutches of their opponents twice now, and they will want to put in a much improved performance. Against Mumbai, Bravo’s end-overs pyrotechnics took them across the line. While against Kolkata, it was Sam Billings who did the rescue job.

IPL 2018: In last-over thriller, Chennai lose to Punjab by 4 runs

Punjab skipper R Ashwin on Sunday won the toss and opted to field first against Delhi in the second match of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 in Mohali.

Both underachievers look to begin the T20 tournament on a winning note.&nbsp

"We will be fielding first. Playing the IPL, which is one of the marquee events, and I am very happy. We have a lot of international experience. It's a new start," Ashwin said.&nbsp

"A decade if IPL is gone by and the franchises are looking to build a new culture and that's where me and Hodge come in. We're playing Stoinis, Miller, Zadran and Tye as our four overseas players," he added.

It will be Ashwin's maiden stint as captain of an IPL team.&nbsp

Meanwhile, Gautam Gambhir has also returned to his franchise Delhi after a successful stint with Kolkata in previous few seasons.&nbsp

Speaking on his homecoming, Gambhir said, "It's great coming back home. Hopefully we can turn it around. Hopefully all of us together can. It's just about trying to implement what we want to do on the field. We're playing Munro, Christian, Morris and Boult."

In the last 10 seasons of IPL, both the teams have failed to impress much near the playoffs and have empty cabinets after a decade.

Here's the full squad of two teams

Delhi Daredevils (Playing XI): Gautam Gambhir(c), Colin Munro, Rishabh Pant(w), Shreyas Iyer, Chris Morris, Vijay Shankar, Daniel Christian, Rahul Tewatia, Amit Mishra, Trent Boult, Mohammed Shami

Kings XI Punjab (Playing XI): Lokesh Rahul(w), Mayank Agarwal, Karun Nair, Yuvraj Singh, David Miller, Marcus Stoinis, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Andrew Tye, Mohit Sharma, Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Both underachievers look to begin the T20 tournament on a winning note.

Punjab skipper R Ashwin on Sunday won the toss and opted to field first against Delhi in the second match of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 in Mohali. Both underachievers look to begin the T20 tournament on a winning note. "We will be fielding first. Playing the IPL, which is one of the marquee events, and I am very happy. We have a lot of international experience. It's a new start," Ashwin said. "A decade if IPL is gone by and the franchises are looking to build a new culture and that's where me and Hodge come in. We're playing Stoinis, Miller, Zadran and Tye as our four overseas players," he added. It will be Ashwin's maiden stint as captain of an IPL team. Meanwhile, Gautam Gambhir has also returned to his franchise Delhi after a successful stint with Kolkata in previous few seasons. Speaking on his homecoming, Gambhir said, "It's great coming back home. Hopefully we can turn it around. Hopefully all of us together can. It's just about trying to implement what we want to do on the field. We're playing Munro, Christian, Morris and Boult." In the last 10 seasons of IPL, both the teams have failed to impress much near the playoffs and have empty cabinets after a decade. Here's the full squad of two teams Delhi Daredevils (Playing XI): Gautam Gambhir(c), Colin Munro, Rishabh Pant(w), Shreyas Iyer, Chris Morris, Vijay Shankar, Daniel Christian, Rahul Tewatia, Amit Mishra, Trent Boult, Mohammed Shami Kings XI Punjab (Playing XI): Lokesh Rahul(w), Mayank Agarwal, Karun Nair, Yuvraj Singh, David Miller, Marcus Stoinis, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Andrew Tye, Mohit Sharma, Mujeeb Ur Rahman

IPL 2018: Punjab skipper Ashwin opts to field first against Delhi

Preity Zinta led KXIP is in no mood to miss players, who can change the franchises&#39; IPL history.

Mentored by cricket legend Virender Sehwag, the team on Saturday snapped up some important players, who have played key roles for other teams during previous seasons.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/iplauction-2018-live-30884">Watch: Live bidding of players for&nbsp;IPL XI season&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

Starting with, R Ashwin, KXIP purchased the former Chennai Super Kings key spinner for Rs 7.60 crores.&nbsp;

They were engaged in bidding war with Rajasthan Royals, who were willing to pay Rs 5.2 crore for him.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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We have our first buy of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a>! And this time no RTM card is played. <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> is a KXIP player! Welcome to the lion&#39;s den! :D <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi</a>
&mdash; Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) <a href="https://twitter.com/lionsdenkxip/status/957113785331867649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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CSK who were expected to pick up Ashwin didn&rsquo;t bid at all.

Ashwin was with CSK from the inaugural edition till 2015, when the team was suspended on charges of spot fixing.&nbsp;

For the last two seasons, Ashwin played for now-defunct Rising Pune Super Giants.

Later, Punjab snapped up two of India&#39;s premier batters KL Rahul and Karun Nair. Both the players are in good form and performed well in the previous season. &nbsp;

Karun Nair, who was bought for Rs 5.60 crore, played for DD last season, whereas Rahul was part of the star-studded RCB contingent.&nbsp;

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We have our 3rd player! After an intense bidding war, we have won the bid for <a href="https://twitter.com/karun126?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@karun126</a>! Welcome to the lions den! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a>
&mdash; Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) <a href="https://twitter.com/lionsdenkxip/status/957132809251909634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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However, there was intense bidding for KL Rahul who lit up IPL last season. Mumbai Indians, SunRisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals initially started bidding for KL Rahul.&nbsp;

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Another successful bid and <a href="https://twitter.com/klrahul11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@klrahul11</a> is now a KXIP player! Welcome to the den, sher! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a>
&mdash; Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) <a href="https://twitter.com/lionsdenkxip/status/957134202792652800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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KXIP and SRH&nbsp;entered into an intense price war over Rahul, but Punjab managed to get hold of him for a whopping Rs 11 crore. RCB had the option of using RTM, but they him go.&nbsp;

Aaron Finch and David Miller are the other players purchased by Punjab for the XIth season.

Finch was bought for 6.2 crore, while Miller was initially bought by Mumbai Indians for Rs 3 crore, but KXIP trumped them by using the RTM card.&nbsp;

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A summary of our day so far. What do you make of our buys sheron? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi</a> <a href="https://t.co/9Uy12rpxJx">pic.twitter.com/9Uy12rpxJx</a>
&mdash; Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) <a href="https://twitter.com/lionsdenkxip/status/957145794133372928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Run-Machine Yuvraj Singh too was bought for Rs&nbsp;2 crore.

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Yesssssss ! <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YUVSTRONG12</a> is back home at <a href="https://twitter.com/lionsdenkxip?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lionsdenkxip</a> and I cannot be happier ???? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VivoIPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VivoIPLAuction</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BalleBalle?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BalleBalle</a>????
&mdash; Preity zinta (@realpreityzinta) <a href="https://twitter.com/realpreityzinta/status/957129600504442880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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A legend is making is way home! <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YUVSTRONG12</a> is a lion once again as we get him for his base price of 2 crores! Welcome back home paaji! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a>
&mdash; Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) <a href="https://twitter.com/lionsdenkxip/status/957129219879796736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;KXIP&nbsp;current team includes, R Ashwin, David Miller, Yuvraj Singh, Karun Nair, KL Rahul, A Finch, Axar Patel

CSK who were expected to pick up Ashwin didn’t bid at all.

Preity Zinta led KXIP is in no mood to miss players, who can change the franchises' IPL history. Mentored by cricket legend Virender Sehwag, the team on Saturday snapped up some important players, who have played key roles for other teams during previous seasons. Watch: Live bidding of players for IPL XI season Starting with, R Ashwin, KXIP purchased the former Chennai Super Kings key spinner for Rs 7.60 crores. They were engaged in bidding war with Rajasthan Royals, who were willing to pay Rs 5.2 crore for him. We have our first buy of the #IPLAuction! And this time no RTM card is played. @ashwinravi99 is a KXIP player! Welcome to the lion's den! :D #LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi — Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) January 27, 2018 × CSK who were expected to pick up Ashwin didn’t bid at all. Ashwin was with CSK from the inaugural edition till 2015, when the team was suspended on charges of spot fixing. For the last two seasons, Ashwin played for now-defunct Rising Pune Super Giants. Later, Punjab snapped up two of India's premier batters KL Rahul and Karun Nair. Both the players are in good form and performed well in the previous season. Karun Nair, who was bought for Rs 5.60 crore, played for DD last season, whereas Rahul was part of the star-studded RCB contingent. We have our 3rd player! After an intense bidding war, we have won the bid for @karun126! Welcome to the lions den! #IPLAuction — Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) January 27, 2018 × However, there was intense bidding for KL Rahul who lit up IPL last season. Mumbai Indians, SunRisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals initially started bidding for KL Rahul. Another successful bid and @klrahul11 is now a KXIP player! Welcome to the den, sher! #IPLAuction — Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) January 27, 2018 × KXIP and SRH entered into an intense price war over Rahul, but Punjab managed to get hold of him for a whopping Rs 11 crore. RCB had the option of using RTM, but they him go. Aaron Finch and David Miller are the other players purchased by Punjab for the XIth season. Finch was bought for 6.2 crore, while Miller was initially bought by Mumbai Indians for Rs 3 crore, but KXIP trumped them by using the RTM card. A summary of our day so far. What do you make of our buys sheron? #IPLAuction #LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi pic.twitter.com/9Uy12rpxJx — Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) January 27, 2018 × Run-Machine Yuvraj Singh too was bought for Rs 2 crore. Yesssssss ! @YUVSTRONG12 is back home at @lionsdenkxip and I cannot be happier ???? #LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi #VivoIPLAuction #BalleBalle???? — Preity zinta (@realpreityzinta) January 27, 2018 × A legend is making is way home! @YUVSTRONG12 is a lion once again as we get him for his base price of 2 crores! Welcome back home paaji! #LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi #IPLAuction — Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) January 27, 2018 × KXIP current team includes, R Ashwin, David Miller, Yuvraj Singh, Karun Nair, KL Rahul, A Finch, Axar Patel

IPL 2018 Auction: KXIP snaps up Ashwin, KL Rahul for 7.60 crores, 11 crores respectively

Spin wizard Ravichandran <a href="http://www.wionews.com/cricket/cricket-india-two-wickets-away-from-crushing-win-against-sri-lanka-25236">Ashwin played down </a>comparisons with Dennis Lillee after his record-breaking feat Monday helped India crush Sri Lanka by an innings and 239 runs in the second Test.

Ashwin became the fastest bowler to reach 300 Test wickets, taking 54 matches to reach the mark -- two fewer than Aussie pace legend Lillee who terrorised batsmen in the 1970s and early 1980s. The off-spinner was all humility when asked to comment on the enviable record, saying any comparison with the greats would be unfair.&nbsp;

&quot;We are a bit more blessed than the other greats. We have technology to help. We have help with our fitness. So we shouldn`t compare,&quot; he said after the top-ranked hosts wrapped up the win inside four days to stamp their class.

 
&quot;I really hope I can go on to double these 300 wickets. I`ve only played 50-odd Tests,&quot; said the 31-year-old, who finished with a match haul of 8-130. 
&quot;It`s not easy bowling spin, it looks like you`re just ambling up. But there`s a lot behind it.

&quot;We have bowled a lot of overs, me and Jaddu (fellow spinner Ravindra Jadeja) in the last 24 months. I am a lot more experienced now.&quot;&nbsp;&nbsp;The victory equalled India`s biggest Test win, achieved against Bangladesh in Dhaka 10 years ago.

Sri Lanka, who started the day on 21-1 after conceding a 405-run first innings lead, crashed to 166 all out, giving the hosts a 1-0 lead in the three-match series with the first game having ended in a draw.

 
Skipper Dinesh Chandimal put up some resistance with 61 but the rest of the batsmen fell by the wayside without showing much application. Left-arm spinner Jadeja and fast bowlers Umesh Yadav and Ishant Sharma took two wickets each to underline India`s all-round dominance.

Jadeja struck early in the morning session when he had opener Dimuth Karunaratne caught at short leg for 18.

The left-handed Karunaratne, who resumed the day on 11, got an inside edge on a tossed-up delivery from Jadeja and Murali Vijay took a sharp close catch.

Karunaratne`s overnight partner Lahiru Thirimanne played a careless shot way outside off stump to hand a simple catch to Jadeja off Yadav for 23.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli hit a majestic double century on Sunday before India declared their first innings on 610-6 to take a firm grip on the match.&nbsp;Kohli made 213 from 267 balls for his fifth double century in 62 Tests and won the man of the match award.

His innings featured big partnerships with Cheteshwar Pujara and Rohit Sharma which pulverised the opposition. Pujara made 143, Rohit Sharma 102 not out and opener Vijay 128 in a brutal statement of intent from India which was later emphasised by the bowlers.

&quot;It`s all about creating pressure and that`s what we did... All out four bowlers looked like getting a wicket any time,&quot; Rohit Sharma told reporters. &quot;For me personally it was very important because it`s been nearly 500 days since I played my last Test match. &quot;I am glad that I could put some runs on the board for myself and the team,&quot; added Rohit Sharma, who was included in the team in place of paceman Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

Sri Lanka squandered the advantage of winning the toss and batting first as they were skittled out for 205 on the opening day.

&quot;It was a good toss to win. Unfortunately we were outplayed from the first day. Our batting let us down again. When you`re playing against India, you`ve got to score 350-plus,&quot; said Chandimal.

&quot;The bowling unit has done a really good job. But if you have no runs on the board, they can`t do anything.&quot; The third and final Test starts in Delhi on December 2.

Ashwin became the fastest bowler to reach 300 Test wickets, taking 54 matches to reach the mark

Spin wizard Ravichandran Ashwin played down comparisons with Dennis Lillee after his record-breaking feat Monday helped India crush Sri Lanka by an innings and 239 runs in the second Test. Ashwin became the fastest bowler to reach 300 Test wickets, taking 54 matches to reach the mark -- two fewer than Aussie pace legend Lillee who terrorised batsmen in the 1970s and early 1980s. The off-spinner was all humility when asked to comment on the enviable record, saying any comparison with the greats would be unfair. "We are a bit more blessed than the other greats. We have technology to help. We have help with our fitness. So we shouldn`t compare," he said after the top-ranked hosts wrapped up the win inside four days to stamp their class. "I really hope I can go on to double these 300 wickets. I`ve only played 50-odd Tests," said the 31-year-old, who finished with a match haul of 8-130. "It`s not easy bowling spin, it looks like you`re just ambling up. But there`s a lot behind it. "We have bowled a lot of overs, me and Jaddu (fellow spinner Ravindra Jadeja) in the last 24 months. I am a lot more experienced now." The victory equalled India`s biggest Test win, achieved against Bangladesh in Dhaka 10 years ago. Sri Lanka, who started the day on 21-1 after conceding a 405-run first innings lead, crashed to 166 all out, giving the hosts a 1-0 lead in the three-match series with the first game having ended in a draw. Skipper Dinesh Chandimal put up some resistance with 61 but the rest of the batsmen fell by the wayside without showing much application. Left-arm spinner Jadeja and fast bowlers Umesh Yadav and Ishant Sharma took two wickets each to underline India`s all-round dominance. Jadeja struck early in the morning session when he had opener Dimuth Karunaratne caught at short leg for 18. The left-handed Karunaratne, who resumed the day on 11, got an inside edge on a tossed-up delivery from Jadeja and Murali Vijay took a sharp close catch. Karunaratne`s overnight partner Lahiru Thirimanne played a careless shot way outside off stump to hand a simple catch to Jadeja off Yadav for 23. Indian skipper Virat Kohli hit a majestic double century on Sunday before India declared their first innings on 610-6 to take a firm grip on the match. Kohli made 213 from 267 balls for his fifth double century in 62 Tests and won the man of the match award. His innings featured big partnerships with Cheteshwar Pujara and Rohit Sharma which pulverised the opposition. Pujara made 143, Rohit Sharma 102 not out and opener Vijay 128 in a brutal statement of intent from India which was later emphasised by the bowlers. "It`s all about creating pressure and that`s what we did... All out four bowlers looked like getting a wicket any time," Rohit Sharma told reporters. "For me personally it was very important because it`s been nearly 500 days since I played my last Test match. "I am glad that I could put some runs on the board for myself and the team," added Rohit Sharma, who was included in the team in place of paceman Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Sri Lanka squandered the advantage of winning the toss and batting first as they were skittled out for 205 on the opening day. "It was a good toss to win. Unfortunately we were outplayed from the first day. Our batting let us down again. When you`re playing against India, you`ve got to score 350-plus," said Chandimal. "The bowling unit has done a really good job. But if you have no runs on the board, they can`t do anything." The third and final Test starts in Delhi on December 2.

Ashwin breaks record as India crush Sri Lanka in 2nd Test

Indian captain Virat Kohli confirmed today that opening batsman KL Rahul will return to the side for the second Test against Sri Lanka which is set to start at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground on Thursday.

&quot;KL has been our established opener. I feel one of the openers (from the first Test) has to make way,&quot; Kohli told reporters.&nbsp;

&quot;What he has done for us in the past two years has been very solid and he deserves to come back in and start fresh in Test cricket again, we have a team meeting later on after practice, so we will be able to clarify that then but yes KL, according to me, will definitely come back&quot;, the Indian captain added.

Rahul has scored four centuries and seven fifties in 17 Tests with a top score of 199. He was forced to miss the Australian home series due to injury.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/1st-test-jadeja-shami-keep-sri-lanka-at-bay-on-day-3-18348">Opener Abhinav Mukund is likely to miss out</a> even though he hit a defiant 81 in the second innings at Galle.

India beat Sri Lanka by a massive<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ashwin-jadeja-power-india-to-victory-against-lanka-18384"> 304 runs in the first Test at Galle with skipper Virat Kohli</a> leading from the front hitting his 17th Test century. 
&nbsp;

Indian captain Virat Kohli said opening batsman KL Rahul will return to the side for the second Test against Sri Lanka

Indian captain Virat Kohli confirmed today that opening batsman KL Rahul will return to the side for the second Test against Sri Lanka which is set to start at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground on Thursday. "KL has been our established opener. I feel one of the openers (from the first Test) has to make way," Kohli told reporters. "What he has done for us in the past two years has been very solid and he deserves to come back in and start fresh in Test cricket again, we have a team meeting later on after practice, so we will be able to clarify that then but yes KL, according to me, will definitely come back", the Indian captain added. Rahul has scored four centuries and seven fifties in 17 Tests with a top score of 199. He was forced to miss the Australian home series due to injury. Opener Abhinav Mukund is likely to miss out even though he hit a defiant 81 in the second innings at Galle. India beat Sri Lanka by a massive 304 runs in the first Test at Galle with skipper Virat Kohli leading from the front hitting his 17th Test century.

2nd Test: Rahul set to return, confirms Kohli

Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin took three wickets each as India beat Sri Lanka by 304 runs in the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/cricket/1st-test-jadeja-shami-keep-sri-lanka-at-bay-on-day-3-18348"> first Test </a>to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series at the Galle International Stadium on Saturday.

Sri Lankan opener&nbsp;Dimuth Karunaratne fell just three-run short of a century.

He was dismissed by an Ashwin delivery.

&nbsp;Sri Lanka collapsed for 245 in their second innings.

While Ashwin finished with a figure of three for 65, Jadeja got three wickets&nbsp;for 71.&nbsp;

Mohammad Shami and Umesh Yadav also took a wicket each.

Virat Kohli (103) struck his 17th century.

India will now play Sri Lanka in the second test beginning August 3.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/1st-test-how-pujara-dhawan-put-slayed-lanka-380">Also see: How Dhawan, Pujara slayed Lanka</a>

India beat Sri Lanka by 304 runs in the first Test

Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin took three wickets each as India beat Sri Lanka by 304 runs in the first Test to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series at the Galle International Stadium on Saturday. Sri Lankan opener Dimuth Karunaratne fell just three-run short of a century. He was dismissed by an Ashwin delivery. Sri Lanka collapsed for 245 in their second innings. While Ashwin finished with a figure of three for 65, Jadeja got three wickets for 71. Mohammad Shami and Umesh Yadav also took a wicket each. Virat Kohli (103) struck his 17th century. India will now play Sri Lanka in the second test beginning August 3. Also see: How Dhawan, Pujara slayed Lanka

Ashwin, Jadeja power India to victory against Lanka

Former Australia skipper Steve Waugh has described off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin as the &#39;Don Bradman of bowling&#39; and said that he is the player the Australian team would need to overcome during its upcoming tour of India. 
 
Set to play a four-Test series against India starting on February 23 in Pune, Waugh felt the Australian team would have to keep calm under pressure and find ways to deal with Ashwin&#39;s bowling. 
 
&quot;Ashwin is basically the Bradman of bowling. What he is doing is quite incredible. I think he is the player we have to overcome. The Australians would have to look at ways to overcome Ashwin&#39;s bowling. If Aussies can do that then we will have a chance. The guys need to stay calm under pressure,&quot; said Waugh. 
 
Heaping praise on the Indian off-spinner, Waugh said: &quot;The way he is playing at the moment, he is going to break a number of records. Ashwin&#39;s statistics are just mindboggling.&quot; 
 
The 51-year-old legendary batsman said that it would be a difficult series for Australia as India are a very settled side and Virat Kohli&#39;s captaincy is contagious. 
 
&quot;India are playing very well at the moment and are a very settled side. Everyone is very comfortable in their roles. 
 
They are also playing a lot at home. It is very hard to beat them at home and that has been proved in the last couple of years,&quot; said Waugh during an interaction before the start of the Laureus Worlds Sports Awards. 
 
&quot;Virat Kohli&#39;s leadership is also very contagious. The Indian players feel positive and they feel they can do anything. It seems that the new Team India can achieve anything,&quot; he added. 
 
Waugh, however, felt that writing off the Australian team, as Sourav Ganguly had recently said, would be completely &quot;foolish&quot;. 
 
&quot;Australia will provide a pretty good test to the formidable Indian side. There are players that India do not know much about and that would work to Aussies&#39; advantage. The first Test will be very important. If the Aussies can get off to a good start and do well in the opening Test match, you never know. Anything can happen. 
 
&quot;We have the potential to change our side after the first two Tests. If we do well in the first Test, we may spring a surprise. We might also be able to provide an upset,&quot; insisted Waugh. 
 
&quot;The senior players need to do well and that is going to be a challenge in the opening Test. We have some match winners in our team. Sourav&#39;s been a bit optimistic there.&quot; 
 
Waugh said he could not understand why Australia&#39;s recent performances in overseas series had been so dismal. 
 
&quot;I don&#39;t know the reason. It is a global game. You have neutral umpires. There are no excuses not to play well away from home anymore. May be it is a mind thing. The very thought that you are playing away from home may be playing in their minds. Don&#39;t know the reason why they have not been doing well overseas. 
 
&quot;We always used to enjoy playing overseas earlier as there is less pressure as you are away from the home crowd, family, friends and the media. And you can relax.

(PTI)

The former Australian skipper said the baggy greens had to overcome him to have any chance of winning the upcoming Test series

Former Australia skipper Steve Waugh has described off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin as the 'Don Bradman of bowling' and said that he is the player the Australian team would need to overcome during its upcoming tour of India. Set to play a four-Test series against India starting on February 23 in Pune, Waugh felt the Australian team would have to keep calm under pressure and find ways to deal with Ashwin's bowling. "Ashwin is basically the Bradman of bowling. What he is doing is quite incredible. I think he is the player we have to overcome. The Australians would have to look at ways to overcome Ashwin's bowling. If Aussies can do that then we will have a chance. The guys need to stay calm under pressure," said Waugh. Heaping praise on the Indian off-spinner, Waugh said: "The way he is playing at the moment, he is going to break a number of records. Ashwin's statistics are just mindboggling." The 51-year-old legendary batsman said that it would be a difficult series for Australia as India are a very settled side and Virat Kohli's captaincy is contagious. "India are playing very well at the moment and are a very settled side. Everyone is very comfortable in their roles. They are also playing a lot at home. It is very hard to beat them at home and that has been proved in the last couple of years," said Waugh during an interaction before the start of the Laureus Worlds Sports Awards. "Virat Kohli's leadership is also very contagious. The Indian players feel positive and they feel they can do anything. It seems that the new Team India can achieve anything," he added. Waugh, however, felt that writing off the Australian team, as Sourav Ganguly had recently said, would be completely "foolish". "Australia will provide a pretty good test to the formidable Indian side. There are players that India do not know much about and that would work to Aussies' advantage. The first Test will be very important. If the Aussies can get off to a good start and do well in the opening Test match, you never know. Anything can happen. "We have the potential to change our side after the first two Tests. If we do well in the first Test, we may spring a surprise. We might also be able to provide an upset," insisted Waugh. "The senior players need to do well and that is going to be a challenge in the opening Test. We have some match winners in our team. Sourav's been a bit optimistic there." Waugh said he could not understand why Australia's recent performances in overseas series had been so dismal. "I don't know the reason. It is a global game. You have neutral umpires. There are no excuses not to play well away from home anymore. May be it is a mind thing. The very thought that you are playing away from home may be playing in their minds. Don't know the reason why they have not been doing well overseas. "We always used to enjoy playing overseas earlier as there is less pressure as you are away from the home crowd, family, friends and the media. And you can relax. (PTI)

Ravichandran Ashwin is Don Bradman of bowling: Steve Waugh

A dominant India remained in pursuit of a comprehensive victory after Bangladesh finished the penultimate day at a precarious 103 for three, chasing a mammoth target of 459 in the one-off Test here.

Rather than looking at the improbable task of scoring the remaining 356 runs, the visitors will try to stay afloat for minimum 90 overs on the fifth and final day and save the game.

Despite the benign nature of the track, India&rsquo;s bowling attack has firepower to get the remaining seven wickets.

Ajinkya Rahane&rsquo;s sharp one-handed catch off Ravindra Jadeja to dismiss a well-set Soumya Sarkar (42) put India in the driver&rsquo;s seat after the visitors looked comfortable during the post-tea session as they started their second innings.

Sarkar, along with Mominul Haque (27), had added 60 runs for the second wicket before the lanky left-hander poked at a Jadeja delivery that didn&rsquo;t turn much. The resultant edge was dipping down but Rahane showed fantastic reflexes to pull off a one-handed catch.

With the momentum broken, Ashwin then had Mominul deceived by the drift. The batsman pushed at a delivery, which turned a shade away to take the leading edge and present Rahane with another catch, leaving Bangladesh reeling at 75 for three.

Ashwin (2/34 in 16 overs), who completed the fastest 250 Test wickets, gave a better account of himself in the second innings by getting the turn and the drift. Being given the new ball helped him get some bounce off the pitch as well.

The pitch is still not offering a great deal of turn to the spinners, and had no hand in the wickets that Bangladesh lost in the second innings.

Seasoned Shakib Al Hasan (21 batting), along with Mahmudullah Riyadh (9 batting) and Mushfiqur Rahim, will need to bring their &lsquo;A&rsquo; game to the fore in order to save the game.

In the post-lunch session, Cheteshwar Pujara scored a quickfire half-century as India declared their second innings at 159 for four at the stroke of tea, leaving Bangladesh with a daunting target.

Pujara smashed 54 off 58 balls while skipper Virat Kohli contributed 38 off only 40 deliveries after having bowled out Bangladesh for 388 in their first innings.

A cushion of 299 was good enough for the hosts to go for the jugular even though openers Murali Vijay (7) and KL Rahul (10) were dismissed in quick succession by Taskin Ahmed (2/43).

But Pujara and Kohli upped the ante with an aim to have a a go at Bangladesh on the fourth day itself.

During their 67-run partnership, Pujara, surprisingly, was the aggressor even as Kohli scored at a quick pace.

Using Taskin&rsquo;s pace to his advantage, Pujara hooked him behind the square for a six.&nbsp;

Kohli was not one to be left behind as he lofted Shakib effortlessly for a six over long-on.

(PTI)

India's spin duo of Ashwin and Jadeja took three wickets between them on fourth day of the Test as Bangladesh were given 459-run target

A dominant India remained in pursuit of a comprehensive victory after Bangladesh finished the penultimate day at a precarious 103 for three, chasing a mammoth target of 459 in the one-off Test here. Rather than looking at the improbable task of scoring the remaining 356 runs, the visitors will try to stay afloat for minimum 90 overs on the fifth and final day and save the game. Despite the benign nature of the track, India’s bowling attack has firepower to get the remaining seven wickets. Ajinkya Rahane’s sharp one-handed catch off Ravindra Jadeja to dismiss a well-set Soumya Sarkar (42) put India in the driver’s seat after the visitors looked comfortable during the post-tea session as they started their second innings. Sarkar, along with Mominul Haque (27), had added 60 runs for the second wicket before the lanky left-hander poked at a Jadeja delivery that didn’t turn much. The resultant edge was dipping down but Rahane showed fantastic reflexes to pull off a one-handed catch. With the momentum broken, Ashwin then had Mominul deceived by the drift. The batsman pushed at a delivery, which turned a shade away to take the leading edge and present Rahane with another catch, leaving Bangladesh reeling at 75 for three. Ashwin (2/34 in 16 overs), who completed the fastest 250 Test wickets, gave a better account of himself in the second innings by getting the turn and the drift. Being given the new ball helped him get some bounce off the pitch as well. The pitch is still not offering a great deal of turn to the spinners, and had no hand in the wickets that Bangladesh lost in the second innings. Seasoned Shakib Al Hasan (21 batting), along with Mahmudullah Riyadh (9 batting) and Mushfiqur Rahim, will need to bring their ‘A’ game to the fore in order to save the game. In the post-lunch session, Cheteshwar Pujara scored a quickfire half-century as India declared their second innings at 159 for four at the stroke of tea, leaving Bangladesh with a daunting target. Pujara smashed 54 off 58 balls while skipper Virat Kohli contributed 38 off only 40 deliveries after having bowled out Bangladesh for 388 in their first innings. A cushion of 299 was good enough for the hosts to go for the jugular even though openers Murali Vijay (7) and KL Rahul (10) were dismissed in quick succession by Taskin Ahmed (2/43). But Pujara and Kohli upped the ante with an aim to have a a go at Bangladesh on the fourth day itself. During their 67-run partnership, Pujara, surprisingly, was the aggressor even as Kohli scored at a quick pace. Using Taskin’s pace to his advantage, Pujara hooked him behind the square for a six. Kohli was not one to be left behind as he lofted Shakib effortlessly for a six over long-on. (PTI)

Bangladesh stare at defeat after India set mammoth target

India&#39;s premier spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have been rested for the three-match Twenty20 series against England starting this week.

The selectors have recalled veteran leg-spinner Amit Mishra and off-spinner Parvez Rasool in the 15-man squad, according to the&nbsp;Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The Virat Kohli-led side, which won the three-match one-day international series 2-1, moves into the shortest format with the first game scheduled in Kanpur on January 26.

Ashwin and Jadeja shared seven wickets between them in the three 50-over matches, bowling tighter lines than the fast bowlers on run-filled pitches.

The 34-year-old Mishra was in the ODI squad against England but failed to make it to the starting lineup. He finished with figures of 5-18 in his last outing for his country, an ODI against New Zealand in October.

Meanwhile, Rasool, 27, who represented India in just one ODI in 2014, joins the squad riding on his excellent domestic showing in the Ranji Trophy competition.

India squad: Virat Kohli (capt), Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Lokesh Rahul, Suresh Raina, Rishabh Pant, Manish Pandey, Yuvraj Singh, Hardik Pandya, Amit Mishra, Parvez Rasool, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Ashish Nehra, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mandeep Singh.

(AFP)

The selectors have recalled veteran leg-spinner Amit Mishra and off-spinner Parvez Rasool in the 15-man squad, according to BCCI

India's premier spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have been rested for the three-match Twenty20 series against England starting this week. The selectors have recalled veteran leg-spinner Amit Mishra and off-spinner Parvez Rasool in the 15-man squad, according to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The Virat Kohli-led side, which won the three-match one-day international series 2-1, moves into the shortest format with the first game scheduled in Kanpur on January 26. Ashwin and Jadeja shared seven wickets between them in the three 50-over matches, bowling tighter lines than the fast bowlers on run-filled pitches. The 34-year-old Mishra was in the ODI squad against England but failed to make it to the starting lineup. He finished with figures of 5-18 in his last outing for his country, an ODI against New Zealand in October. Meanwhile, Rasool, 27, who represented India in just one ODI in 2014, joins the squad riding on his excellent domestic showing in the Ranji Trophy competition. India squad: Virat Kohli (capt), Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Lokesh Rahul, Suresh Raina, Rishabh Pant, Manish Pandey, Yuvraj Singh, Hardik Pandya, Amit Mishra, Parvez Rasool, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Ashish Nehra, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mandeep Singh. (AFP)

India rest spinners Ashwin, Jadeja for England T20s

Indian off-spinner R Ashwin was named the International&nbsp;Cricket Council&#39;s (ICC) Cricketer of the Year.&nbsp;

Ashwin was also picked as Test Cricketer of the Year.

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Most successful spinners in Asia 
min 50 wkts 
S/r 
45.6 Ashwin 
49.8 Y Shah 
52.6 Warne 
53.2 Murali 
54.8 Swann 
55.8 Jadeja 
56.5 Herath
&mdash; Mohandas Menon (@mohanstatsman) <a href="https://twitter.com/mohanstatsman/status/811779091284127744">December 22, 2016</a></blockquote>
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It is also the first time in 42 years, and the second time ever, that two Indians are at the top of the ICC bowlers&#39; ranking, with Ravindra Jadeja following up behind Ashwin.

&quot;It feels great to follow the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid in being named as the ICC cricketer of the year,&quot; Ashwin, 30, said in a statement.&nbsp;

&quot;To also win the ICC Test cricketer of the year makes it even better.&quot;

During the September-to-September voting period, Ashwin took 48 wickets and scored 336 runs in eight Tests. He also snared 27 Twenty20 international wickets.

The Chennai native consolidated top spot in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Test bowling charts after he took a series-leading 28 wickets in the five games against England, which wrapped up this week.

Quinton de Kock, South Africa`s wicketkeeper-batsman, was named one-day international cricketer of the year after he scored 793 runs in 16 50-over games.

And the West Indies` Carlos Brathwaite won international Twenty20 performance of the year for his 10-ball 34 not out, including four sixes in the final over, to clinch a stunning victory over England in the World Twenty20 final.

(WION)

Ashwin is the third ever Indian to win the award and was also picked as Test Cricketer of the year

Indian off-spinner R Ashwin was named the International Cricket Council's (ICC) Cricketer of the Year. Ashwin was also picked as Test Cricketer of the Year. Most successful spinners in Asia min 50 wkts S/r 45.6 Ashwin 49.8 Y Shah 52.6 Warne 53.2 Murali 54.8 Swann 55.8 Jadeja 56.5 Herath — Mohandas Menon (@mohanstatsman) December 22, 2016 × It is also the first time in 42 years, and the second time ever, that two Indians are at the top of the ICC bowlers' ranking, with Ravindra Jadeja following up behind Ashwin. "It feels great to follow the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid in being named as the ICC cricketer of the year," Ashwin, 30, said in a statement. "To also win the ICC Test cricketer of the year makes it even better." During the September-to-September voting period, Ashwin took 48 wickets and scored 336 runs in eight Tests. He also snared 27 Twenty20 international wickets. The Chennai native consolidated top spot in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Test bowling charts after he took a series-leading 28 wickets in the five games against England, which wrapped up this week. Quinton de Kock, South Africa`s wicketkeeper-batsman, was named one-day international cricketer of the year after he scored 793 runs in 16 50-over games. And the West Indies` Carlos Brathwaite won international Twenty20 performance of the year for his 10-ball 34 not out, including four sixes in the final over, to clinch a stunning victory over England in the World Twenty20 final. (WION)

India's R Ashwin named cricketer of the year

Ravindra Jadeja led India&#39;s strong lower-order batting display with a career-best 90 before spin partner Ravichandran Ashwin wrecked England&#39;s top order to put the hosts firmly in charge of the third test on Monday.

Jadeja fell agonisingly short of his maiden test century but shared 75-plus partnerships with Ashwin and Jayant Yadav to give India, who were all out for 417, a handy first-innings lead of 134 runs.

Ashwin struck three times in the final session as England, 1-0 down in the five-match series, slumped to 78-4 at the end of third day, still 56 runs behind.

Joe Root was unbeaten on 36 at the close with nightwatchman Gareth Batty on nought and the touring side face an uphill battle to save the match at the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium.

Resuming on 271-6, India needed four overs to erase the 12-run first-innings deficit before their lower order batsmen led them to a substantial lead.

Ben Stokes, who produced a lion-hearted effort with the ball to claim 5-73, earned a breakthrough when he dismissed Ashwin for 72, a composed knock including 11 fours.

The Ashwin-Jadeja stand was worth a match-high 97 runs and Jadeja went on to complete his third test fifty, celebrating with his trademark swirling of the bat, before accelerating and smacking four boundaries in one Chris Woakes over.

Aggression proved his downfall, however, as Jadeja stepped out to Adil Rashid and holed out in the deep to depart after an entertaining 170-ball knock that included 10 fours and a six.

Jadeja added 80 runs with Jayant, who made 55, his maiden test fifty.

England opener Haseeb Hameed was struggling with a finger injury sustained in the first innings and Root opened the innings with Alastair Cook.

Cook survived two reviews but could not capitalise, Ashwin pushing a delivery through the England captain&#39;s defence to bowl him for 12.

Moeen Ali chipped Ashwin to Jayant at mid-on, Jonny Bairstow fell caught behind to Jayant and Ashwin dismissed Ben Stokes for five to put India in a dominant position.

(Reuters) 
&nbsp;

India were all out for 417. England slumped to 78-4 at the end of third day, still 56 runs behind

Ravindra Jadeja led India's strong lower-order batting display with a career-best 90 before spin partner Ravichandran Ashwin wrecked England's top order to put the hosts firmly in charge of the third test on Monday. Jadeja fell agonisingly short of his maiden test century but shared 75-plus partnerships with Ashwin and Jayant Yadav to give India, who were all out for 417, a handy first-innings lead of 134 runs. Ashwin struck three times in the final session as England, 1-0 down in the five-match series, slumped to 78-4 at the end of third day, still 56 runs behind. Joe Root was unbeaten on 36 at the close with nightwatchman Gareth Batty on nought and the touring side face an uphill battle to save the match at the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium. Resuming on 271-6, India needed four overs to erase the 12-run first-innings deficit before their lower order batsmen led them to a substantial lead. Ben Stokes, who produced a lion-hearted effort with the ball to claim 5-73, earned a breakthrough when he dismissed Ashwin for 72, a composed knock including 11 fours. The Ashwin-Jadeja stand was worth a match-high 97 runs and Jadeja went on to complete his third test fifty, celebrating with his trademark swirling of the bat, before accelerating and smacking four boundaries in one Chris Woakes over. Aggression proved his downfall, however, as Jadeja stepped out to Adil Rashid and holed out in the deep to depart after an entertaining 170-ball knock that included 10 fours and a six. Jadeja added 80 runs with Jayant, who made 55, his maiden test fifty. England opener Haseeb Hameed was struggling with a finger injury sustained in the first innings and Root opened the innings with Alastair Cook. Cook survived two reviews but could not capitalise, Ashwin pushing a delivery through the England captain's defence to bowl him for 12. Moeen Ali chipped Ashwin to Jayant at mid-on, Jonny Bairstow fell caught behind to Jayant and Ashwin dismissed Ben Stokes for five to put India in a dominant position. (Reuters)

India vs England: Jadeja, Ashwin put India firmly in charge of 3rd Test

Ravichandran Ashwin was back in his element with yet another five-wicket haul, setting up a perfect launchpad for skipper Virat Kohli to extend India&#39;s lead to 298 runs against England on the third day of the second cricket Test here.

Courtesy Ashwin&#39;s 5 for 67, the first time he has picked so many against England in an innings, India bowled out England for 255 in their first essay to take a commanding lead of 200 runs.

Deciding against enforcing follow-on, India reached 98 for 3 in their second innings at close of play with skipper Kohli once again leading from the front with an attacking 56 off 70 balls. His innings was laced with six boundaries.

First-innings centurion, Kohli, was batting in the company of Ajinkya Rahane (22).

While the pitch has not deteriorated massively, but batting on fourth and fifth day will be trickier and Kohli would like to take charge and set up a target beyond the reach of the visitors, who will be batting fourth.

After an indifferent first session, it was Ashwin, who turned the tables on the visitors with his 22nd five-wicket haul in Test cricket. 
The off-spinner faced some challenges but he returned to rip through the tail with wickets in successive deliveries after Ben Stokes (70) and Jonny Bairstow (53) put on 110 runs for the fifth wicket.

With overnight figures of 2 for 20, Ashwin had a lean first spell (9-1-33-0) after he was introduced in the second over of the day, struggling to break the Stokes-Bairstow partnership.

But he returned in the second session and got the balls to grip and skid off the pitch in a fine spell of 7.5-0-14-3, which included the wicket of England top-scorer Stokes, who hit 11 boundaries.

Ashwin now has five-wicket haul against all the Test nations he has played against -- six against New Zealand, four each against

Australia, South Africa and West Indies, two against Sri Lanka and one each against Bangladesh and England. 
In 2016, the 30-year-old has 52 wickets, two behind Rangana Herath&#39;s 54.

The left-hander carried England&#39;s survival hopes and found a fine ally in Bairstow (53), who batted brilliantly despite a troubled ankle before being cleaned up by a fullish delivery from Umesh Yadav with 10 minutes to go for the lunch.

With 33 minutes to tea, England&#39;s first innings folded for in 102.5 overs with a deficit of exactly 200 runs.

(PTI)

India bowled out England for 255 in their first essay to take a commanding lead of 200 runs

Ravichandran Ashwin was back in his element with yet another five-wicket haul, setting up a perfect launchpad for skipper Virat Kohli to extend India's lead to 298 runs against England on the third day of the second cricket Test here. Courtesy Ashwin's 5 for 67, the first time he has picked so many against England in an innings, India bowled out England for 255 in their first essay to take a commanding lead of 200 runs. Deciding against enforcing follow-on, India reached 98 for 3 in their second innings at close of play with skipper Kohli once again leading from the front with an attacking 56 off 70 balls. His innings was laced with six boundaries. First-innings centurion, Kohli, was batting in the company of Ajinkya Rahane (22). While the pitch has not deteriorated massively, but batting on fourth and fifth day will be trickier and Kohli would like to take charge and set up a target beyond the reach of the visitors, who will be batting fourth. After an indifferent first session, it was Ashwin, who turned the tables on the visitors with his 22nd five-wicket haul in Test cricket. The off-spinner faced some challenges but he returned to rip through the tail with wickets in successive deliveries after Ben Stokes (70) and Jonny Bairstow (53) put on 110 runs for the fifth wicket. With overnight figures of 2 for 20, Ashwin had a lean first spell (9-1-33-0) after he was introduced in the second over of the day, struggling to break the Stokes-Bairstow partnership. But he returned in the second session and got the balls to grip and skid off the pitch in a fine spell of 7.5-0-14-3, which included the wicket of England top-scorer Stokes, who hit 11 boundaries. Ashwin now has five-wicket haul against all the Test nations he has played against -- six against New Zealand, four each against Australia, South Africa and West Indies, two against Sri Lanka and one each against Bangladesh and England. In 2016, the 30-year-old has 52 wickets, two behind Rangana Herath's 54. The left-hander carried England's survival hopes and found a fine ally in Bairstow (53), who batted brilliantly despite a troubled ankle before being cleaned up by a fullish delivery from Umesh Yadav with 10 minutes to go for the lunch. With 33 minutes to tea, England's first innings folded for in 102.5 overs with a deficit of exactly 200 runs. (PTI)

Ashwin, Kohli put India in commanding position

India set New Zealand an improbable 434-run victory target and then blew away the visitors&#39; top order in Sunday&#39;s final session to close in on a resounding win in the first test. 
 
Resuming day four on 159 for one, India&#39;s positive batting over two sessions yielded 218 runs before home captain Virat Kohli declared on 377 for five at Kanpur&#39;s Green Park Stadium. 
 
Needing to pull off the biggest successful chase in the history of test cricket for an unlikely win, New Zealand wobbled early and were reeling at 93 for four at stumps, still trailing the massive target by 341. 
 
Luke Ronchi (38) and Mitchell Santner (eight) will return on Monday hoping to resist or at least delay India&#39;s victory march in the first match of the three-test series. 
 
Ravichandran Ashwin (3-68), who dismissed four frontline Kiwi batsmen in the first innings, proved once again why he is considered India&#39;s premier spinner. 
 
The off-spinner had Martin Guptill caught at silly point for a duck with the first ball of his second over and trapped Tom Latham (two) leg before with the fifth. 
 
Ashwin claimed his 200th test wicket when he dismissed New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson (25) leg before. 
 
Ross Taylor (17) then ran himself out to compound the tourists&#39; misery. 
 
Earlier in the morning, Williamson attacked with spin from both ends and his slow bowlers did not let him down. 
 
Left-arm spinner Santner trapped Murali Vijay lbw for 76, ending the right-hander&#39;s second century-plus stand of the match with Cheteshwar Pujara (78). 
 
Kohli did not look comfortable against Santner but it was off-spinner Mark Craig who dismissed the Indian skipper when he attempted a slog-sweep that found Ish Sodhi at deep midwicket. 
 
Sodhi struck the next blow with a beauty of a delivery that spun from outside leg, took the outside edge of Pujara&#39;s bat and nestled into Ross Taylor&#39;s waiting hands at slip. 
 
Ajinkya Rahane (40) missed his fifty but Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja smashed unbeaten half-centuries and featured in an unbroken century stand to virtually bat New Zealand out of the contest. 
 
Sharma, who made 35 in the first innings, remained unbeaten on 68. 
 
Jadeja, who scored 42 not out in the first innings and claimed five wickets with his left-arm spin, continued to have a good match. 
 
The southpaw clobbered three sixes en route to his second test fifty before breaking into a bat-twirling celebration. 
 
(Reuters)

Having set a stiff 434-run target, Indian spinners spun a web around the Kiwi top-order batsmen on a deteriorating pitch

India set New Zealand an improbable 434-run victory target and then blew away the visitors' top order in Sunday's final session to close in on a resounding win in the first test. Resuming day four on 159 for one, India's positive batting over two sessions yielded 218 runs before home captain Virat Kohli declared on 377 for five at Kanpur's Green Park Stadium. Needing to pull off the biggest successful chase in the history of test cricket for an unlikely win, New Zealand wobbled early and were reeling at 93 for four at stumps, still trailing the massive target by 341. Luke Ronchi (38) and Mitchell Santner (eight) will return on Monday hoping to resist or at least delay India's victory march in the first match of the three-test series. Ravichandran Ashwin (3-68), who dismissed four frontline Kiwi batsmen in the first innings, proved once again why he is considered India's premier spinner. The off-spinner had Martin Guptill caught at silly point for a duck with the first ball of his second over and trapped Tom Latham (two) leg before with the fifth. Ashwin claimed his 200th test wicket when he dismissed New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson (25) leg before. Ross Taylor (17) then ran himself out to compound the tourists' misery. Earlier in the morning, Williamson attacked with spin from both ends and his slow bowlers did not let him down. Left-arm spinner Santner trapped Murali Vijay lbw for 76, ending the right-hander's second century-plus stand of the match with Cheteshwar Pujara (78). Kohli did not look comfortable against Santner but it was off-spinner Mark Craig who dismissed the Indian skipper when he attempted a slog-sweep that found Ish Sodhi at deep midwicket. Sodhi struck the next blow with a beauty of a delivery that spun from outside leg, took the outside edge of Pujara's bat and nestled into Ross Taylor's waiting hands at slip. Ajinkya Rahane (40) missed his fifty but Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja smashed unbeaten half-centuries and featured in an unbroken century stand to virtually bat New Zealand out of the contest. Sharma, who made 35 in the first innings, remained unbeaten on 68. Jadeja, who scored 42 not out in the first innings and claimed five wickets with his left-arm spin, continued to have a good match. The southpaw clobbered three sixes en route to his second test fifty before breaking into a bat-twirling celebration. (Reuters)

Cricket: India closes day on verge of victory against New Zealand in Kanpur Test

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