High-flying India crashed to a stunning 2-3 defeat against Australia at home in the bilateral ODI series and the setback should act as a warning sign for Virat Kohli and his men going into the upcoming World Cup as one of the favourites, feels former captain Rahul Dravid.

India led 2-0 in the five-match series but lost the last three to the reigning World Cup champions to lose an ODI series after a lengthy gap.

These games are the last of the 50-over competition for India going into the World Cup commencing on May 30 in England.

"I think there was a bit of notion that we are going walk there and win the World Cup easily. So it's a good thing that has happened. What it has (the outcome against Australia) reminded us is that we have to play the World Cup very, very well," said Dravid.

He was speaking at the launch of ESPNCricinfos new metrics, SuperStats, along with his former India teammate Sanjay Manjrekar here on Wednesday.

"In a way, I think its a good balancing factor. India has performed well in the last couple of years. There was a little bit of talk that we are almost going to walk in there and win the World Cup very easily because we are the No. 1 team and we have been dominating one-day cricket for the last couple of years," said India's current under 19 and A team coach.

"But I don't find anything strange from my perspective watching the series. I still feel that we are going to be one of the favourites. But it's going to be tough. It's going to be competitive," the cricket stalwart insisted.

Both Dravid and Manjrekar also answered queries on the much-talked-about workload factor in the IPL starting on March 23 for some key Indian players, who are expected to make the World Cup squad, such as Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya.

All-rounder Pandya is coming off a lower back injury layoff that forced him to miss matches in Australia as well as the home series against the same opponents at home.

"Most players are smart about these things. They know how to handle their body. I don't think the players would put their body on the line. I was reading Patrick Cummins (Australia pacer) saying that he feels better bowling when he is constantly playing rather than having rested and coming back," Dravid said.

"So to each player, it's different. There cannot be a blanket case that all should be rested. We have to just trust the players. They know what needs to be done," he opined.

Manjrekar was even more forthright and said the Cricket Board should not put pressure on IPL franchises to rest some players in view of the following World Cup.

"My views won't be appreciated. This is free enterprise. IPL is capitalism at its best. I don't think there should be any outside interference. It should be up to the franchises. Don't think there should be pressure (on IPL franchises) from the Cricket Board (BCCI) (to rest some players)," the former Test batsman turned TV commentator remarked.

Both also talked about the numbers game in cricket.

While welcoming the new parameters launched by the cricket website which he felt would be of some help to coaches, Dravid said, "numbers are not everything but at the same time you cannot ignore numbers".

"Numbers can't quantify whether someone is not feeling up for it on that particular day. There's a mix of both," is how he put it.&nbsp;

High-flying India crashed to a stunning 2-3 defeat against Australia at home in the bilateral ODI series and the setback should act as a warning sign for Virat Kohli and his men going into the upcoming World Cup as one of the favourites, feels former captain Rahul Dravid.

High-flying India crashed to a stunning 2-3 defeat against Australia at home in the bilateral ODI series and the setback should act as a warning sign for Virat Kohli and his men going into the upcoming World Cup as one of the favourites, feels former captain Rahul Dravid. India led 2-0 in the five-match series but lost the last three to the reigning World Cup champions to lose an ODI series after a lengthy gap. These games are the last of the 50-over competition for India going into the World Cup commencing on May 30 in England. "I think there was a bit of notion that we are going walk there and win the World Cup easily. So it's a good thing that has happened. What it has (the outcome against Australia) reminded us is that we have to play the World Cup very, very well," said Dravid. He was speaking at the launch of ESPNCricinfos new metrics, SuperStats, along with his former India teammate Sanjay Manjrekar here on Wednesday. "In a way, I think its a good balancing factor. India has performed well in the last couple of years. There was a little bit of talk that we are almost going to walk in there and win the World Cup very easily because we are the No. 1 team and we have been dominating one-day cricket for the last couple of years," said India's current under 19 and A team coach. "But I don't find anything strange from my perspective watching the series. I still feel that we are going to be one of the favourites. But it's going to be tough. It's going to be competitive," the cricket stalwart insisted. Both Dravid and Manjrekar also answered queries on the much-talked-about workload factor in the IPL starting on March 23 for some key Indian players, who are expected to make the World Cup squad, such as Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya. All-rounder Pandya is coming off a lower back injury layoff that forced him to miss matches in Australia as well as the home series against the same opponents at home. "Most players are smart about these things. They know how to handle their body. I don't think the players would put their body on the line. I was reading Patrick Cummins (Australia pacer) saying that he feels better bowling when he is constantly playing rather than having rested and coming back," Dravid said. "So to each player, it's different. There cannot be a blanket case that all should be rested. We have to just trust the players. They know what needs to be done," he opined. Manjrekar was even more forthright and said the Cricket Board should not put pressure on IPL franchises to rest some players in view of the following World Cup. "My views won't be appreciated. This is free enterprise. IPL is capitalism at its best. I don't think there should be any outside interference. It should be up to the franchises. Don't think there should be pressure (on IPL franchises) from the Cricket Board (BCCI) (to rest some players)," the former Test batsman turned TV commentator remarked. Both also talked about the numbers game in cricket. While welcoming the new parameters launched by the cricket website which he felt would be of some help to coaches, Dravid said, "numbers are not everything but at the same time you cannot ignore numbers". "Numbers can't quantify whether someone is not feeling up for it on that particular day. There's a mix of both," is how he put it.

Defeat to Australia warning sign for India ahead of ICC World Cup: Rahul Dravid

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-steve-smith-feeling-good-as-he-is-back-in-nets-after-elbow-surgery-200451">Steve Smith and David Warner</a> have been welcomed back into the Australian fold with "hugs and cuddles" at a team meet-up in Dubai, and said it was like they'd never left.

The disgraced pair, whose year-long bans for ball-tampering expire this month, were invited by coach Justin Langer as part of their re-integration after the scandal in South Africa that rocked the cricketing world.

Australia are in Dubai as they prepare for an upcoming series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates following their upset one-day series win against India.

"It's been awesome. It's like we didn't really leave, the boys were very accepting of us coming in and with open arms," said Warner in audio comments supplied to AFP Sunday.

"A lot of big hugs and cuddles. It's been great.&nbsp;

"It's good to see the spirit they're in after a great series win in India and I am obviously looking forward to watching them play against Pakistan here and hopefully they win that series as well," he added.

The "sandpapergate" scandal in Cape Town, which also saw opening batsman Cameron Bancroft banned for nine months, had far-reaching consequences for Australian cricket.

Then-coach Darren Lehmann quit and there was a clean-out of top executives from Cricket Australia after a scathing review said its "arrogant and controlling" culture was partly to blame for players bending the rules.

Australian cricket has since undergone a host of cultural changes under Langer, and Warner and Smith were brought up to speed at the meeting on how it now worked.

"Making sure we're in line with team values moving forwards," Warner said of the meet-up, which also discussed the squad's preparations for the upcoming World Cup.&nbsp;

"Obviously (we've) been out for 12 months and there has been a big change, which is great, and it's about excepting that and playing what our role should be in the team."

Smith, who was stripped of the captaincy and is barred from being considered for any leadership role for a further 12 months after his ban ends, echoed Warner's comments.

"It seems like some really good energy among the team at the moment," he said.

"It's great to be back around the group, they've been really welcoming and almost like we've never left."

While the cheating row initially unleashed a torrent of vitriol against them, that sentiment has eased significantly and they are expected to be slotted straight back into the team.

Smith said the Dubai catch-up went through "the values that are instilled in the team at the moment and making sure we are on the right path looking forward to what's coming up; a huge World Cup and an Ashes series in England".

Both players, who are returning from elbow injuries, are eligible for the final two games of the Pakistan series. But selectors decided it would be better to ease themselves back at the upcoming Indian Premier League.

Steve Smith and David Warner have been welcomed back into the Australian fold with "hugs and cuddles" at a team meet-up in Dubai, and said it was like they'd never left.

Steve Smith and David Warner have been welcomed back into the Australian fold with "hugs and cuddles" at a team meet-up in Dubai, and said it was like they'd never left. The disgraced pair, whose year-long bans for ball-tampering expire this month, were invited by coach Justin Langer as part of their re-integration after the scandal in South Africa that rocked the cricketing world. Australia are in Dubai as they prepare for an upcoming series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates following their upset one-day series win against India. "It's been awesome. It's like we didn't really leave, the boys were very accepting of us coming in and with open arms," said Warner in audio comments supplied to AFP Sunday. "A lot of big hugs and cuddles. It's been great. "It's good to see the spirit they're in after a great series win in India and I am obviously looking forward to watching them play against Pakistan here and hopefully they win that series as well," he added. The "sandpapergate" scandal in Cape Town, which also saw opening batsman Cameron Bancroft banned for nine months, had far-reaching consequences for Australian cricket. Then-coach Darren Lehmann quit and there was a clean-out of top executives from Cricket Australia after a scathing review said its "arrogant and controlling" culture was partly to blame for players bending the rules. Australian cricket has since undergone a host of cultural changes under Langer, and Warner and Smith were brought up to speed at the meeting on how it now worked. "Making sure we're in line with team values moving forwards," Warner said of the meet-up, which also discussed the squad's preparations for the upcoming World Cup. "Obviously (we've) been out for 12 months and there has been a big change, which is great, and it's about excepting that and playing what our role should be in the team." Smith, who was stripped of the captaincy and is barred from being considered for any leadership role for a further 12 months after his ban ends, echoed Warner's comments. "It seems like some really good energy among the team at the moment," he said. "It's great to be back around the group, they've been really welcoming and almost like we've never left." While the cheating row initially unleashed a torrent of vitriol against them, that sentiment has eased significantly and they are expected to be slotted straight back into the team. Smith said the Dubai catch-up went through "the values that are instilled in the team at the moment and making sure we are on the right path looking forward to what's coming up; a huge World Cup and an Ashes series in England". Both players, who are returning from elbow injuries, are eligible for the final two games of the Pakistan series. But selectors decided it would be better to ease themselves back at the upcoming Indian Premier League.

'It's like we didn't really leave': Steve Smith, David Warner on returning to the Australian cricket team

Australia defeated India Wednesday by 35 runs to win the fifth one-day international at Delhi's Feroz Shah Kotla stadium. By virtue of this win, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-blames-drs-after-losing-4th-odi-to-australia-202423">the visitors have won the five-game series 3-2</a>.

Opting to bat, Australia were restricted to a score of 272 runs despite Usman Khawaja hitting a century and Peter Handscomb slamming a half-century.

In reply, India were bowled out for 237 runs as the wickets kept tumbling and vice-captain Rohit Sharma did not find any support at the other end.&nbsp;

Sharma, who had hit a patient and crucial half-century, was the sole batsman to have kept the charge going while others, including skipper Virat Kohli, failed to stay on the crease for long.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the only pair that saved India's pride at home was of Kedar Jadhav and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The two played some phenomenal quick shots to reduce the run rate and target, which India at a point were very far from.

The hosts, at one point, were reduced to 136 for the loss of six wickets. It was after that the two took the charge and depleted the Australian bolwing attack for the next few overs.&nbsp;

However, both Jadhav and Kumar departed in quick succession for 44 and 46 runs respectively. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant, who was replaced in place of veteran batsman MS Dhoni, once again failed to share the pressure and departed for a poor 16 runs.&nbsp;

There were high expectations from Pant as he is well versed with the conditions of the Kotla ground. Though, his performance with the gloves were decent today in comparison to this 4th ODI, where he committed some serious mistakes that become one of the reasons why India lost the game.&nbsp;

In bowling, India were able to restrict the opponents from scoring a big total. Bhuvneshwar Kumar gave the best performance by clinching three wickets while Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja took two.&nbsp;

Left-arm bowler Kuldeep Yadav settled for one wicket.

For Australia, Adam Zampa was the most disastrous as he went on to take three while Pat Cummins and Jhye Richardson settled for a brace.&nbsp;

Australia defeated India Wednesday by 35 runs to win the fifth one-day international at Delhi's Feroz Shah Kotla stadium. By virtue of this win, the visitors have won the five-game series 3-2.

Australia defeated India Wednesday by 35 runs to win the fifth one-day international at Delhi's Feroz Shah Kotla stadium. By virtue of this win, the visitors have won the five-game series 3-2. Opting to bat, Australia were restricted to a score of 272 runs despite Usman Khawaja hitting a century and Peter Handscomb slamming a half-century. In reply, India were bowled out for 237 runs as the wickets kept tumbling and vice-captain Rohit Sharma did not find any support at the other end. Sharma, who had hit a patient and crucial half-century, was the sole batsman to have kept the charge going while others, including skipper Virat Kohli, failed to stay on the crease for long. Meanwhile, the only pair that saved India's pride at home was of Kedar Jadhav and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The two played some phenomenal quick shots to reduce the run rate and target, which India at a point were very far from. The hosts, at one point, were reduced to 136 for the loss of six wickets. It was after that the two took the charge and depleted the Australian bolwing attack for the next few overs. However, both Jadhav and Kumar departed in quick succession for 44 and 46 runs respectively. Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant, who was replaced in place of veteran batsman MS Dhoni, once again failed to share the pressure and departed for a poor 16 runs. There were high expectations from Pant as he is well versed with the conditions of the Kotla ground. Though, his performance with the gloves were decent today in comparison to this 4th ODI, where he committed some serious mistakes that become one of the reasons why India lost the game. In bowling, India were able to restrict the opponents from scoring a big total. Bhuvneshwar Kumar gave the best performance by clinching three wickets while Mohammed Shami and Ravindra Jadeja took two. Left-arm bowler Kuldeep Yadav settled for one wicket. For Australia, Adam Zampa was the most disastrous as he went on to take three while Pat Cummins and Jhye Richardson settled for a brace.

Australia beat India by 35 runs in fifth ODI, win series 3-2

David Warner smashed a rapid-fire century for his Sydney club side on his return from elbow surgery, reinforcing his destructive abilities ahead of the World Cup in England.

The opener plundered seven sixes and four fours in his 77-ball onslaught for Randwick-Petersham, better known as the Randy Petes, in a one-day game against Penrith that they lost.

He was finally caught during Saturday's match, in front of a few dozen fans, off the bowling of 18-year-old left-armer Henry Railz, the Cricket Australia website reported.

Year-long ball-tampering bans from state and international for Warner and former Australian skipper Steve Smith run out on March 28.

They were both left out of Australia's squad on Friday for the upcoming one-day series against Pakistan despite being eligible for the final two games.

Selector Trevor Hohns said they would be better served easing their way back at the Indian Premier League, which gets under way this month.

Both men were forced to pull out of the Bangladesh Premier League Twenty20 tournament in January with elbow injuries and they underwent surgery.&nbsp;

Smith's injury was worse than Warner's and he is yet to return, although he picked up a bat again and had a session at the Sydney Cricket Ground last week.

"We all know they're two of the better players in world cricket," Hohns told reporters on Friday.

"So it's only natural we will take them seriously into consideration when we pick our World Cup squad. The main thing for them and us is to have them playing competitive cricket."

David Warner smashed a rapid-fire century for his Sydney club side on his return from elbow surgery, reinforcing his destructive abilities ahead of the World Cup in England.

David Warner smashed a rapid-fire century for his Sydney club side on his return from elbow surgery, reinforcing his destructive abilities ahead of the World Cup in England. The opener plundered seven sixes and four fours in his 77-ball onslaught for Randwick-Petersham, better known as the Randy Petes, in a one-day game against Penrith that they lost. He was finally caught during Saturday's match, in front of a few dozen fans, off the bowling of 18-year-old left-armer Henry Railz, the Cricket Australia website reported. Year-long ball-tampering bans from state and international for Warner and former Australian skipper Steve Smith run out on March 28. They were both left out of Australia's squad on Friday for the upcoming one-day series against Pakistan despite being eligible for the final two games. Selector Trevor Hohns said they would be better served easing their way back at the Indian Premier League, which gets under way this month. Both men were forced to pull out of the Bangladesh Premier League Twenty20 tournament in January with elbow injuries and they underwent surgery. Smith's injury was worse than Warner's and he is yet to return, although he picked up a bat again and had a session at the Sydney Cricket Ground last week. "We all know they're two of the better players in world cricket," Hohns told reporters on Friday. "So it's only natural we will take them seriously into consideration when we pick our World Cup squad. The main thing for them and us is to have them playing competitive cricket."

David Warner smacks century on return from elbow surgery

Skipper Tim Paine Monday said he expects the banned Steve Smith and David Warner to play "a huge" role in this year's Ashes series against England, with Australia now in "a really good place."&nbsp;

After a torrid 12 months marred by the ball-tampering row and poor form without their top stars, Australia ended their summer on a high by emphatically winning two Tests against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

They claimed the first in Brisbane by an innings and 40 runs and the second in Canberra by 366 runs, following a tough home series defeat to top-ranked India.&nbsp;

Smith and Warner's bans for their role in trying to alter the ball in South Africa expire late next month and they are widely expected to quickly return to the national set-up.&nbsp;

"I think everyone to a degree has to earn their stripes. I think those two have got plenty of runs in the bank if you like," Paine said when asked if they could slot straight back in.&nbsp;

"Look, I see us going to the Ashes and them having a huge part in us winning the series. That's how I see how important they are to this team.&nbsp;

"We know how good they are and hopefully once their bans are up they'll be welcomed back and they will win Test matches like they did before."&nbsp;

Without the experienced pair, Australia struggled. But at least they broke a century drought stretching back to October in Canberra, with Joe Burns, Travis Head, Kurtis Patterson and Usman Khawaja all cashing in.&nbsp;

Their knocks put them in prime position for the Ashes against an England side reeling from an embarrassing capitulation in the West Indies.&nbsp;

Following a 381-run defeat by the hosts in the first Test in Barbados last month, England suffered a 10-wicket thrashing in Antigua on Saturday to lose the three-match series 2-0. 
 
Won back respect 

With the imminent return of Warner and Smith, there are now question marks over Marcus Harris and number four Marnus Labuschagne. 
Harris struggled in Canberra on a batting-friendly wicket as fellow opener Burns hit 180, while Labuschagne managed just six and four in his two innings.&nbsp;

Khawaja's snapping of a run drought is widely seen as being enough for him to remain at first drop, with Head's 161 and 59 not out sealing his place at number five.&nbsp;

Paine said he has a "fair idea" of what the Ashes team might look like.&nbsp;

"What we have seen over this summer is we are starting to build a squad with plenty of depth. There's probably anywhere between 16 and 25 players we think are now in the mix, which is a really good place to be," he added.&nbsp;

For Paine, heading to England, and as skipper, is something that has been on his mind for months.&nbsp;

"I've been dreaming about it actually," he said.&nbsp;

"I'm happy now that we've got this (Sri Lanka series) out of the way and I can put everything into it because every Australian cricketer can't wait to go and play an Ashes series, particularly in England."&nbsp;

The ball-tampering scandal, which led to year-long bans for Smith and Warner and nine months in exile for Cameron Bancroft, led to Australia changing its cricketing culture and toning down its aggressive sledging.

Paine said he was "really proud of the way we have gone about it".&nbsp;

"We spoke at the start of the summer that our main priority was to win back the respect of our Australian public and cricket fans. Sitting here now, I think we've gone a long way to doing that," he said.

Skipper Tim Paine Monday said he expects the banned Steve Smith and David Warner to play "a huge" role in this year's Ashes series against England, with Australia now in "a really good place.

Skipper Tim Paine Monday said he expects the banned Steve Smith and David Warner to play "a huge" role in this year's Ashes series against England, with Australia now in "a really good place." After a torrid 12 months marred by the ball-tampering row and poor form without their top stars, Australia ended their summer on a high by emphatically winning two Tests against Sri Lanka. They claimed the first in Brisbane by an innings and 40 runs and the second in Canberra by 366 runs, following a tough home series defeat to top-ranked India. Smith and Warner's bans for their role in trying to alter the ball in South Africa expire late next month and they are widely expected to quickly return to the national set-up. "I think everyone to a degree has to earn their stripes. I think those two have got plenty of runs in the bank if you like," Paine said when asked if they could slot straight back in. "Look, I see us going to the Ashes and them having a huge part in us winning the series. That's how I see how important they are to this team. "We know how good they are and hopefully once their bans are up they'll be welcomed back and they will win Test matches like they did before." Without the experienced pair, Australia struggled. But at least they broke a century drought stretching back to October in Canberra, with Joe Burns, Travis Head, Kurtis Patterson and Usman Khawaja all cashing in. Their knocks put them in prime position for the Ashes against an England side reeling from an embarrassing capitulation in the West Indies. Following a 381-run defeat by the hosts in the first Test in Barbados last month, England suffered a 10-wicket thrashing in Antigua on Saturday to lose the three-match series 2-0. Won back respect With the imminent return of Warner and Smith, there are now question marks over Marcus Harris and number four Marnus Labuschagne. Harris struggled in Canberra on a batting-friendly wicket as fellow opener Burns hit 180, while Labuschagne managed just six and four in his two innings. Khawaja's snapping of a run drought is widely seen as being enough for him to remain at first drop, with Head's 161 and 59 not out sealing his place at number five. Paine said he has a "fair idea" of what the Ashes team might look like. "What we have seen over this summer is we are starting to build a squad with plenty of depth. There's probably anywhere between 16 and 25 players we think are now in the mix, which is a really good place to be," he added. For Paine, heading to England, and as skipper, is something that has been on his mind for months. "I've been dreaming about it actually," he said. "I'm happy now that we've got this (Sri Lanka series) out of the way and I can put everything into it because every Australian cricketer can't wait to go and play an Ashes series, particularly in England." The ball-tampering scandal, which led to year-long bans for Smith and Warner and nine months in exile for Cameron Bancroft, led to Australia changing its cricketing culture and toning down its aggressive sledging. Paine said he was "really proud of the way we have gone about it". "We spoke at the start of the summer that our main priority was to win back the respect of our Australian public and cricket fans. Sitting here now, I think we've gone a long way to doing that," he said.

Steve Smith and David Warner to play 'huge' part in Ashes series: Tim Paine

Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the test series against Sri Lanka due to a back injury, Cricket Australia (CA) said on Saturday.

Jhye Richardson, uncapped at test level, has been called into the squad in place of Hazlewood, who has taken 164 wickets in 44 tests.

"Josh has reported some back soreness over the last few days and scans have revealed a very early stage stress fracture in the same lower back area as his previous injury from last summer," CA physiotherapist David Beakley said in a statement.

"He will now begin a rehabilitation programme and we are confident he will be available for selection ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup in the UK later this year."Richardson, 22, has played seven one-day and seven Twenty20 internationals.&nbsp;"Jhye has had an impressive first half in his Sheffield Shield season and no-one could deny he has now continued that form in ODI matches for Australia," national selector Trevor Hohns said.Australia's test squad is due to meet up in Brisbane on Saturday evening, ahead of the first day-night test against Sri Lanka at the Gabba starting on Thursday.

Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the test series against Sri Lanka due to a back injury, Cricket Australia (CA) said on Saturday. Jhye Richardson, uncapped at test level, has been called into the squad in place of Hazlewood, who has taken 164 wickets in 44 tests.

Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the test series against Sri Lanka due to a back injury, Cricket Australia (CA) said on Saturday. Jhye Richardson, uncapped at test level, has been called into the squad in place of Hazlewood, who has taken 164 wickets in 44 tests. "Josh has reported some back soreness over the last few days and scans have revealed a very early stage stress fracture in the same lower back area as his previous injury from last summer," CA physiotherapist David Beakley said in a statement. "He will now begin a rehabilitation programme and we are confident he will be available for selection ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup in the UK later this year."Richardson, 22, has played seven one-day and seven Twenty20 internationals. "Jhye has had an impressive first half in his Sheffield Shield season and no-one could deny he has now continued that form in ODI matches for Australia," national selector Trevor Hohns said.Australia's test squad is due to meet up in Brisbane on Saturday evening, ahead of the first day-night test against Sri Lanka at the Gabba starting on Thursday.

Australia's Josh Hazlewood ruled out of Sri Lanka series, replacement announced

Indian cricket team on Monday scripted history as they clinched their <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-rain-continues-to-mar-fifth-days-play-aus-60-188608">maiden Test series on Australian soil</a> after the fourth and final game was declared a draw due to incessant rain and bad light.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/india-vs-australia-list-of-records-made-on-day-2-of-sydney-test-188237">Virat Kohli-led side dominated the proceedings</a> on the fourth day of the final Test match against Australia, enforcing the follow-on.&nbsp;

Australia was at 6/0 in the second innings and trail by 316 runs while following-on. This is the first time since 2005 that Australia is following-on, thanks to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-morning-session-on-day-4-lost-due-to-rain-and-bad-light-188477">Kuldeep Yadav's brilliant five-wicket haul.</a>

Only 25.3 overs were bowled on Sunday and India managed to wrap up the Australian first innings after some defiance from tailenders Mitchell Starc (29), Josh Hazlewood (21) and Pat Cummins (25).

Yadav decimated the hosts by picking up his second fifer in Tests and Virat Kohli enforced the follow-on, making Australia bat again.

Usman Khawaja (4) and Marcus Harris (2) then survived some brilliant bowling from Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Shami before bad light stopped the play and forced the umpires to call for early tea.

Since then, there wasn't much improvement with respect to the light and play was suspended.

Cheteshwar Pujara was declared the Player of the Match and Player of the Series for his remarkable performance.&nbsp;

When asked how proud is he of himself, Pujara said, " It's a great feeling for all of us. We've been working really hard to win a series overseas. And especially doing it in this country, it's never easy. First hundred was special, scoring it in Adelaide and going 1-0 up is something which we were all aiming for. "

"When you do that, there's a good chance of winning the series. As a batsman, you just need to get used to pace and bounce. Playing in different conditions, in South Africa, in England, in county cricket has helped me improve my technique."

"Definitely the best squad I've been a part of. Congratulations to the bowlers. Taking 20 wickets in never easy. I'll be playing some first-class cricket back home. During IPL, I might be playing county cricket. Next Test series is 6-7 months away."

I'll work hard on my game to play white-ball cricket. But Test cricket is my priority, it'll always remain my priority, he concluded.&nbsp;

It is the first time they have managed the feat since they began touring Australia in 1947-48.

Indian cricket team on Monday scripted history as they clinched their maiden Test series on Australian soil after the fourth and final game was declared a draw due to incessant rain and bad light.

Indian cricket team on Monday scripted history as they clinched their maiden Test series on Australian soil after the fourth and final game was declared a draw due to incessant rain and bad light. The Virat Kohli-led side dominated the proceedings on the fourth day of the final Test match against Australia, enforcing the follow-on. Australia was at 6/0 in the second innings and trail by 316 runs while following-on. This is the first time since 2005 that Australia is following-on, thanks to Kuldeep Yadav's brilliant five-wicket haul. Only 25.3 overs were bowled on Sunday and India managed to wrap up the Australian first innings after some defiance from tailenders Mitchell Starc (29), Josh Hazlewood (21) and Pat Cummins (25). Yadav decimated the hosts by picking up his second fifer in Tests and Virat Kohli enforced the follow-on, making Australia bat again. Usman Khawaja (4) and Marcus Harris (2) then survived some brilliant bowling from Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Shami before bad light stopped the play and forced the umpires to call for early tea. Since then, there wasn't much improvement with respect to the light and play was suspended. Cheteshwar Pujara was declared the Player of the Match and Player of the Series for his remarkable performance. When asked how proud is he of himself, Pujara said, " It's a great feeling for all of us. We've been working really hard to win a series overseas. And especially doing it in this country, it's never easy. First hundred was special, scoring it in Adelaide and going 1-0 up is something which we were all aiming for. " "When you do that, there's a good chance of winning the series. As a batsman, you just need to get used to pace and bounce. Playing in different conditions, in South Africa, in England, in county cricket has helped me improve my technique." "Definitely the best squad I've been a part of. Congratulations to the bowlers. Taking 20 wickets in never easy. I'll be playing some first-class cricket back home. During IPL, I might be playing county cricket. Next Test series is 6-7 months away." I'll work hard on my game to play white-ball cricket. But Test cricket is my priority, it'll always remain my priority, he concluded. It is the first time they have managed the feat since they began touring Australia in 1947-48.

India win maiden Test series Down Under, beat Australia 2-1

Australian paceman Peter Siddle, who has a brilliant run in the ongoing season of the Big Bash League, wants to make a comeback in Australia's T20 international team.

The 34-year-old said that he always had the skills of a T20I bowler but he never played enough so that he could cement his spot in the national side.

"I'd love to get back in the yellow-and-green for Australia in the shorter format. I think I did (always have T20 bowling skills) but I hadn't played enough to be able to bring them out," ICC quoted Siddle, as saying.

Talking about the prospects of getting a chance in the Australian Test team for their upcoming Ashes series, the right-arm bowler said that his good show in England while playing for Essex has increased his chances of getting opted for the prestigious Test series.

"Last year, playing a full season gave me an opportunity to train and prepare for it. If you go back to a couple of years ago, you'd probably think I'd run my course and might not get that opportunity again," he said."A good winter in England (with Essex) this year got me back in the frame.

I`ve been around the Test team for the whole summer - I`m thereabouts," he added. Ashes series is slated to be held from August 1 to September 16 in England.&nbsp;

Australian paceman Peter Siddle, who has a brilliant run in the ongoing season of the Big Bash League, wants to make a comeback in Australia's T20 international team.

Australian paceman Peter Siddle, who has a brilliant run in the ongoing season of the Big Bash League, wants to make a comeback in Australia's T20 international team. The 34-year-old said that he always had the skills of a T20I bowler but he never played enough so that he could cement his spot in the national side. "I'd love to get back in the yellow-and-green for Australia in the shorter format. I think I did (always have T20 bowling skills) but I hadn't played enough to be able to bring them out," ICC quoted Siddle, as saying. Talking about the prospects of getting a chance in the Australian Test team for their upcoming Ashes series, the right-arm bowler said that his good show in England while playing for Essex has increased his chances of getting opted for the prestigious Test series. "Last year, playing a full season gave me an opportunity to train and prepare for it. If you go back to a couple of years ago, you'd probably think I'd run my course and might not get that opportunity again," he said."A good winter in England (with Essex) this year got me back in the frame. I`ve been around the Test team for the whole summer - I`m thereabouts," he added. Ashes series is slated to be held from August 1 to September 16 in England.

Peter Siddle eyes Australian T20I berth

Banned Australian player Cameron Bancroft on Wednesday confirmed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-will-never-get-leadership-role-cricket-australia-126998">David Warner</a> asked him to alter the ball during the tampering scandal in South Africa and said he went along with it "to fit in".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cameron-bancroft-been-cleared-to-play-club-cricket--137063">Bancroft was seen using sandpaper</a> to try to rough up the ball in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/australian-cricketer-david-warner-arrives-in-sydney-after-ball-tampering-scandal-127213">Cape Town Test in March</a>, receiving a nine-month ban from international and domestic cricket for his part in an incident that rocked the sport.

Warner and then captain Steve Smith were exiled for a year after all three were found to be involved.

A Cricket Australia investigation pointed to Warner as the mastermind and Bancroft revealed more details in an interview with former Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist on Fox Sports.

"Dave suggested to me to carry the action out on the ball given the situation we were in the game and I didn't know any better," said Bancroft, whose ban runs out this coming weekend.

"I didn't know any better because I just wanted to fit in and feel valued really. As simple as that.

"The decision was based around my values, what I valued at the time, and I valued fitting in ... you hope that fitting in earns you respect and with that, I guess, there came a pretty big cost for the mistake."

At the time, Bancroft had been forging a new Australian Test opening partnership with the more experienced Warner. But he made he clear he did not consider himself a victim.&nbsp;

"I had a choice and I made a massive mistake and that is what is in my control," said Bancroft, who admitted he had often pondered what would have happened if he had said no and concluded it was a no-win situation.

"I would have gone to bed and I would have felt like I had let everybody down. I would have felt like I had let the team down. I would have left like I had hurt our chances to win the game of cricket."

- 'Don't want to know' - 
Last week Smith also opened up as he begins to re-emerge into public life, distancing himself from the plot while admitting he failed as a captain by turning a blind eye.

Asked what happened in the changing rooms at Cape Town before Bancroft attempted to cheat, he said: "For me in the room, I walked past something and had the opportunity to stop it and I didn't do it and that was my leadership failure.

"It was the potential for something to happen and it went on and happened out in the field," he added.

"I had the opportunity to stop it at that point rather than say, 'I don't want to know anything about it'.

"And that was my failure of leadership. And, you know, I've taken responsibility for that."

Smith made no mention of Warner, who has previously apologised and accepted responsibility for his part in the scandal.

Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts said Wednesday it was time to move on.

"The events of Cape Town were investigated and dealt with some nine months ago now so there's no new news there," he told reporters ahead of the third Test against India in Melbourne.

"What's important at this point is that we work with the players and with the leaders of the team on the reintegration of the sanctioned players when they become eligible for selection.”

Melbourne's Herald Sun cited Roberts as saying Cricket Australia would take the extraordinary step of canvassing the attitude of the dressing room before allowing the banned players back.

Bancroft is expected to make his return for the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League on Sunday, with Smith and Warner available from late March.

Banned Australian player Cameron Bancroft on Wednesday confirmed David Warner asked him to alter the ball during the tampering scandal in South Africa and said he went along with it "to fit in".

Banned Australian player Cameron Bancroft on Wednesday confirmed David Warner asked him to alter the ball during the tampering scandal in South Africa and said he went along with it "to fit in". Bancroft was seen using sandpaper to try to rough up the ball in the Cape Town Test in March, receiving a nine-month ban from international and domestic cricket for his part in an incident that rocked the sport. Warner and then captain Steve Smith were exiled for a year after all three were found to be involved. A Cricket Australia investigation pointed to Warner as the mastermind and Bancroft revealed more details in an interview with former Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist on Fox Sports. "Dave suggested to me to carry the action out on the ball given the situation we were in the game and I didn't know any better," said Bancroft, whose ban runs out this coming weekend. "I didn't know any better because I just wanted to fit in and feel valued really. As simple as that. "The decision was based around my values, what I valued at the time, and I valued fitting in ... you hope that fitting in earns you respect and with that, I guess, there came a pretty big cost for the mistake." At the time, Bancroft had been forging a new Australian Test opening partnership with the more experienced Warner. But he made he clear he did not consider himself a victim. "I had a choice and I made a massive mistake and that is what is in my control," said Bancroft, who admitted he had often pondered what would have happened if he had said no and concluded it was a no-win situation. "I would have gone to bed and I would have felt like I had let everybody down. I would have felt like I had let the team down. I would have left like I had hurt our chances to win the game of cricket." - 'Don't want to know' - Last week Smith also opened up as he begins to re-emerge into public life, distancing himself from the plot while admitting he failed as a captain by turning a blind eye. Asked what happened in the changing rooms at Cape Town before Bancroft attempted to cheat, he said: "For me in the room, I walked past something and had the opportunity to stop it and I didn't do it and that was my leadership failure. "It was the potential for something to happen and it went on and happened out in the field," he added. "I had the opportunity to stop it at that point rather than say, 'I don't want to know anything about it'. "And that was my failure of leadership. And, you know, I've taken responsibility for that." Smith made no mention of Warner, who has previously apologised and accepted responsibility for his part in the scandal. Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts said Wednesday it was time to move on. "The events of Cape Town were investigated and dealt with some nine months ago now so there's no new news there," he told reporters ahead of the third Test against India in Melbourne. "What's important at this point is that we work with the players and with the leaders of the team on the reintegration of the sanctioned players when they become eligible for selection.” Melbourne's Herald Sun cited Roberts as saying Cricket Australia would take the extraordinary step of canvassing the attitude of the dressing room before allowing the banned players back. Bancroft is expected to make his return for the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League on Sunday, with Smith and Warner available from late March.

David Warner asked me to tamper with ball, says Cameron Bancroft

Cricket Australia on Sunday introduced a seven-year-old&nbsp;Archie Schille, who is expected&nbsp;to lead the hosts in the iconic Boxing Day Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

As per reports, Schiller, who suffers from a rare heart condition, will be co-captain alongside Tim Paine starting Wednesday. The leg-spinner, who turned seven on Saturday, from Adelaide is set to partner his idol Nathan Lyon.&nbsp;

Schiller was named in Australia's squad for the Boxing Day Test last month. He trained with the Australian players in Adelaide ahead of the first Test and was also given the team jersey.

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Meet the newest member of the Australian Test team: <a href="https://t.co/vmcqkK0tqE">https://t.co/vmcqkK0tqE</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MakeAWishAust?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MakeAWishAust</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/0EMBSu4yEm">pic.twitter.com/0EMBSu4yEm</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1076661900170022913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The hosts go into the third Test of the four-match series on a high after their series-levelling victory at the Optus stadium in Perth. 
&nbsp;

Cricket Australia on Sunday introduced a seven-year-old Archie Schille, who is expected to lead the hosts in the iconic Boxing Day Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Cricket Australia on Sunday introduced a seven-year-old Archie Schille, who is expected to lead the hosts in the iconic Boxing Day Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. As per reports, Schiller, who suffers from a rare heart condition, will be co-captain alongside Tim Paine starting Wednesday. The leg-spinner, who turned seven on Saturday, from Adelaide is set to partner his idol Nathan Lyon. Schiller was named in Australia's squad for the Boxing Day Test last month. He trained with the Australian players in Adelaide ahead of the first Test and was also given the team jersey. Meet the newest member of the Australian Test team: https://t.co/vmcqkK0tqE @MakeAWishAust | #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/0EMBSu4yEm — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 23, 2018 × The hosts go into the third Test of the four-match series on a high after their series-levelling victory at the Optus stadium in Perth.

IND vs AUS: Hosts add 7-year old leg-spinner to their squad for 3rd Test against India

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara on Tuesday played one of his finest innings in Tests to save India from drowning as the team, at a point, was reduced to 86 runs for the loss of five wickets by the Australian bowlers.

Pujara took the driver's seat and played some magnificent shots to reach his first Test century on the Australian soil and 16th Test ton in total.

The 30-year-old batsman compiled 123 runs in hot and difficult conditions at Adelaide Oval to help India stay alive in the first of the four-Test series with 250-9 at stumps.

As wickets kept falling around him, Pujara's one of the remarkable inning had him hit seven boundaries and two sixes in his 246-ball stay at the crease.

"It was one of my top innings in Test cricket, I could say top five. I can't rate whether it was one of the best but the teammates who were appreciating said that this is one of the best," said Pujara at the day's end conference.

When asked what this century means for him, he said, "It means a lot, but I would also like to say that people say that I've scored more runs in India. But at the same time you need to look at the number of matches we play in India. So I will obviously score runs there."

The right-handed batsman, who is playing his 65th Test, was going strong before being run out attempting a quick single on the second-last ball of the day by a diving Pat Cummins.

The batsmen felt disappointed but said he felt the single was necessary.&nbsp;

"I was a bit disappointed but I had to take that single because only the last two balls were left and I thought I should be on strike, so I took the chance but he fielded brilliantly," he explained.

He went on to add that this innings proved he was as comfortable scoring runs overseas as at home.

"At times I've had bad phases playing overseas but I still feel very confident when it comes to different conditions.

"Playing county cricket has helped me a lot, and playing in England conditions are always challenging and when you come to Australia you know that it is slightly better.

"And as I said, I had a pretty decent time to prepare before this Test series."

India will start the second day tomorrow with Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah on the crease.&nbsp;

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara on Tuesday played one of his finest innings in Tests to save India from drowning as the team, at a point, was reduced to 86 runs for the loss of five wickets by the Australian bowlers.

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara on Tuesday played one of his finest innings in Tests to save India from drowning as the team, at a point, was reduced to 86 runs for the loss of five wickets by the Australian bowlers. Pujara took the driver's seat and played some magnificent shots to reach his first Test century on the Australian soil and 16th Test ton in total. The 30-year-old batsman compiled 123 runs in hot and difficult conditions at Adelaide Oval to help India stay alive in the first of the four-Test series with 250-9 at stumps. As wickets kept falling around him, Pujara's one of the remarkable inning had him hit seven boundaries and two sixes in his 246-ball stay at the crease. "It was one of my top innings in Test cricket, I could say top five. I can't rate whether it was one of the best but the teammates who were appreciating said that this is one of the best," said Pujara at the day's end conference. When asked what this century means for him, he said, "It means a lot, but I would also like to say that people say that I've scored more runs in India. But at the same time you need to look at the number of matches we play in India. So I will obviously score runs there." The right-handed batsman, who is playing his 65th Test, was going strong before being run out attempting a quick single on the second-last ball of the day by a diving Pat Cummins. The batsmen felt disappointed but said he felt the single was necessary. "I was a bit disappointed but I had to take that single because only the last two balls were left and I thought I should be on strike, so I took the chance but he fielded brilliantly," he explained. He went on to add that this innings proved he was as comfortable scoring runs overseas as at home. "At times I've had bad phases playing overseas but I still feel very confident when it comes to different conditions. "Playing county cricket has helped me a lot, and playing in England conditions are always challenging and when you come to Australia you know that it is slightly better. "And as I said, I had a pretty decent time to prepare before this Test series." India will start the second day tomorrow with Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah on the crease.

Century against Australia 'one of my top innings in Test', says Cheteshwar Pujara

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The most awaited series between India and&nbsp;Australia is set to&nbsp;start&nbsp;and it will be a&nbsp;real test for Virat's team in both formats of the game, including the T20S.&nbsp;

Despite the absence of Steve Smith and David Warner, Australia still&nbsp;have the&nbsp;upper hand since they are playing at home under familiar condictions.&nbsp;

"When you do well in places like Australia you feel good as a team. Thinking about the World Cup ahead it can only give you confidence winning in places like Australia," said Rohit Sharma before the crucial T20 match to kick-off in Brisbane.

Gabba, which Rohit considers to be Australia's fastest surface, does not host any Test but Perth, known for assisting the quicks, is the venue for the second match while Melbourne and Sydney will host the last two Tests.

Brisbane ground, which is known as&nbsp;the 'GABBA', has been a batting heaven. The track is known for staying flat.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There is often a little more there for the spinners, with the extra bounce likely to hoodwink the batsman.&nbsp;

The GABBA is a fortress for Australia, as they have not lost here since 1988 when they faced those fearsome West Indians. The deck is suited to pace, and both sides sport top pace attacks making this a mouthwatering contest.&nbsp;

However, India will play just one T20 match here at Brisbane but performance here will matter.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli has played eleven Twenty-20 matches against Australia since his debut. He scored a total of 423 runs at an average of 60.42 with 144.36 strike rate.

He recently gained popularity for his streak of slamming one-day and Test centuries but it is surprising to know that he did not score a single ton in so far 62 T20 matches he played in his career.

The fans and spectators will expect that headline-grabber, whose highest runs scored against Aussies is an unbeaten 90 to score his first T20 century in the upcoming T20 series.

India and Australia&nbsp;have played 15 T20 matches and not surpringly the visitors&nbsp;have a&nbsp; better record than Australia winning 10.

Opener Shikhar Dhawan has played six T20 innings against Australia and has scored 130&nbsp;runs.

In the one-day format, he has scored 626 runs against the same opponent including two centuries.

 
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The most awaited series between India and Australia is set to start and it will be a real test for Virat's team in both formats of the game, including the T20S. Despite the absence of Steve Smith and David Warner, Australia still have the upper hand since they are playing at home under familiar condictions.

The most awaited series between India and Australia is set to start and it will be a real test for Virat's team in both formats of the game, including the T20S. Despite the absence of Steve Smith and David Warner, Australia still have the upper hand since they are playing at home under familiar condictions. "When you do well in places like Australia you feel good as a team. Thinking about the World Cup ahead it can only give you confidence winning in places like Australia," said Rohit Sharma before the crucial T20 match to kick-off in Brisbane. Gabba, which Rohit considers to be Australia's fastest surface, does not host any Test but Perth, known for assisting the quicks, is the venue for the second match while Melbourne and Sydney will host the last two Tests. Brisbane ground, which is known as the 'GABBA', has been a batting heaven. The track is known for staying flat. There is often a little more there for the spinners, with the extra bounce likely to hoodwink the batsman. The GABBA is a fortress for Australia, as they have not lost here since 1988 when they faced those fearsome West Indians. The deck is suited to pace, and both sides sport top pace attacks making this a mouthwatering contest. However, India will play just one T20 match here at Brisbane but performance here will matter. Virat Kohli has played eleven Twenty-20 matches against Australia since his debut. He scored a total of 423 runs at an average of 60.42 with 144.36 strike rate. He recently gained popularity for his streak of slamming one-day and Test centuries but it is surprising to know that he did not score a single ton in so far 62 T20 matches he played in his career. The fans and spectators will expect that headline-grabber, whose highest runs scored against Aussies is an unbeaten 90 to score his first T20 century in the upcoming T20 series. India and Australia have played 15 T20 matches and not surpringly the visitors have a better record than Australia winning 10. Opener Shikhar Dhawan has played six T20 innings against Australia and has scored 130 runs. In the one-day format, he has scored 626 runs against the same opponent including two centuries.

T20: 'Fortress Brisbane' awaits Virat's India against Australia

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Wednesday won the toss and opted to field in the first of the three T20I games against Australia.

Believed to be India's best chance of clinching all the series, especially Test, the Virat Kohli-led side will try to dominate the game from starting.&nbsp;

Talking about the team's preparation for the game, Kohli said, "Looks a hard surface with a decent covering of grass. We haven't had much of time here, so we would like to see how the pitch behaves. We want to figure out in what areas we need to score as well."

"The preparation has been chilled out because for the Tests you need a lot more time and you need to be in the nets. But come game time, you need to be switched on. Both teams know the strengths and weaknesses of each other. It's going to be competitive," he added.

Meanwhile, Australia will be without their star batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner, who are serving their 12-month bans for ball-tampering.&nbsp;

When asked how they will deal with the in-form 'Men In Blue', Finch said, " "I would have preferred to bowl first, but I don't mind putting up a score on the board. It is a beautiful wicket. We have played against them a lot. Both sides are familiar with each other. Adam Zampa comes in for Nathan Coulter-Nile."

India, who have been undefeated in their last nine T20I series, which includes seven series victories on the trot will fancy their chances of extending their winning streak against an Australian side that's still struggling to find its feet in the aftermath of the Newlands ball-tampering fiasco.

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video'">Teams:

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video'">India&nbsp;(Playing XI): Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Lokesh Rahul, Rishabh Pant(w), Dinesh Karthik, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, K Khaleel Ahmed

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video'">Australia&nbsp;(Playing XI): D Arcy Short, Aaron Finch(c), Chris Lynn, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Ben McDermott, Alex Carey(w), Andrew Tye, Adam Zampa, Jason Behrendorff, Billy Stanlake

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Wednesday won the toss and opted to field in the first of the three T20I games against Australia. Believed to be India's best chance of clinching all the series, especially Test, the Virat Kohli-led side will try to dominate the game from starting.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Wednesday won the toss and opted to field in the first of the three T20I games against Australia. Believed to be India's best chance of clinching all the series, especially Test, the Virat Kohli-led side will try to dominate the game from starting. Talking about the team's preparation for the game, Kohli said, "Looks a hard surface with a decent covering of grass. We haven't had much of time here, so we would like to see how the pitch behaves. We want to figure out in what areas we need to score as well." "The preparation has been chilled out because for the Tests you need a lot more time and you need to be in the nets. But come game time, you need to be switched on. Both teams know the strengths and weaknesses of each other. It's going to be competitive," he added. Meanwhile, Australia will be without their star batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner, who are serving their 12-month bans for ball-tampering. When asked how they will deal with the in-form 'Men In Blue', Finch said, " "I would have preferred to bowl first, but I don't mind putting up a score on the board. It is a beautiful wicket. We have played against them a lot. Both sides are familiar with each other. Adam Zampa comes in for Nathan Coulter-Nile." India, who have been undefeated in their last nine T20I series, which includes seven series victories on the trot will fancy their chances of extending their winning streak against an Australian side that's still struggling to find its feet in the aftermath of the Newlands ball-tampering fiasco. Teams: India (Playing XI): Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Lokesh Rahul, Rishabh Pant(w), Dinesh Karthik, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, K Khaleel Ahmed Australia (Playing XI): D Arcy Short, Aaron Finch(c), Chris Lynn, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Ben McDermott, Alex Carey(w), Andrew Tye, Adam Zampa, Jason Behrendorff, Billy Stanlake

1st T20I: Virat Kohli wins toss, opts to bowl against Australia

After an easy win over the West Indies on home turf, the Virat Kohli led side is all prepared for the Australia series that is scheduled to kick off from November 21 with the T20Is.&nbsp;

On being asked about the expectations he has from the team, Indian skipper Kohli advised the team's lower-order to take a cue from their England Test defeat in a bid to rage a victory over the Aussies, especially in the Test series.&nbsp;

"The lower order contributions are crucial. As we saw in England, their lower order contributions were better than ours and that was the difference in the series. So that's where we want the guys to be fearless."

"If they get going they can change the game or course of the whole series," Kohli added.

With the top-orders and the middle-order failing to judge the moving dukes on English conditions, the team had hopes completely rested on Kohli's shoulders to rescue India each time. The skipper was the only batsman during the entire tour to punish the English side with his bat.&nbsp;

The Men in Blue will be playing three T20I, four Tests and three ODIs.The forthcoming Test series is considered to be India's best chance to win on the Australian soil as the team will be without the services of their beleaguered leaders Steve Smith and David Warner.&nbsp;

For India, Kohli is in top form as the skipper smashed three consecutive centuries against the Windies.

Talking about what kind of character the team has developed after the England tour, Kohli stressed that they have made decent progress but there is still a lot of room for improvement.

"We definitely have made decent progress but there is still a lot of room for improvement. The Thing is we understand within the group what we need to work on so it is up to the individuals to take ownership of that, take responsibility for the things that are explained or laid out. So there were a lot of things that we sat down and figured it out after the England tour."&nbsp;

Kohli also stressed that there was not much that went wrong during England tour.&nbsp;

"To be honest, we all felt that there was not much that went wrong but whatever was not right was very extreme also. So we played good cricket but the mistakes were also very extreme. That's why we lost that many numbers of games rather than winning those moments and winning the game. "

The skipper further asked the team to strike a decent balance when the situation is against them and try to find a way out of it, rather than wanting to get out of it immediately.&nbsp;

When asked what advice he wants to give to his team, Kohli said he would want every individual to take more responsibility, assess it and then find a solution rather than thinking that the solution will appear from somewhere.

After an easy win over the West Indies on home turf, the Virat Kohli led side is all prepared for the Australia series that is scheduled to kick off from November 21 with the T20Is.

After an easy win over the West Indies on home turf, the Virat Kohli led side is all prepared for the Australia series that is scheduled to kick off from November 21 with the T20Is. On being asked about the expectations he has from the team, Indian skipper Kohli advised the team's lower-order to take a cue from their England Test defeat in a bid to rage a victory over the Aussies, especially in the Test series. "The lower order contributions are crucial. As we saw in England, their lower order contributions were better than ours and that was the difference in the series. So that's where we want the guys to be fearless." "If they get going they can change the game or course of the whole series," Kohli added. With the top-orders and the middle-order failing to judge the moving dukes on English conditions, the team had hopes completely rested on Kohli's shoulders to rescue India each time. The skipper was the only batsman during the entire tour to punish the English side with his bat. The Men in Blue will be playing three T20I, four Tests and three ODIs.The forthcoming Test series is considered to be India's best chance to win on the Australian soil as the team will be without the services of their beleaguered leaders Steve Smith and David Warner. For India, Kohli is in top form as the skipper smashed three consecutive centuries against the Windies. Talking about what kind of character the team has developed after the England tour, Kohli stressed that they have made decent progress but there is still a lot of room for improvement. "We definitely have made decent progress but there is still a lot of room for improvement. The Thing is we understand within the group what we need to work on so it is up to the individuals to take ownership of that, take responsibility for the things that are explained or laid out. So there were a lot of things that we sat down and figured it out after the England tour." Kohli also stressed that there was not much that went wrong during England tour. "To be honest, we all felt that there was not much that went wrong but whatever was not right was very extreme also. So we played good cricket but the mistakes were also very extreme. That's why we lost that many numbers of games rather than winning those moments and winning the game. " The skipper further asked the team to strike a decent balance when the situation is against them and try to find a way out of it, rather than wanting to get out of it immediately. When asked what advice he wants to give to his team, Kohli said he would want every individual to take more responsibility, assess it and then find a solution rather than thinking that the solution will appear from somewhere.

Lower-order contribution crucial for team's victory over Australia, says Virat Kohli

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed won the toss and elected to bat first in the second and final test against Australia in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, banking that a cover of grass on the wicket would quickly dry out and leave a featherbed pitch.

Pakistan named two debutants in Fakhar Zaman, who replaces the injured opening batsman Imam-ul-Haq, and left-arm seamer Mir Hamza, who came in for Wahab Riaz after the paceman went wicketless in the drawn first test in Dubai.

Tim Paine`s Australia, bidding to win their first series in Asia since 2011, are unchanged from Dubai, where they dug deep in an epic fourth innings rearguard to save the match.

Despite the green-tinged strip, Paine said he would also have chosen to bat first.

"I think we would have had a bat, but what`s the old saying? If there`s anything there, it will be there in the first hour, I guess," the wicketkeeper said.

"We certainly gained a lot from that second innings in particular (in Dubai), so we`ve got some momentum. Hopefully we can get a couple of early wickets and get right into their middle order."

Teams:

Pakistan - Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Hafeez, Azhar Ali, Haris Sohail, Babar Azam, Asad Shafiq, Sarfraz Ahmed (captain), Mir Hamza, Bilal Asif, Mohammad Abbas, Yasir Shah.

Australia - Usman Khawaja, Aaron Finch, Shaun Marsh, Mitchell Marsh, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschangne, Tim Paine (captain), Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle, Nathan Lyon, Jon Holland.

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed won the toss and elected to bat first in the second and final test against Australia in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, banking that a cover of grass on the wicket would quickly dry out and leave a featherbed pitch.

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed won the toss and elected to bat first in the second and final test against Australia in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, banking that a cover of grass on the wicket would quickly dry out and leave a featherbed pitch. Pakistan named two debutants in Fakhar Zaman, who replaces the injured opening batsman Imam-ul-Haq, and left-arm seamer Mir Hamza, who came in for Wahab Riaz after the paceman went wicketless in the drawn first test in Dubai. Tim Paine`s Australia, bidding to win their first series in Asia since 2011, are unchanged from Dubai, where they dug deep in an epic fourth innings rearguard to save the match. Despite the green-tinged strip, Paine said he would also have chosen to bat first. "I think we would have had a bat, but what`s the old saying? If there`s anything there, it will be there in the first hour, I guess," the wicketkeeper said. "We certainly gained a lot from that second innings in particular (in Dubai), so we`ve got some momentum. Hopefully we can get a couple of early wickets and get right into their middle order." Teams: Pakistan - Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Hafeez, Azhar Ali, Haris Sohail, Babar Azam, Asad Shafiq, Sarfraz Ahmed (captain), Mir Hamza, Bilal Asif, Mohammad Abbas, Yasir Shah. Australia - Usman Khawaja, Aaron Finch, Shaun Marsh, Mitchell Marsh, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschangne, Tim Paine (captain), Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle, Nathan Lyon, Jon Holland.

Pakistan opt to bat in second test against Australia

After bundling out Australia for mere 202 runs, Pakistan lost three early wickets to finish the day with 45 runs in their second innings of the first Test against in Duabi on Tuesday,&nbsp;

The team now have an overall lead of 325 runs.

Imam-ul-Haq was unbeaten on 23 while Azhar Ali was dismissed for four in the last over of the day.&nbsp;

Off-spinner Bilal Asif took 6 wickets for 36runs and pacer Mohammad Abbas finished with 4 for 29. Usman Khawaja top-scored for Australia with 85.

After bundling out Australia for mere 202 runs, Pakistan lost three early wickets to finish the day with 45 runs in their second innings of the first Test against in Duabi on Tuesday, The team now have an overall lead of 325 runs.

After bundling out Australia for mere 202 runs, Pakistan lost three early wickets to finish the day with 45 runs in their second innings of the first Test against in Duabi on Tuesday, The team now have an overall lead of 325 runs. Imam-ul-Haq was unbeaten on 23 while Azhar Ali was dismissed for four in the last over of the day. Off-spinner Bilal Asif took 6 wickets for 36runs and pacer Mohammad Abbas finished with 4 for 29. Usman Khawaja top-scored for Australia with 85.

1st Test: Pakistan 45/3 at close against Australia

Pakistan debutant offspinner Bilal Asif grabbed six wickets for just 36 runs as Australia were bowled out for 202 after tea on the third day of the first test on Tuesday.

In a dramatic collapse, Australia lost 10 wickets for just 60 runs after Usman Khawaja (85) and debutant Aaron Finch (62) provided a solid first-wicket stand of 142 runs.

Pakistan earned a huge lead of 280 runs but didn’t enforce the follow-on.

The newcomer dismissed the Australian top order, and fast bowler Mohammad Abbas chipped in with 4-29 as the batsmen failed to understand the seam and spin on a pitch where Pakistan compiled 482 in its first innings.

Khawaja and Finch defied Pakistan in the first session and carried their team from 30 without loss overnight to 137 without loss by lunch.

But once Finch drove casually and was caught at short mid-on after lunch, the top order crumbled against Asif’s spin.

Finch, who played 93 one-day internationals before earning his first test cap, accumulated 62 from 161 balls, including five boundaries and a six.

Shaun Marsh was next when he drove at Asif and was caught in the slips.

Leg-spinner Yasir Shah was unlucky not to be amongst wickets, having dropped Mitchell Marsh off his own bowling for two and wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed missing a stump in the first session with Khawaja on 17.

Pakistan debutant offspinner Bilal Asif grabbed six wickets for just 36 runs as Australia were bowled out for 202 after tea on the third day of the first test on Tuesday.

Pakistan debutant offspinner Bilal Asif grabbed six wickets for just 36 runs as Australia were bowled out for 202 after tea on the third day of the first test on Tuesday. In a dramatic collapse, Australia lost 10 wickets for just 60 runs after Usman Khawaja (85) and debutant Aaron Finch (62) provided a solid first-wicket stand of 142 runs. Pakistan earned a huge lead of 280 runs but didn’t enforce the follow-on. The newcomer dismissed the Australian top order, and fast bowler Mohammad Abbas chipped in with 4-29 as the batsmen failed to understand the seam and spin on a pitch where Pakistan compiled 482 in its first innings. Khawaja and Finch defied Pakistan in the first session and carried their team from 30 without loss overnight to 137 without loss by lunch. But once Finch drove casually and was caught at short mid-on after lunch, the top order crumbled against Asif’s spin. Finch, who played 93 one-day internationals before earning his first test cap, accumulated 62 from 161 balls, including five boundaries and a six. Shaun Marsh was next when he drove at Asif and was caught in the slips. Leg-spinner Yasir Shah was unlucky not to be amongst wickets, having dropped Mitchell Marsh off his own bowling for two and wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed missing a stump in the first session with Khawaja on 17.

1st Test: Asif grabs six-wicket on debut, Australia all-out for 202

Debutant Pakistan off-spinner Bilal Asif led an Australian collapse with four wickets on the third day of the first Test in Dubai on Tuesday.

The 33-year-old took his wickets off 22 balls as Australia slumped from a solid opening stand of 142-0 to be struggling on 180-5 at tea on a Dubai stadium pitch which has started to take a sharp turn.

At the break, Mitchell Marsh was ten not out and skipper Tim Paine on six, as Australia are still 302 runs behind Pakistan's first innings total of 482 and need another 103 runs to avoid the follow-on.

It was a total contrast from the pre-lunch session when Australia -- resuming at 30-0 - reached 137 without loss with both Usman Khawaja and debutant

Aaron Finch defying Pakistani spinners during their resistance-packed stand.

But the second session belonged to Asif, who dismissed Usman Khawaja (85), Shaun Marsh (seven), Travis Head (nought) and Marnus Labuschagne (nought) in the space of 29 runs.

Asif has figures of 4-28 in 17 overs.

Pakistan, though, were put on track by seamer Mohammad Abbas who forced Finch to drive straight into the hands of Asad Shafiq at short mid-on after scoring 62.

Khawaja hit eight fours before miscuing a premeditated sweep and was caught at short leg while Finch had five boundaries and a six in his knock.

Leg-spinner Yasir Shah was unlucky not to be amongst wickets, having dropped Mitchell Marsh off his own bowling for two and wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed missing a stump in the first session with Khawaja on 17.

Earlier in the day Finch was more confident as he punched two boundaries and a six off Yasir before sweeping Asif for a boundary to reach his half-century.

Khawaja, the Pakistan-born batsman, improved upon his previous best score in Asia of 26, made against Sri Lanka at Galle in 2011, by reaching his 13th Test half-century.

Debutant Pakistan off-spinner Bilal Asif led an Australian collapse with four wickets on the third day of the first Test in Dubai on Tuesday. The 33-year-old took his wickets off 22 balls as Australia slumped from a solid opening stand of 142-0 to be struggling on 180-5 at tea on a Dubai stadium pitch which has started to take a sharp turn.

Debutant Pakistan off-spinner Bilal Asif led an Australian collapse with four wickets on the third day of the first Test in Dubai on Tuesday. The 33-year-old took his wickets off 22 balls as Australia slumped from a solid opening stand of 142-0 to be struggling on 180-5 at tea on a Dubai stadium pitch which has started to take a sharp turn. At the break, Mitchell Marsh was ten not out and skipper Tim Paine on six, as Australia are still 302 runs behind Pakistan's first innings total of 482 and need another 103 runs to avoid the follow-on. It was a total contrast from the pre-lunch session when Australia -- resuming at 30-0 - reached 137 without loss with both Usman Khawaja and debutant Aaron Finch defying Pakistani spinners during their resistance-packed stand. But the second session belonged to Asif, who dismissed Usman Khawaja (85), Shaun Marsh (seven), Travis Head (nought) and Marnus Labuschagne (nought) in the space of 29 runs. Asif has figures of 4-28 in 17 overs. Pakistan, though, were put on track by seamer Mohammad Abbas who forced Finch to drive straight into the hands of Asad Shafiq at short mid-on after scoring 62. Khawaja hit eight fours before miscuing a premeditated sweep and was caught at short leg while Finch had five boundaries and a six in his knock. Leg-spinner Yasir Shah was unlucky not to be amongst wickets, having dropped Mitchell Marsh off his own bowling for two and wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed missing a stump in the first session with Khawaja on 17. Earlier in the day Finch was more confident as he punched two boundaries and a six off Yasir before sweeping Asif for a boundary to reach his half-century. Khawaja, the Pakistan-born batsman, improved upon his previous best score in Asia of 26, made against Sri Lanka at Galle in 2011, by reaching his 13th Test half-century.

Debutant off-spinner Bilal Asif rocks Australia in first Test

The first one-day international match between England and Australia is underway at Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Australia scored 304 at the loss of&nbsp;8 wickets in 50 overs after&nbsp;England won the toss and chose to bowl.

Australian opener Aaron Finch slammed another century (107), helping his team set such a mammoth target. However, David Warner lost his wicket in the second over itself, which&nbsp;was a big blow to Australians.

Mitchell Marsh (50), Marcus Stoinis (60) and Tim Paine (27) contributed well with their bats for the team.

Aaron Finch found a determined ally in Mitchel Marsh and together they contributed 118 runs for the team.

England Spinner Adil Rashid took two wickets and rest of the bowlers got one wicket each. Rashid&nbsp;dismissed skipper Steve Smith&nbsp;at 23.

England&#39;s bowlers got wickets but failed to&nbsp;slow down opponent&#39;s&nbsp;run rate.

Fall of wickets:

1-10 (David Warner, 1.5&nbsp;over),&nbsp;2-58 (Steve Smith, 10.5&nbsp;over), 3-78 (Travis Head, 13.6 over), 4-196 (Aaron Finch, 35.2&nbsp;over), 5-205 (Mitchell&nbsp;&nbsp;Marsh, 37.2&nbsp;over), 6-285 (Marcus Stoinis, 47.1&nbsp;over), 7-296 (Tim Paine, 49.2&nbsp;over), 8-300 (Pat Cummins, 49.5&nbsp;over).

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107 from <a href="https://twitter.com/AaronFinch5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AaronFinch5</a> and 60 from Marcus Stoinis have helped Australia post 304/8 in the 1st ODI. Will England chase them down, or do Australia have enough? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvENG</a> 
 
Scorecard: <a href="https://t.co/xbW9koTFUR">https://t.co/xbW9koTFUR</a> <a href="https://t.co/FV2fsu9WUy">pic.twitter.com/FV2fsu9WUy</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/952436711157583873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Recently, Australia completed a massive 4-0 win in the Ashes Test series. The five one-day match series is a chance for the English to salvage some cricket pride.

England captain Joe Root handed over the leadership duties to Eoin Morgan and play with two spinners Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid along with pacers Chris Woakes, Mark Wood and Liam Plunkett.

On&nbsp;the other hand, fast bowler Andrew Tye debuts for Australia.

Teams:

Australia - David Warner, Aaron Finch, Steve Smith (capt), Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Marcus Stoinis, Tim Paine, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Adam Zampa, Andrew Tye.

England - Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, Alex Hales, Joe Root, Eoin Morgan (capt), Jos Buttler, Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Adil Rashid, Liam Plunkett, Mark Wood.

Spinner Adil Rashid took two wickets and rest of the bowlers got one wicket each

The first one-day international match between England and Australia is underway at Melbourne Cricket Ground. Australia scored 304 at the loss of 8 wickets in 50 overs after England won the toss and chose to bowl. Australian opener Aaron Finch slammed another century (107), helping his team set such a mammoth target. However, David Warner lost his wicket in the second over itself, which was a big blow to Australians. Mitchell Marsh (50), Marcus Stoinis (60) and Tim Paine (27) contributed well with their bats for the team. Aaron Finch found a determined ally in Mitchel Marsh and together they contributed 118 runs for the team. England Spinner Adil Rashid took two wickets and rest of the bowlers got one wicket each. Rashid dismissed skipper Steve Smith at 23. England's bowlers got wickets but failed to slow down opponent's run rate. Fall of wickets: 1-10 (David Warner, 1.5 over), 2-58 (Steve Smith, 10.5 over), 3-78 (Travis Head, 13.6 over), 4-196 (Aaron Finch, 35.2 over), 5-205 (Mitchell Marsh, 37.2 over), 6-285 (Marcus Stoinis, 47.1 over), 7-296 (Tim Paine, 49.2 over), 8-300 (Pat Cummins, 49.5 over). 107 from @AaronFinch5 and 60 from Marcus Stoinis have helped Australia post 304/8 in the 1st ODI. Will England chase them down, or do Australia have enough? #AUSvENG Scorecard: https://t.co/xbW9koTFUR pic.twitter.com/FV2fsu9WUy — ICC (@ICC) January 14, 2018 × Recently, Australia completed a massive 4-0 win in the Ashes Test series. The five one-day match series is a chance for the English to salvage some cricket pride. England captain Joe Root handed over the leadership duties to Eoin Morgan and play with two spinners Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid along with pacers Chris Woakes, Mark Wood and Liam Plunkett. On the other hand, fast bowler Andrew Tye debuts for Australia. Teams: Australia - David Warner, Aaron Finch, Steve Smith (capt), Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Marcus Stoinis, Tim Paine, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Adam Zampa, Andrew Tye. England - Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, Alex Hales, Joe Root, Eoin Morgan (capt), Jos Buttler, Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Adil Rashid, Liam Plunkett, Mark Wood.

1st ODI: Aaron Finch's ton help Australia set target of 305 for England