Ahead of the three-match ODI series against India, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-nz-nathan-lyon-takes-five-as-australia-dominate-in-sydney-272264">Australia</a>'s opening batsman David Warner on Thursday said that the entire side is looking forward to meeting their Indian fans.

Warner took to Instagram to share a picture of himself and captioned the post as: "India here we come!! It's going to be a great 3 game series. Looking forward to seeing all our Indian fans".

Warner had registered the second-highest score for an Australian batter in a Test match against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-cricket-team-from-flamboyance-to-religious-discrimination-270672">Pakistan</a> last year after scoring 335 at Adelaide.

He also scored a century in the second innings of the third Test against New Zealand.

Australia white-washed both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealand-sweat-on-ailing-williamson-and-nicholls-271562">New Zealand</a> and Pakistan in the respective Test series. As a result, it moved to the second position on the World Test Championship (WTC) points table.

Australia will next take on India in a three-match ODI series.

The first game will be played on January 14 at the Wankhede Stadium in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/deepika-padukone-and-chhapaak-team-conduct-social-experiment-share-video-272855">Mumbai</a>.

Ahead of the three-match ODI series against India, Australia's opening batsman David Warner on Thursday said that the entire side is looking forward to meeting their Indian fans.

Ahead of the three-match ODI series against India, Australia's opening batsman David Warner on Thursday said that the entire side is looking forward to meeting their Indian fans. Warner took to Instagram to share a picture of himself and captioned the post as: "India here we come!! It's going to be a great 3 game series. Looking forward to seeing all our Indian fans". Warner had registered the second-highest score for an Australian batter in a Test match against Pakistan last year after scoring 335 at Adelaide. He also scored a century in the second innings of the third Test against New Zealand. Australia white-washed both New Zealand and Pakistan in the respective Test series. As a result, it moved to the second position on the World Test Championship (WTC) points table. Australia will next take on India in a three-match ODI series. The first game will be played on January 14 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Looking forward to seeing our Indian fans: David Warner ahead of ODI series

Spinner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-nz-nathan-lyon-takes-five-as-australia-dominate-in-sydney-272264">Nathan Lyon</a> took 10 wickets for the match as Australia underlined their absolute dominance of New Zealand with a crushing 279-run victory in the third Test at the Sydney&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;Ground on Monday to sweep the series 3-0.

The hosts were utterly ruthless with bat and ball throughout the series and dismissed New Zealand for 136 having declared on 217 for two after lunch to hand the Black Caps an unlikely victory target of 416.

New Zealand had arrived with some confidence they could repeat the singular feat of the triumphant 1985–86 tourists from across the Tasman Sea but will return well beaten after injury and illness ravaged the squad.

With captain Kane Williamson and batsman Henry Nicholls missing because of a flu bug, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-nz-new-zealand-woes-continue-with-bowler-matt-henry-injury-272088">New Zealand</a> had no answer to the fearsome pace of Australia's quicks and the guile of Lyon's spin.

Lyon, aided by paceman Mitchell Starc's 3-25, cleaned up the tail on a deteriorating pitch to finish with 5-50 to add to his 5-68 in the first innings.

After New Zealand had slumped to 22-4, Colin de Grandhomme scored a gritty 52 and BJ Watling 19 off 108 balls and at one stage it looked like a fifth day might be needed for the first time in the series.

But with Matt Henry unable to bat because of a broken thumb sustained earlier in the match Lyon ended the resistance under the SCG lights when he had Watling caught by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-cummins-becomes-ipls-most-expensive-overseas-buy-269295">Pat Cummins</a>.

"It's a great summer for the Australian Test side and it's very special to be part of it, to win Tests at home and be very clinical in all wins, very impressive," off-spinner Lyon said.

"To take 10 on my home deck in front of friends and family is pretty special but every chance you get to put the Baggy Green on is for me a dream come true."

Ross Taylor scored 22 runs for the tourists to take his career tally to 7,174 and overhaul Stephen Fleming as New Zealand's highest Test scorer.

It was a rare glimmer of light for the visitors and five balls after passing that milestone Taylor had his off stump removed by a peach of a delivery from Cummins, the world's top-ranked Test bowler.

"We were outplayed in all departments," said Williamson.

"We were good with the ball in hand but with the bat we couldn't be good for long enough ... Frustrating and disappointing coming here after playing some good&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;for a long period of time."

&nbsp;

Prolific batting

Earlier, David Warner and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-marnus-labuschagne-hits-double-ton-in-australias-454-in-sydney-test-272047">Marnus Labuschagne</a> had produced more of the prolific batting that has helped carry Australia to five thumping victories in five Tests against Pakistan and New Zealand in their home summer.

Warner secured his 24th Test century with an exhibition of batting on his home ground for 111 not out as the hosts looked to quickly inflate the lead of 263 with which they started the day.

The opener, born a few hundred metres from the SCG, hit 154 and 335 not out against Pakistan in the first two Tests of Australia's home season but had failed to get past the half-century mark in five innings in the New Zealand series.

The left-hander looked unlikely to repeat those failures on Monday after resuming on 23 with Australia 40 without loss and he reached the milestone with three runs through mid-wicket off 147 deliveries.

Three balls later Labuschagne, who had joined Warner after Joe Burns was caught and bowled by Todd Astle for 40, passed the half-century mark for the seventh time in Australia's five home Tests this year.

Australia captain Tim Paine declared after Labuschagne, who scored a maiden double century in the home side's first-innings 454, was caught at long for 59.

Warner finishes Australia's five home Tests with 786 runs at an average of 131, while Labuschagne's glorious summer ended with a tally of 896 runs at 112 and both man of the match and man of the series honours.

"I'm very lucky no doubt to be captaining this group, it's a special team," said Paine.

"Batting has become very consistent with Marnus leading this year and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-smith-strikes-a-blow-against-new-zealand-on-boxing-day-270526">Steve (Smith)</a> and David back ... it's pretty simple leading this side at times."

Labuschagne was handed a rare penalty by umpire Aleem Dar for running on the wicket but it never looked like the extra five runs being added to New Zealand's first innings score of 251 would make a difference to the outcome.

Spinner Nathan Lyon took 10 wickets for the match as Australia underlined their absolute dominance of New Zealand with a crushing 279-run victory in the third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Monday to sweep the series 3-0.

Spinner Nathan Lyon took 10 wickets for the match as Australia underlined their absolute dominance of New Zealand with a crushing 279-run victory in the third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Monday to sweep the series 3-0. The hosts were utterly ruthless with bat and ball throughout the series and dismissed New Zealand for 136 having declared on 217 for two after lunch to hand the Black Caps an unlikely victory target of 416. New Zealand had arrived with some confidence they could repeat the singular feat of the triumphant 1985–86 tourists from across the Tasman Sea but will return well beaten after injury and illness ravaged the squad. With captain Kane Williamson and batsman Henry Nicholls missing because of a flu bug, New Zealand had no answer to the fearsome pace of Australia's quicks and the guile of Lyon's spin. Lyon, aided by paceman Mitchell Starc's 3-25, cleaned up the tail on a deteriorating pitch to finish with 5-50 to add to his 5-68 in the first innings. After New Zealand had slumped to 22-4, Colin de Grandhomme scored a gritty 52 and BJ Watling 19 off 108 balls and at one stage it looked like a fifth day might be needed for the first time in the series. But with Matt Henry unable to bat because of a broken thumb sustained earlier in the match Lyon ended the resistance under the SCG lights when he had Watling caught by Pat Cummins. "It's a great summer for the Australian Test side and it's very special to be part of it, to win Tests at home and be very clinical in all wins, very impressive," off-spinner Lyon said. "To take 10 on my home deck in front of friends and family is pretty special but every chance you get to put the Baggy Green on is for me a dream come true." Ross Taylor scored 22 runs for the tourists to take his career tally to 7,174 and overhaul Stephen Fleming as New Zealand's highest Test scorer. It was a rare glimmer of light for the visitors and five balls after passing that milestone Taylor had his off stump removed by a peach of a delivery from Cummins, the world's top-ranked Test bowler. "We were outplayed in all departments," said Williamson. "We were good with the ball in hand but with the bat we couldn't be good for long enough ... Frustrating and disappointing coming here after playing some good cricket for a long period of time." Prolific batting Earlier, David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne had produced more of the prolific batting that has helped carry Australia to five thumping victories in five Tests against Pakistan and New Zealand in their home summer. Warner secured his 24th Test century with an exhibition of batting on his home ground for 111 not out as the hosts looked to quickly inflate the lead of 263 with which they started the day. The opener, born a few hundred metres from the SCG, hit 154 and 335 not out against Pakistan in the first two Tests of Australia's home season but had failed to get past the half-century mark in five innings in the New Zealand series. The left-hander looked unlikely to repeat those failures on Monday after resuming on 23 with Australia 40 without loss and he reached the milestone with three runs through mid-wicket off 147 deliveries. Three balls later Labuschagne, who had joined Warner after Joe Burns was caught and bowled by Todd Astle for 40, passed the half-century mark for the seventh time in Australia's five home Tests this year. Australia captain Tim Paine declared after Labuschagne, who scored a maiden double century in the home side's first-innings 454, was caught at long for 59. Warner finishes Australia's five home Tests with 786 runs at an average of 131, while Labuschagne's glorious summer ended with a tally of 896 runs at 112 and both man of the match and man of the series honours. "I'm very lucky no doubt to be captaining this group, it's a special team," said Paine. "Batting has become very consistent with Marnus leading this year and Steve (Smith) and David back ... it's pretty simple leading this side at times." Labuschagne was handed a rare penalty by umpire Aleem Dar for running on the wicket but it never looked like the extra five runs being added to New Zealand's first innings score of 251 would make a difference to the outcome.

Cricket: Lyon roars as Australia crush New Zealand to sweep series

Australia's opening batsman David&nbsp;Warner&nbsp;has been declared&nbsp;fit&nbsp;for the team's&nbsp;second T<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-beat-new-zealand-by-296-runs-to-win-first-test-in-perth-268378">est</a>&nbsp;against New Zealand that starts on Thursday despite&nbsp;being&nbsp;hit&nbsp;on the&nbsp;hand&nbsp;while batting in the nets on Monday.

Warner&nbsp;had to have medical checks&nbsp;after&nbsp;he was struck on the thumb. He returned to training with his&nbsp;hand&nbsp;strapped.

"I've got absolutely no worries that he'll be raring to go," Australia&nbsp;coach&nbsp;Justin Langer told reporters on Tuesday. "There was a little concern for about two&nbsp;seconds, but then he saw the doctor and he's&nbsp;hitting balls again."

"We know how well he's playing at the moment, we know how much all the boys love playing Test&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealands-trent-boult-on-track-for-dream-boxing-day-test-against-australia-268852">Boxing Day</a>&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;... so he'll be ready to go."

Warner&nbsp;faced about 45 minutes of throw-downs on Tuesday, according to local media reports, although he did appear at times to be in pain and took his&nbsp;hand&nbsp;off the bat.

Langer added that fast bowler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/james-pattinson-banned-for-first-test-against-pakistan-for-personal-abuse-262662">James Pattinson</a> would almost certainly make his first&nbsp;test&nbsp;appearance in Australia in almost four years for the injured Josh Hazlewood, who sustained a hamstring injury in the 296-run first&nbsp;test&nbsp;victory in Perth.

"I've said it all week, he (Pattinson) was the 12th man the last game, we try to be as consistent as possible," Langer said.

"We've got some great depth of talent there, we've got Michael Neser here, we've got Peter Siddle, James Pattinson so I think at this stage, Patto will probably get one of the nods."

While the 29-year-old was likely to partner Mitchell Starc and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-cummins-becomes-ipls-most-expensive-overseas-buy-269295">Pat Cummins</a> for his first&nbsp;test&nbsp;in Australia since January 2016, Langer said they were still working through their final playing selections.

Langer mooted last week selecting five specialist bowlers with the Melbourne&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;Ground (MCG) pitch favouring batsmen in the previous two years, but said on Tuesday finalising the starting eleven could be a match-day decision.

"We'll work out what the set-up of our team is going to be, whether we play ... an extra bowler or not," he said.

"We'll have a look at the wicket. The wicket looks pretty good at the moment two days out."

Australia's opening batsman David Warner has been declared fit for the team's second Test against New Zealand that starts on Thursday despite being hit on the hand while batting in the nets on Monday.

Australia's opening batsman David Warner has been declared fit for the team's second Test against New Zealand that starts on Thursday despite being hit on the hand while batting in the nets on Monday. Warner had to have medical checks after he was struck on the thumb. He returned to training with his hand strapped. "I've got absolutely no worries that he'll be raring to go," Australia coach Justin Langer told reporters on Tuesday. "There was a little concern for about two seconds, but then he saw the doctor and he's hitting balls again." "We know how well he's playing at the moment, we know how much all the boys love playing Test cricket and Boxing Day cricket ... so he'll be ready to go." Warner faced about 45 minutes of throw-downs on Tuesday, according to local media reports, although he did appear at times to be in pain and took his hand off the bat. Langer added that fast bowler James Pattinson would almost certainly make his first test appearance in Australia in almost four years for the injured Josh Hazlewood, who sustained a hamstring injury in the 296-run first test victory in Perth. "I've said it all week, he (Pattinson) was the 12th man the last game, we try to be as consistent as possible," Langer said. "We've got some great depth of talent there, we've got Michael Neser here, we've got Peter Siddle, James Pattinson so I think at this stage, Patto will probably get one of the nods." While the 29-year-old was likely to partner Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins for his first test in Australia since January 2016, Langer said they were still working through their final playing selections. Langer mooted last week selecting five specialist bowlers with the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) pitch favouring batsmen in the previous two years, but said on Tuesday finalising the starting eleven could be a match-day decision. "We'll work out what the set-up of our team is going to be, whether we play ... an extra bowler or not," he said. "We'll have a look at the wicket. The wicket looks pretty good at the moment two days out."

David Warner fit for second Test against New Zealand: Australia coach Langer

Former limited-overs specialist George Bailey will join Australia's selectors' panel after the conclusion of the domestic Big Bash Twenty20 tournament, Cricket Australia (CA) said on Wednesday.

Bailey, 37, replaces former captain Greg Chappell who retired from his Cricket Australia roles as a selector and national talent manager at the end of September.

Bailey will draw the curtain on his playing career with Tasmania state and Big Bash side Hobart Hurricanes in early February to take on the role of selector full-time, CA said in a statement.

He will initially serve as a "National Teams advisor" for Cricket Australia and work closely with head coach Justin Langer and selector Trevor Hohns before joining the selectors' panel in a full-time capacity upon his retirement, CA said.

"I am passionate about the long-term success of the Australian cricket team and advancing the cause of Australian cricket in general," Bailey, who played five tests, 90 one-day internationals and 30 Twenty20 internationals, said.

"I'm confident I can add value to the selection process and that my experience will be complementary to that of Trevor and Justin. I am really excited to be joining them in the coming months."

Bailey is expected to focus on selections for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-thrash-pakistan-to-win-series-2-0-260863">Australia T20</a> team, with Australia to host the T20 World Cup in less than a year.

Former limited-overs specialist George Bailey will join Australia's selectors' panel after the conclusion of the domestic Big Bash Twenty20 tournament, Cricket Australia (CA) said on Wednesday.

Former limited-overs specialist George Bailey will join Australia's selectors' panel after the conclusion of the domestic Big Bash Twenty20 tournament, Cricket Australia (CA) said on Wednesday. Bailey, 37, replaces former captain Greg Chappell who retired from his Cricket Australia roles as a selector and national talent manager at the end of September. Bailey will draw the curtain on his playing career with Tasmania state and Big Bash side Hobart Hurricanes in early February to take on the role of selector full-time, CA said in a statement. He will initially serve as a "National Teams advisor" for Cricket Australia and work closely with head coach Justin Langer and selector Trevor Hohns before joining the selectors' panel in a full-time capacity upon his retirement, CA said. "I am passionate about the long-term success of the Australian cricket team and advancing the cause of Australian cricket in general," Bailey, who played five tests, 90 one-day internationals and 30 Twenty20 internationals, said. "I'm confident I can add value to the selection process and that my experience will be complementary to that of Trevor and Justin. I am really excited to be joining them in the coming months." Bailey is expected to focus on selections for the Australia T20 team, with Australia to host the T20 World Cup in less than a year.

George Bailey to become selector: Cricket Australia

Australia have brought back former captain Steve Waugh to help the squad prepare for the final stretch of the Ashes series against England as the tourists look to rebound from the painful third Test defeat at Headingley.

Waugh had left the squad after the first two Tests as scheduled but has rejoined the group ahead of the fourth Test at Old Trafford starting on Wednesday.

With the series locked at 1-1, one victory in the next two Tests will ensure Australia retain the urn in England for the first time since Waugh's side triumphed 4-1 in 2001.

"We asked him to stay for the third Test, but he had to go back for a function," Australia coach Justin Langer told reporters in Manchester.

"But he was actually going to fly there, do the function and fly back the next day. That's how much he's enjoying it.

"He's been like a kid at Christmas."

Having Waugh in the backroom staff, much like Ricky Ponting taking on an assistant coaching role during the World Cup, was a priority for Langer after he faced many testing moments during his first year as coach.

"Guys like Punter (Ponting) and Steve Waugh, not only do they have a great presence in the group, but they are great psychologists," Langer added.

"They've been in the cauldron before, they've seen it all, so to have that those type of guys, we are talking about developing leadership in Australian cricket, to have our guys to learn from people of that calibre is very important short term."

Australia's one-wicket defeat in the third Test was a bitter pill to swallow but they would put it behind them, he said.

"I actually felt physically sick after it and then I went back to my room. I wasn't sure whether to cry my eyes out or smash my hotel room," he said.

"Everyone in that change room, probably a lot of Australians felt it, felt completely sick.

"You never like to let opportunities slip... that's OK, we'll make sure we learn from it."

Australia have brought back former captain Steve Waugh to help the squad prepare for the final stretch of the Ashes series against England as the tourists look to rebound from the painful third Test defeat at Headingley.

Australia have brought back former captain Steve Waugh to help the squad prepare for the final stretch of the Ashes series against England as the tourists look to rebound from the painful third Test defeat at Headingley. Waugh had left the squad after the first two Tests as scheduled but has rejoined the group ahead of the fourth Test at Old Trafford starting on Wednesday. With the series locked at 1-1, one victory in the next two Tests will ensure Australia retain the urn in England for the first time since Waugh's side triumphed 4-1 in 2001. "We asked him to stay for the third Test, but he had to go back for a function," Australia coach Justin Langer told reporters in Manchester. "But he was actually going to fly there, do the function and fly back the next day. That's how much he's enjoying it. "He's been like a kid at Christmas." Having Waugh in the backroom staff, much like Ricky Ponting taking on an assistant coaching role during the World Cup, was a priority for Langer after he faced many testing moments during his first year as coach. "Guys like Punter (Ponting) and Steve Waugh, not only do they have a great presence in the group, but they are great psychologists," Langer added. "They've been in the cauldron before, they've seen it all, so to have that those type of guys, we are talking about developing leadership in Australian cricket, to have our guys to learn from people of that calibre is very important short term." Australia's one-wicket defeat in the third Test was a bitter pill to swallow but they would put it behind them, he said. "I actually felt physically sick after it and then I went back to my room. I wasn't sure whether to cry my eyes out or smash my hotel room," he said. "Everyone in that change room, probably a lot of Australians felt it, felt completely sick. "You never like to let opportunities slip... that's OK, we'll make sure we learn from it."

Former captain Steve Waugh returns to give Australia an Ashes lift

Australia's cricket union Sunday slammed fans at Lord's for booing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-steve-smith-retires-hurt-after-being-hit-by-jofra-archer-bouncer-243695">Steve Smith after he was felled by a bouncer from fast bowler Jofra Archer</a>, saying the sport deserves better.

The star batsman collapsed face forward after a sickening blow to the side of the neck and head when on 80 during Australia's first innings of the second Ashes Test against England on Saturday.

He was eventually able to walk off the field for concussion checks to a standing ovation after another gritty performance.&nbsp;

But when he returned some fans booed him, mirroring the treatment he has received from sections of the crowd in England keen to remind him of his 12-month ban for ball-tampering.

The Australian Cricketers' Association (ACA), which represents players, said it was wrong to hurl abuse at an injured player.

"Cricket deserves much better than that. And Lord's, the home of cricket, deserves much better than that also," president Greg Dyer and chief executive Alistair Nicholson said in a joint statement.&nbsp;

"What we witnessed was bravery from an outstanding young man. It should be commended not vilified.

"Over the English summer, generally the crowds have been terrific and really added to the contest. But when someone is hurt, yet the boos continue, it's time to call 'enough'."

Several former Australian greats also condemned the behaviour with Ian Healy calling it "disgusting" while Mark Taylor said it was "very disappointing".

While angry at Smith's treatment by some fans, the ACA applauded the decision by medics to insist the 30-year-old leave the field for concussion checks, a protocol pushed by Australia following the death of Phillip Hughes in 2014.

Hughes, a former team-mate of Smith's, died after being hit by a bouncer in a domestic Sheffield Shield match in Sydney.

"The events at Lord's show the importance of the concussion protocols which have been developed in Australia over the last few years," it said.

"Administrators in Australia working with the ACA and now the ICC have done a good job in putting the protocols in place. Plainly, they are necessary to protect the players who are struck.

"Let's remind ourselves -- this is a workplace for these players," it added. "The reality is that cricket can be a dangerous sport, especially when the bowling is as ferocious as it has been in this series.

"To see the protocols practised at Lord's overnight was important and correct."

While Smith was wearing a helmet it did not have the additional neck protection that was introduced after Hughes died, which remains optional.

Australia coach Justin Langer said after Saturday's scare that he can see a time when it becomes mandatory.

Australia's cricket union Sunday slammed fans at Lord's for booing Steve Smith after he was felled by a bouncer from fast bowler Jofra Archer, saying the sport deserves better.

Australia's cricket union Sunday slammed fans at Lord's for booing Steve Smith after he was felled by a bouncer from fast bowler Jofra Archer, saying the sport deserves better. The star batsman collapsed face forward after a sickening blow to the side of the neck and head when on 80 during Australia's first innings of the second Ashes Test against England on Saturday. He was eventually able to walk off the field for concussion checks to a standing ovation after another gritty performance. But when he returned some fans booed him, mirroring the treatment he has received from sections of the crowd in England keen to remind him of his 12-month ban for ball-tampering. The Australian Cricketers' Association (ACA), which represents players, said it was wrong to hurl abuse at an injured player. "Cricket deserves much better than that. And Lord's, the home of cricket, deserves much better than that also," president Greg Dyer and chief executive Alistair Nicholson said in a joint statement. "What we witnessed was bravery from an outstanding young man. It should be commended not vilified. "Over the English summer, generally the crowds have been terrific and really added to the contest. But when someone is hurt, yet the boos continue, it's time to call 'enough'." Several former Australian greats also condemned the behaviour with Ian Healy calling it "disgusting" while Mark Taylor said it was "very disappointing". While angry at Smith's treatment by some fans, the ACA applauded the decision by medics to insist the 30-year-old leave the field for concussion checks, a protocol pushed by Australia following the death of Phillip Hughes in 2014. Hughes, a former team-mate of Smith's, died after being hit by a bouncer in a domestic Sheffield Shield match in Sydney. "The events at Lord's show the importance of the concussion protocols which have been developed in Australia over the last few years," it said. "Administrators in Australia working with the ACA and now the ICC have done a good job in putting the protocols in place. Plainly, they are necessary to protect the players who are struck. "Let's remind ourselves -- this is a workplace for these players," it added. "The reality is that cricket can be a dangerous sport, especially when the bowling is as ferocious as it has been in this series. "To see the protocols practised at Lord's overnight was important and correct." While Smith was wearing a helmet it did not have the additional neck protection that was introduced after Hughes died, which remains optional. Australia coach Justin Langer said after Saturday's scare that he can see a time when it becomes mandatory.

Australia cricket union condemns boos after Steve Smith felled by Jofra Archer

Cricket Australia unveiled new guidelines on Thursday to ensure transgender players can take part in the game at the highest levels. The policy sets out a testosterone limit for transgender and gender-diverse players who want to play for state and national women's teams.

Cricket Australia unveiled new guidelines on Thursday to ensure transgender players can take part in the game at the highest levels. The policy sets out a testosterone limit for transgender and gender-diverse players who want to play for state and national women's teams. "It doesn't make any sense that today, people are discriminated against, harassed or excluded, because of who they are," Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts said in a statement. To be eligible for elite women's teams, the players must show a testosterone concentration of fewer than 10 nanomoles per litre over at least 12 months. They must also be able to demonstrate their elected gender is consistent with how they are living their lives daily. The move more closely aligns Australia to the International Cricket Council's gender diversity guidelines. Cricket Australia's policy also guides community clubs, supporting grassroots cricketers to compete as the gender with which they identify. The guidelines cover everything from victimisation to privacy and providing suitable facilities, as well as the collection of personal information. Transgender participation in sport has proved a thorny issue with some prominent stars, including tennis great Martina Navratilova, voicing disquiet.

Cricket Australia sets testosterone limit for transgender players

Steve Smith put Australia in a strong position in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Sunday, with his unbeaten 98 steering his side to 231-4, a lead of 141 over England, at lunch on day four.

Resuming on 124-3, Smith continued to put England to the sword, passing 50 in the fourth over of the day.

England have not dismissed Smith with a red ball for a score under 50 since the second innings of the Trent Bridge Test in 2015.

Travis Head settled down after some nervy moments to reach his half-century before Ben Stokes enticed an edge from Head, who departed for 51 to bring an end to a partnership worth 130.

The session was again all about Smith, though, as he neared his 24th Test century, with Australia very much in the driving seat with six second-innings wickets still in hand.

Steve Smith put Australia in a strong position in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Sunday, with his unbeaten 98 steering his side to 231-4, a lead of 141 over England, at lunch on day four.

Steve Smith put Australia in a strong position in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston on Sunday, with his unbeaten 98 steering his side to 231-4, a lead of 141 over England, at lunch on day four. Resuming on 124-3, Smith continued to put England to the sword, passing 50 in the fourth over of the day. England have not dismissed Smith with a red ball for a score under 50 since the second innings of the Trent Bridge Test in 2015. Travis Head settled down after some nervy moments to reach his half-century before Ben Stokes enticed an edge from Head, who departed for 51 to bring an end to a partnership worth 130. The session was again all about Smith, though, as he neared his 24th Test century, with Australia very much in the driving seat with six second-innings wickets still in hand.

Unbeaten Steve Smith puts Australia in strong position to earn Ashes advantage

David Warner's 166-run knock against Bangladesh on Thursday impressed the spectators and made headlines but former Australian cricketer Shane Warne is not happy with team's "conservative" approach in Cricket World Cup 2019.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-david-warner-shines-as-australia-beat-bangladesh-by-48-runs-229110">Australia defeated Bangladesh by 48 runs</a> and are&nbsp;steadily inching closer towards the semi-finals with 10 points gained in six games they have played so far, the only game they lost to India.&nbsp;

However, Australia great and spin legend Shane Warne was unhappy over Australia's approach and expressed his opinion in a series of Twitter posts.

"Ps I still believe Australia can challenge India &amp; England for the World Cup trophy, but not with this game style or batting order," Warne said.

"Awesome from Maxwell &amp; a stunning 100 from Warner too. Khawaja doing great, but ridiculous he didn't run," added the outstanding leg-spinner, a key member of Australia's 1999 World Cup-winning side.

"Why wasn't this happening 20 overs ago? As I said in previous tweets, Aust has the firepower but have decided to play conservatively till the last 10 overs! Why?"

But Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell told about Warne's tweets by reporters, said, "I think we went at 13s (runs per over) for the last 14 overs so I don't think we went that bad."

"I always respect what Warne says," he said. "For us it's about going out there and doing the best we can.&nbsp;

"And whether or not we're batting slow or fast, I think you're going to get some form of criticism somewhere," he Maxwell.&nbsp;

David Warner's 166-run knock against Bangladesh on Thursday impressed the spectators and made headlines but former Australian cricketer Shane Warne is not happy with team's "conservative" approach in Cricket World Cup 2019.

David Warner's 166-run knock against Bangladesh on Thursday impressed the spectators and made headlines but former Australian cricketer Shane Warne is not happy with team's "conservative" approach in Cricket World Cup 2019. Australia defeated Bangladesh by 48 runs and are steadily inching closer towards the semi-finals with 10 points gained in six games they have played so far, the only game they lost to India. However, Australia great and spin legend Shane Warne was unhappy over Australia's approach and expressed his opinion in a series of Twitter posts. "Ps I still believe Australia can challenge India & England for the World Cup trophy, but not with this game style or batting order," Warne said. "Awesome from Maxwell & a stunning 100 from Warner too. Khawaja doing great, but ridiculous he didn't run," added the outstanding leg-spinner, a key member of Australia's 1999 World Cup-winning side. "Why wasn't this happening 20 overs ago? As I said in previous tweets, Aust has the firepower but have decided to play conservatively till the last 10 overs! Why?" But Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell told about Warne's tweets by reporters, said, "I think we went at 13s (runs per over) for the last 14 overs so I don't think we went that bad." "I always respect what Warne says," he said. "For us it's about going out there and doing the best we can. "And whether or not we're batting slow or fast, I think you're going to get some form of criticism somewhere," he Maxwell.

Ex-Australian cricketer Shane Warne not happy with Australia's 'conservative' approach in Cricket World Cup 2019

Nathan Coulter-Nile's record-breaking innings laid the platform for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-10-australia-vs-west-indies-224922">Australia's 15-run victory over the West Indies</a> on Thursday as the World Cup holders bounced back from a top-order collapse to make it two successive wins.

Australia were in dire straits at 38 for four after the West Indies fast bowlers proved too hot to handle early on at Trent Bridge.

But Coulter-Nile's career-best 92 -- the highest score by any number eight batsman or lower in a World Cup -- helped take them to 288 all out.

He carried on a recovery started by former skipper Steve Smith (73), with the pair bailing Australia out in a stand of 102 in 89 balls.

West Indies, despite a painstaking 68 from opener Shai Hope and 51 from captain Jason Holder finished on 273 for nine.

Fast bowler Mitchell Starc did the bulk of the damage with five for 46 -- the first five-wicket haul of this World Cup -- including a late burst of four for two in 11 balls -- as Australia followed up their seven-wicket win over minnows Afghanistan.

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The West Indies had bounced out Pakistan for just 105 when winning their tournament opener at Trent Bridge last week and adopted similar tactics against Australia after Holder won the toss.&nbsp;

Oshane Thomas had Australia captain Aaron Finch (six) caught before opening partner David Warner (three) was held at backward point off Sheldon Cottrell -- a&nbsp;wicket that saw the left-arm quick, still a member of the Jamaica Defence Force, celebrate with his trademark salute.

Australia were now 26 for two, with boos ringing out as Warner walked off and Smith walked on -- a now familiar response by crowds in England to the pair having only recently returned from year-long bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.&nbsp;

<img alt="Match 10" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4f32326b-12c9-4dbb-be7e-0ae354b58bc7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/match%2010.jpg" />

Coulter-Nile cashes in

Smith had a lucky break on 26 when he top-edged a hook off Holder only for Cottrell at long leg to slip as he eyed a catch.

His patient innings ended when he flicked Thomas high towards deep backward square only for Cottrell, skirting the boundary, to grab the ball one-handed, throw it back into the field of play as he stepped over the rope -- thereby avoiding a six -- and complete a sensational catch.

But Coulter-Nile cashed in as he surpassed his previous international best of 34.

His blistering assault off 60 balls featuring eight fours and four sixes also saw him beat former Zimbabwe international Heath Streak's previous World Cup best by a No 8 of 72 before, in sight of a hundred, he drove Carlos Brathwaite to Holder at long-off.

In the West Indies' run-chase, big-hitting opener Chris Gayle, having overturned two 'out' decisions, was eventually lbw to Starc for 21.

But Hope, biding his time, completed a 76-ball fifty.

Holder who overturned decisions against him on seven and 22, upped the tempo with several well-struck boundaries.

West Indies, however, suffered a huge setback when Hope chipped a Pat Cummins slower ball to mid-on.

Russell then got off the mark with a huge straight six off leg-spinner Adam Zampa that took the West Indies to 200 before he was well caught over the shoulder by Glenn Maxwell.

But as long as Holder was there the West Indies still had a chance.&nbsp;

He completed a run-a-ball fifty but trying to take on Starc, rather than wait to attack Australia's lesser bowlers, he was caught at short fine leg as the West Indies' hopes faded.

Nathan Coulter-Nile's record-breaking innings laid the platform for Australia's 15-run victory over the West Indies on Thursday as the World Cup holders bounced back from a top-order collapse to make it two successive wins.

Nathan Coulter-Nile's record-breaking innings laid the platform for Australia's 15-run victory over the West Indies on Thursday as the World Cup holders bounced back from a top-order collapse to make it two successive wins. Australia were in dire straits at 38 for four after the West Indies fast bowlers proved too hot to handle early on at Trent Bridge. But Coulter-Nile's career-best 92 -- the highest score by any number eight batsman or lower in a World Cup -- helped take them to 288 all out. He carried on a recovery started by former skipper Steve Smith (73), with the pair bailing Australia out in a stand of 102 in 89 balls. West Indies, despite a painstaking 68 from opener Shai Hope and 51 from captain Jason Holder finished on 273 for nine. Fast bowler Mitchell Starc did the bulk of the damage with five for 46 -- the first five-wicket haul of this World Cup -- including a late burst of four for two in 11 balls -- as Australia followed up their seven-wicket win over minnows Afghanistan. Five-wicket hero Mitchell Starc leads the victorious Australians off the field. #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/FanCT0Y19x — Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) June 6, 2019 × The West Indies had bounced out Pakistan for just 105 when winning their tournament opener at Trent Bridge last week and adopted similar tactics against Australia after Holder won the toss. Oshane Thomas had Australia captain Aaron Finch (six) caught before opening partner David Warner (three) was held at backward point off Sheldon Cottrell -- a wicket that saw the left-arm quick, still a member of the Jamaica Defence Force, celebrate with his trademark salute. Australia were now 26 for two, with boos ringing out as Warner walked off and Smith walked on -- a now familiar response by crowds in England to the pair having only recently returned from year-long bans for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. Coulter-Nile cashes in Smith had a lucky break on 26 when he top-edged a hook off Holder only for Cottrell at long leg to slip as he eyed a catch. His patient innings ended when he flicked Thomas high towards deep backward square only for Cottrell, skirting the boundary, to grab the ball one-handed, throw it back into the field of play as he stepped over the rope -- thereby avoiding a six -- and complete a sensational catch. But Coulter-Nile cashed in as he surpassed his previous international best of 34. His blistering assault off 60 balls featuring eight fours and four sixes also saw him beat former Zimbabwe international Heath Streak's previous World Cup best by a No 8 of 72 before, in sight of a hundred, he drove Carlos Brathwaite to Holder at long-off. In the West Indies' run-chase, big-hitting opener Chris Gayle, having overturned two 'out' decisions, was eventually lbw to Starc for 21. But Hope, biding his time, completed a 76-ball fifty. Holder who overturned decisions against him on seven and 22, upped the tempo with several well-struck boundaries. West Indies, however, suffered a huge setback when Hope chipped a Pat Cummins slower ball to mid-on. Russell then got off the mark with a huge straight six off leg-spinner Adam Zampa that took the West Indies to 200 before he was well caught over the shoulder by Glenn Maxwell. But as long as Holder was there the West Indies still had a chance. He completed a run-a-ball fifty but trying to take on Starc, rather than wait to attack Australia's lesser bowlers, he was caught at short fine leg as the West Indies' hopes faded.

World Cup: Nathan Coulter-Nile, Mitchell Starc guide Australia's win over West Indies

Throwback to ICC Cricket World Cup 2015: Starc emerges as Australia rules

Australia's cricketers were headed to the battlefields of Gallipoli for inspiration to kick off a gruelling four-month tour taking in the defence of their World Cup crown and an Ashes series.&nbsp;

The team, led by Justin Langer, flew out of Australia late Friday for a multi-day stop in Turkey before arriving in England for three warm-up games ahead of their opening World Cup clash on June 1.&nbsp;

"Where we are right now, on the way to England for a long campaign representing our country, hopefully it will be a real catalyst for gelling together and success," Langer said about visiting the World War I site.&nbsp;

Australia and New Zealand lost more than 10,000 men in 1915 when British and French troops landed on the Gallipoli peninsula in the Dardanelles Strait in Germany-allied Ottoman Turkey.&nbsp;

It became a defining event for both nations, marking the first time these newly independent countries fought under their own flags.&nbsp;

The Steve Waugh-led 2001 Ashes-winning side made a similar pilgrimage, but Langer missed the trip, something he has called "one of the regrets of my career".&nbsp;

Last year, he took the squad to the WWI battlefields of northern France ahead of his first series in charge following the ball-tampering scandal that rattled Australian cricket.&nbsp;

He said the players learned about "humility and perspective and understanding how lucky we are".&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's very sobering, and it was an incredible life experience for the boys, and also it gelled the team together with different experiences and interpretations of our history," he said.&nbsp;

"We talk a lot about our history and the humility of times before."&nbsp;

Since his appointment, Langer has worked hard in restoring faith in Australian cricket after the "Sandpaper-gate" affair in South Africa that led to bans for then captain Steve Smith, his deputy David Warner and opener Cameron Bancroft.&nbsp;

Cricket Australia on Thursday hailed the team's once-notorious behaviour as significantly improved as Langer's new less-abrasive attitude beds in.&nbsp;

Aussie spirit

Smith and Warner's one-year suspensions are now over and they were welcomed back to the Australian fold for three warm-up games against New Zealand over the past week.&nbsp;

Former skipper Ricky Ponting, who will be Langer's assistant at the World Cup, was on the 2001 visit to Gallipoli and told cricket.com.au it was a motivating experience.&nbsp;

"The thing that was really rammed home to us on that trip was what the ANZAC spirit is all about," he said, referring to the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.&nbsp;

"It really does typify even the modern Australian person.&nbsp;

"I've been lucky enough to travel around the world and play cricket against a lot of opposition teams in a lot of different countries and you just don't see that same sort of spirit in a lot of people from other countries.&nbsp;

"The will to want to do whatever you can for your mate, to help your mate in a time of crisis."&nbsp;

Australia head to the World Cup in top form. They won eight straight one-dayers against India and Pakistan before winning their "unofficial" three-game series against New Zealand in Brisbane this week 2-1.&nbsp;

While their starting XI is firming up, the batting order remains in flux.&nbsp;

Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja and Warner all opened against New Zealand. It is Warner's favoured position, but he made just 0 and 2 in his two knocks there since returning from suspension.&nbsp;

Smith fared much better, hitting 89 not out at number four, then 91 not out at three.&nbsp;

The pace attack will almost certainly feature Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Coulter-Nile and Jason Behrendorff, but questions remain as to whether Nathan Lyon or Adam Zampa will claim the spinner's spot.&nbsp;

Australia's cricketers were headed to the battlefields of Gallipoli for inspiration to kick off a gruelling four-month tour taking in the defence of their World Cup crown and an Ashes series.

Australia's cricketers were headed to the battlefields of Gallipoli for inspiration to kick off a gruelling four-month tour taking in the defence of their World Cup crown and an Ashes series. The team, led by Justin Langer, flew out of Australia late Friday for a multi-day stop in Turkey before arriving in England for three warm-up games ahead of their opening World Cup clash on June 1. "Where we are right now, on the way to England for a long campaign representing our country, hopefully it will be a real catalyst for gelling together and success," Langer said about visiting the World War I site. Australia and New Zealand lost more than 10,000 men in 1915 when British and French troops landed on the Gallipoli peninsula in the Dardanelles Strait in Germany-allied Ottoman Turkey. It became a defining event for both nations, marking the first time these newly independent countries fought under their own flags. The Steve Waugh-led 2001 Ashes-winning side made a similar pilgrimage, but Langer missed the trip, something he has called "one of the regrets of my career". Last year, he took the squad to the WWI battlefields of northern France ahead of his first series in charge following the ball-tampering scandal that rattled Australian cricket. He said the players learned about "humility and perspective and understanding how lucky we are". "It's very sobering, and it was an incredible life experience for the boys, and also it gelled the team together with different experiences and interpretations of our history," he said. "We talk a lot about our history and the humility of times before." Since his appointment, Langer has worked hard in restoring faith in Australian cricket after the "Sandpaper-gate" affair in South Africa that led to bans for then captain Steve Smith, his deputy David Warner and opener Cameron Bancroft. Cricket Australia on Thursday hailed the team's once-notorious behaviour as significantly improved as Langer's new less-abrasive attitude beds in. Aussie spirit Smith and Warner's one-year suspensions are now over and they were welcomed back to the Australian fold for three warm-up games against New Zealand over the past week. Former skipper Ricky Ponting, who will be Langer's assistant at the World Cup, was on the 2001 visit to Gallipoli and told cricket.com.au it was a motivating experience. "The thing that was really rammed home to us on that trip was what the ANZAC spirit is all about," he said, referring to the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. "It really does typify even the modern Australian person. "I've been lucky enough to travel around the world and play cricket against a lot of opposition teams in a lot of different countries and you just don't see that same sort of spirit in a lot of people from other countries. "The will to want to do whatever you can for your mate, to help your mate in a time of crisis." Australia head to the World Cup in top form. They won eight straight one-dayers against India and Pakistan before winning their "unofficial" three-game series against New Zealand in Brisbane this week 2-1. While their starting XI is firming up, the batting order remains in flux. Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja and Warner all opened against New Zealand. It is Warner's favoured position, but he made just 0 and 2 in his two knocks there since returning from suspension. Smith fared much better, hitting 89 not out at number four, then 91 not out at three. The pace attack will almost certainly feature Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Coulter-Nile and Jason Behrendorff, but questions remain as to whether Nathan Lyon or Adam Zampa will claim the spinner's spot.

'Humble' Aussies head to Gallipoli for World Cup inspiration

Pat Cummins grabbed two wickets in his first over before a New Zealand XI recovered to make 215 in a one-day practice match Monday that marked a return to Australian duty for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Steve+Smith">Steve Smith</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=David+Warner">David Warner</a> after their ball-tampering bans.

A weakened New Zealand, missing Kane Williamson, Martin Guptill and Trent Boult, who remain on Indian Premier League duties, were on the ropes after their horror start.

But Tom Blundell led a fightback and top scored with 77 before they were all out after 46.1 overs.

Cummins ended with 3-36 off eight overs as Australia warm-up for the defence of their World Cup title in England. Nathan Coulter-Nile and Jason Behrendorff also took three apiece.

Skipper Aaron Finch won the toss and elected to bowl, with Smith and Warner picked for the first time since serving year-long bans for their part in the "Sandpaper-gate" ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town that rocked Australian cricket.

After they were warmly welcomed by a small crowd, Smith celebrated his return with a superb one-handed diving catch at short mid-on to remove Tom Latham.

Warner, who usually opens, is down to bat at three with coach Justin Langer sticking with Finch and Usman Khawaja at the top of the order after the team's recent red-hot form saw them win eight one-day internationals on the trot.

Smith will come in at four with Shaun Marsh at five. Glenn Maxwell was left out of the first of three games against New Zealand this week at Allan Border Field in Brisbane.

Fast bowler Mitchell Starc, who is returning from a muscle tear, was also overlooked while Adam Zampa was prefered to Nathan Lyon as the spin option.

Pat Cummins grabbed two wickets in his first over before a New Zealand XI recovered to make 215 in a one-day practice match Monday that marked a return to Australian duty for Steve Smith and David Warner after their ball-tampering bans.

Pat Cummins grabbed two wickets in his first over before a New Zealand XI recovered to make 215 in a one-day practice match Monday that marked a return to Australian duty for Steve Smith and David Warner after their ball-tampering bans. A weakened New Zealand, missing Kane Williamson, Martin Guptill and Trent Boult, who remain on Indian Premier League duties, were on the ropes after their horror start. But Tom Blundell led a fightback and top scored with 77 before they were all out after 46.1 overs. Cummins ended with 3-36 off eight overs as Australia warm-up for the defence of their World Cup title in England. Nathan Coulter-Nile and Jason Behrendorff also took three apiece. Skipper Aaron Finch won the toss and elected to bowl, with Smith and Warner picked for the first time since serving year-long bans for their part in the "Sandpaper-gate" ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town that rocked Australian cricket. After they were warmly welcomed by a small crowd, Smith celebrated his return with a superb one-handed diving catch at short mid-on to remove Tom Latham. Warner, who usually opens, is down to bat at three with coach Justin Langer sticking with Finch and Usman Khawaja at the top of the order after the team's recent red-hot form saw them win eight one-day internationals on the trot. Smith will come in at four with Shaun Marsh at five. Glenn Maxwell was left out of the first of three games against New Zealand this week at Allan Border Field in Brisbane. Fast bowler Mitchell Starc, who is returning from a muscle tear, was also overlooked while Adam Zampa was prefered to Nathan Lyon as the spin option.

Steve Smith, David Warner make comeback as Australia beat New Zealand in World Cup warm-up match

Steve Smith and David Warner completed their remarkable comeback from the ball-tampering scandal that rocked cricket when they were on Monday selected in defending champion Australia's&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;squad.

But there was no room for Josh Hazlewood or Peter Handscomb at the tournament in England and Wales.

It is the first call-up for the former captain and his deputy since the expiry last month of year-long bans for their part in &nbsp;"sandpapergate" in Cape Town that had wide repercussions 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.

Both players were eligible for the final two games of Australia's recent limited-overs tour against Pakistan, but selectors preferred that they eased themselves back at the Twenty20 Indian Premier League.

Both grabbed the opportunity and have been in good touch, particularly the bombastic Warner who has made a blistering return.

"As far as I'm concerned they have done everything that's been asked of them in the last 12 months," said one-day skipper Aaron Finch, adding that he didn't believe their return would be destabilising.

"Knowing them both personally as I do, I don't think there will be any issues whatsoever. They are both great, great guys."

Their return has left coach Justin Langer with a dilemma on the back of Australia winning eight one-day internationals on the trot, against India and Pakistan.

All the top order have been firing, and it is Handscomb who is the fall guy despite averaging 43 in 13 games this year. The decision to drop him means the team only has one wicketkeeper in Alex Carey.

Rock-solid batting

Australia's recent red-hot form has been built on the back of a rock-solid opening partnership between Finch and Usman Khawaja.

The decision for Langer now is whether to retain that combination when the 50-over&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;begins at the end of next month or move one of them down to make way for Warner, who traditionally opens the batting.

Shaun Marsh, Smith, Glenn Maxwell and all-rounder Marcus Stoinis make up the middle order.

"There's so much flexibility in our order and there will be a lot of options," said Finch. "There's been a couple of hard decisions made on the 15, but there's going to be some even tougher ones with the 11."

Selectors opted for two spinners in Adam Zampa and Nathan Lyon and five quick bowlers.

As with the batsmen, Australia's selectors faced a bowling conundrum as they target a record sixth&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;triumph.&nbsp;

Pat Cummins will spearhead the attack while Mitchell Starc, the 2015&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;player of the tournament, has been recalled after being sidelined with a muscle tear since early February.

But Hazlewood, who has been out of action since January with a back injury, missed out, with chief selector Trevor Hohns saying the focus was on having him ready for the Ashes Test series in England which begins in August.&nbsp;

Jhye Richardson, who dislocated his shoulder last month, makes the grade along with Nathan Coulter-Nile and Jason Behrendorff.

Hazlewood and Handscomb were instead named in both Australia's one-day A&nbsp;squad, which will play games in England while the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;is on, and their four-day A&nbsp;squad&nbsp;to face English county sides in the build-up to the Ashes.

Australia&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;squad: Aaron Finch (capt), Usman Khawaja, David Warner, Steve Smith, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Jhye Richardson, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Jason Behrendorff, Nathan Lyon, Adam Zampa

Australia one-day A&nbsp;squad: Travis Head (capt), Matthew Wade, Will Pucovski, Peter Handscomb, Ashton Turner, Mitch Marsh, D'Arcy Short, Kurtis Patterson, Ashton Agar, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Josh Hazlewood, Kane Richardson, Sean Abbott

Australia four-day A&nbsp;squad: Tim Paine (capt), Marcus Harris, Kurtis Patterson, Will Pucovski, Travis Head, Peter Handscomb, Matthew Wade, Mitch Marsh, Michael Neser, Jon Holland, James Pattinson, Jackson Bird, Josh Hazlewood, Chris Tremain

Steve Smith and David Warner completed their remarkable comeback from the ball-tampering scandal that rocked cricket when they were on Monday selected in defending champion Australia's World Cup squad.

Steve Smith and David Warner completed their remarkable comeback from the ball-tampering scandal that rocked cricket when they were on Monday selected in defending champion Australia's World Cup squad. But there was no room for Josh Hazlewood or Peter Handscomb at the tournament in England and Wales. It is the first call-up for the former captain and his deputy since the expiry last month of year-long bans for their part in "sandpapergate" in Cape Town that had wide repercussions 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. Both players were eligible for the final two games of Australia's recent limited-overs tour against Pakistan, but selectors preferred that they eased themselves back at the Twenty20 Indian Premier League. Both grabbed the opportunity and have been in good touch, particularly the bombastic Warner who has made a blistering return. "As far as I'm concerned they have done everything that's been asked of them in the last 12 months," said one-day skipper Aaron Finch, adding that he didn't believe their return would be destabilising. "Knowing them both personally as I do, I don't think there will be any issues whatsoever. They are both great, great guys." Their return has left coach Justin Langer with a dilemma on the back of Australia winning eight one-day internationals on the trot, against India and Pakistan. All the top order have been firing, and it is Handscomb who is the fall guy despite averaging 43 in 13 games this year. The decision to drop him means the team only has one wicketkeeper in Alex Carey. Rock-solid batting Australia's recent red-hot form has been built on the back of a rock-solid opening partnership between Finch and Usman Khawaja. The decision for Langer now is whether to retain that combination when the 50-over World Cup begins at the end of next month or move one of them down to make way for Warner, who traditionally opens the batting. Shaun Marsh, Smith, Glenn Maxwell and all-rounder Marcus Stoinis make up the middle order. "There's so much flexibility in our order and there will be a lot of options," said Finch. "There's been a couple of hard decisions made on the 15, but there's going to be some even tougher ones with the 11." Selectors opted for two spinners in Adam Zampa and Nathan Lyon and five quick bowlers. As with the batsmen, Australia's selectors faced a bowling conundrum as they target a record sixth World Cup triumph. Pat Cummins will spearhead the attack while Mitchell Starc, the 2015 World Cup player of the tournament, has been recalled after being sidelined with a muscle tear since early February. But Hazlewood, who has been out of action since January with a back injury, missed out, with chief selector Trevor Hohns saying the focus was on having him ready for the Ashes Test series in England which begins in August. Jhye Richardson, who dislocated his shoulder last month, makes the grade along with Nathan Coulter-Nile and Jason Behrendorff. Hazlewood and Handscomb were instead named in both Australia's one-day A squad, which will play games in England while the World Cup is on, and their four-day A squad to face English county sides in the build-up to the Ashes. Australia World Cup squad: Aaron Finch (capt), Usman Khawaja, David Warner, Steve Smith, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Jhye Richardson, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Jason Behrendorff, Nathan Lyon, Adam Zampa Australia one-day A squad: Travis Head (capt), Matthew Wade, Will Pucovski, Peter Handscomb, Ashton Turner, Mitch Marsh, D'Arcy Short, Kurtis Patterson, Ashton Agar, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Josh Hazlewood, Kane Richardson, Sean Abbott Australia four-day A squad: Tim Paine (capt), Marcus Harris, Kurtis Patterson, Will Pucovski, Travis Head, Peter Handscomb, Matthew Wade, Mitch Marsh, Michael Neser, Jon Holland, James Pattinson, Jackson Bird, Josh Hazlewood, Chris Tremain

Australia's World Cup squad: Steve Smith, David Warner recalled for title defence

Australia's top four batsmen all posted half-centuries as they beat Pakistan by 20 runs to complete a 5-0 one-day series whitewash in Dubai on Sunday.

Sent out to bat, Australia finished with a commanding total of 327-7 on a flat Dubai International Cricket Stadium pitch.

Opener Usman Khawaja was all set for his third hundred this month but fell for 98 to fast bowler Usman Shinwari.

Glenn Maxwell, meanwhile, celebrated his 100th one-day international with an impressive 33-ball 70, Shaun Marsh scored 68-ball 61 and captain Aaron Finch made 69-ball 53 to put Australia in control at halfway stage.

It was Maxwell's third consecutive 50-plus score, giving him a timely boost in intense competition for the middle-order spots for the World Cup starting on May 30 in England and Wales.

Khawaja and Finch laid the foundations with a solid 134-run opening stand but it was Maxwell's 10 fours and three sixes that helped Australia to 107 runs in the last 10 overs.

Pakistan lost opener Abid Ali, who scored a century on debut in the last match, for a golden duck in the first over but Shan Masood and Haris Sohail got the run chase on track with a steady partnership of 108 for the second wicket.

Leg-spinner Adam Zampa celebrated his 27th birthday by trapping Masood (50) leg-before to give Australia a crucial breakthrough, before Maxwell's off-spin removed Mohammad Rizwan for 12.

Sohail smashed his second century of the series but holed out to paceman Kane Richardson for 130 when the run-rate pressure forced him to go for broke in the 41st over.

Captain Imad Wasim scored an unbeaten 50 to reduce the deficit but the task proved too big for Pakistan who finished 307-7 after 50 overs.

"It's very satisfying," said Australia coach Justin Langer.

"We came here in September and Pakistan showed us how to play cricket (with 3-0 Twenty20 series win). We worked really hard in the summer to turn it around, and 5-0 is a great result.

"Everyone in world cricket is working towards the World Cup, and it's always nice to go into the tournament with confidence. We've got some now."

The win was Australia's eighth in a row after their 3-2 comeback victory in the series in India this month.

Australia's top four batsmen all posted half-centuries as they beat Pakistan by 20 runs to complete a 5-0 one-day series whitewash in Dubai on Sunday. Sent out to bat, Australia finished with a commanding total of 327-7 on a flat Dubai International Cricket Stadium pitch.

Australia's top four batsmen all posted half-centuries as they beat Pakistan by 20 runs to complete a 5-0 one-day series whitewash in Dubai on Sunday. Sent out to bat, Australia finished with a commanding total of 327-7 on a flat Dubai International Cricket Stadium pitch. Opener Usman Khawaja was all set for his third hundred this month but fell for 98 to fast bowler Usman Shinwari. Glenn Maxwell, meanwhile, celebrated his 100th one-day international with an impressive 33-ball 70, Shaun Marsh scored 68-ball 61 and captain Aaron Finch made 69-ball 53 to put Australia in control at halfway stage. It was Maxwell's third consecutive 50-plus score, giving him a timely boost in intense competition for the middle-order spots for the World Cup starting on May 30 in England and Wales. Khawaja and Finch laid the foundations with a solid 134-run opening stand but it was Maxwell's 10 fours and three sixes that helped Australia to 107 runs in the last 10 overs. Pakistan lost opener Abid Ali, who scored a century on debut in the last match, for a golden duck in the first over but Shan Masood and Haris Sohail got the run chase on track with a steady partnership of 108 for the second wicket. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa celebrated his 27th birthday by trapping Masood (50) leg-before to give Australia a crucial breakthrough, before Maxwell's off-spin removed Mohammad Rizwan for 12. Sohail smashed his second century of the series but holed out to paceman Kane Richardson for 130 when the run-rate pressure forced him to go for broke in the 41st over. Captain Imad Wasim scored an unbeaten 50 to reduce the deficit but the task proved too big for Pakistan who finished 307-7 after 50 overs. "It's very satisfying," said Australia coach Justin Langer. "We came here in September and Pakistan showed us how to play cricket (with 3-0 Twenty20 series win). We worked really hard in the summer to turn it around, and 5-0 is a great result. "Everyone in world cricket is working towards the World Cup, and it's always nice to go into the tournament with confidence. We've got some now." The win was Australia's eighth in a row after their 3-2 comeback victory in the series in India this month.

Australia seal ODI series whitewash against Pakistan for eighth straight win

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

Australian cricket captain <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Aaron+Finch">Aaron Finch</a> on Monday (March 11) said that they were optimistic of winning a One-Day International series in India after a long time.

The five-match series between the two sides is <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/ashton-turner-usman-khawaja-and-peter-handscomb-made-australias-record-run-chase-special-against-india-202475">currently tied at 2-2</a> after Australia chased down a steep total of 359 to stay alive in the series.

Australia's last series win in the 50-over format in India came in 2009.&nbsp;

The team was invited for a special evening in New Delhi by the Australian High Commission in India.

Finch said that there is never a dull moment when they are playing with India as there is always "a lot of passion, a lot of fierce competitiveness between the two countries".&nbsp;

The team also interacted with veteran Indian bowler, Bishan Singh Bedi, who was a part of the famous Indian spin quartet.&nbsp;

The two teams will play the series-deciding ODI match in New Delhi on Wednesday (March 13).

If Finch's men win the New Delhi ODI, they'll become first Australian side win a five-match series after trailing 0-2.&nbsp;

Australian cricket captain Aaron Finch on Monday (March 11) said that they were optimistic of winning a One-Day International series in India after a long time. The five-match series between the two sides is currently tied at 2-2 after Australia chased down a steep total of 359 to stay alive in the series.

Australian cricket captain Aaron Finch on Monday (March 11) said that they were optimistic of winning a One-Day International series in India after a long time. The five-match series between the two sides is currently tied at 2-2 after Australia chased down a steep total of 359 to stay alive in the series. Australia's last series win in the 50-over format in India came in 2009. The team was invited for a special evening in New Delhi by the Australian High Commission in India. Finch said that there is never a dull moment when they are playing with India as there is always "a lot of passion, a lot of fierce competitiveness between the two countries". The team also interacted with veteran Indian bowler, Bishan Singh Bedi, who was a part of the famous Indian spin quartet. The two teams will play the series-deciding ODI match in New Delhi on Wednesday (March 13). If Finch's men win the New Delhi ODI, they'll become first Australian side win a five-match series after trailing 0-2.

Australian skipper Aaron Finch hopes to win ODI series in India

Usman Khawaja termed his maiden hundred in ODI as a "huge thing" simply because the first one is always difficult to get.&nbsp;

Khawaja hit a 104-run knock and shared a 193 run stand with captain and fellow opener Aaron Finch to play a significant role in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-virat-kohlis-41st-ton-goes-in-vain-as-india-lose-3rd-odi-by-32-runs-202091">Australia's 32-run win in the third ODI</a>.

"Yeah it's huge. The first one is always hardest - no matter what you're playing. It's obviously a special one. I found the same thing in Test cricket as well as in one-day cricket. I got that 98 before a few years ago, it was frustrating and disappointing," said Khwaja.&nbsp;

Australia have won an overseas ODI for the first time since 2017 and Khawaja is absolutely delighted.

"Any win, you are very happy. That's why we play the game. We love competing and winning against a very good Indian side. It's always nice to do that -especially on their turf. We lost the first two and won the third one. We are still in the series and feeling is good."

Khawaja didn't agree with the notion that he finally got measure of bowlers, who had his 'number' during the Test series back in Australia.

"Not really. I've scored a lot of runs here for Australia A in one-day (List A) cricket. I went over to Chennai a few years ago and I was the leading run-scorer for Australia A there. Then I scored a hundred here six months back in another Australia A series. So I have performed well here before."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Khawaja said that Finch had a measure of Kuldeep and it worked well on Friday night.

"There was no set plan. It was just the feeling out in the middle. Instincts. When a bowler comes on - you feel like he can take him. When Kuldeep came on, I knew he (Finch) was hitting to the short side with the spin. When he took him on that first over, it was obvious he could clear the rope pretty easily with that short boundary.

"So as soon as I got any strike, I was just trying to get a single and give him as much strike as possible. That's just a partnership - it's how you work as batsmen, you sort of understand what the other guy is trying to do."

Usman Khawaja termed his maiden hundred in ODI as a "huge thing" simply because the first one is always difficult to get. Khawaja hit a 104-run knock and shared a 193 run stand with captain and fellow opener Aaron Finch to play a significant role in Australia's 32-run win in the third ODI.

Usman Khawaja termed his maiden hundred in ODI as a "huge thing" simply because the first one is always difficult to get. Khawaja hit a 104-run knock and shared a 193 run stand with captain and fellow opener Aaron Finch to play a significant role in Australia's 32-run win in the third ODI. "Yeah it's huge. The first one is always hardest - no matter what you're playing. It's obviously a special one. I found the same thing in Test cricket as well as in one-day cricket. I got that 98 before a few years ago, it was frustrating and disappointing," said Khwaja. Australia have won an overseas ODI for the first time since 2017 and Khawaja is absolutely delighted. "Any win, you are very happy. That's why we play the game. We love competing and winning against a very good Indian side. It's always nice to do that -especially on their turf. We lost the first two and won the third one. We are still in the series and feeling is good." Khawaja didn't agree with the notion that he finally got measure of bowlers, who had his 'number' during the Test series back in Australia. "Not really. I've scored a lot of runs here for Australia A in one-day (List A) cricket. I went over to Chennai a few years ago and I was the leading run-scorer for Australia A there. Then I scored a hundred here six months back in another Australia A series. So I have performed well here before." Khawaja said that Finch had a measure of Kuldeep and it worked well on Friday night. "There was no set plan. It was just the feeling out in the middle. Instincts. When a bowler comes on - you feel like he can take him. When Kuldeep came on, I knew he (Finch) was hitting to the short side with the spin. When he took him on that first over, it was obvious he could clear the rope pretty easily with that short boundary. "So as soon as I got any strike, I was just trying to get a single and give him as much strike as possible. That's just a partnership - it's how you work as batsmen, you sort of understand what the other guy is trying to do."

It's huge for me as 1st one is always difficult to get: Usman Khawaja on century

Australia's popular 'shooting stars' jersey is all set to make its reappearance as Cricket Australia has recalled the iconic kit for the upcoming season.&nbsp;

Wearing the same kit, Steve Waugh-led team Australia lifted World Cup trophy in the year 1999 after defeating Pakistan in the finals.&nbsp;

The five stars of the Southern Cross graced the front of the jersey. It was evocative and proved lucky as Australia won the title that year.&nbsp;

The decision to bring back the nostalgic kit was made by voting and the with its distinctive pattern of green 'shooting stars' on yellow, was the popular choice.&nbsp;

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It all comes down to this... The final! Which retro kit do you want to see the Aussie Men wearing in the ODIs next summer? 
 
Make sure you cast your vote! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PickTheKit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PickTheKit</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1099540214312165378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The final tussle was between the 'lightning bolts' from 1992-94 and 'shooting stars' from World Cup 1999.&nbsp;

The kit is all set to make a reappearance during the next One-Day International series against New Zealand next season.&nbsp;

Australia's popular 'shooting stars' jersey is all set to make its reappearance as Cricket Australia has recalled the iconic kit for the upcoming season. Wearing the same kit, Steve Waugh-led team Australia lifted World Cup trophy in the year 1999 after defeating Pakistan in the finals.

Australia's popular 'shooting stars' jersey is all set to make its reappearance as Cricket Australia has recalled the iconic kit for the upcoming season. Wearing the same kit, Steve Waugh-led team Australia lifted World Cup trophy in the year 1999 after defeating Pakistan in the finals. The five stars of the Southern Cross graced the front of the jersey. It was evocative and proved lucky as Australia won the title that year. The decision to bring back the nostalgic kit was made by voting and the with its distinctive pattern of green 'shooting stars' on yellow, was the popular choice. It all comes down to this... The final! Which retro kit do you want to see the Aussie Men wearing in the ODIs next summer? Make sure you cast your vote! #PickTheKit — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) February 24, 2019 × The final tussle was between the 'lightning bolts' from 1992-94 and 'shooting stars' from World Cup 1999. The kit is all set to make a reappearance during the next One-Day International series against New Zealand next season.

'Shooting stars': Australia to put on iconic World Cup 1999 kit for 2019-20 summer

Former Australia batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Cameron+Bancroft">Cameron Bancroft</a> has played down any talk of a rift with David Warner after being accused of throwing his fellow opener "under a bus" in a controversial interview about the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal.

Bancroft, who was suspended for nine months for his part in the Newlands incident, made a successful return to first class cricket on Saturday, unbeaten on 73 for Western Australia at stumps on the first day.

The 26-year-old was roundly criticised for casting Warner as the instigator in an interview during the Boxing Day test against India, while describing himself as an impressionable rookie just wanting to "fit in" to the team.

Former Australia captain and TV pundit Ricky Ponting, now employed as a coaching consultant for the one-day international team, said Bancroft had further "damaged (his) brand", while Michael Slater said he had "buried" Warner.

Two months on from the interview, Bancroft said he had been in touch with Warner, and that all three banned players had supported each other through their "journey".

"I think all of us, including Dave, have been really challenged through this period of time," Bancroft told state radio station ABC.

"I know that all three of us have really stuck by each other and looked after each other well.

"You can't understand the trauma I felt, it was probably very different trauma to how he (Warner) felt, and I can't possibly understand that.

"I guess moving forward there will be great lessons for all of us, including Dave.

"That's something we've all shared with each other and something I've certainly shared with Dave when we've communicated throughout this entire journey."

Bancroft's ban expired in December, while those of Warner and former captain Steve Smith will end March 29.

Bancroft had no regrets about his interview with former Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist, saying he felt he had "important learnings to share".

"I guess if other people were triggered by that, I guess that's their battle to face," he said.

"But if I was able to touch people through some parts of my journey, and to help them I guess break through [in] their lives, that was my sole intention for that."

Bancroft has signed to play with English county side Durham as he looks to regain a place in the test side for the Ashes starting in August.

"I think I love the game far more authentically now," he said.

"You know at times you get caught up in some unhealthy values that playing at the highest level can sometimes present -- at the end of the day it's a game of cricket, and it's nice that that's why I play the game (now)."

Former Australia batsman Cameron Bancroft has played down any talk of a rift with David Warner after being accused of throwing his fellow opener "under a bus" in a controversial interview about the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal.

Former Australia batsman Cameron Bancroft has played down any talk of a rift with David Warner after being accused of throwing his fellow opener "under a bus" in a controversial interview about the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal. Bancroft, who was suspended for nine months for his part in the Newlands incident, made a successful return to first class cricket on Saturday, unbeaten on 73 for Western Australia at stumps on the first day. The 26-year-old was roundly criticised for casting Warner as the instigator in an interview during the Boxing Day test against India, while describing himself as an impressionable rookie just wanting to "fit in" to the team. Former Australia captain and TV pundit Ricky Ponting, now employed as a coaching consultant for the one-day international team, said Bancroft had further "damaged (his) brand", while Michael Slater said he had "buried" Warner. Two months on from the interview, Bancroft said he had been in touch with Warner, and that all three banned players had supported each other through their "journey". "I think all of us, including Dave, have been really challenged through this period of time," Bancroft told state radio station ABC. "I know that all three of us have really stuck by each other and looked after each other well. "You can't understand the trauma I felt, it was probably very different trauma to how he (Warner) felt, and I can't possibly understand that. "I guess moving forward there will be great lessons for all of us, including Dave. "That's something we've all shared with each other and something I've certainly shared with Dave when we've communicated throughout this entire journey." Bancroft's ban expired in December, while those of Warner and former captain Steve Smith will end March 29. Bancroft had no regrets about his interview with former Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist, saying he felt he had "important learnings to share". "I guess if other people were triggered by that, I guess that's their battle to face," he said. "But if I was able to touch people through some parts of my journey, and to help them I guess break through [in] their lives, that was my sole intention for that." Bancroft has signed to play with English county side Durham as he looks to regain a place in the test side for the Ashes starting in August. "I think I love the game far more authentically now," he said. "You know at times you get caught up in some unhealthy values that playing at the highest level can sometimes present -- at the end of the day it's a game of cricket, and it's nice that that's why I play the game (now)."

Cameron Bancroft defends ball-tampering interview, says no David Warner rift

Steve Smith and David Warner could be in line for an immediate return to the Australian team when their bans expire midway through the upcoming one-day international (ODI) series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates.

The five-match Pakistan series will be held from March 22-31, Pakistan's Cricket Board said.

Smith and Warner, who were banned for their roles in last year's Cape Town ball-tampering scandal, are eligible for selection again on March 29, meaning they can be called up for the fourth ODI against Pakistan.

Australia face Pakistan in the first ODI in Sharjah on March 22, with the second match scheduled for two days later at the same venue.

The teams will then move to Abu Dhabi for the third match on March 27, with the final two games in Dubai on March 29 and 31.

The confirmation of dates for the Pakistan series also gives Australian players with lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) contracts a measure of clarity, as players called up for the series will not be immediately released for the IPL.

The 2019 season of the IPL is scheduled to begin late March, with Australian players selected for the Pakistan series expected to be unavailable until April 2 at the earliest.

Steve Smith and David Warner could be in line for an immediate return to the Australian team when their bans expire midway through the upcoming one-day international (ODI) series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates.

Steve Smith and David Warner could be in line for an immediate return to the Australian team when their bans expire midway through the upcoming one-day international (ODI) series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates. The five-match Pakistan series will be held from March 22-31, Pakistan's Cricket Board said. Smith and Warner, who were banned for their roles in last year's Cape Town ball-tampering scandal, are eligible for selection again on March 29, meaning they can be called up for the fourth ODI against Pakistan. Australia face Pakistan in the first ODI in Sharjah on March 22, with the second match scheduled for two days later at the same venue. The teams will then move to Abu Dhabi for the third match on March 27, with the final two games in Dubai on March 29 and 31. The confirmation of dates for the Pakistan series also gives Australian players with lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) contracts a measure of clarity, as players called up for the series will not be immediately released for the IPL. The 2019 season of the IPL is scheduled to begin late March, with Australian players selected for the Pakistan series expected to be unavailable until April 2 at the earliest.

Steve Smith, David Warner bans to end during Pakistan ODI series

Indian bowling coach Bharat Arun advocated for the use of pink ball while interacting with media after India's quest to clinch a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-bad-light-rain-force-early-stumps-on-day-four-australia-60-188512">first-ever Test series victo</a>ry in Australia was delayed when play was abandoned on day four of the fourth Test at Sydney Cricket Ground, due to bad light and rain.

"I think pink ball would eventually come in. I think sometime in future we would definitely be playing pink ball cricket. The fact we didn't play now was because we had hardly played with the pink ball. But eventually, yes. That could be the future of (Test) cricket."

Bad light and light drizzle forced an early end to an already heavily rain-disrupted day just before the rescheduled tea break. Australia will resume on six without loss on Monday, India requiring 10 wickets for victory

Australia&nbsp;were made to follow-on in a home match for the first time in 31 years have been all out for 300 in their first innings after an initial three-hour rain delay.&nbsp;

Only 25.2 overs were possible on Sunday, leaving Australia 316 runs behind with 10 wickets remaining.&nbsp;

With minutes left before the interval, the umpires pulled out the light meter and play was abruptly ended for a second successive day. &nbsp;

Bharat Arun also praised the SCG's pitch, he said, "This is probably one of the best wickets we have played on from the batsman's point of view. So, we were aware that to win this game we need that many overs to bowl it.&nbsp;

"So, and also the fact that, you know, the weather was much, it was a lot kinder than what it was in the first two-three days so and also the fact that it's a great opportunity for us to make it 3-1 scoreline. So that was a huge motivation for us to go and give all that we have to make it 3-1," he concluded.

Indian bowling coach Bharat Arun advocated for the use of pink ball while interacting with media after India's quest to clinch a first-ever Test series victory in Australia was delayed when play was abandoned on day four of the fourth Test at Sydney Cricket Ground, due to bad light and rain.

Indian bowling coach Bharat Arun advocated for the use of pink ball while interacting with media after India's quest to clinch a first-ever Test series victory in Australia was delayed when play was abandoned on day four of the fourth Test at Sydney Cricket Ground, due to bad light and rain. "I think pink ball would eventually come in. I think sometime in future we would definitely be playing pink ball cricket. The fact we didn't play now was because we had hardly played with the pink ball. But eventually, yes. That could be the future of (Test) cricket." Bad light and light drizzle forced an early end to an already heavily rain-disrupted day just before the rescheduled tea break. Australia will resume on six without loss on Monday, India requiring 10 wickets for victory Australia were made to follow-on in a home match for the first time in 31 years have been all out for 300 in their first innings after an initial three-hour rain delay. Only 25.2 overs were possible on Sunday, leaving Australia 316 runs behind with 10 wickets remaining. With minutes left before the interval, the umpires pulled out the light meter and play was abruptly ended for a second successive day. Bharat Arun also praised the SCG's pitch, he said, "This is probably one of the best wickets we have played on from the batsman's point of view. So, we were aware that to win this game we need that many overs to bowl it. "So, and also the fact that, you know, the weather was much, it was a lot kinder than what it was in the first two-three days so and also the fact that it's a great opportunity for us to make it 3-1 scoreline. So that was a huge motivation for us to go and give all that we have to make it 3-1," he concluded.

Pink ball cricket will be the future says, India bowling coach Bharat Arun

Australia's batting woes returned on the third day of the fourth Test on Saturday and they had slumped to 236 for six when bad light and rain brought an early end to their response to India's mammoth first-innings tally of 622-7 declared.

The tourists only need a draw to claim a first series win in Australia and the home side's hopes of preventing even that faded as they blew a solid start to lose five wickets after lunch.

Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh and Travis Head were all dismissed after lunch and captain Tim Paine followed soon after the tea break.

Peter Handscomb, unbeaten on 28, and fast bowler Pat Cummins, who had made 25, were at the crease when the rainclouds gathered over a Sydney Cricket Ground swathed in pink for the McGrath Foundation breast cancer support charity day.

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Play on Day 3 has been abandoned due to rain! 🌧️ 
 
Australia finish the day on 236/6, trailing by 386 runs, and we will have an early start tomorrow.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> SCORECARD ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/c2fCH8UcMc">https://t.co/c2fCH8UcMc</a> <a href="https://t.co/eUSH2Woxo6">pic.twitter.com/eUSH2Woxo6</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1081434086764294144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India spinners picked up five wickets out of the six that fell on a rain-affected Day 3 of the final Test at the SCG. 
 
Marcus Harris top-scored with 79 for Australia.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> REPORT 🔽<a href="https://t.co/zq4nC9UXGw">https://t.co/zq4nC9UXGw</a> <a href="https://t.co/YQBtzyMCsr">pic.twitter.com/YQBtzyMCsr</a>
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Most of the Australian batsmen made starts but only opener Harris was able to get past the half-century mark -- his 79 the highest score by the home side in a series during which India have pillaged five centuries.

The left-hander showed plenty of intent but just when it seemed he could be heading for a maiden Test ton he calamitously played the ball onto his own stumps off the bowling of Ravindra Jadeja.

India's disciplined pace attack played a leading role in the victories in Adelaide and Melbourne that gave the tourists a 2-1 series lead coming to Sydney but it was the spinners who did most of the damage on Saturday.

Jadeja (2-62) also accounted for Marsh, who must surely have exhausted his supply of Test recalls after departing for eight having left his bat hanging to gift Ajinkya Rahane the simplest of catches at first slip.

Rahane had to work considerably harder for the catch at short midwicket that dismissed Labuschagne (38), diving low to his left to grab the ball with both hands off the bowling of quick Mohammed Shami.

Kuldeep Yadav (3-71) made Travis Head his second victim of the day shortly before tea, the batsman charging down the track to take on the left-arm wrist spinner only to send the ball straight back to him for the catch.

Paine gave the 24-year-old his third wicket, a peach of a delivery that clean bowled the Australia captain through his gaping gate for five.

The surface that India's batsmen had plundered almost at will for two days was still offering little movement for the bowlers and the Australians will be cursing themselves for some soft dismissals after the solid start to the day.

The openers had put on 72 when Usman Khawaja, moved up from number three to replace the dropped Aaron Finch, miscued a slog off Kuldeep to depart for 27 in the opening session.

Australia's batting woes returned on the third day of the fourth Test on Saturday and they had slumped to 236 for six when bad light and rain brought an early end to their response to India's mammoth first-innings tally of 622-7 declared.

Australia's batting woes returned on the third day of the fourth Test on Saturday and they had slumped to 236 for six when bad light and rain brought an early end to their response to India's mammoth first-innings tally of 622-7 declared. The tourists only need a draw to claim a first series win in Australia and the home side's hopes of preventing even that faded as they blew a solid start to lose five wickets after lunch. Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh and Travis Head were all dismissed after lunch and captain Tim Paine followed soon after the tea break. Peter Handscomb, unbeaten on 28, and fast bowler Pat Cummins, who had made 25, were at the crease when the rainclouds gathered over a Sydney Cricket Ground swathed in pink for the McGrath Foundation breast cancer support charity day. Play on Day 3 has been abandoned due to rain! 🌧️ Australia finish the day on 236/6, trailing by 386 runs, and we will have an early start tomorrow.#AUSvIND SCORECARD ⬇️https://t.co/c2fCH8UcMc pic.twitter.com/eUSH2Woxo6 — ICC (@ICC) January 5, 2019 × India spinners picked up five wickets out of the six that fell on a rain-affected Day 3 of the final Test at the SCG. Marcus Harris top-scored with 79 for Australia.#AUSvIND REPORT 🔽https://t.co/zq4nC9UXGw pic.twitter.com/YQBtzyMCsr — ICC (@ICC) January 5, 2019 × Most of the Australian batsmen made starts but only opener Harris was able to get past the half-century mark -- his 79 the highest score by the home side in a series during which India have pillaged five centuries. The left-hander showed plenty of intent but just when it seemed he could be heading for a maiden Test ton he calamitously played the ball onto his own stumps off the bowling of Ravindra Jadeja. India's disciplined pace attack played a leading role in the victories in Adelaide and Melbourne that gave the tourists a 2-1 series lead coming to Sydney but it was the spinners who did most of the damage on Saturday. Jadeja (2-62) also accounted for Marsh, who must surely have exhausted his supply of Test recalls after departing for eight having left his bat hanging to gift Ajinkya Rahane the simplest of catches at first slip. Rahane had to work considerably harder for the catch at short midwicket that dismissed Labuschagne (38), diving low to his left to grab the ball with both hands off the bowling of quick Mohammed Shami. Kuldeep Yadav (3-71) made Travis Head his second victim of the day shortly before tea, the batsman charging down the track to take on the left-arm wrist spinner only to send the ball straight back to him for the catch. Paine gave the 24-year-old his third wicket, a peach of a delivery that clean bowled the Australia captain through his gaping gate for five. The surface that India's batsmen had plundered almost at will for two days was still offering little movement for the bowlers and the Australians will be cursing themselves for some soft dismissals after the solid start to the day. The openers had put on 72 when Usman Khawaja, moved up from number three to replace the dropped Aaron Finch, miscued a slog off Kuldeep to depart for 27 in the opening session.

India vs Australia, 4th Test, Day 3: Australia stumble in reply to India's mammoth total

Rishabh Pant and Tim Paine's good-humoured on-field banter has been lapped up by the television viewers and the Indian described it as a way of maintaining intensity during long on-field hours.&nbsp;

The official broadcasters of ongoing India versus Australia series Fox Cricket has kept the stump microphone on and some of the interesting exchanges between Paine and Pant have been recorded.&nbsp;

Pant, whose picture of holding Tim Paine's son along with the Australian skipper's wife Bonnie went viral after the "babysitter" banter, didn't mind that stump mic is on.&nbsp;

"That (banter) is also one of the methods to keep yourself positive and to keep yourself busy. When you are fielding for a long time, everyone's body does get tired but you need to find a way to keep yourself positive and stay concentrated. My method is this, and it works for me, and that's why I am doing it," Pant told the media on Friday.&nbsp;

"As a player, I don't think about any of these things (stump microphone being turned up). Whatever I feel like at that moment, I say it. That's the only way," he added.&nbsp;

It all started during the Melbourne Test when Pant was batting.&nbsp;

"Big MS (Dhoni) is back in the one-day squad too, we might get him (Pant) down to the (Hobart) Hurricanes we need a batter. Fancy that, Pantsy? Extend your little Aussie holiday. Beautiful town Hobart too, I'll get you a nice apartment on the waterfront. (I'll) have him over for dinner. Can you babysit? I'll take the wife to the movies one night and you'll look after the kids," Paine was heard saying on the stump mic.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant and Tim Paine's good-humoured on-field banter has been lapped up by the television viewers and the Indian described it as a way of maintaining intensity during long on-field hours.

Rishabh Pant and Tim Paine's good-humoured on-field banter has been lapped up by the television viewers and the Indian described it as a way of maintaining intensity during long on-field hours. The official broadcasters of ongoing India versus Australia series Fox Cricket has kept the stump microphone on and some of the interesting exchanges between Paine and Pant have been recorded. Pant, whose picture of holding Tim Paine's son along with the Australian skipper's wife Bonnie went viral after the "babysitter" banter, didn't mind that stump mic is on. "That (banter) is also one of the methods to keep yourself positive and to keep yourself busy. When you are fielding for a long time, everyone's body does get tired but you need to find a way to keep yourself positive and stay concentrated. My method is this, and it works for me, and that's why I am doing it," Pant told the media on Friday. "As a player, I don't think about any of these things (stump microphone being turned up). Whatever I feel like at that moment, I say it. That's the only way," he added. It all started during the Melbourne Test when Pant was batting. "Big MS (Dhoni) is back in the one-day squad too, we might get him (Pant) down to the (Hobart) Hurricanes we need a batter. Fancy that, Pantsy? Extend your little Aussie holiday. Beautiful town Hobart too, I'll get you a nice apartment on the waterfront. (I'll) have him over for dinner. Can you babysit? I'll take the wife to the movies one night and you'll look after the kids," Paine was heard saying on the stump mic.

Rishabh Pant explains importance of good-humoured on-field banter

India vs Australia: List of records made on Day 2 of Sydney Test

India's star bowler <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=jasprit+bumrah">Jasprit Bumrah</a>, in his first year in Test cricket, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-in-charge-but-devastating-pat-cummins-gives-australia-hope-186970">took a career-best 6-33</a> as India took control on the third day of the third Test against Australia.&nbsp;

Bumrah earned praises for a brilliant slower ball that dismissed Australian batsman Shaun Marsh on the third day of the third Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne.&nbsp;

He later explained what he thinks on that particular ball and his career-best bowling haul.

While speaking to the media, Bumrah said that when he was bowling on day three, wicket had become really slow and the ball became really soft.&nbsp;

He said on the last ball before the lunch, Rohit Sharma asked him to try a slower one, what he usually does in the one-day formats.&nbsp;

Bumrah said he was trying to bowl a fuller slower ball and the plan really worked.

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Oh what a feeling! BOOOOM!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/LncsUe0jGq">pic.twitter.com/LncsUe0jGq</a>
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India built a 346 run lead as Australia were bowled out for 151 in their first innings, in reply to the tourists 443-7 declared.

Pat Cummins gave the 33,447 fans at the MCG something to cheer with four wickets in nine balls as India slumped from 28-0 to end the day on 54-5, a lead of 346.

Bumrah broke the 39-year-old record held by spinner Dileep Doshi as he registered the most number of wickets taken by an India bowler in a debut year.

"We lost a few more wickets than we wanted to but we'll assess tomorrow morning and we'll try to add as much as we can and then hopefully get them out," Bumrah told reporters.

The four-Test series is level at one-all and earlier, India have never won a Test series in Australia.

India's star bowler Jasprit Bumrah, in his first year in Test cricket, took a career-best 6-33 as India took control on the third day of the third Test against Australia.

India's star bowler Jasprit Bumrah, in his first year in Test cricket, took a career-best 6-33 as India took control on the third day of the third Test against Australia. Bumrah earned praises for a brilliant slower ball that dismissed Australian batsman Shaun Marsh on the third day of the third Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne. He later explained what he thinks on that particular ball and his career-best bowling haul. While speaking to the media, Bumrah said that when he was bowling on day three, wicket had become really slow and the ball became really soft. He said on the last ball before the lunch, Rohit Sharma asked him to try a slower one, what he usually does in the one-day formats. Bumrah said he was trying to bowl a fuller slower ball and the plan really worked. Oh what a feeling! BOOOOM!#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/LncsUe0jGq — BCCI (@BCCI) December 28, 2018 × India built a 346 run lead as Australia were bowled out for 151 in their first innings, in reply to the tourists 443-7 declared. Pat Cummins gave the 33,447 fans at the MCG something to cheer with four wickets in nine balls as India slumped from 28-0 to end the day on 54-5, a lead of 346. Bumrah broke the 39-year-old record held by spinner Dileep Doshi as he registered the most number of wickets taken by an India bowler in a debut year. "We lost a few more wickets than we wanted to but we'll assess tomorrow morning and we'll try to add as much as we can and then hopefully get them out," Bumrah told reporters. The four-Test series is level at one-all and earlier, India have never won a Test series in Australia.

Bumrah reacts on career-best show and explains how he trapped Shaun Marsh

A clinical India had Australia on the ropes Friday and staring at defeat in the third Test after skittling them for 151 before a devastating spell by Pat Cummins sparked the game back into life.

At stumps, the visitors had a formidable 346 cushion with five wickets left and two days to play as they inch closer to a first ever series win Down Under. The series is currently tied at 1-1 with just the Sydney Test next week to go.

Once again the home team's batting frailties were exposed as they struggled not only with a deteriorating Melbourne pitch but outstanding bowling from young pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah.

He ended with a career-best 6-33, collecting his third five-wicket Test haul having also achieved the feat against South Africa and England.

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Stumps on Day 3 of the 3rd Test. 
 
A total of 15 wickets have fallen today. After bowling Australia out for 151, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> are 54/5 in the second innings, lead by 346 runs. 
 
Updates - <a href="https://t.co/xZXZnUvzvk">https://t.co/xZXZnUvzvk</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/p74NK3LUKb">pic.twitter.com/p74NK3LUKb</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1078545690257584128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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With a 292-run first innings advantage, Indian skipper Virat Kohli could have enforced the follow-on but instead opted to turn the screws and add to the imposing total.

But his batsmen also found it tough going and they slumped to 54 for five, with first innings century-maker Cheteshwar Pujara and Kohli himself sensationally out for ducks.

Cummins was Australia's best bowler in India's first innings 443-7 declared and was chief destroyer on Friday, claiming an amazing 4-3 off his first four overs.&nbsp;

His scalps also included opener Hanuma Vihari (13) and vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane (1).

Josh Hazlewood chipped in with the wicket of Rohit Sharma (5) with debutant Mayank Agarwal watching the carnage from the other end. He was not out 28 with Rishabh Pant on six.

None of Australia's batsmen could muster more than 22, again demonstrating how much they miss the banned Steve Smith and David Warner.

Talk surrounding the pair's reintegration into the team reached a crescendo this week after Smith and Cameron Bancroft gave tell-all interviews about the South Africa ball-tampering scandal, effectively blaming Warner.

Their bans run out in late March.

In overcast conditions, Australia began the day with eight runs on the scoreboard after surviving six nervy overs on Thursday.&nbsp;

But with the pitch showing wear and tear, it wasn't long before the bowlers took advantage.

Aaron Finch smashed a four off Bumrah in a positive start but once again Australia's limited overs captain failed as a Test opener.

He was on eight when he feebly chipped an Ishant Sharma delivery to Agarwal at short midwicket, who took a difficult diving catch.

That brought Usman Khawaja to the crease, just hours after his brother was re-arrested for allegedly breaching bail and charged with trying to influence a witness.

Arsalan Khawaja had been detained earlier this month, then bailed, after being accused of framing a love rival as the author of a terrorist hit list.

Khawaja was only at the wicket for a short time before Australia's other opener Marcus Harris also fell, plunging the home team into strife at 36 for two.

Khawaja didn't last much longer, despondently trudging off for 21 after Agarwal took another catch close in off spinner Ravindra Jadeja, who was finding the rough and causing problems.

Shaun Marsh was then deceived on the last ball of the morning by some late swing from Bumrah to be plum lbw.

The afternoon didn't get any better with Travis Head's stumps knocked over by a quick Bumrah delivery and then Mitchell Marsh tickled a Jadeja ball to Rahane at slip, with the last four wickets falling for just 13 runs.

A clinical India had Australia on the ropes Friday and staring at defeat in the third Test after skittling them for 151 before a devastating spell by Pat Cummins sparked the game back into life.

A clinical India had Australia on the ropes Friday and staring at defeat in the third Test after skittling them for 151 before a devastating spell by Pat Cummins sparked the game back into life. At stumps, the visitors had a formidable 346 cushion with five wickets left and two days to play as they inch closer to a first ever series win Down Under. The series is currently tied at 1-1 with just the Sydney Test next week to go. Once again the home team's batting frailties were exposed as they struggled not only with a deteriorating Melbourne pitch but outstanding bowling from young pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. He ended with a career-best 6-33, collecting his third five-wicket Test haul having also achieved the feat against South Africa and England. Stumps on Day 3 of the 3rd Test. A total of 15 wickets have fallen today. After bowling Australia out for 151, #TeamIndia are 54/5 in the second innings, lead by 346 runs. Updates - https://t.co/xZXZnUvzvk #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/p74NK3LUKb — BCCI (@BCCI) December 28, 2018 × With a 292-run first innings advantage, Indian skipper Virat Kohli could have enforced the follow-on but instead opted to turn the screws and add to the imposing total. But his batsmen also found it tough going and they slumped to 54 for five, with first innings century-maker Cheteshwar Pujara and Kohli himself sensationally out for ducks. Cummins was Australia's best bowler in India's first innings 443-7 declared and was chief destroyer on Friday, claiming an amazing 4-3 off his first four overs. His scalps also included opener Hanuma Vihari (13) and vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane (1). Josh Hazlewood chipped in with the wicket of Rohit Sharma (5) with debutant Mayank Agarwal watching the carnage from the other end. He was not out 28 with Rishabh Pant on six. None of Australia's batsmen could muster more than 22, again demonstrating how much they miss the banned Steve Smith and David Warner. Talk surrounding the pair's reintegration into the team reached a crescendo this week after Smith and Cameron Bancroft gave tell-all interviews about the South Africa ball-tampering scandal, effectively blaming Warner. Their bans run out in late March. In overcast conditions, Australia began the day with eight runs on the scoreboard after surviving six nervy overs on Thursday. But with the pitch showing wear and tear, it wasn't long before the bowlers took advantage. Aaron Finch smashed a four off Bumrah in a positive start but once again Australia's limited overs captain failed as a Test opener. He was on eight when he feebly chipped an Ishant Sharma delivery to Agarwal at short midwicket, who took a difficult diving catch. That brought Usman Khawaja to the crease, just hours after his brother was re-arrested for allegedly breaching bail and charged with trying to influence a witness. Arsalan Khawaja had been detained earlier this month, then bailed, after being accused of framing a love rival as the author of a terrorist hit list. Khawaja was only at the wicket for a short time before Australia's other opener Marcus Harris also fell, plunging the home team into strife at 36 for two. Khawaja didn't last much longer, despondently trudging off for 21 after Agarwal took another catch close in off spinner Ravindra Jadeja, who was finding the rough and causing problems. Shaun Marsh was then deceived on the last ball of the morning by some late swing from Bumrah to be plum lbw. The afternoon didn't get any better with Travis Head's stumps knocked over by a quick Bumrah delivery and then Mitchell Marsh tickled a Jadeja ball to Rahane at slip, with the last four wickets falling for just 13 runs.

INDvsAUS, 3rd Test, Day 3: India in charge but devastating Pat Cummins gives Australia hope

David Warner's isolation by Steve Smith and Camron Bancroft in their recent interviews will not impact the opening batsman's re-integration, Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts promised Thursday.&nbsp;

Both Smith and Bancroft held Warner responsible for the ball tampering scandal, which led to imposition of bans on all three cricketers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While both Smith and Bancroft accepted their own responsibility in committing the mistake during the Test against South Africa at Centurion in March, they sought to put more blame on Warner.&nbsp;

Smith was quoted as saying, "I don't want to know about it" when Warner indicated the need to do something with the ball and Bancroft said he was encouraged by Warner to tamper with the ball.&nbsp;

"I don't know that it does," Roberts told SEN Radio, according to Cricinfo, when asked whether comments made by Smith and Bancroft and Smith would impact his chances of returning to the national side.&nbsp;

"Our focus is to work with Dave, who I spoke to about three days ago on his integration plan. I think what is really important is that Dave, Steve and Cameron will really need sign to up to the players' mantra that everything they do is really seeking to make Australians proud. Our non-negotiable expectation is that we compete with honour."

Roberts said they are now looking forward instead of dwelling on past.

"The Cape Town incident happened nine months ago, the investigation was conducted, the sanctions were handed down, and our focus now is working towards the reintegration of the players. Our focus is on that reintegration and moving forward as to how we can support all of the players through that period.&nbsp;

"Our focus is on how we proactively look forward and work with the players, rather than be concerned with what has happened in the past."

The timing of Smith and Bancroft's interviews during the Boxing Day Test and the content aired has perhaps not gone well with CA and even former captain Ricky Ponting was critical of the interviews.&nbsp;

"I just don't think he (Bancroft) had to say some of the things he had to say to be honest," Ponting said on Seven.&nbsp;

"I am not too sure how happy the players will be about it, or how happy Cricket Australia will be about it. I was very disappointed about the timing of it."&nbsp;

Ponting said Smith may have hurt his brand by it but is still capable of leading the side again.&nbsp;

"Even the way he presented himself in that interview, he's trying to rebuild his brand and that sort of thing, and I think some of the things he's had to say have actually done more damage to his brand than what had happened before."&nbsp;

"I think he (Smith) will come back into the captaincy. At the end of the day he has owned up to what his leadership failures are. Hopefully, I am like most, I am willing to forgive after he serves his penalty. I think he will come back a much better person and a much better leader after what's happened."

David Warner's isolation by Steve Smith and Camron Bancroft in their recent interviews will not impact the opening batsman's re-integration, Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts promised Thursday.

David Warner's isolation by Steve Smith and Camron Bancroft in their recent interviews will not impact the opening batsman's re-integration, Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts promised Thursday. Both Smith and Bancroft held Warner responsible for the ball tampering scandal, which led to imposition of bans on all three cricketers. While both Smith and Bancroft accepted their own responsibility in committing the mistake during the Test against South Africa at Centurion in March, they sought to put more blame on Warner. Smith was quoted as saying, "I don't want to know about it" when Warner indicated the need to do something with the ball and Bancroft said he was encouraged by Warner to tamper with the ball. "I don't know that it does," Roberts told SEN Radio, according to Cricinfo, when asked whether comments made by Smith and Bancroft and Smith would impact his chances of returning to the national side. "Our focus is to work with Dave, who I spoke to about three days ago on his integration plan. I think what is really important is that Dave, Steve and Cameron will really need sign to up to the players' mantra that everything they do is really seeking to make Australians proud. Our non-negotiable expectation is that we compete with honour." Roberts said they are now looking forward instead of dwelling on past. "The Cape Town incident happened nine months ago, the investigation was conducted, the sanctions were handed down, and our focus now is working towards the reintegration of the players. Our focus is on that reintegration and moving forward as to how we can support all of the players through that period. "Our focus is on how we proactively look forward and work with the players, rather than be concerned with what has happened in the past." The timing of Smith and Bancroft's interviews during the Boxing Day Test and the content aired has perhaps not gone well with CA and even former captain Ricky Ponting was critical of the interviews. "I just don't think he (Bancroft) had to say some of the things he had to say to be honest," Ponting said on Seven. "I am not too sure how happy the players will be about it, or how happy Cricket Australia will be about it. I was very disappointed about the timing of it." Ponting said Smith may have hurt his brand by it but is still capable of leading the side again. "Even the way he presented himself in that interview, he's trying to rebuild his brand and that sort of thing, and I think some of the things he's had to say have actually done more damage to his brand than what had happened before." "I think he (Smith) will come back into the captaincy. At the end of the day he has owned up to what his leadership failures are. Hopefully, I am like most, I am willing to forgive after he serves his penalty. I think he will come back a much better person and a much better leader after what's happened."

David Warner's integration very much on: CA Chief Executive Roberts

Former Australia captain <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=steve+smith">Steve Smith</a> said on Friday he had not been involved in planning to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=ball+tampering">tamper with the ball</a> during the Cape Town Test against South Africa but took responsibility as a leader for failing to put a stop to it.

Smith, along with vice-captain David Warner and opening batsman Cameron Bancroft, was suspended for his part in the ball-tampering incident which shocked the cricket world and torpedoed Australia's sporting reputation.

Facing Australian media for the first time since his teary apology at a news conference at Sydney airport on March 29, Smith said he had learned of the plan when he overheard a conversation in the team's dressing room at Newlands.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-serena-williams-here-are-controversial-sports-personalities-of-2018-184051">From Australia's ball-tampering scandal to Serena's cheating row, here are top sports controversies of 2018</a>

"I think it's been documented pretty heavily, sort of, what went on," he told reporters at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

"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.

"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 declined to name the players involved but reiterated that he had told them, "I don't want to know about it", and then walked away.

Smith has kept a low media profile since the scandal, despite playing at Twenty20 tournaments in Canada and the Caribbean, and turning out for his Sydney club side Sutherland.

However, in recent weeks he has made gradual moves to rehabilitate his public image and joined his former Australia teammates at training sessions.

Brand Power

Smith has also tested the waters to see how his brand power has fared in the wake of the incident, linking up with the local arm of Britain's Vodafone Group to shoot an advertisement which played on his shame and hopes of redemption.

The commercial, and Smith's involvement in it, was criticised by some media pundits and generated mixed responses on social media.

Smith said he was getting paid for the campaign but also "putting forward" funds from it to Gotcha4Life, a local men's mental health charity.

The 29-year-old added that it had been tough at times watching Australia play from the sidelines and said he was determined to break back into the one-day side for the May 30-July 14 World Cup and the test team for the Ashes beyond that.

"I'm just moving forward day to day, doing what I need to do to prepare to hopefully get another opportunity to play for Australia and if that's the World Cup and Ashes, so be it," Smith told reporters at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

"No doubt the English crowd will be incredibly hostile. I'm ready for that if that happens.

"I'll keep working hard and if I get that opportunity again, that'd be great."

Smith and Warner's bans will be lifted at the end of March, with Bancroft's expiring on December 29.

Former Australia captain Steve Smith said on Friday he had not been involved in planning to tamper with the ball during the Cape Town Test against South Africa but took responsibility as a leader for failing to put a stop to it.

Former Australia captain Steve Smith said on Friday he had not been involved in planning to tamper with the ball during the Cape Town Test against South Africa but took responsibility as a leader for failing to put a stop to it. Smith, along with vice-captain David Warner and opening batsman Cameron Bancroft, was suspended for his part in the ball-tampering incident which shocked the cricket world and torpedoed Australia's sporting reputation. Facing Australian media for the first time since his teary apology at a news conference at Sydney airport on March 29, Smith said he had learned of the plan when he overheard a conversation in the team's dressing room at Newlands. Also Read: From Australia's ball-tampering scandal to Serena's cheating row, here are top sports controversies of 2018 "I think it's been documented pretty heavily, sort of, what went on," he told reporters at the Sydney Cricket Ground. "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. "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 declined to name the players involved but reiterated that he had told them, "I don't want to know about it", and then walked away. Smith has kept a low media profile since the scandal, despite playing at Twenty20 tournaments in Canada and the Caribbean, and turning out for his Sydney club side Sutherland. However, in recent weeks he has made gradual moves to rehabilitate his public image and joined his former Australia teammates at training sessions. Brand Power Smith has also tested the waters to see how his brand power has fared in the wake of the incident, linking up with the local arm of Britain's Vodafone Group to shoot an advertisement which played on his shame and hopes of redemption. The commercial, and Smith's involvement in it, was criticised by some media pundits and generated mixed responses on social media. Smith said he was getting paid for the campaign but also "putting forward" funds from it to Gotcha4Life, a local men's mental health charity. The 29-year-old added that it had been tough at times watching Australia play from the sidelines and said he was determined to break back into the one-day side for the May 30-July 14 World Cup and the test team for the Ashes beyond that. "I'm just moving forward day to day, doing what I need to do to prepare to hopefully get another opportunity to play for Australia and if that's the World Cup and Ashes, so be it," Smith told reporters at the Sydney Cricket Ground. "No doubt the English crowd will be incredibly hostile. I'm ready for that if that happens. "I'll keep working hard and if I get that opportunity again, that'd be great." Smith and Warner's bans will be lifted at the end of March, with Bancroft's expiring on December 29.

It was my 'leadership failure', says Steve Smith denying involvement in ball-tampering scandal

Australia beat India by 146 runs in the Perth Test to level the series 1-1 in a four-match Test series.

Despite <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-virat-kohli-slams-25th-test-century-in-perth-test-184408">Virat Kohli's century</a> in the first innings, India were thrashed by a huge margin while chasing a target of 287 to win the match.

India resumed at 115 for five on the final day and lost the remaining for just 21 runs as they were dismissed for 140 on the fifth and final day.

In the post-match presentation, Virat Kohli praised the opponents, he said, "Australia played better cricket than us and they deserved to win."

Cricket pundits questioned Virat's unusual decision to play with four seamers and not picking a single spinner in the playing squad for Perth Test.

Spinner Ravi Ashwin was ruled out with an abdominal strain and Virat recalled Umesh Yadav ahead of Ravindra Jadeja.

India skipper Kohli said, "When we looked at the pitch, we didn't think about the Jadeja option. We thought four quicks would be enough."

He added, "We never thought about the spin option, to be honest."

Earlier, Mohammed Shami questioned the selection after the fourth day's play and said that he believed a spinner would have been a better decision.

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Nathan Lyon-led bowling attack helps Australia level the series 1-1 as they beat India by 146 runs in the second Test in Perth. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> REPORT 👇<a href="https://t.co/8MmFioFlqU">https://t.co/8MmFioFlqU</a> <a href="https://t.co/55myWBgBIt">pic.twitter.com/55myWBgBIt</a>
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Kohli praised spinner Lyon, who was given player of the match award, for his brilliant performance, saying, "Nathan Lyon bowled really well."

"With the skill levels and consistency that he has to get something out of this wicket was really good," Kohli added.

On being asked about India's bowling performance, Kohli said: "(Our bowlers) are outstanding as a pack, to see them dominate was really good to see and something we want to build on. They are relentless even if they aren't getting wickets which is a great quality."

The 30-year-old reacted on his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-out-or-not-out-debate-over-virat-kohlis-wicket-is-on-184445">controversial wicket</a> saying, "It was a decision made on the field, it stays there. There is nothing more to it."

Asked about his 123-run innings in the first innings, Kohli said: "When you don't win you don't really rank your performances so it's irrelevant because we didn't get the result we wanted.

"I am focused on the next game and I hope I can contribute on a winning note."

"Boxing Day is going to be a full house, it's a memorable Test for all of us and we as a team are also excited and looking forward to that Test match," Kohli concluded.

Australia beat India by 146 runs in the Perth Test to level the series 1-1 in a four-match Test series. Despite Virat Kohli's century in the first innings, India were thrashed by a huge margin while chasing a target of 287 to win the match.

Australia beat India by 146 runs in the Perth Test to level the series 1-1 in a four-match Test series. Despite Virat Kohli's century in the first innings, India were thrashed by a huge margin while chasing a target of 287 to win the match. India resumed at 115 for five on the final day and lost the remaining for just 21 runs as they were dismissed for 140 on the fifth and final day. In the post-match presentation, Virat Kohli praised the opponents, he said, "Australia played better cricket than us and they deserved to win." Cricket pundits questioned Virat's unusual decision to play with four seamers and not picking a single spinner in the playing squad for Perth Test. Spinner Ravi Ashwin was ruled out with an abdominal strain and Virat recalled Umesh Yadav ahead of Ravindra Jadeja. India skipper Kohli said, "When we looked at the pitch, we didn't think about the Jadeja option. We thought four quicks would be enough." He added, "We never thought about the spin option, to be honest." Earlier, Mohammed Shami questioned the selection after the fourth day's play and said that he believed a spinner would have been a better decision. Nathan Lyon-led bowling attack helps Australia level the series 1-1 as they beat India by 146 runs in the second Test in Perth. #AUSvIND REPORT 👇https://t.co/8MmFioFlqU pic.twitter.com/55myWBgBIt — ICC (@ICC) December 18, 2018 × Kohli praised spinner Lyon, who was given player of the match award, for his brilliant performance, saying, "Nathan Lyon bowled really well." "With the skill levels and consistency that he has to get something out of this wicket was really good," Kohli added. On being asked about India's bowling performance, Kohli said: "(Our bowlers) are outstanding as a pack, to see them dominate was really good to see and something we want to build on. They are relentless even if they aren't getting wickets which is a great quality." The 30-year-old reacted on his controversial wicket saying, "It was a decision made on the field, it stays there. There is nothing more to it." Asked about his 123-run innings in the first innings, Kohli said: "When you don't win you don't really rank your performances so it's irrelevant because we didn't get the result we wanted. "I am focused on the next game and I hope I can contribute on a winning note." "Boxing Day is going to be a full house, it's a memorable Test for all of us and we as a team are also excited and looking forward to that Test match," Kohli concluded.

India vs Australia: 'We thought four quicks would be enough,' says Virat Kohli after losing Perth Test

Andrew Symonds says India spinner Harbhajan Singh "broke down crying" while making peace after the infamous 'monkeygate' episode had sent the former Australian all-rounder into a downward spiral.&nbsp;

A decade on from the ugly incident in the 2008 Sydney Test, where Harbhajan was accused of calling Symonds a "monkey".

However, the Australian said they emotionally called a truce three years later and&nbsp;buried the hatchet while turning up for Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/australia-india-the-classic-rivalry-here-are-5-memorable-test-clashes-181903">Australia-India, the classic rivalry: Here are 5 memorable Test clashes</a>

"...He actually broke down crying, and I could just see that was a huge weight off his shoulders, he had to get rid of it. We shook hands and I gave him a hug and said: 'Mate, it's all good. It's dealt with'," Symonds told 'Fox Sports'.&nbsp;

Harbhajan, who at the time denied any wrongdoing, was suspended for three matches. But the ban was overturned after the visiting team, feeling hard-done-by, lodged a protest in what was an all-time low in India-Australia cricket relations.&nbsp;

After Symonds' recent revelation,&nbsp;Harbhajan called him "a good fiction writer".

He tweeted, "I thought he was a very good cricketer but Symonds has turned out to be a good fiction writer - he sold a story then (2008) and he is ‘selling a story’ now (2018)."

He also wrote, "Mate, the world has come of age in these 10 years and it’s time you also grew up."

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I thought he was a very good cricketer but Symonds has turned out to be a good fiction writer - he sold a story then (2008) and he is ‘selling a story’ now (2018). Mate, the world has come of age in these 10 years and it’s time you also grew up
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1074275607561809920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Sydney Test 2018 is remembered as one of the most controversial and spiteful Test matches played between the two nations,

It was dubbed the "Monkeygate" affair, marred by wrong umpiring decisions and accusations of poor sportsmanship.

The infamous incident surfaced again when Symonds revealed recently while talking to a sports channel.

He said, "We go to a very wealthy man's place for a barbecue, drinks and dinner one night and the whole team's there and he had guests there, and Harbhajan said 'mate, can I speak to you for a minute out in the garden out the front'.&nbsp;

"He goes, 'look, I've got to say sorry to you for what I did to you in Sydney. I apologise, I hope I didn't cause you, your family, your friends too much harm and I really apologise for what I said, I shouldn't have said it'."&nbsp;

Symonds, who was born in England with one of his parents of West Indian background, has previously recounted how his life went downhill after the incident.&nbsp;

The burly all-rounder, who felt let down by the system, started drinking heavily and in June 2009 his Cricket Australia contract was withdrawn after he was sent home from the World T20 following the latest in a series of alcohol-related indiscretions.&nbsp;

"I suppose this would be the moment where my whole persona to cricket changed," Symonds, who is commentating on India's current tour of Australia, said of 'monkeygate'.&nbsp;

"I didn't realise how powerful one player, one incident, how much money was at stake and the ramifications."

Andrew Symonds says India spinner Harbhajan Singh "broke down crying" while making peace after the infamous 'monkeygate' episode had sent the former Australian all-rounder into a downward spiral.

Andrew Symonds says India spinner Harbhajan Singh "broke down crying" while making peace after the infamous 'monkeygate' episode had sent the former Australian all-rounder into a downward spiral. A decade on from the ugly incident in the 2008 Sydney Test, where Harbhajan was accused of calling Symonds a "monkey". However, the Australian said they emotionally called a truce three years later and buried the hatchet while turning up for Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League. Also read: Australia-India, the classic rivalry: Here are 5 memorable Test clashes "...He actually broke down crying, and I could just see that was a huge weight off his shoulders, he had to get rid of it. We shook hands and I gave him a hug and said: 'Mate, it's all good. It's dealt with'," Symonds told 'Fox Sports'. Harbhajan, who at the time denied any wrongdoing, was suspended for three matches. But the ban was overturned after the visiting team, feeling hard-done-by, lodged a protest in what was an all-time low in India-Australia cricket relations. After Symonds' recent revelation, Harbhajan called him "a good fiction writer". He tweeted, "I thought he was a very good cricketer but Symonds has turned out to be a good fiction writer - he sold a story then (2008) and he is ‘selling a story’ now (2018)." He also wrote, "Mate, the world has come of age in these 10 years and it’s time you also grew up." I thought he was a very good cricketer but Symonds has turned out to be a good fiction writer - he sold a story then (2008) and he is ‘selling a story’ now (2018). Mate, the world has come of age in these 10 years and it’s time you also grew up — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) December 16, 2018 × The Sydney Test 2018 is remembered as one of the most controversial and spiteful Test matches played between the two nations, It was dubbed the "Monkeygate" affair, marred by wrong umpiring decisions and accusations of poor sportsmanship. The infamous incident surfaced again when Symonds revealed recently while talking to a sports channel. He said, "We go to a very wealthy man's place for a barbecue, drinks and dinner one night and the whole team's there and he had guests there, and Harbhajan said 'mate, can I speak to you for a minute out in the garden out the front'. "He goes, 'look, I've got to say sorry to you for what I did to you in Sydney. I apologise, I hope I didn't cause you, your family, your friends too much harm and I really apologise for what I said, I shouldn't have said it'." Symonds, who was born in England with one of his parents of West Indian background, has previously recounted how his life went downhill after the incident. The burly all-rounder, who felt let down by the system, started drinking heavily and in June 2009 his Cricket Australia contract was withdrawn after he was sent home from the World T20 following the latest in a series of alcohol-related indiscretions. "I suppose this would be the moment where my whole persona to cricket changed," Symonds, who is commentating on India's current tour of Australia, said of 'monkeygate'. "I didn't realise how powerful one player, one incident, how much money was at stake and the ramifications."

Harbhajan 'broke down' while 'apologising' for monkeygate: Symonds

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