A spot in the semi-final will be on the line for Australia when they lock horns with West Indies in their final Super 12 clash at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday (November 06). Australia have so far won three for their first four matches and are one win away from securing a spot in the top two to make it to the next round.

A loss against West Indies might prove fatal to their chances of qualifying for the semi-finals as South Africa are breathing down their neck with the same number of points in their bag and a game in hand. If Australia lose against West Indies and South Africa win their final Super 12 game against England, the Proteas would finish second in the group and qualify for the semis.

Currently, Australia are in a stronger position to make it to the next round even if South Africa manage to beat England in their last group game as Aussies have a much better net run rate of +1.031 compared to South Africa's +0.742, who will have to register a huge win if they are to surpass Australia even if Aaron Finch's men beat West Indies.

Australia haven't played their best cricket so far in the T20 World Cup this year but still, stand only one win away from qualifying. However, the same can't be said about West Indies, who were everyone's second favourite at the start of the tournament but have had a miserable campaign so far.

Sri Lanka thrashed West Indies by 20 runs in their fourth Super 12 clash on Thursday (November 04) to end their hopes of finishing in the top four. Despite having extraordinarily firepower in their batting line-up and some brilliant experienced&nbsp;all-rounders in their squad, Windies have only managed one win in four matches so far in the tournament.

Adam Zampa picked up a five-wicket haul as Australia defeated Bangladesh comprehensively by eight wickets in their last game and will be heading into the West Indies clash on a confident note. The Aussies have their fate in their own hands as they would need a win to ensure they can consolidate their second spot on the points table.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/huge-respect-virat-kohli-and-other-team-members-visit-scotland-dressing-room-after-the-game-see-pics-427071">'Huge respect': Kohli and other team members visit Scotland dressing room after the game - see pics</a>

Australia vs West Indies, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction:

West Indies have dominated Australia in T20Is when it comes to head-to-head record between the two sides with 10 wins in total 16 meetings against each other. However, in this year's T20 World Cup, West Indies have not been the side they are known as and have massively underperformed. Aussies might start as favourites against them and will look to give their all considering it will be their las bid for a spot in the semi-finals.

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A spot in the semi-final will be on the line for Australia when they lock horns with West Indies in their final Super 12 clash at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday (November 06).

A spot in the semi-final will be on the line for Australia when they lock horns with West Indies in their final Super 12 clash at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday (November 06). Australia have so far won three for their first four matches and are one win away from securing a spot in the top two to make it to the next round. A loss against West Indies might prove fatal to their chances of qualifying for the semi-finals as South Africa are breathing down their neck with the same number of points in their bag and a game in hand. If Australia lose against West Indies and South Africa win their final Super 12 game against England, the Proteas would finish second in the group and qualify for the semis. Currently, Australia are in a stronger position to make it to the next round even if South Africa manage to beat England in their last group game as Aussies have a much better net run rate of +1.031 compared to South Africa's +0.742, who will have to register a huge win if they are to surpass Australia even if Aaron Finch's men beat West Indies. Australia haven't played their best cricket so far in the T20 World Cup this year but still, stand only one win away from qualifying. However, the same can't be said about West Indies, who were everyone's second favourite at the start of the tournament but have had a miserable campaign so far. Sri Lanka thrashed West Indies by 20 runs in their fourth Super 12 clash on Thursday (November 04) to end their hopes of finishing in the top four. Despite having extraordinarily firepower in their batting line-up and some brilliant experienced all-rounders in their squad, Windies have only managed one win in four matches so far in the tournament. Adam Zampa picked up a five-wicket haul as Australia defeated Bangladesh comprehensively by eight wickets in their last game and will be heading into the West Indies clash on a confident note. The Aussies have their fate in their own hands as they would need a win to ensure they can consolidate their second spot on the points table. Also Read: 'Huge respect': Kohli and other team members visit Scotland dressing room after the game - see pics Australia vs West Indies, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: West Indies have dominated Australia in T20Is when it comes to head-to-head record between the two sides with 10 wins in total 16 meetings against each other. However, in this year's T20 World Cup, West Indies have not been the side they are known as and have massively underperformed. Aussies might start as favourites against them and will look to give their all considering it will be their las bid for a spot in the semi-finals.

AUS vs WI, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Who will win today's match between Australia and West Indies?

The race for the top four is heating up in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 as we head towards the business end of the tournament. England and Pakistan are the only two teams so far who have qualified for the semi-finals with four wins in four matches respectively. However, the race for the final spots are wide open in both groups at present.

In Group 1, Australia and South Africa are in contention to finish second and qualify for the semis. Australia will take on West Indies on Saturday (November 06) and will hope to beat them to make it to the next round. However, South Africa too have as many points as Australia (6) after 4 games and they will secure a berth in the semi-finals if Australia lose against West Indies and they manage to beat England in their final Super 12 game on Saturday.

South Africa can still qualify even if Australia win if they manage to earn a big victory against England to leave the Aaron Finch-led side behind on net run rate. Thus, Australia will hope for a favour from England and want the table-toppers to beat South Africa so they can progress into the knockout stages.

In Group 2, New Zealand, India and Afghanistan are three teams in contention for the second spot on the points table. If New Zealand win their last Super 12 game against Afghanistan they will finish second and qualify for the semi-finals. However, if they lose, it will keep both India and Afghanistan in the fray for a top-four finish.

Former India batter Wasim Jaffer, who his known for his witty and funny tweets on Twitter, came up with a hilarious post to describe the semi-final qualification scenario in the T20 World Cup 2021. Jaffer shared a meme inspired from a scene of an iconic Bollywood movie - 'Dhamal' to leave the fans in splits.

Jaffer's former India teammate Harbhajan Singh was also left in splits as he reacted to the meme shared by him.

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Current situation : India and AUS not only need to win but need AFG and ENG to win too for certain/easier passage. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/6K6x0q7ogs">pic.twitter.com/6K6x0q7ogs</a>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-want-controversies-but-questions-will-be-raised-if-new-zealand-lose-against-afghanistan-shoaib-akhtar-427143">Don't want controversies but questions will be raised if New Zealand lose against Afghanistan:&nbsp;Akhtar</a>

A clear picture of the semi-final qualification scenario in Group 1 will be out on Saturday as both Australia and South Africa will be in action against West Indies and England respectively. On the other hand, the Group 1 scenario will be clear after the end of the first match on Sunday (October 07) when Afghanistan will take on New Zealand.

The race for the top four is heating up in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 as we head towards the business end of the tournament. England and Pakistan are the only two teams so far who have qualified for the semi-finals with four wins in four matches respectively.

The race for the top four is heating up in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 as we head towards the business end of the tournament. England and Pakistan are the only two teams so far who have qualified for the semi-finals with four wins in four matches respectively. However, the race for the final spots are wide open in both groups at present. In Group 1, Australia and South Africa are in contention to finish second and qualify for the semis. Australia will take on West Indies on Saturday (November 06) and will hope to beat them to make it to the next round. However, South Africa too have as many points as Australia (6) after 4 games and they will secure a berth in the semi-finals if Australia lose against West Indies and they manage to beat England in their final Super 12 game on Saturday. South Africa can still qualify even if Australia win if they manage to earn a big victory against England to leave the Aaron Finch-led side behind on net run rate. Thus, Australia will hope for a favour from England and want the table-toppers to beat South Africa so they can progress into the knockout stages. In Group 2, New Zealand, India and Afghanistan are three teams in contention for the second spot on the points table. If New Zealand win their last Super 12 game against Afghanistan they will finish second and qualify for the semi-finals. However, if they lose, it will keep both India and Afghanistan in the fray for a top-four finish. Former India batter Wasim Jaffer, who his known for his witty and funny tweets on Twitter, came up with a hilarious post to describe the semi-final qualification scenario in the T20 World Cup 2021. Jaffer shared a meme inspired from a scene of an iconic Bollywood movie - 'Dhamal' to leave the fans in splits. Jaffer's former India teammate Harbhajan Singh was also left in splits as he reacted to the meme shared by him. Current situation : India and AUS not only need to win but need AFG and ENG to win too for certain/easier passage. #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/6K6x0q7ogs — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) November 6, 2021 × https://t.co/jIeZ2sqty4 — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) November 6, 2021 × Also Read: Don't want controversies but questions will be raised if New Zealand lose against Afghanistan: Akhtar A clear picture of the semi-final qualification scenario in Group 1 will be out on Saturday as both Australia and South Africa will be in action against West Indies and England respectively. On the other hand, the Group 1 scenario will be clear after the end of the first match on Sunday (October 07) when Afghanistan will take on New Zealand.

Wasim Jaffer shares hilarious meme on T20 WC semi-final qualification scenario, leaves Harbhajan in splits

Cricket Australia on Friday confirmed that the planned men's Test against Afghanistan, scheduled to be held in Hobart later this month, has been postponed.

The lone Test match, which would have been the first between Australia and Afghanistan, was to be held at Blundstone Arena in Hobart from November 27, but CA was forced to postpone it owing to the Taliban government's opposition to women's cricket.

CA said following extensive consultation with relevant stakeholders, it and the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) have agreed to postpone the match and play it at a later time.

"CA is committed to support growing the game for women and men in Afghanistan and around the world, however, given the present uncertainty, CA felt it necessary to postpone the Test match until a later time when the situation is clearer," CA said in a statement.

"CA looks forward to hosting Afghanistan players in the BBL this season, who are great ambassadors for the game, and to hosting both the Afghanistan women's and men's team in the not-too-distant future."

The postponement of the Test was a mere formality after CA last month said that it was set to do so due to concerns over the status of women's cricket in Afghanistan following Taliban's seizure of power in that country.

Cricket Australia on Friday confirmed that the planned men's Test against Afghanistan, scheduled to be held in Hobart later this month, has been postponed. The lone Test match, which would have been the first between Australia and Afghanistan, was to be held at Blundstone Arena in Hobart from November 27, but CA was forced to postpone it owing to the Taliban government's opposition to women's cricket.

Cricket Australia on Friday confirmed that the planned men's Test against Afghanistan, scheduled to be held in Hobart later this month, has been postponed. The lone Test match, which would have been the first between Australia and Afghanistan, was to be held at Blundstone Arena in Hobart from November 27, but CA was forced to postpone it owing to the Taliban government's opposition to women's cricket. CA said following extensive consultation with relevant stakeholders, it and the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) have agreed to postpone the match and play it at a later time. "CA is committed to support growing the game for women and men in Afghanistan and around the world, however, given the present uncertainty, CA felt it necessary to postpone the Test match until a later time when the situation is clearer," CA said in a statement. "CA looks forward to hosting Afghanistan players in the BBL this season, who are great ambassadors for the game, and to hosting both the Afghanistan women's and men's team in the not-too-distant future." The postponement of the Test was a mere formality after CA last month said that it was set to do so due to concerns over the status of women's cricket in Afghanistan following Taliban's seizure of power in that country.

Cricket Australia formally postpones historic one-off Test against Afghanistan

Australia must not leave their fate in the hands of other teams at the Twenty20 World Cup and will have to put West Indies to the sword on Saturday to ensure they qualify for the semi-finals, captain Aaron Finch said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-adam-zampas-519-takes-australia-to-dominating-win-vs-bangladesh-keep-semifinals-hope-alive-426701">Australia's eight-wicket win over Bangladesh</a>&nbsp;in 6.2 overs moved Finch`s side to second in the group behind England and ahead of South Africa on net run rate ahead of the final set of Super 12 fixtures.

Australia and South Africa both have six points and Finch said they did not want to rely on the result of the Proteas'&nbsp;game against England, which follows their match against the already eliminated West Indies on Saturday, to qualify.

"Behind the scenes we made a conscious effort not to talk about net run rate and things like that," Finch told reporters on Friday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-virat-kohli-led-team-india-crush-scotland-by-eight-wickets-to-keep-semi-final-hopes-alive-427032">T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli-led Team India crush Scotland by eight wickets to keep semi-final hopes alive</a>

"We`d love to keep things in our control. If you start hoping other teams win or lose, it clouds your judgement and vision. We`ll stick to our guns because we know that`s good enough when we get it right.

"West Indies is such a dangerous side ... Obviously with them being out of the competition now they`ve got nothing to lose, which can also be a really dangerous spot."

Adam Zampa picked up five wickets to help skittle Bangladesh for 73 on Thursday and Finch said the leg-spinner, who has 10 victims in the tournament so far, is a "huge weapon".

"He's someone who`s been so consistent over the last couple of years in both white ball formats of the game," Finch said.

"He often bowls maybe sometimes one (over) in the powerplay but then he`ll bowl straight after the powerplay. He puts so much pressure on opposition.

"What's been the most important thing is he gets very, very good players out consistently."

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/happy-birthday-virat-kohli-top-five-records-owned-by-the-indian-captain-426942#fastest-to-score-10000-runs-in-odis-426936">Happy Birthday Virat Kohli: Top five records owned by the Indian captain</a>

West Indies'&nbsp;Shimron Hetmyer said the outgoing champions` batsmen had to strive for consistency following a disappointing title defence.

The Caribbean side were knocked out of the competition&nbsp;after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-charith-asalanka-and-pathum-nissanka-help-sri-lanka-beat-west-indies-by-20-runs-426761">20-run defeat by Sri Lanka</a> on Thursday.

"It really helps with the overall performance, with having consistent batters in the team and having players who put up their hands more times than not," Hetmyer said.

"That will really help in us going forward knowing we have another World Cup coming up pretty soon."

Australia must not leave their fate in the hands of other teams at the Twenty20 World Cup and will have to put West Indies to the sword on Saturday to ensure they qualify for the semi-finals, captain Aaron Finch said.

Australia must not leave their fate in the hands of other teams at the Twenty20 World Cup and will have to put West Indies to the sword on Saturday to ensure they qualify for the semi-finals, captain Aaron Finch said. Australia's eight-wicket win over Bangladesh in 6.2 overs moved Finch`s side to second in the group behind England and ahead of South Africa on net run rate ahead of the final set of Super 12 fixtures. Australia and South Africa both have six points and Finch said they did not want to rely on the result of the Proteas' game against England, which follows their match against the already eliminated West Indies on Saturday, to qualify. "Behind the scenes we made a conscious effort not to talk about net run rate and things like that," Finch told reporters on Friday. ALSO READ: T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli-led Team India crush Scotland by eight wickets to keep semi-final hopes alive "We`d love to keep things in our control. If you start hoping other teams win or lose, it clouds your judgement and vision. We`ll stick to our guns because we know that`s good enough when we get it right. "West Indies is such a dangerous side ... Obviously with them being out of the competition now they`ve got nothing to lose, which can also be a really dangerous spot." Adam Zampa picked up five wickets to help skittle Bangladesh for 73 on Thursday and Finch said the leg-spinner, who has 10 victims in the tournament so far, is a "huge weapon". "He's someone who`s been so consistent over the last couple of years in both white ball formats of the game," Finch said. "He often bowls maybe sometimes one (over) in the powerplay but then he`ll bowl straight after the powerplay. He puts so much pressure on opposition. "What's been the most important thing is he gets very, very good players out consistently." IN PICS | Happy Birthday Virat Kohli: Top five records owned by the Indian captain West Indies' Shimron Hetmyer said the outgoing champions` batsmen had to strive for consistency following a disappointing title defence. The Caribbean side were knocked out of the competition after a 20-run defeat by Sri Lanka on Thursday. "It really helps with the overall performance, with having consistent batters in the team and having players who put up their hands more times than not," Hetmyer said. "That will really help in us going forward knowing we have another World Cup coming up pretty soon."

T20 World Cup: Australia must control their own fate in the tournament, says Aaron Finch

Jos Buttler played a sensational knock of unbeaten 71 as England thrashed Australia by eight wickets in their Super 12 clash of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 in Dubai on Sunday. Buttler was in brilliant touch as he single-handedly took the Australian bowling apart to power his side to a convincing victory and retain the top spot in Group 2.

Buttler's 32-ball 71 was filled with some extraordinary strokes all around the ground including a six off left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc which was sent out of the park. It was a huge six from the right-hander, who connected well and sent the ball over the stadium roof for a maximum.

Former Australia cricketer Shane Watson, who is currently commentating during the T20 World Cup 2021, mistook the ball hit by Buttler for the moon during commentary. Watson confused the ball for the moon when the replay of Buttler's six was played.

“Isn’t that incredible, the beauty of the earth that we live on,” Watson said on-air looking at the footage of the ball before being corrected by his fellow commentator. The clip of Watson's error soon went viral on social media.

Watch video:

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Talking about the game, England won the toss and put Australia to bat first in Dubai. The Aussies were off to an awful start as they lost David Warner (1) and Steve Smith (1) in quick succession before Glenn Maxwell (6) also departed cheaply.

It was skipper Aaron Finch's 44 and contributions from Matthew Wade (18) and Ashton Agar (20) which helped the Aussies post a low-key 125 runs on the board.

England openers Jason Roy and Jos Buttler shared an opening stand of 66 runs for the first wicket and set the stage for a comfortable win for the Eoin Morgan-led side. Buttler went on to score an unbeaten 71 as England chased down the target of 126 runs with 8.2 overs to spare to keep their unbeaten streak intact in the T20 World Cup 2021.

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Jos Buttler played a sensational knock of unbeaten 71 as England thrashed Australia by eight wickets in their Super 12 clash of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 in Dubai on Sunday.

Jos Buttler played a sensational knock of unbeaten 71 as England thrashed Australia by eight wickets in their Super 12 clash of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 in Dubai on Sunday. Buttler was in brilliant touch as he single-handedly took the Australian bowling apart to power his side to a convincing victory and retain the top spot in Group 2. Buttler's 32-ball 71 was filled with some extraordinary strokes all around the ground including a six off left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc which was sent out of the park. It was a huge six from the right-hander, who connected well and sent the ball over the stadium roof for a maximum. Former Australia cricketer Shane Watson, who is currently commentating during the T20 World Cup 2021, mistook the ball hit by Buttler for the moon during commentary. Watson confused the ball for the moon when the replay of Buttler's six was played. “Isn’t that incredible, the beauty of the earth that we live on,” Watson said on-air looking at the footage of the ball before being corrected by his fellow commentator. The clip of Watson's error soon went viral on social media. Watch video: pic.twitter.com/tZ0s7rx0FE — Sunaina Gosh (@Sunainagosh7) October 30, 2021 × pic.twitter.com/tZ0s7rx0FE — Sunaina Gosh (@Sunainagosh7) October 30, 2021 × Talking about the game, England won the toss and put Australia to bat first in Dubai. The Aussies were off to an awful start as they lost David Warner (1) and Steve Smith (1) in quick succession before Glenn Maxwell (6) also departed cheaply. It was skipper Aaron Finch's 44 and contributions from Matthew Wade (18) and Ashton Agar (20) which helped the Aussies post a low-key 125 runs on the board. England openers Jason Roy and Jos Buttler shared an opening stand of 66 runs for the first wicket and set the stage for a comfortable win for the Eoin Morgan-led side. Buttler went on to score an unbeaten 71 as England chased down the target of 126 runs with 8.2 overs to spare to keep their unbeaten streak intact in the T20 World Cup 2021.

Shane Watson confuses ball for the moon after Jos Buttler's massive six in T20 WC, video gies viral - WATCH

Australia suffered a crushing 8-wicket defeat against England in their Super 12 clash of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday. The Aussies were bundled out for a paltry 12 runs in 20 overs before Jos Buttler's stunning knock helped England chase down the target with as many as 8.2 overs to spare and end Australia's unbeaten run of two games in the tournament.

Legendary Australian spinner Shane Warner lashed out at the team management for getting the selection and tactics wrong against England. Questioning the selection, Warne said he loves star batter Steve Smith but doesn't think he should be in Australia's T20 team at present.

Warne also criticised Australia for leaving all-rounder Mitchell Marsh out of the playing XI and sending Maxwell to bat at number four when wickets had fallen quickly against England. Warne took to Twitter to share his views after Australia's 8-wicket loss.

“Disappointing selection from Australia leaving Marsh out &amp; Maxwell batting in the power play (he should always come in after power play). Stoinis should have gone in. Poor strategy &amp; tactics from the Aussies. I love Smith but he shouldn’t be in the T/20 team. Marsh has to be !!” Warne said in a tweet.

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Disappointing selection from Australia leaving Marsh out &amp; Maxwell batting in the power play (he should always come in after power play). Stoinis should have gone in. Poor strategy &amp; tactics from the Aussies. I love Smith but he shouldn’t be in the T/20 team. Marsh has to be !!
— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne/status/1454453530664783880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Both England and Australia had headed into the encounter with two wins in a row in their first two Super 12 matches. However, Australia's winning streak was halted by Eoin Morgan &amp; Co., who dominated the proceedings with the bat and the ball to earn a convincing win.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shardul-thakur-to-replace-hardik-pandya-indias-predicted-playing-xi-for-new-zealand-clash-in-t20-wc-2021-425502">Shardul&nbsp;to replace Hardik? India's predicted playing XI for New Zealand clash in T20 WC 2021</a>

Chris Jordan and Chris Woakes wreaked havoc on the Australian batting line-up to pick up five wickets between them and skittle out the Aaron Finch-led side for 125. In reply, Buttler smashed an unbeaten 71 off just 32 balls laced with five fours and five sixes to take the team home comfortably. England are now at the top of the Group 1 points table with three wins from as many matches.

Australia suffered a crushing 8-wicket defeat against England in their Super 12 clash of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday. The Aussies were bundled out for a paltry 12 runs in 20 overs before Jos Buttler's stunning knock helped England chase down the target with as many as 8.

Australia suffered a crushing 8-wicket defeat against England in their Super 12 clash of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday. The Aussies were bundled out for a paltry 12 runs in 20 overs before Jos Buttler's stunning knock helped England chase down the target with as many as 8.2 overs to spare and end Australia's unbeaten run of two games in the tournament. Legendary Australian spinner Shane Warner lashed out at the team management for getting the selection and tactics wrong against England. Questioning the selection, Warne said he loves star batter Steve Smith but doesn't think he should be in Australia's T20 team at present. Warne also criticised Australia for leaving all-rounder Mitchell Marsh out of the playing XI and sending Maxwell to bat at number four when wickets had fallen quickly against England. Warne took to Twitter to share his views after Australia's 8-wicket loss. “Disappointing selection from Australia leaving Marsh out & Maxwell batting in the power play (he should always come in after power play). Stoinis should have gone in. Poor strategy & tactics from the Aussies. I love Smith but he shouldn’t be in the T/20 team. Marsh has to be !!” Warne said in a tweet. Disappointing selection from Australia leaving Marsh out & Maxwell batting in the power play (he should always come in after power play). Stoinis should have gone in. Poor strategy & tactics from the Aussies. I love Smith but he shouldn’t be in the T/20 team. Marsh has to be !! — Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) October 30, 2021 × Both England and Australia had headed into the encounter with two wins in a row in their first two Super 12 matches. However, Australia's winning streak was halted by Eoin Morgan & Co., who dominated the proceedings with the bat and the ball to earn a convincing win. Also Read: Shardul to replace Hardik? India's predicted playing XI for New Zealand clash in T20 WC 2021 Chris Jordan and Chris Woakes wreaked havoc on the Australian batting line-up to pick up five wickets between them and skittle out the Aaron Finch-led side for 125. In reply, Buttler smashed an unbeaten 71 off just 32 balls laced with five fours and five sixes to take the team home comfortably. England are now at the top of the Group 1 points table with three wins from as many matches.

Steve Smith shouldn't be in T20 team: Shane Warne questions Australia's selection after England defeat

England will take on Australia in one of the most anticipated clashes of the T20 World Cup 2021 so far. Both Australia and England have been unbeaten in the Super 12s and will be looking to continue their magnificent winning streak at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Saturday (October 30).

England opened their T20 World Cup 2021 with a six-wicket win over West Indies in a low-scoring encounter before thrashing Bangladesh by eight wickets in their next game. Australia earned a hard-fought win over South Africa in their first game of the tournament before defeating Sri Lanka by seven wickets to make it two wins in a row.

It will be for the first time since the final of the 2009 T20 World Cup that England and Australia will be locking horns in a T20 World Cup game. Both teams have enough firepower in their batting line-up while their bowling attacks have also delivered the goods in UAE.

David Warner roared back to form with a 42-ball 65 against Sri Lanka while skipper Aaron Finch also looked in fine form for his 37 off 23 balls. The openers' return to form is a huge boost for the Aussies, who have a star-studded middle-order featuring the likes of Steve Smith, Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell among others.

England opener Jason Roya also went all guns blazing in their last outing against Bangladesh and slammed a quickfire 61 off 38 balls laced with three sixes and five fours. It is expected to be a blockbuster contest when the two sides meet in Dubai on Saturday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-virat-kohli-co-break-the-jinx-a-look-at-indias-record-against-nz-in-t20-wc-ahead-of-must-win-clash-425268">Will&nbsp;Kohli &amp; Co. break the jinx? A look at India's record against NZ in T20 WC ahead of must-win clash</a>

England vs Australia, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction:

Australia and England have a pretty even record when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams in T20Is. Australia have managed ten wins to England's eight in a total of 19 meetings between the two teams, with one game ending in a no-result. It should be a close contest in Dubai on Saturday but England's quality spin duo might see them edge Australia.

&nbsp;

England will take on Australia in one of the most anticipated clashes of the T20 World Cup 2021 so far. Both Australia and England have been unbeaten in the Super 12s and will be looking to continue their magnificent winning streak at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Saturday (October 30).

England will take on Australia in one of the most anticipated clashes of the T20 World Cup 2021 so far. Both Australia and England have been unbeaten in the Super 12s and will be looking to continue their magnificent winning streak at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Saturday (October 30). England opened their T20 World Cup 2021 with a six-wicket win over West Indies in a low-scoring encounter before thrashing Bangladesh by eight wickets in their next game. Australia earned a hard-fought win over South Africa in their first game of the tournament before defeating Sri Lanka by seven wickets to make it two wins in a row. It will be for the first time since the final of the 2009 T20 World Cup that England and Australia will be locking horns in a T20 World Cup game. Both teams have enough firepower in their batting line-up while their bowling attacks have also delivered the goods in UAE. David Warner roared back to form with a 42-ball 65 against Sri Lanka while skipper Aaron Finch also looked in fine form for his 37 off 23 balls. The openers' return to form is a huge boost for the Aussies, who have a star-studded middle-order featuring the likes of Steve Smith, Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell among others. England opener Jason Roya also went all guns blazing in their last outing against Bangladesh and slammed a quickfire 61 off 38 balls laced with three sixes and five fours. It is expected to be a blockbuster contest when the two sides meet in Dubai on Saturday. Also Read: Will Kohli & Co. break the jinx? A look at India's record against NZ in T20 WC ahead of must-win clash England vs Australia, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Australia and England have a pretty even record when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two teams in T20Is. Australia have managed ten wins to England's eight in a total of 19 meetings between the two teams, with one game ending in a no-result. It should be a close contest in Dubai on Saturday but England's quality spin duo might see them edge Australia.

ENG vs AUS prediction: Who will win England vs Australia T20 World Cup 2021 match today?

Aaron Finch-led Australia will take on Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the opening match of the Super 12 stage of the T20 World Cup 2021 at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday (October 23). Both Australia and South Africa have been heavyweights in Tests and ODIs, however, they are yet to dominate the shortest format.

Over the years, the two teams have produced some thrilling encounters between them and have gotten the better of each other on several occasions. They are placed in Group 1 along with the likes of West Indies, England and Bangladesh. Both teams will be looking to get off to a winning start and get the advantage in the race for the semi-finals.

For Australia, the form of the likes of David Warner and skipper Finch will be a concern. While Finch played his last T20I game in July this year and did not feature in IPL 2021, Warner endured a poor run in the IPL and could only manage eight appearances throughout the season.&nbsp;

All-rounder Mitchell Marsh will also be making his comeback after a long period of inactivity. Australia's chances will depend on the performances of all-rounders Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis who possess the ability to change the course of a game with both the bat and the ball.

On the other hand, South Africa skipper Bavuma returned to the playing XI after a gap of 50 days when he featured in the practice game against Pakistan on Wednesday where he scored 46 off 42 balls. Rassie van der Dussen played a brilliant knock of unbeaten 101 off 51 balls and was the stand out performer for the Proteas. He will be looking to carry his purple patch against the Aussies on Saturday.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-see-india-and-pakistan-in-t20-world-cup-2021-final-says-sunil-gavaskar-423066">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-see-india-and-pakistan-in-t20-world-cup-2021-final-says-sunil-gavaskar-423066">Want to see India and Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2021 final, says Sunil Gavaskar</a>

South Africa's potent fast bowling line-up consisting of the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje and Lungi Ngidi can also create problems for the Aussie batters in the opening encounter in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;

Australia vs South Africa today match prediction:

Australia are heading into the clash after facing a comprehensive 9-wicket defeat against India in their last warm-up match while South Africa thrashed Pakistan by six wickets in their practice game. Australia lead the head-to-head record between the two teams with 13 wins in 22 matches but South Africa can pull off a surprise win on Saturday.

&nbsp;

Aaron Finch-led Australia will take on Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the opening match of the Super 12 stage of the T20 World Cup 2021 at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday (October 23).

Aaron Finch-led Australia will take on Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the opening match of the Super 12 stage of the T20 World Cup 2021 at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday (October 23). Both Australia and South Africa have been heavyweights in Tests and ODIs, however, they are yet to dominate the shortest format. Over the years, the two teams have produced some thrilling encounters between them and have gotten the better of each other on several occasions. They are placed in Group 1 along with the likes of West Indies, England and Bangladesh. Both teams will be looking to get off to a winning start and get the advantage in the race for the semi-finals. For Australia, the form of the likes of David Warner and skipper Finch will be a concern. While Finch played his last T20I game in July this year and did not feature in IPL 2021, Warner endured a poor run in the IPL and could only manage eight appearances throughout the season. All-rounder Mitchell Marsh will also be making his comeback after a long period of inactivity. Australia's chances will depend on the performances of all-rounders Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis who possess the ability to change the course of a game with both the bat and the ball. On the other hand, South Africa skipper Bavuma returned to the playing XI after a gap of 50 days when he featured in the practice game against Pakistan on Wednesday where he scored 46 off 42 balls. Rassie van der Dussen played a brilliant knock of unbeaten 101 off 51 balls and was the stand out performer for the Proteas. He will be looking to carry his purple patch against the Aussies on Saturday. Also Read: Want to see India and Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2021 final, says Sunil Gavaskar South Africa's potent fast bowling line-up consisting of the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje and Lungi Ngidi can also create problems for the Aussie batters in the opening encounter in Abu Dhabi. Australia vs South Africa today match prediction: Australia are heading into the clash after facing a comprehensive 9-wicket defeat against India in their last warm-up match while South Africa thrashed Pakistan by six wickets in their practice game. Australia lead the head-to-head record between the two teams with 13 wins in 22 matches but South Africa can pull off a surprise win on Saturday.

AUS vs SA, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction today: Who will win Australia vs South Africa match?

The T20 World Cup 2021 edition commenced on October 17 with the lowly-ranked sides playing the qualifying round. The main draw of the showpiece event is set to kick off from October 23 (Saturday) where all the major sides will lock horns with each other and give plenty to cheer for the ardent fans of the gentlemen's game.&nbsp;

Ahead of the main draw, many former cricketers and experts of the game have shared their prediction regarding the semi-finalists in the seventh edition, being held in the UAE. Brad Hogg was the latest to join the bandwagon as he named his semi-finalists, snubbing Aaron Finch-led Australia.&nbsp;

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“If Pakistan get beaten by India in the first game, they’ve got a short turnaround to play New Zealand. I think that will be a huge factor on whether Pakistan go through or not. If Pakistan lose against India in the first game, I don’t think they will get through, India will get through. So watch that space,” Hogg said in an interaction with Deep Dasgupta on his YouTube channel.

“The teams that I think are going to go to the semis are England and the West Indies from Group 1 and from Group 2 I think it’s going to be Pakistan and India,” he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/inzamam-ul-haq-explains-why-virat-kohli-led-india-have-great-chance-of-winning-t20-wc-422675">Inzamam-ul-Haq explains why Virat Kohli-led India have 'great chance of winning T20 WC'</a>

For the unversed, Finch &amp; Co. won&nbsp;and lost a game each in their two warm-up fixtures whereas India and South Africa are the only two major teams to enter the main draw by winning both their practice&nbsp;games. Many believe India, England, West Indies and Pakistan will go through to the semis whereas one cannot rule out Kane Williamson-led New Zealand and the Proteas as well.&nbsp;

India, Pakistan, New Zealand and Afghanistan are placed in Pool B whereas they will also be joined by two teams from the qualifiers. Meanwhile, Australia, South Africa, England and West Indies are in Pool A and will also welcome two teams from the qualifying round.

The T20 World Cup 2021 edition commenced on October 17 with the lowly-ranked sides playing the qualifying round. The main draw of the showpiece event is set to kick off from October 23 (Saturday) where all the major sides will lock horns with each other and give plenty to cheer for the ardent fans of the gentlemen's game.

The T20 World Cup 2021 edition commenced on October 17 with the lowly-ranked sides playing the qualifying round. The main draw of the showpiece event is set to kick off from October 23 (Saturday) where all the major sides will lock horns with each other and give plenty to cheer for the ardent fans of the gentlemen's game. Ahead of the main draw, many former cricketers and experts of the game have shared their prediction regarding the semi-finalists in the seventh edition, being held in the UAE. Brad Hogg was the latest to join the bandwagon as he named his semi-finalists, snubbing Aaron Finch-led Australia. ALSO READ | From Javed Miandad's mimicry to Gautam Gambhir-Shahid Afridi spat: 5 epic moments from Indo-Pak ties “If Pakistan get beaten by India in the first game, they’ve got a short turnaround to play New Zealand. I think that will be a huge factor on whether Pakistan go through or not. If Pakistan lose against India in the first game, I don’t think they will get through, India will get through. So watch that space,” Hogg said in an interaction with Deep Dasgupta on his YouTube channel. “The teams that I think are going to go to the semis are England and the West Indies from Group 1 and from Group 2 I think it’s going to be Pakistan and India,” he added. ALSO READ | Inzamam-ul-Haq explains why Virat Kohli-led India have 'great chance of winning T20 WC' For the unversed, Finch & Co. won and lost a game each in their two warm-up fixtures whereas India and South Africa are the only two major teams to enter the main draw by winning both their practice games. Many believe India, England, West Indies and Pakistan will go through to the semis whereas one cannot rule out Kane Williamson-led New Zealand and the Proteas as well. India, Pakistan, New Zealand and Afghanistan are placed in Pool B whereas they will also be joined by two teams from the qualifiers. Meanwhile, Australia, South Africa, England and West Indies are in Pool A and will also welcome two teams from the qualifying round.

No room for Aaron Finch-led Australia! Brad Hogg predicts T20 World Cup semi-finalists

Former Australian cricketer Michael Slater has been arrested on Wednesday, after an alleged domestic violence incident last week. The 51-year-old was taken on Wednesday morning to Manly police station, where he remains, as per the Sydney Morning Herald. New South Wales police confirmed that they received reports of a domestic violence incident alleged to have occurred on October 12.

"Officers attached to the Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command commenced an investigation yesterday [on Tuesday] after receiving reports of a domestic violence incident alleged to have occurred on Tuesday 12 October 2021," NSW Police said in a statement on Wednesday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-comes-up-with-hilarious-response-as-rohit-sharma-flaunts-indias-t20-world-cup-jersey-422029">David Warner comes up with hilarious response as Rohit Sharma flaunts India's T20 World Cup jersey</a>

"Following inquiries, detectives attended a home at Manly about 9.20 am and spoke with a 51-year-old man. He has since been arrested and taken to Manly police station," the statement added. Slater played in 74 Test matches and 42 One Day Internationals for the men`s Australia national cricket team. During his test career which lasted for close to a decade, he smashed 5,312 runs before his 2004 retirement.

Former Australian cricketer Michael Slater has been arrested on Wednesday, after an alleged domestic violence incident last week. The 51-year-old was taken on Wednesday morning to Manly police station, where he remains, as per the Sydney Morning Herald.

Former Australian cricketer Michael Slater has been arrested on Wednesday, after an alleged domestic violence incident last week. The 51-year-old was taken on Wednesday morning to Manly police station, where he remains, as per the Sydney Morning Herald. New South Wales police confirmed that they received reports of a domestic violence incident alleged to have occurred on October 12. "Officers attached to the Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command commenced an investigation yesterday [on Tuesday] after receiving reports of a domestic violence incident alleged to have occurred on Tuesday 12 October 2021," NSW Police said in a statement on Wednesday. ALSO READ | David Warner comes up with hilarious response as Rohit Sharma flaunts India's T20 World Cup jersey "Following inquiries, detectives attended a home at Manly about 9.20 am and spoke with a 51-year-old man. He has since been arrested and taken to Manly police station," the statement added. Slater played in 74 Test matches and 42 One Day Internationals for the men`s Australia national cricket team. During his test career which lasted for close to a decade, he smashed 5,312 runs before his 2004 retirement.

Former Aussie cricketer Michael Slater arrested over alleged domestic violence incident

Mike Hussey, the former Australian batter, is confident about his country's chances at the men's T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and Oman.&nbsp;

Despite the fact that Australia hasn't won a T20I series since February 2020, losing to England, India, New Zealand, West Indies and Bangladesh, Hussey believes Australia can succeed if they adjust to the UAE's conditions.&nbsp;

"I'm actually pretty optimistic about Australia's chances. I think we've got a really good team, a dangerous team. If they can get their confidence up, adapt well to the conditions, then I think it`s a pretty darn good team. Hopefully, they can get on a roll," Hussey told foxsports.com.au on Sunday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/whats-the-point-of-playing-harbhajan-singh-takes-a-jibe-at-shoaib-akhtar-ahead-of-india-vs-pakistan-clash-421363">'What's the point of playing?': Harbhajan Singh takes a jibe at Shoaib Akhtar ahead of India vs Pakistan clash</a>

Hussey praised all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, who was in excellent form for the Indian Premier League franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) during the recently completed IPL 2021 in the United Arab Emirates.

Maxwell scored 513 runs in 15 games for Bangalore, including six half-centuries, at an average of 42.75 and a strike rate of 144.10. He finished the IPL 2021 as the fifth-highest run-getter with a strike rate of 144.10.

"He's been great to watch. He's been on fire. He's been confident and the good thing is it's in those conditions in the UAE (he has performed). So hopefully he can carry his IPL form into the World cup because he's going to be a critical member of the team,"&nbsp;Hussey said.&nbsp;

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"It's a tough role to play there in the middle order in T20 cricket so if you've got someone who's in top form and on top of their game then we've seen he can be a match-winner on his own," he further added.&nbsp;

The first&nbsp;round matches of the event began on Sunday in Oman.&nbsp;On October 23, Australia's men's T20 World Cup campaign will begin&nbsp;in Abu Dhabi against South Africa in the Super 12.&nbsp;

Mike Hussey, the former Australian batter, is confident about his country's chances at the men's T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and Oman. Despite the fact that Australia hasn't won a T20I series since February 2020, losing to England, India, New Zealand, West Indies and Bangladesh, Hussey believes Australia can succeed if they adjust to the UAE's conditions.

Mike Hussey, the former Australian batter, is confident about his country's chances at the men's T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and Oman. Despite the fact that Australia hasn't won a T20I series since February 2020, losing to England, India, New Zealand, West Indies and Bangladesh, Hussey believes Australia can succeed if they adjust to the UAE's conditions. "I'm actually pretty optimistic about Australia's chances. I think we've got a really good team, a dangerous team. If they can get their confidence up, adapt well to the conditions, then I think it`s a pretty darn good team. Hopefully, they can get on a roll," Hussey told foxsports.com.au on Sunday. ALSO READ | 'What's the point of playing?': Harbhajan Singh takes a jibe at Shoaib Akhtar ahead of India vs Pakistan clash Hussey praised all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, who was in excellent form for the Indian Premier League franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) during the recently completed IPL 2021 in the United Arab Emirates. Maxwell scored 513 runs in 15 games for Bangalore, including six half-centuries, at an average of 42.75 and a strike rate of 144.10. He finished the IPL 2021 as the fifth-highest run-getter with a strike rate of 144.10. "He's been great to watch. He's been on fire. He's been confident and the good thing is it's in those conditions in the UAE (he has performed). So hopefully he can carry his IPL form into the World cup because he's going to be a critical member of the team," Hussey said. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli reacts as Rahul Dravid reportedly set to succeed Ravi Shastri as India's head coach "It's a tough role to play there in the middle order in T20 cricket so if you've got someone who's in top form and on top of their game then we've seen he can be a match-winner on his own," he further added. The first round matches of the event began on Sunday in Oman. On October 23, Australia's men's T20 World Cup campaign will begin in Abu Dhabi against South Africa in the Super 12.

T20 World Cup: 'I'm pretty optimistic about Australia's chances,' says Mike Hussey

Cricket Australia is all set to officially postpone the one-off Test Afghanistan later this week."We`ve made our position very clear that we support cricket as a sport for both women and men," the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley as saying.

"We`ve been trying to get clarity on what the situation is. It`s obviously a difficult, complex, and challenging situation. It`s most likely we`ll postpone the Hobart Test match until such time that there is greater clarity, and we`ll be making some announcements in the coming days," he added.

Earlier, Cricket Australia (CA) had said that the planned men`s Test match against Afghanistan in November would not go ahead if the country does not support women`s cricket following the Taliban takeover.

"Driving the growth of women`s cricket globally is incredibly important to Cricket Australia. Our vision for cricket is that it is a sport for all and we support the game unequivocally for women at every level," Cricket Australia said in its official statement.

"If recent media reports that women`s cricket will not be supported in Afghanistan are substantiated, Cricket Australia would have no alternative but to not host Afghanistan for the proposed Test Match due to be played in Hobart," it added.

On Sunday, the International Cricket Council`s (ICC) Acting CEO Geoff Allardice had said that the apex cricket body is keeping a table on change of regime in Afghanistan, however, he confirmed that Afghanistan will indeed take part in the T20 World Cup.

"Yes, when the change of regime took place in Afghanistan in August, we have been in regular contact with their cricket board, our primary involvement is to support cricket in that country through the member board, we have said all along that we are waiting to see how things unfold under the different regime in that country," said Allardice.

"They are a full member of the ICC and their team is preparing for the T20 World Cup. In terms of their preparation for the event, it is proceeding as planned," he added. (ANI)

Cricket Australia is all set to officially postpone the one-off Test Afghanistan later this week."We`ve made our position very clear that we support cricket as a sport for both women and men," the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley as saying.

Cricket Australia is all set to officially postpone the one-off Test Afghanistan later this week."We`ve made our position very clear that we support cricket as a sport for both women and men," the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley as saying. "We`ve been trying to get clarity on what the situation is. It`s obviously a difficult, complex, and challenging situation. It`s most likely we`ll postpone the Hobart Test match until such time that there is greater clarity, and we`ll be making some announcements in the coming days," he added. Earlier, Cricket Australia (CA) had said that the planned men`s Test match against Afghanistan in November would not go ahead if the country does not support women`s cricket following the Taliban takeover. "Driving the growth of women`s cricket globally is incredibly important to Cricket Australia. Our vision for cricket is that it is a sport for all and we support the game unequivocally for women at every level," Cricket Australia said in its official statement. "If recent media reports that women`s cricket will not be supported in Afghanistan are substantiated, Cricket Australia would have no alternative but to not host Afghanistan for the proposed Test Match due to be played in Hobart," it added. On Sunday, the International Cricket Council`s (ICC) Acting CEO Geoff Allardice had said that the apex cricket body is keeping a table on change of regime in Afghanistan, however, he confirmed that Afghanistan will indeed take part in the T20 World Cup. "Yes, when the change of regime took place in Afghanistan in August, we have been in regular contact with their cricket board, our primary involvement is to support cricket in that country through the member board, we have said all along that we are waiting to see how things unfold under the different regime in that country," said Allardice. "They are a full member of the ICC and their team is preparing for the T20 World Cup. In terms of their preparation for the event, it is proceeding as planned," he added. (ANI)

Australia likely to postpone Afghanistan Test: Report

The England cricket team will tour Australia for their five-test Ashes series beginning in December subject to several critical conditions being met before they travel, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Friday.

"Over recent weeks we have made excellent progress in moving forward on the England Men's Ashes Tour. To facilitate further progress and allow a squad to be selected, the ECB Board has met today and given its approval for the tour to go ahead. This decision is subject to several critical conditions being met before we travel," the ECB said in a statement.

"We look forward to the ongoing assistance from Cricket Australia in resolving these matters in the coming days."

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CA, the ECB and Australian authorities had been negotiating for many months over the touring conditions in a country where international arrivals have to isolate in quarantine hotels for 14 days, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status.

A major issue was whether family members could join England players in Australia over the Christmas and New Year period. The country's borders are effectively closed to non-citizens and non-permanent residents.

England captain Joe Root had also previously expressed doubts about the tour due to "bubble fatigue".

Australian media reported that authorities are offering England`s players, staff and families the use of a Gold Coast resort in Queensland state for quarantine before the opening test starts in Brisbane on Dec. 8.

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Families who arrive for the Christmas period may be accommodated at a resort in the Yarra Valley on the fringe of Melbourne before the Boxing Day test starts on Dec. 26, the Sydney Morning Herald reported on Tuesday.

The tour pours about A$200 million ($146.14 million) into Cricket Australia coffers, according to local media estimates.

England will play in the Twenty20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and Oman starting this month before heading to Australia, likely keeping some players who feature in both competitions away from home for four months.

The England cricket team will tour Australia for their five-test Ashes series beginning in December subject to several critical conditions being met before they travel, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Friday.

The England cricket team will tour Australia for their five-test Ashes series beginning in December subject to several critical conditions being met before they travel, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Friday. "Over recent weeks we have made excellent progress in moving forward on the England Men's Ashes Tour. To facilitate further progress and allow a squad to be selected, the ECB Board has met today and given its approval for the tour to go ahead. This decision is subject to several critical conditions being met before we travel," the ECB said in a statement. "We look forward to the ongoing assistance from Cricket Australia in resolving these matters in the coming days." ALSO READ | Ian Botham questions England desire for 'ultimate' Ashes Test CA, the ECB and Australian authorities had been negotiating for many months over the touring conditions in a country where international arrivals have to isolate in quarantine hotels for 14 days, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status. A major issue was whether family members could join England players in Australia over the Christmas and New Year period. The country's borders are effectively closed to non-citizens and non-permanent residents. England captain Joe Root had also previously expressed doubts about the tour due to "bubble fatigue". Australian media reported that authorities are offering England`s players, staff and families the use of a Gold Coast resort in Queensland state for quarantine before the opening test starts in Brisbane on Dec. 8. ALSO READ: Joe Root confirms participation, England committed to Ashes series: Report Families who arrive for the Christmas period may be accommodated at a resort in the Yarra Valley on the fringe of Melbourne before the Boxing Day test starts on Dec. 26, the Sydney Morning Herald reported on Tuesday. The tour pours about A$200 million ($146.14 million) into Cricket Australia coffers, according to local media estimates. England will play in the Twenty20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and Oman starting this month before heading to Australia, likely keeping some players who feature in both competitions away from home for four months.

ECB gives conditional approval for England's Ashes tour to Australia

The International Cricket Council (ICC) have released the anthem song for the upcoming T20 World Cup on Thursday (September 23). The ICC launched the 1.5-minute long video on its official Twitter handle, which has gone viral in a flash. For the unversed, the video features the animated versions of Team India skipper Virat Kohli, West Indies captain Kieron Pollard, Australia's Glenn Maxwell and Afghanistan's Rashid Khan.

ICC shared the video and captioned the post, "Let the world know, 
This is your show Musical note

Come #LiveTheGame and groove to the &nbsp;#T20WorldCup anthem"

Here's the video, which has been accepted well by the viewers and has gone viral -

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Let the world know, 
This is your show 
 
Come <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LiveTheGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LiveTheGame</a> and groove to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> anthem <a href="https://t.co/KKQTkxd3qw">pic.twitter.com/KKQTkxd3qw</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1440957203792515077?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Composed by popular Bollywood music director Amit Trivedi, the animated film stars many young fans from all over the world engaged in T20I cricket and includes some of the sport’s biggest superstars -- spearheaded by Kohli, Pollard, Maxwell, etc. Thus, the out-of-the-box presentation of the anthem has surely struck the right chord with the ardent cricket fans worldwide.&nbsp;

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A total of 16 countries will participate in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which was set to be held in Australia last year but got postponed in the wake of Covid-19 crisis. The qualifying round will commence from October 17 whereas the main draw of the showpiece event will kick off from October 23.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) have released the anthem song for the upcoming T20 World Cup on Thursday (September 23). The ICC launched the 1.5-minute long video on its official Twitter handle, which has gone viral in a flash.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) have released the anthem song for the upcoming T20 World Cup on Thursday (September 23). The ICC launched the 1.5-minute long video on its official Twitter handle, which has gone viral in a flash. For the unversed, the video features the animated versions of Team India skipper Virat Kohli, West Indies captain Kieron Pollard, Australia's Glenn Maxwell and Afghanistan's Rashid Khan. ICC shared the video and captioned the post, "Let the world know, This is your show Musical note Come #LiveTheGame and groove to the #T20WorldCup anthem" Here's the video, which has been accepted well by the viewers and has gone viral - Let the world know, This is your show Come #LiveTheGame and groove to the #T20WorldCup anthem pic.twitter.com/KKQTkxd3qw — ICC (@ICC) September 23, 2021 × Composed by popular Bollywood music director Amit Trivedi, the animated film stars many young fans from all over the world engaged in T20I cricket and includes some of the sport’s biggest superstars -- spearheaded by Kohli, Pollard, Maxwell, etc. Thus, the out-of-the-box presentation of the anthem has surely struck the right chord with the ardent cricket fans worldwide. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary A total of 16 countries will participate in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which was set to be held in Australia last year but got postponed in the wake of Covid-19 crisis. The qualifying round will commence from October 17 whereas the main draw of the showpiece event will kick off from October 23.

Watch: T20 World Cup anthem released by ICC as excitement builds up for marquee event

There were some shocking exclusions from Cricket Australia’s list of 20 nationally contracted players on Thursday as the likes of Marcus Stoinis, Peter Handscomb, Usman Khawaja, among others were missing from the core group of Australian players. While all-rounder Mitchell Marsh found his way back to the centrally contracted players’ list, his elder brother Shaun was axed from the list.&nbsp;

The Australian national selectors picked a group of players loaded with limited-overs talent in a bid to reflect on Australia’s forthcoming schedule including the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November.

"With many of the squad crossing into all three formats it gives us the benefit of being able to add in specialists depending on the opposition and the conditions," chief selector Trevor Hohns said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-graeme-smith-dismiss-reports-stating-mr-360-was-offered-proteas-captaincy-295572" hreflang="en">AB de Villiers, Graeme Smith dismiss reports stating Mr. 360 was offered Proteas captaincy</a>

"The depth of this squad and the success of the past 12 months gives us that solid base."

The likes of Nathan Coulter-Nile and Marcus Harris were also missing from Australia’s centrally contracted players’ list.

"As is always the case there are unlucky omissions but, however, because you are not on the list does not mean you cannot be selected to represent Australia," Hohns said.

While Mitch Marsh found his name on the list after his omission from it last year as Hohns said "he has a lot of international cricket ahead of him as a batting all-rounder".

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-warner-says-england-tour-highly-unlikely-295475" hreflang="en">Australia's Warner says England tour 'highly unlikely'</a>

Australia’s young maestro Marnus Labuschagne was among the new faces along with Joe Burns, Ashton Agar, Kane Richardson and Matthew Wade with Hohns heaping praise on all of the latest inductees.

"Marnus's rise has been meteoric and well documented," Hohns said.

"Joe has been a good Test match player, Ashton Agar's form in T20 internationals has been exceptional, while Kane Richardson has been outstanding in the T20 and one-day games."

Australia contracted players: Ashton Agar, Joe Burns, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Aaron Finch, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Tim Paine, James Pattinson, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa. 
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There were some shocking exclusions from Cricket Australia’s list of 20 nationally contracted players on Thursday as the likes of Marcus Stoinis, Peter Handscomb, Usman Khawaja, among others were missing from the core group of Australian players.

There were some shocking exclusions from Cricket Australia’s list of 20 nationally contracted players on Thursday as the likes of Marcus Stoinis, Peter Handscomb, Usman Khawaja, among others were missing from the core group of Australian players. While all-rounder Mitchell Marsh found his way back to the centrally contracted players’ list, his elder brother Shaun was axed from the list. The Australian national selectors picked a group of players loaded with limited-overs talent in a bid to reflect on Australia’s forthcoming schedule including the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be played in October-November. "With many of the squad crossing into all three formats it gives us the benefit of being able to add in specialists depending on the opposition and the conditions," chief selector Trevor Hohns said in a statement. ALSO READ: AB de Villiers, Graeme Smith dismiss reports stating Mr. 360 was offered Proteas captaincy "The depth of this squad and the success of the past 12 months gives us that solid base." The likes of Nathan Coulter-Nile and Marcus Harris were also missing from Australia’s centrally contracted players’ list. "As is always the case there are unlucky omissions but, however, because you are not on the list does not mean you cannot be selected to represent Australia," Hohns said. While Mitch Marsh found his name on the list after his omission from it last year as Hohns said "he has a lot of international cricket ahead of him as a batting all-rounder". ALSO READ: Australia's Warner says England tour 'highly unlikely' Australia’s young maestro Marnus Labuschagne was among the new faces along with Joe Burns, Ashton Agar, Kane Richardson and Matthew Wade with Hohns heaping praise on all of the latest inductees. "Marnus's rise has been meteoric and well documented," Hohns said. "Joe has been a good Test match player, Ashton Agar's form in T20 internationals has been exceptional, while Kane Richardson has been outstanding in the T20 and one-day games." Australia contracted players: Ashton Agar, Joe Burns, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Aaron Finch, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Tim Paine, James Pattinson, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa.

Mitchell Marsh awarded Australia contract, Marcus Stoinis, Usman Khawaja among 6 axed

All the players and coaching staff of the New Zealand cricket team have been put under 14-day self-isolation following their return to their homeland from Australia amid the coronavirus pandemic. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on Thursday confirmed that all the 15 players and staff members who returned from Australia last weekend have been put under lockdown at their respective residences following Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s statement on March 18.&nbsp;

The New Zealand prime minister had directed all the travelers to self-isolate for at least 14 days due to the COVID-19 pandemic even if they arrive in the country ahead of Saturday’s cut-off time.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-urges-everyone-to-draw-lessons-from-test-cricket-to-tackle-covid-19-287309">Sachin Tendulkar urges everyone to draw lessons from Test cricket to tackle COVID-19</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">New Zealand cricket players go into self-isolation</h2>

“They [Black Caps players and touring staff] have all gone into self-isolation. We’ve passed on all the details about what self-isolation means and as far as we know they’re all following it strictly,” NZC public affairs manager, Richard Boock said.&nbsp;

New Zealand and Australia had started the Chappell-Hadlee series behind closed doors but the three-match ODI series was called off after the completion of the first ODI which Australia won by 71 runs at the empty Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-cant-look-beyond-ms-dhoni-if-he-is-fit-and-firing-wasim-jaffer-287325">Team India can't look beyond MS Dhoni if he is fit and firing: Wasim Jaffer</a>

While there were reports that Kiwi speedster Lockie Ferguson had shown symptoms of COVID-19, he tested negative and was eventually sent back to New Zealand immediately.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, all sporting events have been either cancelled or postponed amid the coronavirus scare. However, the good news in this dire situation is that no cricketer has been tested positive for the novel coronavirus thus far.&nbsp; 
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All the players and coaching staff of the New Zealand cricket team have been put under 14-day self-isolation following their return to their homeland from Australia amid the coronavirus pandemic.

All the players and coaching staff of the New Zealand cricket team have been put under 14-day self-isolation following their return to their homeland from Australia amid the coronavirus pandemic. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on Thursday confirmed that all the 15 players and staff members who returned from Australia last weekend have been put under lockdown at their respective residences following Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s statement on March 18. The New Zealand prime minister had directed all the travelers to self-isolate for at least 14 days due to the COVID-19 pandemic even if they arrive in the country ahead of Saturday’s cut-off time. ALSO READ: Sachin Tendulkar urges everyone to draw lessons from Test cricket to tackle COVID-19 New Zealand cricket players go into self-isolation “They [Black Caps players and touring staff] have all gone into self-isolation. We’ve passed on all the details about what self-isolation means and as far as we know they’re all following it strictly,” NZC public affairs manager, Richard Boock said. New Zealand and Australia had started the Chappell-Hadlee series behind closed doors but the three-match ODI series was called off after the completion of the first ODI which Australia won by 71 runs at the empty Sydney Cricket Ground. ALSO READ: Team India can't look beyond MS Dhoni if he is fit and firing: Wasim Jaffer While there were reports that Kiwi speedster Lockie Ferguson had shown symptoms of COVID-19, he tested negative and was eventually sent back to New Zealand immediately. Meanwhile, all sporting events have been either cancelled or postponed amid the coronavirus scare. However, the good news in this dire situation is that no cricketer has been tested positive for the novel coronavirus thus far.

New Zealand cricket players and support staff go into self-isolation after returning from Australia

Adelaide Strikers defeated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../big-bash-league-maxwells-mammoth-knock- helps-melbourne-star-cruise-over-renegades-273427">Melbourne Renegades</a> by 63 runs in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) here on Sunday.

Chasing a target of 173 runs, Melbourne Renegades had a very poor start as opener Marcus Harris was bowled off Travis Head's fifth delivery of the first over.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-bash-league-mitchs-blitz-help-perth-scorchers-beat-brisbane-heat-by-34-runs-273687">Big Bash League: Mitchell Marsh's 93 off 41 help Perth Scorchers beat Brisbane Heat</a>

The next batsman Sam Harper too failed to leave a mark as he was bowled by Peter Siddle in the next over. Opener Shaun Marsh was then joined by Beau Webster on the field.

Both played a fast-paced innings and helped their struggling side. Head broke their 50-run partnership as he bowled Marsh (21). Mohammad Nabi and Tom Cooper scored six and one run respectively before getting out which put Melbourne Renegade under immense pressure.

The fall of wicket did not stop as Webster, who missed his half-century by one run, was given LBW off Rashid Khan's delivery.

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The Renegades nightmare campaign continues. 
 
But how about the return of Travis Head for the <a href="https://twitter.com/StrikersBBL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StrikersBBL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBL09?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBL09</a> <a href="https://t.co/7WNSsY1mPo">pic.twitter.com/7WNSsY1mPo</a>
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBL/status/1216263287983132672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Samit Patel and Daniel Christian were the next batsmen but both of them were removed by Peter Siddle in the 17th over. In the next over, Wildermuth was given LBW and Joe Mennie was run out. Hence, Melbourne Renegades were all out on 110 runs.

After opting to bat first, Adelaide Strikers got off to a flying start as they amassed 36 runs in the first three overs with Phil Salt and Jake Weatherald smashing regular boundaries.

Jack Wildermuth, who bowled the fourth over, handed Melbourne Renegades with their first breakthrough as he got hold of Salt (18). In the next over, Mohammad Nabi sent Weatherald (27) back to the pavilion.

Travis Head and Jonathan Wells then took the field but only managed to form a 24-run partnership before Head (22) was dismissed by Cameron Boyce.

It was Matthew Short and Jonathan Wells' partnership which provided Adelaide Strikers with some momentum. The duo formed an 80-run partnership before Short (41) was run out in the final over of the innings. Wells (58) went on to score a half-century but on the next ball, he was dismissed as well. After the completion of 20 over, Adelaide Strikers managed to put up a total of 173 runs.

Adelaide Strikers will now take on Brisbane Heat on January 14.

Adelaide Strikers defeated Melbourne Renegades by 63 runs in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) here on Sunday. Chasing a target of 173 runs, Melbourne Renegades had a very poor start as opener Marcus Harris was bowled off Travis Head's fifth delivery of the first over.

Adelaide Strikers defeated Melbourne Renegades by 63 runs in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) here on Sunday. Chasing a target of 173 runs, Melbourne Renegades had a very poor start as opener Marcus Harris was bowled off Travis Head's fifth delivery of the first over. Also read: Big Bash League: Mitchell Marsh's 93 off 41 help Perth Scorchers beat Brisbane Heat The next batsman Sam Harper too failed to leave a mark as he was bowled by Peter Siddle in the next over. Opener Shaun Marsh was then joined by Beau Webster on the field. Both played a fast-paced innings and helped their struggling side. Head broke their 50-run partnership as he bowled Marsh (21). Mohammad Nabi and Tom Cooper scored six and one run respectively before getting out which put Melbourne Renegade under immense pressure. The fall of wicket did not stop as Webster, who missed his half-century by one run, was given LBW off Rashid Khan's delivery. The Renegades nightmare campaign continues. But how about the return of Travis Head for the @StrikersBBL #BBL09 pic.twitter.com/7WNSsY1mPo — KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 12, 2020 × Samit Patel and Daniel Christian were the next batsmen but both of them were removed by Peter Siddle in the 17th over. In the next over, Wildermuth was given LBW and Joe Mennie was run out. Hence, Melbourne Renegades were all out on 110 runs. After opting to bat first, Adelaide Strikers got off to a flying start as they amassed 36 runs in the first three overs with Phil Salt and Jake Weatherald smashing regular boundaries. Jack Wildermuth, who bowled the fourth over, handed Melbourne Renegades with their first breakthrough as he got hold of Salt (18). In the next over, Mohammad Nabi sent Weatherald (27) back to the pavilion. Travis Head and Jonathan Wells then took the field but only managed to form a 24-run partnership before Head (22) was dismissed by Cameron Boyce. It was Matthew Short and Jonathan Wells' partnership which provided Adelaide Strikers with some momentum. The duo formed an 80-run partnership before Short (41) was run out in the final over of the innings. Wells (58) went on to score a half-century but on the next ball, he was dismissed as well. After the completion of 20 over, Adelaide Strikers managed to put up a total of 173 runs. Adelaide Strikers will now take on Brisbane Heat on January 14.

Big Bash League:Adelaide Strikers beat Melbourne Renegades by 63 runs

Australians&nbsp;are&nbsp;eyeing an exciting ODI series against&nbsp;India at home starting next week&nbsp;with&nbsp;Aaron Finch declaring his team is ready to "give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money."

Finch's teamates -&nbsp;David Warner, Pat Cummins&nbsp;and Marnus Labuschagne have also made their intentions clear ahead of the crucial ODI encounter against Virat's India.

Australian Skipper Aaron Finch said&nbsp;that 'this' Australian side is much more confident to trouble the men in blue.&nbsp;

"Australia have the goods to give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money," said Aaron Finch before leaving for the three-match series against India.&nbsp;

The former world champions&nbsp;will look to repeat their feat last year when&nbsp;they beat India 3-2 in in an ODI series last year. Australia came back to win the series after trailing in the series.

Finch said&nbsp;that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../cricket-labuschagne-leads-as-australia-take- charge-in-sydney-271812">Marnus Labuschagne</a>'s presence in the squad will be vital as the newcomer's form has been fantastic.

Marnus Labuschagne has yet not debuted in the ODI format but has had an amazing run in Tests.&nbsp;

Marnus Labuschagne, the&nbsp;new Aussie batting sensation aspires to be a world-class cricketer in all formats. The latest Australian run machine has 1,495 in 14 Tests with an average of 63 with one double century.

Labuschagne who counts Virat as one of his heroes is expected to make his debut&nbsp;against India at the Wankhede in Mumbai on January 14.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../cricket-stunned-new-zealand-fight-to-save- second-australia-test-270820">David Warner</a> surely seems excited about his trip to India and his Indian fans. He posted a photo Instagram and shared his thoughts on the forthcoming series.

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B7FIRDLJy84/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">India here we come!! It’s going to be a great 3 game series. Looking forward to seeing all our Indian fans 👍👍</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/davidwarner31/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> David Warner</a> (@davidwarner31) on <time datetime="2020-01-09T01:16:56+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 8, 2020 at 5:16pm PST</time>
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Australian pace spearhead Pat Cummins said&nbsp;that spinners will play a crucial role in the series against India.

In ODIs, Australia dominates India with having won 77 matches and losing 49&nbsp;with&nbsp;no results in 10 matches.

Australians are eyeing an exciting ODI series against India at home starting next week with Aaron Finch declaring his team is ready to "give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money.

Australians are eyeing an exciting ODI series against India at home starting next week with Aaron Finch declaring his team is ready to "give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money." Finch's teamates - David Warner, Pat Cummins and Marnus Labuschagne have also made their intentions clear ahead of the crucial ODI encounter against Virat's India. Australian Skipper Aaron Finch said that 'this' Australian side is much more confident to trouble the men in blue. "Australia have the goods to give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money," said Aaron Finch before leaving for the three-match series against India. The former world champions will look to repeat their feat last year when they beat India 3-2 in in an ODI series last year. Australia came back to win the series after trailing in the series. Finch said that Marnus Labuschagne's presence in the squad will be vital as the newcomer's form has been fantastic. Marnus Labuschagne has yet not debuted in the ODI format but has had an amazing run in Tests. Marnus Labuschagne, the new Aussie batting sensation aspires to be a world-class cricketer in all formats. The latest Australian run machine has 1,495 in 14 Tests with an average of 63 with one double century. Labuschagne who counts Virat as one of his heroes is expected to make his debut against India at the Wankhede in Mumbai on January 14. David Warner surely seems excited about his trip to India and his Indian fans. He posted a photo Instagram and shared his thoughts on the forthcoming series. View this post on Instagram India here we come!! It’s going to be a great 3 game series. Looking forward to seeing all our Indian fans 👍👍 A post shared by David Warner (@davidwarner31) on Jan 8, 2020 at 5:16pm PST × Australian pace spearhead Pat Cummins said that spinners will play a crucial role in the series against India. In ODIs, Australia dominates India with having won 77 matches and losing 49 with no results in 10 matches.

Australia have the goods to give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money: Finch ahead of ODI series against India

Boult was ruled out of the opener of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-beat-new-zealand-by-296-runs-to-win-first-test-in-perth-268378">three-match series</a> at Perth Stadium with a rib injury as injury-hit New Zealand suffered a 296-run thrashing in the pink-ball Test.

The left-arm quick got through a nets session unscathed on a scorching hot day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Wednesday in a boost to Kane Williamson's team.

"(I'm) feeling pretty good. Probably a little bit frustrated to be on the sidelines watching the games go by," the 30-year-old told reporters.

"I feel like I've been rehabbing well. The ball's coming out alright, I'm hoping to be pushing for Boxing Day and getting back out there.

"The side has been the issue. It's about rehabbing that, letting it rest and cool down.

"From there it's about being confident with the overs under my belt and having enough behind me. I feel like I'm in that place and ticking all the right boxes so far."

Boult said he would look to continue his recovery in a two-day game against a Victoria state XI starting on Friday as he works toward what would be his first Test at the MCG, which traditionally draws a huge crowd on Boxing Day.

"I appreciate that stage for what it is," said Boult, who played in front of 93,000 spectators at the MCG in the 2015 World Cup final defeat by Australia.

"Test cricket is my favourite format, this is the stage a lot of people dream of being on," Boult said.

"To get this opportunity in my career is definitely something I'm looking forward to."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealand-spearhead-boult-a-doubt-for-first-test-267610">Boult</a> bowled in the MCG nets on Wednesday to out-of-form opener Jeet Raval and reserve wicketkeeper-batsman Tom Blundell.

New Zealand media pundits have urged selectors to pick two-Test Blundell in place of lefthander Raval, who has managed a top score of 19 in his past five innings.

The third and final Test of the series starts in Sydney on January&nbsp;3.

Boult was ruled out of the opener of the three-match series at Perth Stadium with a rib injury as injury-hit New Zealand suffered a 296-run thrashing in the pink-ball Test.

Boult was ruled out of the opener of the three-match series at Perth Stadium with a rib injury as injury-hit New Zealand suffered a 296-run thrashing in the pink-ball Test. The left-arm quick got through a nets session unscathed on a scorching hot day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Wednesday in a boost to Kane Williamson's team. "(I'm) feeling pretty good. Probably a little bit frustrated to be on the sidelines watching the games go by," the 30-year-old told reporters. "I feel like I've been rehabbing well. The ball's coming out alright, I'm hoping to be pushing for Boxing Day and getting back out there. "The side has been the issue. It's about rehabbing that, letting it rest and cool down. "From there it's about being confident with the overs under my belt and having enough behind me. I feel like I'm in that place and ticking all the right boxes so far." Boult said he would look to continue his recovery in a two-day game against a Victoria state XI starting on Friday as he works toward what would be his first Test at the MCG, which traditionally draws a huge crowd on Boxing Day. "I appreciate that stage for what it is," said Boult, who played in front of 93,000 spectators at the MCG in the 2015 World Cup final defeat by Australia. "Test cricket is my favourite format, this is the stage a lot of people dream of being on," Boult said. "To get this opportunity in my career is definitely something I'm looking forward to." Boult bowled in the MCG nets on Wednesday to out-of-form opener Jeet Raval and reserve wicketkeeper-batsman Tom Blundell. New Zealand media pundits have urged selectors to pick two-Test Blundell in place of lefthander Raval, who has managed a top score of 19 in his past five innings. The third and final Test of the series starts in Sydney on January 3.

New Zealand's Trent Boult on track for 'dream' Boxing Day Test against Australia

Congress lawmaker Shashi Tharoor on Sunday gave his take on how cricket teams should go for breaking records if the opportunity presents itself. His remarks came after Australia's batsman <a href="David Warner hits magical triple century as Australia put up mammoth score against Pakistan">David Warner </a>was not able to break Brian Lara's record of highest individual Test score.

Warner had played an unbeaten knock of 335 runs against Pakistan in the ongoing day-night Test at Adelaide and was on course to break Lara's individual score of 400. It was then that Australia's skipper Tim Paine decided to declare the innings.

Tharoor posted two tweets to give his take on the decision to declare by Tim Paine."This summer, David Warner made 95 runs in 10 innings in the Ashes series against England. Against Pak, he scored 150+ in the 1st Test last week &amp; followed it up with 335 not out yesterday in the 2nd. An unnecessary premature declaration cost him a shot at the world record. Pity," Tharoor said in a tweet.

In another tweet, the Congress leader said: "Part of the pleasure of cricket is its records. Figures &amp; statistics continue to enthral the true aficionado. Cricket teams should go for records when they can. With the 1st Test in the bag &amp; victory likely against a weak Pak side (which was soon reduced to 89 for 6), why declare?"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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This summer, <a href="https://twitter.com/davidwarner31?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@davidwarner31</a> made 95 runs in 10 innings in the Ashes series against England. Against Pak, he scored 150+ in the 1st Test last week &amp; followed it up with 335 not out yesterday in the 2nd. An unnecessary premature declaration cost him a shot at the world record. Pity
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/1200996362268995585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Warner was able to score just 95 runs in the Ashes this year, but ever since then, he has been in remarkable form. The left-handed batsman played a knock of 154 in the first Test and he followed it up with a score of 335 not out.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Part of the pleasure of cricket is its records. Figures &amp;statistics continue to enthral the true aficionado. Cricket teams should go for records when they can. With the 1st Test in the bag &amp; victory likely against a weak Pak side (which was soon reduced to 89 for 6), why declare?
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/1200996962209689602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In the ongoing Test, Warner broke several records. He surpassed Mark Taylor and Don Bradman to record the second-highest individual score for Australia in Tests. Warner also went past Bradman to record the highest-ever individual score at the Adelaide Oval. He is now the only Australian to have scored two 250+ plus scores in Tests.&nbsp;

Congress lawmaker Shashi Tharoor on Sunday gave his take on how cricket teams should go for breaking records if the opportunity presents itself. His remarks came after Australia's batsman David Warner was not able to break Brian Lara's record of highest individual Test score.

Congress lawmaker Shashi Tharoor on Sunday gave his take on how cricket teams should go for breaking records if the opportunity presents itself. His remarks came after Australia's batsman David Warner was not able to break Brian Lara's record of highest individual Test score. Warner had played an unbeaten knock of 335 runs against Pakistan in the ongoing day-night Test at Adelaide and was on course to break Lara's individual score of 400. It was then that Australia's skipper Tim Paine decided to declare the innings. Tharoor posted two tweets to give his take on the decision to declare by Tim Paine."This summer, David Warner made 95 runs in 10 innings in the Ashes series against England. Against Pak, he scored 150+ in the 1st Test last week & followed it up with 335 not out yesterday in the 2nd. An unnecessary premature declaration cost him a shot at the world record. Pity," Tharoor said in a tweet. In another tweet, the Congress leader said: "Part of the pleasure of cricket is its records. Figures & statistics continue to enthral the true aficionado. Cricket teams should go for records when they can. With the 1st Test in the bag & victory likely against a weak Pak side (which was soon reduced to 89 for 6), why declare?" This summer, @davidwarner31 made 95 runs in 10 innings in the Ashes series against England. Against Pak, he scored 150+ in the 1st Test last week & followed it up with 335 not out yesterday in the 2nd. An unnecessary premature declaration cost him a shot at the world record. Pity — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) December 1, 2019 × Warner was able to score just 95 runs in the Ashes this year, but ever since then, he has been in remarkable form. The left-handed batsman played a knock of 154 in the first Test and he followed it up with a score of 335 not out. Part of the pleasure of cricket is its records. Figures &statistics continue to enthral the true aficionado. Cricket teams should go for records when they can. With the 1st Test in the bag & victory likely against a weak Pak side (which was soon reduced to 89 for 6), why declare? — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) December 1, 2019 × In the ongoing Test, Warner broke several records. He surpassed Mark Taylor and Don Bradman to record the second-highest individual score for Australia in Tests. Warner also went past Bradman to record the highest-ever individual score at the Adelaide Oval. He is now the only Australian to have scored two 250+ plus scores in Tests.

Shashi Tharoor slams Australia decision to declare innings as David Warner misses chance to break world record

Australia opener David Warner hit a rare triple century during the second Test against Pakistan in Adelaide on Saturday, joining an elite group of players to reach the milestone.

The 33-year-old brought up the mark with a boundary off Mohammad Abbas, smashing 37 fours in the near-faultless 389-ball innings. He has been at the crease for nearly nine hours.

His only stroke of luck came on 226 when he was caught in the gully, only for the umpire to call Muhammad Musa's delivery a no-ball.

Warner is the first player since India's Karun Nair made 303 not out in 2016 against England to reach the magical mark and he joins an elite club, including Azhar Ali who is captaining Pakistan in the current series.

The West Indies Brian Lara's 400 not out against England at St John's in 2004 remains the highest Test score of all time. &nbsp;

The opener's heroics in Adelaide followed his 154 in the first Test at Brisbane last week -- his first Test century since a year-long ban for ball-tampering.

It has been a big turnaround for the former Australian vice-captain, who managed just 95 runs in 10 innings during this year's Ashes series in England.

 
&nbsp;

Australia opener David Warner hit a rare triple century during the second Test against Pakistan in Adelaide on Saturday, joining an elite group of players to reach the milestone.

Australia opener David Warner hit a rare triple century during the second Test against Pakistan in Adelaide on Saturday, joining an elite group of players to reach the milestone. The 33-year-old brought up the mark with a boundary off Mohammad Abbas, smashing 37 fours in the near-faultless 389-ball innings. He has been at the crease for nearly nine hours. His only stroke of luck came on 226 when he was caught in the gully, only for the umpire to call Muhammad Musa's delivery a no-ball. Warner is the first player since India's Karun Nair made 303 not out in 2016 against England to reach the magical mark and he joins an elite club, including Azhar Ali who is captaining Pakistan in the current series. The West Indies Brian Lara's 400 not out against England at St John's in 2004 remains the highest Test score of all time. The opener's heroics in Adelaide followed his 154 in the first Test at Brisbane last week -- his first Test century since a year-long ban for ball-tampering. It has been a big turnaround for the former Australian vice-captain, who managed just 95 runs in 10 innings during this year's Ashes series in England.

David Warner hits magical triple century as Australia put up mammoth score against Pakistan

Australia and India are slated to play a Test series next year, but the build-up has already started. Skipper<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../cricket-australia-storm-back-as-pakistan-wickets -clatter-263573"> Tim Paine</a> on Sunday took a dig at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../india-vs-bangladesh-umesh-yadav-takes-five-as -winning-run-for-kohli-co-continues-264194">Virat Kohli</a>, saying the mood of the Indian skipper will decide whether both teams play a pink-ball Test or not.

When a journalist asked Paine whether both the sides will play the day-night Test in Australia next year, he replied: "We will certainly try and we will have to run that by Virat. We will get an answer from him at some stage I am sure".

Official Twitter handle of cricket.com.au posted a video of Paine answering the questions at a press conference and captioned the post as: "Tim Paine gives Virat Kohli a little clip in the post-game presser".

The Aussie captain is keen to play against India in Brisbane next summer!

When India and Australia last squared off in Australia in 2018, India had refused to play the day-night Test and the side did not also play the first match of the series at Gabba, Brisbane.

As fate had it, the first match was played at Adelaide and India ended up winning the match, which proved crucial in their series win Down Under.

When asked whether Australia would like to play the first Test at Brisbane next year, Paine replied: "That's where we like to start our summer and it has been. As I said, we'll ask Virat and see if we can get his permission to play here and maybe even a pink-ball Test if he is in a good mood. So we'll wait and see".

Australia defeated Pakistan by an innings and 5 runs in the first Test at the Gabba on Sunday to take a 1-0 lead in the series.

On the other hand, India also ended up winning their first-ever day-night Test as they defeated Bangladesh by an innings and 46 runs.

Australia and India are slated to play a Test series next year, but the build-up has already started. Skipper Tim Paine on Sunday took a dig at Virat Kohli, saying the mood of the Indian skipper will decide whether both teams play a pink-ball Test or not.

Australia and India are slated to play a Test series next year, but the build-up has already started. Skipper Tim Paine on Sunday took a dig at Virat Kohli, saying the mood of the Indian skipper will decide whether both teams play a pink-ball Test or not. When a journalist asked Paine whether both the sides will play the day-night Test in Australia next year, he replied: "We will certainly try and we will have to run that by Virat. We will get an answer from him at some stage I am sure". Official Twitter handle of cricket.com.au posted a video of Paine answering the questions at a press conference and captioned the post as: "Tim Paine gives Virat Kohli a little clip in the post-game presser". The Aussie captain is keen to play against India in Brisbane next summer! When India and Australia last squared off in Australia in 2018, India had refused to play the day-night Test and the side did not also play the first match of the series at Gabba, Brisbane. As fate had it, the first match was played at Adelaide and India ended up winning the match, which proved crucial in their series win Down Under. When asked whether Australia would like to play the first Test at Brisbane next year, Paine replied: "That's where we like to start our summer and it has been. As I said, we'll ask Virat and see if we can get his permission to play here and maybe even a pink-ball Test if he is in a good mood. So we'll wait and see". Australia defeated Pakistan by an innings and 5 runs in the first Test at the Gabba on Sunday to take a 1-0 lead in the series. On the other hand, India also ended up winning their first-ever day-night Test as they defeated Bangladesh by an innings and 46 runs.

Tim Paine takes a dig at Virat Kohli over pink-ball Test in Australia-India series

Pakistan were left to rue a basic error from 16-year-old debutant Naseem Shah as Australia opener David Warner plundered the visitors' attack with a brilliant 151 not out on the second day of the first Test at the Gabba on Friday.

Australia finished the day on 312 for the loss of just one wicket, 72 runs ahead of Pakistan's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-storm-back-as-pakistan-wickets-clatter-263573">first innings </a>total of 240 and already in the driving seat.

Marnus Labuschagne was alongside Warner on 55, with the only wicket to fall that of Joe Burns, who made 97 before sweeping a Yasir Shah (1-101) delivery onto his stumps.

Warner scored his first Test century since a year-long ban for ball-tampering, but only after a huge let-off when he was caught behind off a Naseem no-ball.

The mercurial opener was on 56 at the time, and he then survived a near run-out on 93 before ending a century drought stretching back nearly two years.

The 33-year-old, who managed just 95 runs in 10 innings during this year's Ashes series against England, reached his 22nd Test ton when he turned Yasir around the corner for a single in the second over after tea.

Before the Ashes, he spent a year in the wilderness over the ball-tampering scandal and there were questions as to whether his days as an automatic choice at the top of the order were over.

However, in home conditions and against an attack that struggled for sideways movement, Warner was in imperious form as he brought up his fourth Test century at the Gabba.

"For me, it's about going out there and backing my ability," he said, insisting he never felt any pressure about his place in the side.

"At the end of the day you get selected or you don't get selected and you've just got to accept that."

In the second last over of the day, Warner had another close shave when he was beaten by an Imran Khan delivery that brushed the off stump without disturbing the bails.

"Today I was on the receiving end of a bit of luck, which is what you need in a game -- over there (in England) I didn't get any luck at all," he said.&nbsp;

'Superstar' Naseem&nbsp;

Naseem looked impressive on debut and regularly bowled at over 145 kilometres (90 miles) per hour, but he was guilty of overstepping the mark on a number of occasions, despite not being called by the umpire.

In the second over after lunch, he enticed an expansive drive from Warner, who nicked the ball to wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan.

But Warner had barely left the crease when he was called back after TV umpire Michael Gough picked up that Naseem had again misplaced his front foot.

Naseem looked like he belonged on the big stage with a number of bristling spells before leaving the field late in the day with an apparent leg injury.

"He won't get a harder Test debut, bowling at the Gabba," Warner said.

"He kept his speed up the whole day -- he charged in all day, there's a (future) superstar there."

The lack of movement meant Warner and Burns were able to play Naseem with relative ease, although he smashed Burns on the elbow two balls before the lunch break.

Pakistan were left to rue a basic error from 16-year-old debutant Naseem Shah as Australia opener David Warner plundered the visitors' attack with a brilliant 151 not out on the second day of the first Test at the Gabba on Friday.

Pakistan were left to rue a basic error from 16-year-old debutant Naseem Shah as Australia opener David Warner plundered the visitors' attack with a brilliant 151 not out on the second day of the first Test at the Gabba on Friday. Australia finished the day on 312 for the loss of just one wicket, 72 runs ahead of Pakistan's first innings total of 240 and already in the driving seat. Marnus Labuschagne was alongside Warner on 55, with the only wicket to fall that of Joe Burns, who made 97 before sweeping a Yasir Shah (1-101) delivery onto his stumps. Warner scored his first Test century since a year-long ban for ball-tampering, but only after a huge let-off when he was caught behind off a Naseem no-ball. The mercurial opener was on 56 at the time, and he then survived a near run-out on 93 before ending a century drought stretching back nearly two years. The 33-year-old, who managed just 95 runs in 10 innings during this year's Ashes series against England, reached his 22nd Test ton when he turned Yasir around the corner for a single in the second over after tea. Before the Ashes, he spent a year in the wilderness over the ball-tampering scandal and there were questions as to whether his days as an automatic choice at the top of the order were over. However, in home conditions and against an attack that struggled for sideways movement, Warner was in imperious form as he brought up his fourth Test century at the Gabba. "For me, it's about going out there and backing my ability," he said, insisting he never felt any pressure about his place in the side. "At the end of the day you get selected or you don't get selected and you've just got to accept that." In the second last over of the day, Warner had another close shave when he was beaten by an Imran Khan delivery that brushed the off stump without disturbing the bails. "Today I was on the receiving end of a bit of luck, which is what you need in a game -- over there (in England) I didn't get any luck at all," he said. 'Superstar' Naseem Naseem looked impressive on debut and regularly bowled at over 145 kilometres (90 miles) per hour, but he was guilty of overstepping the mark on a number of occasions, despite not being called by the umpire. In the second over after lunch, he enticed an expansive drive from Warner, who nicked the ball to wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan. But Warner had barely left the crease when he was called back after TV umpire Michael Gough picked up that Naseem had again misplaced his front foot. Naseem looked like he belonged on the big stage with a number of bristling spells before leaving the field late in the day with an apparent leg injury. "He won't get a harder Test debut, bowling at the Gabba," Warner said. "He kept his speed up the whole day -- he charged in all day, there's a (future) superstar there." The lack of movement meant Warner and Burns were able to play Naseem with relative ease, although he smashed Burns on the elbow two balls before the lunch break.

Australia vs Pakistan 1st Test: David Warner shows brilliance as hosts cruise against Pak

Australia fast bowler James Pattinson was suspended on Sunday for player abuse, ruling him out of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-khawaja-harris-dumped-from-australia-test-squad-261975">first Test </a>against Pakistan this week.

The paceman was found guilty of breaching Cricket Australia's code of conduct during Victoria's Sheffield Shield game against Queensland last week.

It was not clear what he said, but the governing body characterised it as "personal abuse of a player while fielding".

Given it was his third breach in the past 18 months, the incident triggered a one-match suspension.

"We have a duty to uphold the highest standards of behaviour and the action taken in this matter demonstrates that," CA's head of integrity and security Sean Carroll said in a statement.

Pattinson's ban opens the door to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ricky-ponting-says-mitchell-starc-needs-to-do-something-special-to-play-first-test-against-pak-262553">Mitchell Starc </a>to play in the Test at Brisbane starting Thursday.

The two were seen to be competing for one bowling slot to partner Josh Hazelwood, Pat Cummins, and Nathan Lyon.

"I made a mistake in the heat of the moment," said Pattinson, who admitted the offence. "Straight away I realised I was in the wrong, and I apologised immediately, both to the opponent and to the umpires.&nbsp;

"I have done the wrong thing and accept the penalty. I'm gutted to miss a Test match, but the standards are there for a reason and the fault is mine."

CA said no replacement will be called up for the Test squad.

Australia fast bowler James Pattinson was suspended on Sunday for player abuse, ruling him out of the first Test against Pakistan this week. The paceman was found guilty of breaching Cricket Australia's code of conduct during Victoria's Sheffield Shield game against Queensland last week.

Australia fast bowler James Pattinson was suspended on Sunday for player abuse, ruling him out of the first Test against Pakistan this week. The paceman was found guilty of breaching Cricket Australia's code of conduct during Victoria's Sheffield Shield game against Queensland last week. It was not clear what he said, but the governing body characterised it as "personal abuse of a player while fielding". Given it was his third breach in the past 18 months, the incident triggered a one-match suspension. "We have a duty to uphold the highest standards of behaviour and the action taken in this matter demonstrates that," CA's head of integrity and security Sean Carroll said in a statement. Pattinson's ban opens the door to Mitchell Starc to play in the Test at Brisbane starting Thursday. The two were seen to be competing for one bowling slot to partner Josh Hazelwood, Pat Cummins, and Nathan Lyon. "I made a mistake in the heat of the moment," said Pattinson, who admitted the offence. "Straight away I realised I was in the wrong, and I apologised immediately, both to the opponent and to the umpires. "I have done the wrong thing and accept the penalty. I'm gutted to miss a Test match, but the standards are there for a reason and the fault is mine." CA said no replacement will be called up for the Test squad.

James Pattinson banned for first Test against Pakistan for 'personal abuse'

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting believes that Mitchell Starc will need to do something special to find a place in the playing XI for the upcoming first Test against Pakistan.

In the Ashes, Starc played just one match for the team from Down Under and managed to take six wickets.

"I absolutely love everything that Mitchell Starc brings to the table. But at the same time, they have been reluctant to play him in the last few series. He only played the one Ashes Test match and he did OK in that game," cricket.com.au quoted Ponting as saying. "I think Starc will have to do something pretty special at training to be part of that team," he added.

As Australia are slated to take on Pakistan at the Gabba in Brisbane for the first Test, Ponting brought up James Pattinson's record at the stadium and said it will go in his favour when it comes to selection.

"Pattinson's got a good record in&nbsp;Brisbane as well. That's the other thing that might go in his favour; in a place where the ball does swing a bit, he generally pitches it up and takes it away from the right-handers," he said.&nbsp;

"The reluctance to play Starc in the past has been that he has generally leaked runs," he added.

The 44-year-old Ponting also hailed Josh Hazelwood and Pat Cummins for not leaking runs and being outstanding for a consistent period.

"What we know with Hazlewood and Cummins is they are not leaking runs and they have been outstanding for a long time now. Not only are they getting guys out, but they are making it harder to score as well," Ponting said.

Australia squad for Test Series against Pakistan- Tim Paine (c), Cameron Bancroft, Joe Burns, Pat Cummins (vc), Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head (vc), Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner.

Australia and Pakistan are slated to play two Tests against each other and the second match of the series would be a day-night Test at Adelaide. The first match of the series will be played in Brisbane from November 21-25.&nbsp;

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting believes that Mitchell Starc will need to do something special to find a place in the playing XI for the upcoming first Test against Pakistan.

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting believes that Mitchell Starc will need to do something special to find a place in the playing XI for the upcoming first Test against Pakistan. In the Ashes, Starc played just one match for the team from Down Under and managed to take six wickets. "I absolutely love everything that Mitchell Starc brings to the table. But at the same time, they have been reluctant to play him in the last few series. He only played the one Ashes Test match and he did OK in that game," cricket.com.au quoted Ponting as saying. "I think Starc will have to do something pretty special at training to be part of that team," he added. As Australia are slated to take on Pakistan at the Gabba in Brisbane for the first Test, Ponting brought up James Pattinson's record at the stadium and said it will go in his favour when it comes to selection. "Pattinson's got a good record in Brisbane as well. That's the other thing that might go in his favour; in a place where the ball does swing a bit, he generally pitches it up and takes it away from the right-handers," he said. "The reluctance to play Starc in the past has been that he has generally leaked runs," he added. The 44-year-old Ponting also hailed Josh Hazelwood and Pat Cummins for not leaking runs and being outstanding for a consistent period. "What we know with Hazlewood and Cummins is they are not leaking runs and they have been outstanding for a long time now. Not only are they getting guys out, but they are making it harder to score as well," Ponting said. Australia squad for Test Series against Pakistan- Tim Paine (c), Cameron Bancroft, Joe Burns, Pat Cummins (vc), Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head (vc), Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner. Australia and Pakistan are slated to play two Tests against each other and the second match of the series would be a day-night Test at Adelaide. The first match of the series will be played in Brisbane from November 21-25.

Ricky Ponting says Mitchell Starc needs to do something 'special' to play first Test against Pak

Australia continued their recent dominance in T20 as they thrashed Pakistan in the third and final match of the series to claim the series 2-0.

It was a completely one-sided affair as the hosts first restricted Pakistan to less than a modest score and then wrapped up the match with more than eight overs to spare. Australia rested star pacer Pat Cummins but his absence was not missed by the hosts as the Australian pacers shared six wickets amongst themselves.&nbsp;

After Australia won the toss, spearhead Mitchell Starc showed his intentions early in the match as he removed captain Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan for 6 and 0. Pakistan couldn't recover after losing three wickets for 22 runs and wickets at regular interval meant that Pakistan ended with a score of 106 runs.&nbsp;

Kane Richardson claimed three wickets&nbsp;in the all-round show by Australian bowlers. The star of the bowling, however, was the Man of the Match&nbsp;Sean Abbott who took two wickets in the match but gave away only 14 runs in four overs. Starc also claimed two wickets.

David Warner and skipper Aaron Finch showed no mercy to Pakistani bowlers as Australia finished off the match in 11.5 overs with all the wickets intact. Warner and Finch were not out at 48 and 52 runs respectively.&nbsp;

Steve Smith was awarded Player of the Series award.

In the previous match too, Australia won comfortably by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-steve-smith-fires-australia-to-victory-over-pakistan-in-t20-match-260229">seven wickets</a>. Steve Smith was the star of that match with an unbeaten score of 80. Australia were also ahead in the first match of the series before it was called off due to rain.&nbsp;

After a clean-sweep&nbsp;against Sri Lanka at home, this is another series win for Australia. Australia are to host T20 world cup next year.&nbsp;

For Pakistan, the only positives of the series were Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed. Azam scored most runs in the series with an average of 57.5 and was followed by Ahmed who remained unbeaten in the tournament and scored 108 runs.&nbsp;

Richardson took most wickets (6) in the series. Ashton Agar and Starc ended with four wickets.

Australia continued their recent dominance in T20 as they thrashed Pakistan in the third and final match of the series to claim the series 2-0. It was a completely one-sided affair as the hosts first restricted Pakistan to less than a modest score and then wrapped up the match with more than eight overs to spare.

Australia continued their recent dominance in T20 as they thrashed Pakistan in the third and final match of the series to claim the series 2-0. It was a completely one-sided affair as the hosts first restricted Pakistan to less than a modest score and then wrapped up the match with more than eight overs to spare. Australia rested star pacer Pat Cummins but his absence was not missed by the hosts as the Australian pacers shared six wickets amongst themselves. After Australia won the toss, spearhead Mitchell Starc showed his intentions early in the match as he removed captain Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan for 6 and 0. Pakistan couldn't recover after losing three wickets for 22 runs and wickets at regular interval meant that Pakistan ended with a score of 106 runs. Kane Richardson claimed three wickets in the all-round show by Australian bowlers. The star of the bowling, however, was the Man of the Match Sean Abbott who took two wickets in the match but gave away only 14 runs in four overs. Starc also claimed two wickets. David Warner and skipper Aaron Finch showed no mercy to Pakistani bowlers as Australia finished off the match in 11.5 overs with all the wickets intact. Warner and Finch were not out at 48 and 52 runs respectively. Steve Smith was awarded Player of the Series award. In the previous match too, Australia won comfortably by seven wickets. Steve Smith was the star of that match with an unbeaten score of 80. Australia were also ahead in the first match of the series before it was called off due to rain. After a clean-sweep against Sri Lanka at home, this is another series win for Australia. Australia are to host T20 world cup next year. For Pakistan, the only positives of the series were Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed. Azam scored most runs in the series with an average of 57.5 and was followed by Ahmed who remained unbeaten in the tournament and scored 108 runs. Richardson took most wickets (6) in the series. Ashton Agar and Starc ended with four wickets.

Aus vs Pak, 2nd T20: Australia thrash Pakistan to win series 2-0

Practising cover drives in shower is just one manifestation of Steve Smith's batting obsession but the Australian has assured his anxious team at the World Cup that he is not overdoing it.

The 30-yer-old has returned from a ball-tampering scandal with his hunger for runs intact as his three half-centuries in five innings would attest.

The 12-month absence has not diminished Smith's dedication to his craft which took the right-hander to the top of test batting rankings before his exile.

Assistant coach Ricky Ponting, 10 rooms down the hotel corridor, has heard him shadow practising in England and coach Justin Langer said Smith hones his cover drives in shower.

"I don't know how he's spying on me in the shower!" an amused Smith, who relishes long hours in the nets, told reporters.

"Yeah, I'm known to play a few shots here and there.

"I always have a bat in my room and Ricky was actually rooming about ten rooms up from me the other day and said, 'Were you batting at seven o'clock this morning?'

"He could hear me tapping on the ground.

"I said, 'Yeah, I was actually.'"

The team management has asked Smith to consider toning down his routine which may exhaust the top order bulwark who will play a key role in Australia's title defence.

Smith said nine years of international cricket had taught him when to relax.

"It's been spoken about a little bit, but I think at the same time you've got to trust people's preparation," he said.

"I've been around quite a while now and I've played a lot of cricket and you've got to trust the individual's preparation and what they are trying to do.

"It's one thing that's I guess learned with experience and I'm reasonably experienced now and I've learned a bit over the last couple of years to sometimes just take the foot off the pedal in the nets and save myself up a little bit."

Australia are seeking their fifth win in six matches when they take on Bangladesh at Trent Bridge on Thursday.

Practising cover drives in shower is just one manifestation of Steve Smith's batting obsession but the Australian has assured his anxious team at the World Cup that he is not overdoing it.

Practising cover drives in shower is just one manifestation of Steve Smith's batting obsession but the Australian has assured his anxious team at the World Cup that he is not overdoing it. The 30-yer-old has returned from a ball-tampering scandal with his hunger for runs intact as his three half-centuries in five innings would attest. The 12-month absence has not diminished Smith's dedication to his craft which took the right-hander to the top of test batting rankings before his exile. Assistant coach Ricky Ponting, 10 rooms down the hotel corridor, has heard him shadow practising in England and coach Justin Langer said Smith hones his cover drives in shower. "I don't know how he's spying on me in the shower!" an amused Smith, who relishes long hours in the nets, told reporters. "Yeah, I'm known to play a few shots here and there. "I always have a bat in my room and Ricky was actually rooming about ten rooms up from me the other day and said, 'Were you batting at seven o'clock this morning?' "He could hear me tapping on the ground. "I said, 'Yeah, I was actually.'" The team management has asked Smith to consider toning down his routine which may exhaust the top order bulwark who will play a key role in Australia's title defence. Smith said nine years of international cricket had taught him when to relax. "It's been spoken about a little bit, but I think at the same time you've got to trust people's preparation," he said. "I've been around quite a while now and I've played a lot of cricket and you've got to trust the individual's preparation and what they are trying to do. "It's one thing that's I guess learned with experience and I'm reasonably experienced now and I've learned a bit over the last couple of years to sometimes just take the foot off the pedal in the nets and save myself up a little bit." Australia are seeking their fifth win in six matches when they take on Bangladesh at Trent Bridge on Thursday.

Australia's Steve Smith practises cover drives in shower

Australian cricket chief Kevin Roberts insisted the return of Steve Smith and David Warner will not disrupt the resurgent team as a report on Friday revealed senior players threatened a boycott in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal.

One-year bans slapped on the former captain and his deputy for their part in the scandal dubbed "Sandpaper-gate" expired&nbsp;and the pair are free to play at state and international level again.

Warner was widely seen as the instigator of the plot during the third Test in Cape Town last year to use sandpaper to alter the ball, with rookie opener Cameron Bancroft carrying it out and Smith turning a blind eye.

The Sydney Morning Herald reported Friday that star bowlers Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all intended to pull out of the fourth Test in South Africa if Warner was not removed from the team.

Citing multiple sources, it said "the revelation highlights the extent of the fracture within the dressing-room in the immediate aftermath of one of the most damaging events in Australian cricket history".

Smith and Warner's reintegration process has already begun with the pair meeting the one-day team in&nbsp;Dubai&nbsp;this month. Lyon and Cummins were present, but the injured Starc and Hazlewood were not.

Asked whether relations had been patched up sufficiently for Warner's return not to be disruptive, Roberts compared the situation to any other workplace.

"What we're focused on is doing everything we can to support Dave, Steve, Cameron and all of the other support staff with this integration... to build harmony rather than to disrupt the harmony that is building," he said at the Melbourne Press Club Thursday.

"At the same time, let's be open about it -- in any workplace you don't need to be best mates with everyone, but there needs to be a foundation of respect and I think there is growing respect there."

He added that Smith, Warner, and Bancroft had all "owned their mistakes, they've paid a price and have served their time".

The "Sandpaper-gate" scandal triggered far-reaching consequences for Australian cricket.

Then-coach Darren Lehmann quit and all the top brass from Cricket Australia left after a scathing review said their "arrogant and controlling" win-at-all-costs culture was partly to blame for players bending the rules.

'Bloody hard'

Reflecting on the past year, Roberts said "our highest priority now is rebuilding trust both within and around cricket".

"We've seen tangible change at the board level, the executive level, we've got a new men's coach and a relatively new men's Test captain.

"Those are some of the tangible changes. But much more importantly the really important intangible change is that we are now very clear about what we stand for.

"Everything we do now at Cricket Australia is about uniting and inspiring communities through cricket."

He added that while Australian teams were determined to win, "we have a non-negotiable expectation that we compete with respect".

While it has been assumed that Smith and Warner will waltz back in for the World Cup, the team's form in recent weeks has given selectors a major headache.

Australia's win over Pakistan on Wednesday was their sixth-straight one-day victory, sealing back-to-back series wins abroad for the first time since 2016 after also beating India.

Skipper Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Peter Handscomb and Glenn Maxwell have all been in good nick at the top of the order.

"It is bloody hard," Finch admitted of World Cup selection. "Especially when the side is playing so well, it's going to be difficult.&nbsp;

"At the end of the day, they're the selectors and it's an incredibly tough decision."

Australian cricket chief Kevin Roberts insisted the return of Steve Smith and David Warner will not disrupt the resurgent team as a report on Friday revealed senior players threatened a boycott in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal.

Australian cricket chief Kevin Roberts insisted the return of Steve Smith and David Warner will not disrupt the resurgent team as a report on Friday revealed senior players threatened a boycott in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal. One-year bans slapped on the former captain and his deputy for their part in the scandal dubbed "Sandpaper-gate" expired and the pair are free to play at state and international level again. Warner was widely seen as the instigator of the plot during the third Test in Cape Town last year to use sandpaper to alter the ball, with rookie opener Cameron Bancroft carrying it out and Smith turning a blind eye. The Sydney Morning Herald reported Friday that star bowlers Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all intended to pull out of the fourth Test in South Africa if Warner was not removed from the team. Citing multiple sources, it said "the revelation highlights the extent of the fracture within the dressing-room in the immediate aftermath of one of the most damaging events in Australian cricket history". Smith and Warner's reintegration process has already begun with the pair meeting the one-day team in Dubai this month. Lyon and Cummins were present, but the injured Starc and Hazlewood were not. Asked whether relations had been patched up sufficiently for Warner's return not to be disruptive, Roberts compared the situation to any other workplace. "What we're focused on is doing everything we can to support Dave, Steve, Cameron and all of the other support staff with this integration... to build harmony rather than to disrupt the harmony that is building," he said at the Melbourne Press Club Thursday. "At the same time, let's be open about it -- in any workplace you don't need to be best mates with everyone, but there needs to be a foundation of respect and I think there is growing respect there." He added that Smith, Warner, and Bancroft had all "owned their mistakes, they've paid a price and have served their time". The "Sandpaper-gate" scandal triggered far-reaching consequences for Australian cricket. Then-coach Darren Lehmann quit and all the top brass from Cricket Australia left after a scathing review said their "arrogant and controlling" win-at-all-costs culture was partly to blame for players bending the rules. 'Bloody hard' Reflecting on the past year, Roberts said "our highest priority now is rebuilding trust both within and around cricket". "We've seen tangible change at the board level, the executive level, we've got a new men's coach and a relatively new men's Test captain. "Those are some of the tangible changes. But much more importantly the really important intangible change is that we are now very clear about what we stand for. "Everything we do now at Cricket Australia is about uniting and inspiring communities through cricket." He added that while Australian teams were determined to win, "we have a non-negotiable expectation that we compete with respect". While it has been assumed that Smith and Warner will waltz back in for the World Cup, the team's form in recent weeks has given selectors a major headache. Australia's win over Pakistan on Wednesday was their sixth-straight one-day victory, sealing back-to-back series wins abroad for the first time since 2016 after also beating India. Skipper Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Peter Handscomb and Glenn Maxwell have all been in good nick at the top of the order. "It is bloody hard," Finch admitted of World Cup selection. "Especially when the side is playing so well, it's going to be difficult. "At the end of the day, they're the selectors and it's an incredibly tough decision."

Steve Smith, David Warner 'paid price', says Australia cricket chief as boycott threat revealed

Australia pulled off a sensational last-over, six-run win despite a debut hundred by Pakistan's Abid Ali and second career century by Mohammad Rizwan in the fourth one-day international in Dubai on Friday.

Needing 278 to win, Pakistan were brought close to their target by Ali's 112 and Rizwan's 104 but in the end the twin hundreds were in vain as they failed to score a required 17 off Marcus Stoinis's last over.

The win gives Australia a 4-0 lead with the last match also in Dubai on Sunday. Glenn Maxwell missed a second career hundred by just two runs, Usman Khawaja scored 62 and Alex Carey 55 as Australia posted 277-7 in their 50 overs.

Ali and Rizwan had put Pakistan on course for victory with a 144-run third-wicket stand but once Ali departed off leg-spinner Adam Zampa in the 42nd over, the innings wilted under the pressure of 60 runs in the last 8.5 overs.

Umar Akmal and debutant Saad Ali fell for seven each to paceman Nathan Coulter-Nile who finished with 3-53 while Stoinis had Rizwan and Usman Shinwari (six) in the final over to seal the win.

Ali, only drafted into the side two hours before the start after Imam-ul-Haq went down with fever, grabbed his opportunity, completing his hundred off 111 balls.

He was lucky to survive a leg-before appeal on 98 off Zampa as the review went on umpire's call. He took two singles to reach the three-figures mark.

Ali is the 15th batsman to score a hundred on one-day international debut. Salim Elahi (102 not out v Sri Lanka at Gujranwala in 1995) and Imam (100 v Sri Lanka in Abu

Dhabi 2017) were the other two Pakistani batsmen to score debut ODI tons.

Ali hit nine boundaries in his 111-ball knock while Rizwan had a six and nine boundaries off 102 balls.

"Credit to our boys, though Abid and Rizwan getting hundreds were great knocks," said Australian skipper Aaron Finch whose team has now won seven games in a row after their 3-2 win in India earlier this month.

"When (Usman) Shinwari hit a six (in the last over), the heart started going again. But we kept hanging in. And that's something we've prided ourselves on. Our quicks at the end were very disciplined." Imad Wasim praised Ali and Rizwan, but blamed the middle-order batting for defeat.

"The two hundreds were positives for us, but we should have won this game," said Wasim. "We lacked power hitters and a finisher." Earlier, it was Maxwell who lifted

Australia -- sent into bat -- from 140-5 to an imposing total. Maxwell hit three sixes and nine boundaries in his 98 off 82 balls.

A new look Pakistan team, with Wasim as skipper after Shoaib Malik was ruled out with a rib injury, caught Australia napping at 101-4 when Maxwell walked in. Dropped on 10 by keeper Rizwan off Yasir Shah, Maxwell repaired the innings with a 134-run partnership for the sixth wicket with Carey who finished with 67-ball 55 for his maiden fifty with three boundaries.

Maxwell, bowled by fast bowler Shinwari off a no-ball when on 76, was within a sight of his second ODI hundred when he was run out while attempting a double run. Carey supported Maxwell as the pair beat the previous sixth wicket stand in Australia-Pakistan ODIs of 90 between Dirk Wellham and Rod Marsh at Sydney in 1981.

Australia lost in-form opener Finch for 39, one short of completing 4,000 one-day runs while Usman Khawaja made a solid 78-ball 62 with six boundaries before he was trapped leg-before by Yasir who finished with 2-57.

Wasim, who had figures of 2-56, dismissed Shaun Marsh (five) and Peter Handscomb (seven) while Mohammad Hasnain got the prized wicket of Finch before dismissing Carey off the last ball, grabbing 2-52.

Australia pulled off a sensational last-over, six-run win despite a debut hundred by Pakistan's Abid Ali and second career century by Mohammad Rizwan in the fourth one-day international in Dubai on Friday.

Australia pulled off a sensational last-over, six-run win despite a debut hundred by Pakistan's Abid Ali and second career century by Mohammad Rizwan in the fourth one-day international in Dubai on Friday. Needing 278 to win, Pakistan were brought close to their target by Ali's 112 and Rizwan's 104 but in the end the twin hundreds were in vain as they failed to score a required 17 off Marcus Stoinis's last over. The win gives Australia a 4-0 lead with the last match also in Dubai on Sunday. Glenn Maxwell missed a second career hundred by just two runs, Usman Khawaja scored 62 and Alex Carey 55 as Australia posted 277-7 in their 50 overs. Ali and Rizwan had put Pakistan on course for victory with a 144-run third-wicket stand but once Ali departed off leg-spinner Adam Zampa in the 42nd over, the innings wilted under the pressure of 60 runs in the last 8.5 overs. Umar Akmal and debutant Saad Ali fell for seven each to paceman Nathan Coulter-Nile who finished with 3-53 while Stoinis had Rizwan and Usman Shinwari (six) in the final over to seal the win. Ali, only drafted into the side two hours before the start after Imam-ul-Haq went down with fever, grabbed his opportunity, completing his hundred off 111 balls. He was lucky to survive a leg-before appeal on 98 off Zampa as the review went on umpire's call. He took two singles to reach the three-figures mark. Ali is the 15th batsman to score a hundred on one-day international debut. Salim Elahi (102 not out v Sri Lanka at Gujranwala in 1995) and Imam (100 v Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi 2017) were the other two Pakistani batsmen to score debut ODI tons. Ali hit nine boundaries in his 111-ball knock while Rizwan had a six and nine boundaries off 102 balls. "Credit to our boys, though Abid and Rizwan getting hundreds were great knocks," said Australian skipper Aaron Finch whose team has now won seven games in a row after their 3-2 win in India earlier this month. "When (Usman) Shinwari hit a six (in the last over), the heart started going again. But we kept hanging in. And that's something we've prided ourselves on. Our quicks at the end were very disciplined." Imad Wasim praised Ali and Rizwan, but blamed the middle-order batting for defeat. "The two hundreds were positives for us, but we should have won this game," said Wasim. "We lacked power hitters and a finisher." Earlier, it was Maxwell who lifted Australia -- sent into bat -- from 140-5 to an imposing total. Maxwell hit three sixes and nine boundaries in his 98 off 82 balls. A new look Pakistan team, with Wasim as skipper after Shoaib Malik was ruled out with a rib injury, caught Australia napping at 101-4 when Maxwell walked in. Dropped on 10 by keeper Rizwan off Yasir Shah, Maxwell repaired the innings with a 134-run partnership for the sixth wicket with Carey who finished with 67-ball 55 for his maiden fifty with three boundaries. Maxwell, bowled by fast bowler Shinwari off a no-ball when on 76, was within a sight of his second ODI hundred when he was run out while attempting a double run. Carey supported Maxwell as the pair beat the previous sixth wicket stand in Australia-Pakistan ODIs of 90 between Dirk Wellham and Rod Marsh at Sydney in 1981. Australia lost in-form opener Finch for 39, one short of completing 4,000 one-day runs while Usman Khawaja made a solid 78-ball 62 with six boundaries before he was trapped leg-before by Yasir who finished with 2-57. Wasim, who had figures of 2-56, dismissed Shaun Marsh (five) and Peter Handscomb (seven) while Mohammad Hasnain got the prized wicket of Finch before dismissing Carey off the last ball, grabbing 2-52.

Australia claim narrow win despite Abid Ali's debut hundred

Australia cruised to an 80-run victory over Pakistan in the third one-dayer in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday and took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.

Captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Aaron+Finch">Aaron Finch</a> fell 10 runs short of becoming the first Australian to score three consecutive ODI centuries but negotiated difficult conditions to help his team finish with a decent total of 266-6.

The right-handed opener made 90 off 136 deliveries before Glenn Maxwell stepped up the scoring rate with a 55-ball 71 on a pitch that offered more assistance to the bowlers than the last two matches in Sharjah.

It was Maxwell's highest ODI score in over two years, giving him an edge in intense competition for the middle-order batting spots for the World Cup starting on May 30 in England and Wales.

"It wasn't the easiest wicket to start on," Maxwell said. "Once I got through that, it got easier.

"We've been really focussed about what we want to do here. We want to build on this momentum ... It's been a continual build for our team since last year, and we're starting to get it right."

Finch, whose role as a captain was questioned a month ago because of his form slump, has responded with 479 runs in his last six one-day innings.

The 32-year-old was perfectly placed for a 14th hundred in the 50-overs format but holed out to leg-spinner Yasir Shah in the 42nd over.

Maxwell and wicketkeeper-batsman Alex Carey (25 not out) added a quickfire 61 for the sixth wicket as Australia hit 90 in the last 10 overs.

Chasing a target of 267, Pakistan were rattled by a testing new-ball spell from Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins, who removed opener Shan Masood, Haris Sohail and Mohammad Rizwan with just 16 runs on the board.

Imam-ul-Haq and captain Shoaib Malik shared a 59-run partnership for the fourth wicket before the Australian spinners stepped up.

Part-time off-spinner Maxwell trapped Imam lbw for 46 and Nathan Lyon removed Malik for 32, leaving Pakistan on the brink of a fourth straight defeat in the format.

Leg-spinner Adam Zampa hurried through the tail with a career-best ODI spell of 4-43 to bowl out Pakistan for 186 in the 45th over.

The win was Australia's sixth in a row after their 3-2 comeback victory in the series in India this month. The fourth one-dayer will be played on Friday in Dubai.

Australia cruised to an 80-run victory over Pakistan in the third one-dayer in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday and took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.

Australia cruised to an 80-run victory over Pakistan in the third one-dayer in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday and took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. Captain Aaron Finch fell 10 runs short of becoming the first Australian to score three consecutive ODI centuries but negotiated difficult conditions to help his team finish with a decent total of 266-6. The right-handed opener made 90 off 136 deliveries before Glenn Maxwell stepped up the scoring rate with a 55-ball 71 on a pitch that offered more assistance to the bowlers than the last two matches in Sharjah. It was Maxwell's highest ODI score in over two years, giving him an edge in intense competition for the middle-order batting spots for the World Cup starting on May 30 in England and Wales. "It wasn't the easiest wicket to start on," Maxwell said. "Once I got through that, it got easier. "We've been really focussed about what we want to do here. We want to build on this momentum ... It's been a continual build for our team since last year, and we're starting to get it right." Finch, whose role as a captain was questioned a month ago because of his form slump, has responded with 479 runs in his last six one-day innings. The 32-year-old was perfectly placed for a 14th hundred in the 50-overs format but holed out to leg-spinner Yasir Shah in the 42nd over. Maxwell and wicketkeeper-batsman Alex Carey (25 not out) added a quickfire 61 for the sixth wicket as Australia hit 90 in the last 10 overs. Chasing a target of 267, Pakistan were rattled by a testing new-ball spell from Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins, who removed opener Shan Masood, Haris Sohail and Mohammad Rizwan with just 16 runs on the board. Imam-ul-Haq and captain Shoaib Malik shared a 59-run partnership for the fourth wicket before the Australian spinners stepped up. Part-time off-spinner Maxwell trapped Imam lbw for 46 and Nathan Lyon removed Malik for 32, leaving Pakistan on the brink of a fourth straight defeat in the format. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa hurried through the tail with a career-best ODI spell of 4-43 to bowl out Pakistan for 186 in the 45th over. The win was Australia's sixth in a row after their 3-2 comeback victory in the series in India this month. The fourth one-dayer will be played on Friday in Dubai.

AUSvsPAK, 3rd ODI: Australia overpower Pakistan to clinch ODI series

In-form batsman Usman Khawaja should be part of Australia's World Cup plans despite the imminent returns of Steve Smith and David Warner, former captain Ricky Ponting has said.

Khawaja struck 383 runs, including two centuries, in Australia's 3-2 series win over India earlier this month and Ponting is of the view that the left-hander opener had earned his place at the World Cup.

"I think we all saw over the last few weeks just how skilful a player Usman Khawaja is... and I think when you see him play like that it just makes you wonder why he doesn't do it a bit more regularly," Ponting told reporters on Tuesday.

"I would be surprised if Khawaja wasn't in the (World Cup) squad. Khawaja could probably slot down at three when Warner comes in and Steve Smith might bat at four or five or something just to shore up those middle overs."

Smith and Warner were suspended for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year and are set to be reintegrated into the team ahead of the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England and Wales.

Ponting, who led Australia to World Cup glory in 2003 and 2007, said current skipper Aaron Finch would continue to lead the side at this year's tournament but former captain Smith could still be counted for advice.

"(Smith) is still out on the field, so he can help Aaron Finch out," Ponting added. "I'd imagine that Aaron Finch would be leaning on Steve Smith a lot for a bit of advice, maybe leading into the games, as far as preparation is concerned."

In-form batsman Usman Khawaja should be part of Australia's World Cup plans despite the imminent returns of Steve Smith and David Warner, former captain Ricky Ponting has said.

In-form batsman Usman Khawaja should be part of Australia's World Cup plans despite the imminent returns of Steve Smith and David Warner, former captain Ricky Ponting has said. Khawaja struck 383 runs, including two centuries, in Australia's 3-2 series win over India earlier this month and Ponting is of the view that the left-hander opener had earned his place at the World Cup. "I think we all saw over the last few weeks just how skilful a player Usman Khawaja is... and I think when you see him play like that it just makes you wonder why he doesn't do it a bit more regularly," Ponting told reporters on Tuesday. "I would be surprised if Khawaja wasn't in the (World Cup) squad. Khawaja could probably slot down at three when Warner comes in and Steve Smith might bat at four or five or something just to shore up those middle overs." Smith and Warner were suspended for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year and are set to be reintegrated into the team ahead of the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England and Wales. Ponting, who led Australia to World Cup glory in 2003 and 2007, said current skipper Aaron Finch would continue to lead the side at this year's tournament but former captain Smith could still be counted for advice. "(Smith) is still out on the field, so he can help Aaron Finch out," Ponting added. "I'd imagine that Aaron Finch would be leaning on Steve Smith a lot for a bit of advice, maybe leading into the games, as far as preparation is concerned."

Despite Smith-Warner return, Ricky Ponting backs Usman Khawaja to make Australia's World Cup squad