<p><span class="region">Melbourne, Australia</span>
<p>Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has come down hard on the selectors over changes in the squad for the remaining two BGT Tests against India. George Bailey-led selection committee made a massive call by dropping makeshift opener Nathan McSweeney while bringing in uncapped opener Sam Konstas. They also included Jhye Richardson as a backup seamer despite losing Josh Hazlewood to injury.</p></p>
<p>Australia have won just one of the first three Tests at the Adelaide Oval, losing the series opener in Perth, with the rain playing spoilsport at the Gabba in Brisbane.</p>
<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohli-to-settle-in-london-with-family-confirms-childhood-coach-rajkumar-sharma-785548">Virat Kohli to settle in London with family, confirms childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma</a></strong></p>
<p>With more than a series win on the line - a spot in the WTC Final 2025 being the ultimate goal, Australia must push hard to win the remaining two Tests at the MCG and SCG, respectively, and for that, they must play their best cricket right from the top to see results going their way. However, neither McSweeney nor the 38-year-old Usman Khawaja has succeeded, barring the first innings in Adelaide, where the newcomer impressed under the lights.</p>
<p>Losing wickets upfront cost Australia big time in three Tests as despite the schedule, formed to put India on the back foot from game one, the hosts find themselves nowhere near a commanding position. In an effort to put all that to rest, the selectors took some harsh calls, including dropping McSweeney and replacing him with uncapped Konstas. </p>
<p>"Nathan McSweeney has been dropped. I can't believe that," Michael Clarke said on the Beyond 23 Cricket podcast. </p>
<p>"No matter who they picked in that opening position, they had to give them the series. I think the selectors have got this wrong."</p>
<p>"We've got Usman Khawaja, who is 38 years old, and he's made no runs. He's a senior player. We've got Marnus Labuschagne, who, before the series was under pressure and has made one decent score. Steve Smith batted like a genius to make a hard-fought hundred, but he's also been under pressure. Everyone apart from McSweeney is over 30 years of age, some in their high 30s,” the ex-Aussie skipper pointed out.</p>
<h2>Khawaja’s position worries Clarke</h2>
<p>Clarke knows Khawaja isn’t around for more than a year and sounds worried about the opening chaos once he departs. Speaking on the same lines, Michael said though he wishes the best for the left-hander, wanting him to score runs and hundreds and contribute to the team’s success, he understands the scenario Australia would be in with two newcomers playing at the top.</p>
<p>"What happens if Usman Khawaja retires in two Test matches? Does McSweeney then come back in, or does he go to the back of the queue? They've got to come out and say, ‘We made a mistake picking him,'" Clarke said.</p>
<p>On Konstas, Clarke said, “I hope he walks out there, lives his dream; makes a hundred on debut. Something like that would be amazing.” </p>
<p>Meanwhile, with the five-match series tied at 1-1 after three Tests, all eyes will be on the remaining two, with the Boxing Day Test starting on December 26. </p>
<h3>Australia squad for remaining two India Tests –</h3>
<p>Pat Cummins (c), Travis Head (vc), Steve Smith (vc), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc and Beau Webster</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Australia won just one of the first three Tests at the Adelaide Oval, losing the series opener in Perth, with the rain playing spoilsport at the Gabba in Brisbane.



Melbourne, Australia Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has come down hard on the selectors over changes in the squad for the remaining two BGT Tests against India. George Bailey-led selection committee made a massive call by dropping makeshift opener Nathan McSweeney while bringing in uncapped opener Sam Konstas. They also included Jhye Richardson as a backup seamer despite losing Josh Hazlewood to injury. Australia have won just one of the first three Tests at the Adelaide Oval, losing the series opener in Perth, with the rain playing spoilsport at the Gabba in Brisbane. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli to settle in London with family, confirms childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma With more than a series win on the line - a spot in the WTC Final 2025 being the ultimate goal, Australia must push hard to win the remaining two Tests at the MCG and SCG, respectively, and for that, they must play their best cricket right from the top to see results going their way. However, neither McSweeney nor the 38-year-old Usman Khawaja has succeeded, barring the first innings in Adelaide, where the newcomer impressed under the lights. Losing wickets upfront cost Australia big time in three Tests as despite the schedule, formed to put India on the back foot from game one, the hosts find themselves nowhere near a commanding position. In an effort to put all that to rest, the selectors took some harsh calls, including dropping McSweeney and replacing him with uncapped Konstas. "Nathan McSweeney has been dropped. I can't believe that," Michael Clarke said on the Beyond 23 Cricket podcast. "No matter who they picked in that opening position, they had to give them the series. I think the selectors have got this wrong." "We've got Usman Khawaja, who is 38 years old, and he's made no runs. He's a senior player. We've got Marnus Labuschagne, who, before the series was under pressure and has made one decent score. Steve Smith batted like a genius to make a hard-fought hundred, but he's also been under pressure. Everyone apart from McSweeney is over 30 years of age, some in their high 30s,” the ex-Aussie skipper pointed out. Khawaja’s position worries Clarke Clarke knows Khawaja isn’t around for more than a year and sounds worried about the opening chaos once he departs. Speaking on the same lines, Michael said though he wishes the best for the left-hander, wanting him to score runs and hundreds and contribute to the team’s success, he understands the scenario Australia would be in with two newcomers playing at the top. "What happens if Usman Khawaja retires in two Test matches? Does McSweeney then come back in, or does he go to the back of the queue? They've got to come out and say, ‘We made a mistake picking him,'" Clarke said. On Konstas, Clarke said, “I hope he walks out there, lives his dream; makes a hundred on debut. Something like that would be amazing.” Meanwhile, with the five-match series tied at 1-1 after three Tests, all eyes will be on the remaining two, with the Boxing Day Test starting on December 26. Australia squad for remaining two India Tests – Pat Cummins (c), Travis Head (vc), Steve Smith (vc), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc and Beau Webster (With inputs from agencies)

BGT – ‘We made a mistake picking him,’ Michael Clarke bashes Australian selectors over changes in squad

<p>Ace Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood is frustrated with a ‘random side strain’ that ruled him out of the remainder of the India Test series. Hazlewood suffered a strain on his right side during the just-concluded Gabba Test, ruling him out of the game and the series. Scott Boland will replace him in the XI for the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG starting December 26.</p>

<p>“Just frustrating really. Ticked every box heading into the (third) Test; I could understand if it was my side again, but it was just a random calf strain,” Hazlewood said during a chat with 7NEWS. “It’s just the timing again, they are only little 2-3 week injuries, it’s just the timing of it and missing big games is the frustrating thing, Obviously, do a deep dive into it and see what we can come up with … feels pretty random.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-ashwin-shrugs-off-fathers-humiliation-remark-over-shock-retirement-says-he-isnt-media-trained-785340">BGT - Ashwin shrugs off father's ‘humiliation’ remark over shock retirement, says ‘he isn’t media trained’</a></strong></p>

<p>Hazlewood played the BGT opener at the Optus Stadium in Perth but missed the following Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide due to an injury. Though he recovered in time for the third Test at the Gabba, Hazlewood pulled up ahead of the fourth-day play, injuring his right calf.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I’ve had a history of sides and calves; they’re probably the two things that have kept me out for the majority over the last four years. But yeah, I sort of just keep adding another layer to the defence, hopefully, get back into the gym, I’ve ticked a lot of boxes over the last 12 months,” the seamer continued.</p>

<h2>Josh eyes return in Sri Lanka Tests</h2>

<p>Considering Hazlewood will not return until 100% fit, the seamer expressed his desire to make a comeback for the away Sri Lanka Tests early next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though Australia still leads India on the chart for teams with better chances of directly sealing the WTC Final 2025 qualification, they must win at least two of the four remaining Tests to ensure a smooth ride into the finals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“That’s probably the goal; just take it as it comes over the next few weeks. No rush to get anything in a hurry, it’s just getting everything right. Probably take a few extra days here and there. Ticking things off and getting everything right,” Hazlewood noted.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the five-match series between Australia and India is tied at 1-1, with two games remaining.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Should the hosts win the remaining two matches, they will directly qualify for the final, but if India wins and completes the three-peat, they will reach their third straight WTC Final.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ace Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood is frustrated with a ‘random side strain’ that ruled him out of the remainder of the India Test series. Hazlewood suffered a strain on his right side during the just-concluded Gabba Test, ruling him out of the game and the series.

Ace Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood is frustrated with a ‘random side strain’ that ruled him out of the remainder of the India Test series. Hazlewood suffered a strain on his right side during the just-concluded Gabba Test, ruling him out of the game and the series. Scott Boland will replace him in the XI for the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG starting December 26. “Just frustrating really. Ticked every box heading into the (third) Test; I could understand if it was my side again, but it was just a random calf strain,” Hazlewood said during a chat with 7NEWS. “It’s just the timing again, they are only little 2-3 week injuries, it’s just the timing of it and missing big games is the frustrating thing, Obviously, do a deep dive into it and see what we can come up with … feels pretty random.” ALSO READ: BGT - Ashwin shrugs off father's ‘humiliation’ remark over shock retirement, says ‘he isn’t media trained’ Hazlewood played the BGT opener at the Optus Stadium in Perth but missed the following Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide due to an injury. Though he recovered in time for the third Test at the Gabba, Hazlewood pulled up ahead of the fourth-day play, injuring his right calf. “I’ve had a history of sides and calves; they’re probably the two things that have kept me out for the majority over the last four years. But yeah, I sort of just keep adding another layer to the defence, hopefully, get back into the gym, I’ve ticked a lot of boxes over the last 12 months,” the seamer continued. Josh eyes return in Sri Lanka Tests Considering Hazlewood will not return until 100% fit, the seamer expressed his desire to make a comeback for the away Sri Lanka Tests early next year. Though Australia still leads India on the chart for teams with better chances of directly sealing the WTC Final 2025 qualification, they must win at least two of the four remaining Tests to ensure a smooth ride into the finals. “That’s probably the goal; just take it as it comes over the next few weeks. No rush to get anything in a hurry, it’s just getting everything right. Probably take a few extra days here and there. Ticking things off and getting everything right,” Hazlewood noted. Meanwhile, the five-match series between Australia and India is tied at 1-1, with two games remaining. Should the hosts win the remaining two matches, they will directly qualify for the final, but if India wins and completes the three-peat, they will reach their third straight WTC Final. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT - Josh Hazlewood ‘frustrated’ with ‘random side strain’ for missing Melbourne, Sydney Tests

<p>Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has come down hard on the selectors over changes in the squad for the remaining two BGT Tests against India. George Bailey-led selection committee made a massive call by dropping makeshift opener Nathan McSweeney while bringing in uncapped opener Sam Konstas. They also included Jhye Richardson as a backup seamer despite losing Josh Hazlewood to injury.</p>

<p>Australia have won just one of the first three Tests at the Adelaide Oval, losing the series opener in Perth, with the rain playing spoilsport at the Gabba in Brisbane.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohli-to-settle-in-london-with-family-confirms-childhood-coach-rajkumar-sharma-785548">Virat Kohli to settle in London with family, confirms childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma</a></strong></p>

<p>With more than a series win on the line - a spot in the WTC Final 2025 being the ultimate goal, Australia must push hard to win the remaining two Tests at the MCG and SCG, respectively, and for that, they must play their best cricket right from the top to see results going their way. However, neither McSweeney nor the 38-year-old Usman Khawaja has succeeded, barring the first innings in Adelaide, where the newcomer impressed under the lights.</p>

<p>Losing wickets upfront cost Australia big time in three Tests as despite the schedule, formed to put India on the back foot from game one, the hosts find themselves nowhere near a commanding position. In an effort to put all that to rest, the selectors took some harsh calls, including dropping McSweeney and replacing him with uncapped Konstas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Nathan McSweeney has been dropped. I can't believe that," Michael Clarke said on the Beyond 23 Cricket podcast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"No matter who they picked in that opening position, they had to give them the series. I think the selectors have got this wrong."</p>

<p>"We've got Usman Khawaja, who is 38 years old, and he's made no runs. He's a senior player. We've got Marnus Labuschagne, who, before the series was under pressure and has made one decent score. Steve Smith batted like a genius to make a hard-fought hundred, but he's also been under pressure. Everyone apart from McSweeney is over 30 years of age, some in their high 30s,” the ex-Aussie skipper pointed out.</p>

<h2>Khawaja’s position worries Clarke</h2>

<p>Clarke knows Khawaja isn’t around for more than a year and sounds worried about the opening chaos once he departs. Speaking on the same lines, Michael said though he wishes the best for the left-hander, wanting him to score runs and hundreds and contribute to the team’s success, he understands the scenario Australia would be in with two newcomers playing at the top.</p>

<p>"What happens if Usman Khawaja retires in two Test matches? Does McSweeney then come back in, or does he go to the back of the queue? They've got to come out and say, ‘We made a mistake picking him,'" Clarke said.</p>

<p>On Konstas, Clarke said, “I hope he walks out there, lives his dream; makes a hundred on debut. Something like that would be amazing.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, with the five-match series tied at 1-1 after three Tests, all eyes will be on the remaining two, with the Boxing Day Test starting on December 26.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Australia squad for remaining two India Tests –</h3>

<p>Pat Cummins (c), Travis Head (vc), Steve Smith (vc), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc and Beau Webster</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has come down hard on the selectors over changes in the squad for the remaining two BGT Tests against India. George Bailey-led selection committee made a massive call by dropping makeshift opener Nathan McSweeney while bringing in uncapped opener Sam Konstas.

Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has come down hard on the selectors over changes in the squad for the remaining two BGT Tests against India. George Bailey-led selection committee made a massive call by dropping makeshift opener Nathan McSweeney while bringing in uncapped opener Sam Konstas. They also included Jhye Richardson as a backup seamer despite losing Josh Hazlewood to injury. Australia have won just one of the first three Tests at the Adelaide Oval, losing the series opener in Perth, with the rain playing spoilsport at the Gabba in Brisbane. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli to settle in London with family, confirms childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma With more than a series win on the line - a spot in the WTC Final 2025 being the ultimate goal, Australia must push hard to win the remaining two Tests at the MCG and SCG, respectively, and for that, they must play their best cricket right from the top to see results going their way. However, neither McSweeney nor the 38-year-old Usman Khawaja has succeeded, barring the first innings in Adelaide, where the newcomer impressed under the lights. Losing wickets upfront cost Australia big time in three Tests as despite the schedule, formed to put India on the back foot from game one, the hosts find themselves nowhere near a commanding position. In an effort to put all that to rest, the selectors took some harsh calls, including dropping McSweeney and replacing him with uncapped Konstas. "Nathan McSweeney has been dropped. I can't believe that," Michael Clarke said on the Beyond 23 Cricket podcast. "No matter who they picked in that opening position, they had to give them the series. I think the selectors have got this wrong." "We've got Usman Khawaja, who is 38 years old, and he's made no runs. He's a senior player. We've got Marnus Labuschagne, who, before the series was under pressure and has made one decent score. Steve Smith batted like a genius to make a hard-fought hundred, but he's also been under pressure. Everyone apart from McSweeney is over 30 years of age, some in their high 30s,” the ex-Aussie skipper pointed out. Khawaja’s position worries Clarke Clarke knows Khawaja isn’t around for more than a year and sounds worried about the opening chaos once he departs. Speaking on the same lines, Michael said though he wishes the best for the left-hander, wanting him to score runs and hundreds and contribute to the team’s success, he understands the scenario Australia would be in with two newcomers playing at the top. "What happens if Usman Khawaja retires in two Test matches? Does McSweeney then come back in, or does he go to the back of the queue? They've got to come out and say, ‘We made a mistake picking him,'" Clarke said. On Konstas, Clarke said, “I hope he walks out there, lives his dream; makes a hundred on debut. Something like that would be amazing.” Meanwhile, with the five-match series tied at 1-1 after three Tests, all eyes will be on the remaining two, with the Boxing Day Test starting on December 26. Australia squad for remaining two India Tests – Pat Cummins (c), Travis Head (vc), Steve Smith (vc), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc and Beau Webster (With inputs from agencies)

<p><span class="region">Brisbane, Australia</span>
<p>Ace Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood is frustrated with a ‘random side strain’ that ruled him out of the remainder of the India Test series. Hazlewood suffered a strain on his right side during the just-concluded Gabba Test, ruling him out of the game and the series. Scott Boland will replace him in the XI for the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG starting December 26.</p></p>
<p>“Just frustrating really. Ticked every box heading into the (third) Test; I could understand if it was my side again, but it was just a random calf strain,” Hazlewood said during a chat with 7NEWS. “It’s just the timing again, they are only little 2-3 week injuries, it’s just the timing of it and missing big games is the frustrating thing, Obviously, do a deep dive into it and see what we can come up with … feels pretty random.”</p>
<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-ashwin-shrugs-off-fathers-humiliation-remark-over-shock-retirement-says-he-isnt-media-trained-785340">BGT - Ashwin shrugs off father's ‘humiliation’ remark over shock retirement, says ‘he isn’t media trained’</a></strong></p>
<p>Hazlewood played the BGT opener at the Optus Stadium in Perth but missed the following Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide due to an injury. Though he recovered in time for the third Test at the Gabba, Hazlewood pulled up ahead of the fourth-day play, injuring his right calf. </p>
<p>“I’ve had a history of sides and calves; they’re probably the two things that have kept me out for the majority over the last four years. But yeah, I sort of just keep adding another layer to the defence, hopefully, get back into the gym, I’ve ticked a lot of boxes over the last 12 months,” the seamer continued.</p>
<h2>Josh eyes return in Sri Lanka Tests</h2>
<p>Considering Hazlewood will not return until 100% fit, the seamer expressed his desire to make a comeback for the away Sri Lanka Tests early next year. </p>
<p>Though Australia still leads India on the chart for teams with better chances of directly sealing the WTC Final 2025 qualification, they must win at least two of the four remaining Tests to ensure a smooth ride into the finals. </p>
<p>“That’s probably the goal; just take it as it comes over the next few weeks. No rush to get anything in a hurry, it’s just getting everything right. Probably take a few extra days here and there. Ticking things off and getting everything right,” Hazlewood noted.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, the five-match series between Australia and India is tied at 1-1, with two games remaining. </p>
<p>Should the hosts win the remaining two matches, they will directly qualify for the final, but if India wins and completes the three-peat, they will reach their third straight WTC Final. </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Considering Hazlewood will not return until 100% fit, the seamer expressed his desire to make a comeback for the away Sri Lanka Tests early next year. 



Brisbane, Australia Ace Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood is frustrated with a ‘random side strain’ that ruled him out of the remainder of the India Test series. Hazlewood suffered a strain on his right side during the just-concluded Gabba Test, ruling him out of the game and the series. Scott Boland will replace him in the XI for the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG starting December 26. “Just frustrating really. Ticked every box heading into the (third) Test; I could understand if it was my side again, but it was just a random calf strain,” Hazlewood said during a chat with 7NEWS. “It’s just the timing again, they are only little 2-3 week injuries, it’s just the timing of it and missing big games is the frustrating thing, Obviously, do a deep dive into it and see what we can come up with … feels pretty random.” ALSO READ: BGT - Ashwin shrugs off father's ‘humiliation’ remark over shock retirement, says ‘he isn’t media trained’ Hazlewood played the BGT opener at the Optus Stadium in Perth but missed the following Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide due to an injury. Though he recovered in time for the third Test at the Gabba, Hazlewood pulled up ahead of the fourth-day play, injuring his right calf. “I’ve had a history of sides and calves; they’re probably the two things that have kept me out for the majority over the last four years. But yeah, I sort of just keep adding another layer to the defence, hopefully, get back into the gym, I’ve ticked a lot of boxes over the last 12 months,” the seamer continued. Josh eyes return in Sri Lanka Tests Considering Hazlewood will not return until 100% fit, the seamer expressed his desire to make a comeback for the away Sri Lanka Tests early next year. Though Australia still leads India on the chart for teams with better chances of directly sealing the WTC Final 2025 qualification, they must win at least two of the four remaining Tests to ensure a smooth ride into the finals. “That’s probably the goal; just take it as it comes over the next few weeks. No rush to get anything in a hurry, it’s just getting everything right. Probably take a few extra days here and there. Ticking things off and getting everything right,” Hazlewood noted. Meanwhile, the five-match series between Australia and India is tied at 1-1, with two games remaining. Should the hosts win the remaining two matches, they will directly qualify for the final, but if India wins and completes the three-peat, they will reach their third straight WTC Final. (With inputs from agencies)

<p><span class="region">New Delhi, India</span>
<p>Ravichandran Ashwin announced his international retirement following the Gabba Test conclusion against Australia, with his father claiming ‘humiliation’ among the potential reasons behind his shock call. The ace spinner, however, quickly responded to his father’s comments, saying he is not media-trained and should be forgiven and left alone.</p></p>
<p>Replying to a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), Ashwin wrote, ‘My dad isn’t media trained, dey father enna da ithelaam ??. I never thought you would follow this rich tradition of “dad statements” .? Request you all to forgive him and leave him alone ?’</p>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My dad isn’t media trained, dey father enna da ithelaam ??.</p>
<p>I never thought you would follow this rich tradition of “dad statements” .?</p>
<p>Request you all to forgive him and leave him alone ? <a href="https://t.co/Y1GFEwJsVc">https://t.co/Y1GFEwJsVc</a></p>
<p>— Ashwin ?? (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1869734526349607241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<p>During an exclusive chat with CNN News18, Ashwin’s father, Ravichandran, made a shocking revelation about his son’s retirement call after day five of the third Test in Brisbane. He said although calling time on a career is a personal choice and that he has no say in that, Ravichandran noted that constant humiliation regarding Ashwin not being the number one choice spinner regardless of the conditions might have pushed him to take this sudden decision, something his father also got to know about at the last minute.</p>
<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-sam-konstas-knocks-on-selectors-doors-as-mcg-test-squad-announcement-looms-785280">BGT: Sam Konstas knocks on selector's doors as MCG Test squad announcement looms</a></strong></p>
<p>“I too came to know last minute, actually. What was going on in his mind I don’t know. He just announced. I too accepted it with full pleasure. I did not have any feelings at all for that. But the way he gave his retirement, one part I was very happy, another part not happy because he should have continued,” Ashwin’s father said during the chat with the news outlet.</p>
<p>“(Retiring) is his (Ashwin’s) wish and desire, I cannot interfere in that, but the way in which he gave that, there could be many reasons. Only Ashwin knows, maybe humiliation," Ravichandran continued.</p>
<h2>Ashwin says goodbye to Indian cricket</h2>
<p>The veteran off-spinner is India's second-highest Test wicket-taker with 537 scalps besides his name, only behind the great Anil Kumble, who picked 619 wickets in his decorated career. Ashwin also scored six Test hundreds, becoming the first player to notch up five or more Test centuries besides picking over 500 wickets.</p>
<p>Though several reports indicated a major announcement just after the Brisbane tie, no one outside the players and the team management expected Ashwin to hang up his boots. </p>
<p>Ashwin joined Rohit Sharma in the post-match presser and announced his decision to step aside from international cricket; he though continues to remain available for selection for his state side (Tamil Nadu) in the domestic sphere and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL.</p>
<p>"This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level. I do feel there's a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer, but I would like to express that and probably showcase that in club-level cricket, but this will be the last day [for India],” Ashwin said at the post-match presser in Brisbane. </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a media interview, Ashwin's father claimed that constant humiliation is among possible reasons behind his son's shock international retirement.



New Delhi, India Ravichandran Ashwin announced his international retirement following the Gabba Test conclusion against Australia, with his father claiming ‘humiliation’ among the potential reasons behind his shock call. The ace spinner, however, quickly responded to his father’s comments, saying he is not media-trained and should be forgiven and left alone. Replying to a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), Ashwin wrote, ‘My dad isn’t media trained, dey father enna da ithelaam ??. I never thought you would follow this rich tradition of “dad statements” .? Request you all to forgive him and leave him alone ?’ My dad isn’t media trained, dey father enna da ithelaam ??. I never thought you would follow this rich tradition of “dad statements” .? Request you all to forgive him and leave him alone ? https://t.co/Y1GFEwJsVc — Ashwin ?? (@ashwinravi99) December 19, 2024 × During an exclusive chat with CNN News18, Ashwin’s father, Ravichandran, made a shocking revelation about his son’s retirement call after day five of the third Test in Brisbane. He said although calling time on a career is a personal choice and that he has no say in that, Ravichandran noted that constant humiliation regarding Ashwin not being the number one choice spinner regardless of the conditions might have pushed him to take this sudden decision, something his father also got to know about at the last minute. ALSO READ: BGT: Sam Konstas knocks on selector's doors as MCG Test squad announcement looms “I too came to know last minute, actually. What was going on in his mind I don’t know. He just announced. I too accepted it with full pleasure. I did not have any feelings at all for that. But the way he gave his retirement, one part I was very happy, another part not happy because he should have continued,” Ashwin’s father said during the chat with the news outlet. “(Retiring) is his (Ashwin’s) wish and desire, I cannot interfere in that, but the way in which he gave that, there could be many reasons. Only Ashwin knows, maybe humiliation," Ravichandran continued. Ashwin says goodbye to Indian cricket The veteran off-spinner is India's second-highest Test wicket-taker with 537 scalps besides his name, only behind the great Anil Kumble, who picked 619 wickets in his decorated career. Ashwin also scored six Test hundreds, becoming the first player to notch up five or more Test centuries besides picking over 500 wickets. Though several reports indicated a major announcement just after the Brisbane tie, no one outside the players and the team management expected Ashwin to hang up his boots. Ashwin joined Rohit Sharma in the post-match presser and announced his decision to step aside from international cricket; he though continues to remain available for selection for his state side (Tamil Nadu) in the domestic sphere and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL. "This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level. I do feel there's a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer, but I would like to express that and probably showcase that in club-level cricket, but this will be the last day [for India],” Ashwin said at the post-match presser in Brisbane. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT - Ashwin shrugs off father's ‘humiliation’ remark over shock retirement, says ‘he isn’t media trained’

<p>Ravichandran Ashwin has said goodbye to international cricket. Following the conclusion of the third BGT Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday (Dec 18), Ashwin called it quits at the top level, though he continues to play domestic cricket and IPL. Soon after he announced his decision to retire at the post-match presser, Ashwin rushed to the airport to fly back to India.</p>

<p>Because of the time constraint and the flight timings, a full-fledged get-together and dinner wasn't possible; however, his team members showered praises on his send-off.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ashwin-retires-no-decision-made-till-he-landed-in-perth-contemplated-hanging-boots-following-bgt-report-785075">Ashwin retires: No decision made till he landed in Perth; contemplated hanging boots following BGT - Report</a></strong></p>

<p>"Everyone said nice words to him, about him and gave him a very nice and emotional send-off. Yes, he is flying out of Brisbane tonight only and due to lack of enough time, a proper gathering wasn't possible at the team hotel," a source close to the information said, as quoted by the Times of India (TOI).&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A Legend Bids Adieu to International Cricket 👏👏<br />
<br />
Hear what R Ashwin’s parting words were to the Indian dressing room 🎥🔽<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> <a href="https://t.co/6wtwdDOmzX">https://t.co/6wtwdDOmzX</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1869336242829373740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>After quickly wrapping up the retirement announcement while sitting alongside team skipper Rohit Sharma, Ashwin gave a warm speech inside the dressing room, leaving everyone teary-eyed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The international cricketer in me might have come to an end, but the cricket nut in me will never come to an end. I will be looking forward to each one of your performances, and all the very best," Ashwin said during an emotional signoff to his team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins and ace spinner Nathan Lyon presented Ashwin with a special jersey. Upon leaving the arena after dropping a retirement bombshell, Ashwin was greeted with countless handshakes and hugs.</p>

<h2>What happened at the Gabba?</h2>

<p>Rain interruptions led to a draw in Brisbane, with the series scorecard reading 1-1 heading into the Boxing Day Test at the MCG starting December 26.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia batted first at the Gabba, with only 13.2 overs possible on day one. Day two was all about Travis Head and his love affair with scoring runs against India as he slammed his second straight ton in the whites. Australia scored a whopping 445 in the first innings.</p>

<p>In reply, India scored 260 all out, with KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and the tailenders contributing with the bat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia suffered a mini-collapse in their second innings, getting reduced to 33 for five at one stage, with Pat Cummins declaring on 89 for seven, setting India 275 runs to win.</p>

<p>The visitors came out for a mere formality as the final rain interruption forced the umpires to call off the game, leading to no result.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ravichandran Ashwin has said goodbye to international cricket. Following the conclusion of the third BGT Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday (Dec 18), Ashwin called it quits at the top level, though he continues to play domestic cricket and IPL.

Ravichandran Ashwin has said goodbye to international cricket. Following the conclusion of the third BGT Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday (Dec 18), Ashwin called it quits at the top level, though he continues to play domestic cricket and IPL. Soon after he announced his decision to retire at the post-match presser, Ashwin rushed to the airport to fly back to India. Because of the time constraint and the flight timings, a full-fledged get-together and dinner wasn't possible; however, his team members showered praises on his send-off. ALSO READ: Ashwin retires: No decision made till he landed in Perth; contemplated hanging boots following BGT - Report "Everyone said nice words to him, about him and gave him a very nice and emotional send-off. Yes, he is flying out of Brisbane tonight only and due to lack of enough time, a proper gathering wasn't possible at the team hotel," a source close to the information said, as quoted by the Times of India (TOI). A Legend Bids Adieu to International Cricket 👏👏 Hear what R Ashwin’s parting words were to the Indian dressing room 🎥🔽#TeamIndia | @ashwinravi99 https://t.co/6wtwdDOmzX — BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024 × After quickly wrapping up the retirement announcement while sitting alongside team skipper Rohit Sharma, Ashwin gave a warm speech inside the dressing room, leaving everyone teary-eyed. "The international cricketer in me might have come to an end, but the cricket nut in me will never come to an end. I will be looking forward to each one of your performances, and all the very best," Ashwin said during an emotional signoff to his team. Besides, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins and ace spinner Nathan Lyon presented Ashwin with a special jersey. Upon leaving the arena after dropping a retirement bombshell, Ashwin was greeted with countless handshakes and hugs. What happened at the Gabba? Rain interruptions led to a draw in Brisbane, with the series scorecard reading 1-1 heading into the Boxing Day Test at the MCG starting December 26. Australia batted first at the Gabba, with only 13.2 overs possible on day one. Day two was all about Travis Head and his love affair with scoring runs against India as he slammed his second straight ton in the whites. Australia scored a whopping 445 in the first innings. In reply, India scored 260 all out, with KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and the tailenders contributing with the bat. Australia suffered a mini-collapse in their second innings, getting reduced to 33 for five at one stage, with Pat Cummins declaring on 89 for seven, setting India 275 runs to win. The visitors came out for a mere formality as the final rain interruption forced the umpires to call off the game, leading to no result. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Hugs, emotional sendoffs and whatnot – Ravi Ashwin’s final moments as Indian cricketer

<p>Ravichandran Ashwin announced his international retirement following the Gabba Test conclusion against Australia, with his father claiming ‘humiliation’ among the potential reasons behind his shock call. The ace spinner, however, quickly responded to his father’s comments, saying he is not media-trained and should be forgiven and left alone.</p>

<p>Replying to a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), Ashwin wrote, ‘My dad isn’t media trained, dey father enna da ithelaam 😂😂. I never thought you would follow this rich tradition of “dad statements” .🤣 Request you all to forgive him and leave him alone 🙏’</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My dad isn’t media trained, dey father enna da ithelaam 😂😂.<br />
<br />
I never thought you would follow this rich tradition of “dad statements” .🤣<br />
<br />
Request you all to forgive him and leave him alone 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/Y1GFEwJsVc">https://t.co/Y1GFEwJsVc</a></p>
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1869734526349607241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>During an exclusive chat with CNN News18, Ashwin’s father, Ravichandran, made a shocking revelation about his son’s retirement call after day five of the third Test in Brisbane. He said although calling time on a career is a personal choice and that he has no say in that, Ravichandran noted that constant humiliation regarding Ashwin not being the number one choice spinner regardless of the conditions might have pushed him to take this sudden decision, something his father also got to know about at the last minute.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-sam-konstas-knocks-on-selectors-doors-as-mcg-test-squad-announcement-looms-785280">BGT: Sam Konstas knocks on selector's doors as MCG Test squad announcement looms</a></strong></p>

<p>“I too came to know last minute, actually. What was going on in his mind I don’t know. He just announced. I too accepted it with full pleasure. I did not have any feelings at all for that. But the way he gave his retirement, one part I was very happy, another part not happy because he should have continued,” Ashwin’s father said during the chat with the news outlet.</p>

<p>“(Retiring) is his (Ashwin’s) wish and desire, I cannot interfere in that, but the way in which he gave that, there could be many reasons. Only Ashwin knows, maybe humiliation," Ravichandran continued.</p>

<h2>Ashwin says goodbye to Indian cricket</h2>

<p>The veteran off-spinner is India's second-highest Test wicket-taker with 537 scalps besides his name, only behind the great Anil Kumble, who picked 619 wickets in his decorated career. Ashwin also scored six Test hundreds, becoming the first player to notch up five or more Test centuries besides picking over 500 wickets.</p>

<p>Though several reports indicated a major announcement just after the Brisbane tie, no one outside the players and the team management expected Ashwin to hang up his boots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ashwin joined Rohit Sharma in the post-match presser and announced his decision to step aside from international cricket; he though continues to remain available for selection for his state side (Tamil Nadu) in the domestic sphere and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL.</p>

<p>"This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level. I do feel there's a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer, but I would like to express that and probably showcase that in club-level cricket, but this will be the last day [for India],” Ashwin said at the post-match presser in Brisbane.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ravichandran Ashwin announced his international retirement following the Gabba Test conclusion against Australia, with his father claiming ‘humiliation’ among the potential reasons behind his shock call.

Ravichandran Ashwin announced his international retirement following the Gabba Test conclusion against Australia, with his father claiming ‘humiliation’ among the potential reasons behind his shock call. The ace spinner, however, quickly responded to his father’s comments, saying he is not media-trained and should be forgiven and left alone. Replying to a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), Ashwin wrote, ‘My dad isn’t media trained, dey father enna da ithelaam 😂😂. I never thought you would follow this rich tradition of “dad statements” .🤣 Request you all to forgive him and leave him alone 🙏’ My dad isn’t media trained, dey father enna da ithelaam 😂😂. I never thought you would follow this rich tradition of “dad statements” .🤣 Request you all to forgive him and leave him alone 🙏 https://t.co/Y1GFEwJsVc — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) December 19, 2024 × During an exclusive chat with CNN News18, Ashwin’s father, Ravichandran, made a shocking revelation about his son’s retirement call after day five of the third Test in Brisbane. He said although calling time on a career is a personal choice and that he has no say in that, Ravichandran noted that constant humiliation regarding Ashwin not being the number one choice spinner regardless of the conditions might have pushed him to take this sudden decision, something his father also got to know about at the last minute. ALSO READ: BGT: Sam Konstas knocks on selector's doors as MCG Test squad announcement looms “I too came to know last minute, actually. What was going on in his mind I don’t know. He just announced. I too accepted it with full pleasure. I did not have any feelings at all for that. But the way he gave his retirement, one part I was very happy, another part not happy because he should have continued,” Ashwin’s father said during the chat with the news outlet. “(Retiring) is his (Ashwin’s) wish and desire, I cannot interfere in that, but the way in which he gave that, there could be many reasons. Only Ashwin knows, maybe humiliation," Ravichandran continued. Ashwin says goodbye to Indian cricket The veteran off-spinner is India's second-highest Test wicket-taker with 537 scalps besides his name, only behind the great Anil Kumble, who picked 619 wickets in his decorated career. Ashwin also scored six Test hundreds, becoming the first player to notch up five or more Test centuries besides picking over 500 wickets. Though several reports indicated a major announcement just after the Brisbane tie, no one outside the players and the team management expected Ashwin to hang up his boots. Ashwin joined Rohit Sharma in the post-match presser and announced his decision to step aside from international cricket; he though continues to remain available for selection for his state side (Tamil Nadu) in the domestic sphere and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL. "This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level. I do feel there's a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer, but I would like to express that and probably showcase that in club-level cricket, but this will be the last day [for India],” Ashwin said at the post-match presser in Brisbane. (With inputs from agencies)

<p><span class="region">Gabba, Brisbane</span>
<p>Ravichandran Ashwin has said goodbye to international cricket. Following the conclusion of the third BGT Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday (Dec 18), Ashwin called it quits at the top level, though he continues to play domestic cricket and IPL. Soon after he announced his decision to retire at the post-match presser, Ashwin rushed to the airport to fly back to India.</p></p>
<p>Because of the time constraint and the flight timings, a full-fledged get-together and dinner wasn't possible; however, his team members showered praises on his send-off.</p>
<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ashwin-retires-no-decision-made-till-he-landed-in-perth-contemplated-hanging-boots-following-bgt-report-785075">Ashwin retires: No decision made till he landed in Perth; contemplated hanging boots following BGT - Report</a></strong></p>
<p>"Everyone said nice words to him, about him and gave him a very nice and emotional send-off. Yes, he is flying out of Brisbane tonight only and due to lack of enough time, a proper gathering wasn't possible at the team hotel," a source close to the information said, as quoted by the Times of India (TOI). </p>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A Legend Bids Adieu to International Cricket ??</p>
<p>Hear what R Ashwin’s parting words were to the Indian dressing room ??<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> <a href="https://t.co/6wtwdDOmzX">https://t.co/6wtwdDOmzX</a></p>
<p>— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1869336242829373740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<p>After quickly wrapping up the retirement announcement while sitting alongside team skipper Rohit Sharma, Ashwin gave a warm speech inside the dressing room, leaving everyone teary-eyed. </p>
<p>"The international cricketer in me might have come to an end, but the cricket nut in me will never come to an end. I will be looking forward to each one of your performances, and all the very best," Ashwin said during an emotional signoff to his team. </p>
<p>Besides, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins and ace spinner Nathan Lyon presented Ashwin with a special jersey. Upon leaving the arena after dropping a retirement bombshell, Ashwin was greeted with countless handshakes and hugs.</p>
<h2>What happened at the Gabba?</h2>
<p>Rain interruptions led to a draw in Brisbane, with the series scorecard reading 1-1 heading into the Boxing Day Test at the MCG starting December 26. </p>
<p>Australia batted first at the Gabba, with only 13.2 overs possible on day one. Day two was all about Travis Head and his love affair with scoring runs against India as he slammed his second straight ton in the whites. Australia scored a whopping 445 in the first innings.</p>
<p>In reply, India scored 260 all out, with KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and the tailenders contributing with the bat. </p>
<p>Australia suffered a mini-collapse in their second innings, getting reduced to 33 for five at one stage, with Pat Cummins declaring on 89 for seven, setting India 275 runs to win.</p>
<p>The visitors came out for a mere formality as the final rain interruption forced the umpires to call off the game, leading to no result. </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Because of the time constraint and the flight timings, a full-fledged get-together and dinner wasn't possible; however, his team members showered praises on his send-off.



Gabba, Brisbane Ravichandran Ashwin has said goodbye to international cricket. Following the conclusion of the third BGT Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday (Dec 18), Ashwin called it quits at the top level, though he continues to play domestic cricket and IPL. Soon after he announced his decision to retire at the post-match presser, Ashwin rushed to the airport to fly back to India. Because of the time constraint and the flight timings, a full-fledged get-together and dinner wasn't possible; however, his team members showered praises on his send-off. ALSO READ: Ashwin retires: No decision made till he landed in Perth; contemplated hanging boots following BGT - Report "Everyone said nice words to him, about him and gave him a very nice and emotional send-off. Yes, he is flying out of Brisbane tonight only and due to lack of enough time, a proper gathering wasn't possible at the team hotel," a source close to the information said, as quoted by the Times of India (TOI). A Legend Bids Adieu to International Cricket ?? Hear what R Ashwin’s parting words were to the Indian dressing room ??#TeamIndia | @ashwinravi99 https://t.co/6wtwdDOmzX — BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024 × After quickly wrapping up the retirement announcement while sitting alongside team skipper Rohit Sharma, Ashwin gave a warm speech inside the dressing room, leaving everyone teary-eyed. "The international cricketer in me might have come to an end, but the cricket nut in me will never come to an end. I will be looking forward to each one of your performances, and all the very best," Ashwin said during an emotional signoff to his team. Besides, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins and ace spinner Nathan Lyon presented Ashwin with a special jersey. Upon leaving the arena after dropping a retirement bombshell, Ashwin was greeted with countless handshakes and hugs. What happened at the Gabba? Rain interruptions led to a draw in Brisbane, with the series scorecard reading 1-1 heading into the Boxing Day Test at the MCG starting December 26. Australia batted first at the Gabba, with only 13.2 overs possible on day one. Day two was all about Travis Head and his love affair with scoring runs against India as he slammed his second straight ton in the whites. Australia scored a whopping 445 in the first innings. In reply, India scored 260 all out, with KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and the tailenders contributing with the bat. Australia suffered a mini-collapse in their second innings, getting reduced to 33 for five at one stage, with Pat Cummins declaring on 89 for seven, setting India 275 runs to win. The visitors came out for a mere formality as the final rain interruption forced the umpires to call off the game, leading to no result. (With inputs from agencies)

<p><span class="region">Gabba, Brisbane</span>
<p>Ravi Ashwin’s shock international retirement made many shed a tear, but what forced the Test great to call up time midway through the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT)? Ashwin decided to hang his boots from all formats following the conclusion of the Gabba Test against Australia in Brisbane, which ended in a draw. </p></p>
<p>Though Virat Kohli and Ashwin sharing an emotional moment just before the umpires called off the game indicated something, Ashwin joining captain Rohit Sharma at the post-game presser cleared the air. Ashwin quickly announced his decision to step aside from international cricket, drawing curtains on a glorious 14-year career in the India jersey.</p>
<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ravi-ashwin-retirement-reactions-sachin-jay-shah-fellow-mates-thank-test-genius-for-countless-memories-785049">Ravi Ashwin retirement reactions: Sachin, Jay Shah, fellow mates thank Test genius for countless memories</a></strong></p>
<p>That call must have shocked everyone, including the broadcasters, the opposition, and the media worldwide, but a report in the Indian Express suggests something else. Per that report, Ashwin contemplated retiring from international cricket (following New Zealand Tests at home) owing to a troubled knee issue; he remained undecided till he landed in Perth - the venue for the first BGT Test.</p>
<p>Ashwin’s family also urged him to think it through and that the spinner decided on taking a final call on how things unfold Down Under; he, however, on Tuesday (Dec 17) informed his family that he is retiring the next day, the day five of the Gabba Test. </p>
<p>Rohit also mentioned during the post-match presser that he and Ashwin had a brief chat about Ashwin’s future (upon Rohit’s arrival in Perth), with the skipper convincing him to stick around for the second game (the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide), which Ashwin played, replacing Washington Sundar in the XI. </p>
<p>Though he was in contention to retain his place for the third match, the management decided to replace him with Jadeja. That, however, is assumed to be the final nail in the coffin. </p>
<p>The report also suggested that Ashwin informed each member of the BGT-bound Test squad individually about his decision to retire, which shocked most players.</p>
<p>Ashwin stood a chance to play either at the MCG or the SCG – the venues for the final two matches, but Jadeja’s 77 with the bat more or less sealed his chances of playing in the remainder of BGT, forcing Ashwin to take a call midway through the series.</p>
<h2>Ashwin to fly home</h2>
<p>Ashwin will return home on Thursday (Dec 19) and might link up with his state team. </p>
<p>With Tamil Nadu alive in the race for a Ranji Trophy playoff spot, Ashwin could play in the premier domestic tournament, pushing to relive a dream of winning the trophy that eluded his glorious career.</p>
<p>Besides, Ashwin will play for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL 2025. </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ashwin’s family also urged him to think it through and that the spinner decided on taking a final call on how things unfold Down Under; he, however, on Tuesday (Dec 17) informed his family that he is retiring the next day, the day five of the Gabba Test.  



Gabba, Brisbane Ravi Ashwin’s shock international retirement made many shed a tear, but what forced the Test great to call up time midway through the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT)? Ashwin decided to hang his boots from all formats following the conclusion of the Gabba Test against Australia in Brisbane, which ended in a draw. Though Virat Kohli and Ashwin sharing an emotional moment just before the umpires called off the game indicated something, Ashwin joining captain Rohit Sharma at the post-game presser cleared the air. Ashwin quickly announced his decision to step aside from international cricket, drawing curtains on a glorious 14-year career in the India jersey. ALSO READ: Ravi Ashwin retirement reactions: Sachin, Jay Shah, fellow mates thank Test genius for countless memories That call must have shocked everyone, including the broadcasters, the opposition, and the media worldwide, but a report in the Indian Express suggests something else. Per that report, Ashwin contemplated retiring from international cricket (following New Zealand Tests at home) owing to a troubled knee issue; he remained undecided till he landed in Perth - the venue for the first BGT Test. Ashwin’s family also urged him to think it through and that the spinner decided on taking a final call on how things unfold Down Under; he, however, on Tuesday (Dec 17) informed his family that he is retiring the next day, the day five of the Gabba Test. Rohit also mentioned during the post-match presser that he and Ashwin had a brief chat about Ashwin’s future (upon Rohit’s arrival in Perth), with the skipper convincing him to stick around for the second game (the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide), which Ashwin played, replacing Washington Sundar in the XI. Though he was in contention to retain his place for the third match, the management decided to replace him with Jadeja. That, however, is assumed to be the final nail in the coffin. The report also suggested that Ashwin informed each member of the BGT-bound Test squad individually about his decision to retire, which shocked most players. Ashwin stood a chance to play either at the MCG or the SCG – the venues for the final two matches, but Jadeja’s 77 with the bat more or less sealed his chances of playing in the remainder of BGT, forcing Ashwin to take a call midway through the series. Ashwin to fly home Ashwin will return home on Thursday (Dec 19) and might link up with his state team. With Tamil Nadu alive in the race for a Ranji Trophy playoff spot, Ashwin could play in the premier domestic tournament, pushing to relive a dream of winning the trophy that eluded his glorious career. Besides, Ashwin will play for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL 2025. (With inputs from agencies)

Ashwin retires: No decision made till he landed in Perth; contemplated hanging boots following BGT - Report

<p><span class="region">Gabba, Brisbane</span>
<p>Ravichandran Ashwin, the ace Indian spinner, announced his international retirement after the conclusion of the Gabba Test against Australia on Wednesday (Dec 18). Just before the umpires decided to call off the game due to rain interruption ahead of tea on day five, visuals of Virat Kohli and Ashwin hugging in the dressing room indicated what was about to unfold.</p></p>
<p>Following the game, Ashwin joined Team India captain Rohit Sharma for the post-game presser, announced his retirement, and calmly left the arena, as he did with Test cricket despite being the seventh highest-ranked bowler in the format.</p>
<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rohit-sharma-unwilling-to-push-for-mohammed-shamis-test-call-up-amid-fitness-concerns-784991">BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns</a></strong></p>
<p>Ashwin has countless records to his name; despite being the only cricketer to score more than five Test hundreds and picking over 500 wickets at the same time, the off-spinner is India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests (533) after Anil Kumble (619). Ashwin also has joint second-most five-wicket hauls (37) with the late Shane Warne in red-ball cricket. </p>
<p>Since debuting against the West Indies at the Wankhede Stadium in 2011, Ashwin has pioneered his way to become India’s greatest matchwinner, especially at home. For the record, Ravi Ashwin is an ODI World Cup and a Champions Trophy winner.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, upon announcing his retirement, his teammates, former cricketers, experts, and even broadcasters took to social media to share delight over watching him play and win countless matches for the team across formats. </p>
<p>From the legendary Sachin Tendulkar to current veterans Virat and captain Rohit Sharma, everyone lauded Ashwin’s contributions to world cricket, let alone India. </p>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Abhi naa jao... ?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvINDonHotstar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvINDonHotstar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashwin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashwin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AshwinRetires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AshwinRetires</a> <a href="https://t.co/PzuLNoaTyP">pic.twitter.com/PzuLNoaTyP</a></p>
<p>— Disney+ Hotstar (@DisneyPlusHS) <a href="https://twitter.com/DisneyPlusHS/status/1869294304096870878?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Not too many retire with much left in the tank. But Ashwin has. Like many, the decision surprised me. Will really miss that spinner with magic in his fingers. ???<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AshwinRetires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AshwinRetires</a></p>
<p>— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanjaymanjrekar/status/1869321399942410569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I’ve played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you ash, your skill and match winning contributions to Indian… <a href="https://t.co/QGQ2Z7pAgc">pic.twitter.com/QGQ2Z7pAgc</a></p>
<p>— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1869269640154923429?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a></p>
<p>for incredible career.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AshwinRetires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AshwinRetires</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashwin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashwin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvsAus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvsAus</a> <a href="https://t.co/MFKbkH6Amm">pic.twitter.com/MFKbkH6Amm</a></p>
<p>— Munaf Patel (@munafpa99881129) <a href="https://twitter.com/munafpa99881129/status/1869292649154527280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ashwin, I’ve always admired how you approached the game with your mind and heart in perfect sync. From perfecting the carrom ball to contributing crucial runs, you always found a way to win.</p>
<p>Watching you grow from a promising talent to one of India’s finest match-winners has been… <a href="https://t.co/XawHfacaUh">pic.twitter.com/XawHfacaUh</a></p>
<p>— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1869324169445568713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ashwin, the Match winner ?</p>
<p>Ashwin, the Centurion ?</p>
<p>Ashwin, the Magician with the ball ?</p>
<p>Ashwin, the Team man ?</p>
<p>International cricket will miss them all ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThankYouAshwin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThankYouAshwin</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> <a href="https://t.co/ThvJ7pwRNT">pic.twitter.com/ThvJ7pwRNT</a></p>
<p>— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1869385885466366275?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">From match-winning spells to historic milestones, Ravichandran Ashwin bhai’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Thank you for everything, Ashwin bhai. Here’s to an incredible legacy that will live on forever. ? <a href="https://t.co/idZTXCcgCN">pic.twitter.com/idZTXCcgCN</a></p>
<p>— Mohammed Siraj (@mdsirajofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/mdsirajofficial/status/1869338825715052631?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The privilege of seeing you grow from a young bowler to a legend of modern cricket is something that I wouldn’t trade for the world! I know that generations of bowlers to come will say that I became a bowler coz of Ashwin! U will be missed brother! ❤️ <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> <a href="https://t.co/fuATAjE8aw">pic.twitter.com/fuATAjE8aw</a></p>
<p>— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1869267174206173369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An Intellectual Who Happened To Be A Top Cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin</p>
<p>To me &amp; in essence, Ravichandran Ashwin was a polymath in a cricketer’s body. An artisan, athlete, innovator &amp; highest on game awareness. An off spinner, his skills were bewildering. His bowling, his… <a href="https://t.co/axaFbbZPhA">pic.twitter.com/axaFbbZPhA</a></p>
<p>— Dr. Nauman Niaz (@DrNaumanNiaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrNaumanNiaz/status/1869365551644004563?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thanks <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> .. Have loved watching you play for India .. ?</p>
<p>— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1869264918308167886?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">One of the greatest to have played our game. I have enjoyed our interactions <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> and I can only wish you the very best in life. What you leave behind puts you among the best and there is a page in the Hall of Fame for you. <a href="https://t.co/Jjlg8tyq7k">pic.twitter.com/Jjlg8tyq7k</a></p>
<p>— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1869260313859850593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="und">.<a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> ?? <a href="https://t.co/z4VlTpVf4M">pic.twitter.com/z4VlTpVf4M</a></p>
<p>— Washington Sundar (@Sundarwashi5) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sundarwashi5/status/1869282320458698804?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you Ravi Ashwin. Glad you came, and that you were a part of the international game for so long, with such excellence. You taught, you educated and you entertained??.</p>
<p>— Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi) <a href="https://twitter.com/irbishi/status/1869277188559966466?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Only one on the list with 6 test 100s ?? <a href="https://t.co/3wcaqTYYSC">https://t.co/3wcaqTYYSC</a></p>
<p>— Herschelle Gibbs (@hershybru) <a href="https://twitter.com/hershybru/status/1869286287838269456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a></p>
<p>You’ve been one of the greats and it was a pleasure to play with and against you! <a href="https://t.co/2Yoany79hC">pic.twitter.com/2Yoany79hC</a></p>
<p>— Aaron Finch (@AaronFinch5) <a href="https://twitter.com/AaronFinch5/status/1869361716515213727?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Well played Ash and congratulations on a legendary journey! From spinning webs around the best in the world to standing tall in tough situations, you’ve been a real asset to the team. Welcome to the other side! ?? <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a></p>
<p>— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1869274535729700873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Like his “mystery ball” no-one saw it coming! <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> calls time on his outstanding 14-year career in international cricket. Unplayable on his day with his own code for playing the game. A maestro, the equivalent of a Grand Master in Chess. His latest move a stunner.</p>
<p>— Alan Wilkins (@alanwilkins22) <a href="https://twitter.com/alanwilkins22/status/1869299526563213326?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">One of <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bcci</a>’s greatest match-winners - a magician with the ball and an astute thinker of the game. An international career to be proud of <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a>, wishing you the best for the future. <a href="https://t.co/6RKbiG8jsw">pic.twitter.com/6RKbiG8jsw</a></p>
<p>— Jay Shah (@JayShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah/status/1869285961542348824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<p>Meanwhile, Ashwin ends his international career with 287 matches, 765 wickets, 4394 runs, and six hundreds across formats. </p>
<p>The Test genius will play for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2025.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ashwin also has joint second-most five-wicket hauls (37) with the late Shane Warne in red-ball cricket. 



Gabba, Brisbane Ravichandran Ashwin, the ace Indian spinner, announced his international retirement after the conclusion of the Gabba Test against Australia on Wednesday (Dec 18). Just before the umpires decided to call off the game due to rain interruption ahead of tea on day five, visuals of Virat Kohli and Ashwin hugging in the dressing room indicated what was about to unfold. Following the game, Ashwin joined Team India captain Rohit Sharma for the post-game presser, announced his retirement, and calmly left the arena, as he did with Test cricket despite being the seventh highest-ranked bowler in the format. ALSO READ: BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns Ashwin has countless records to his name; despite being the only cricketer to score more than five Test hundreds and picking over 500 wickets at the same time, the off-spinner is India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests (533) after Anil Kumble (619). Ashwin also has joint second-most five-wicket hauls (37) with the late Shane Warne in red-ball cricket. Since debuting against the West Indies at the Wankhede Stadium in 2011, Ashwin has pioneered his way to become India’s greatest matchwinner, especially at home. For the record, Ravi Ashwin is an ODI World Cup and a Champions Trophy winner. Meanwhile, upon announcing his retirement, his teammates, former cricketers, experts, and even broadcasters took to social media to share delight over watching him play and win countless matches for the team across formats. From the legendary Sachin Tendulkar to current veterans Virat and captain Rohit Sharma, everyone lauded Ashwin’s contributions to world cricket, let alone India. Abhi naa jao... ?#AUSvINDonHotstar #INDvAUS #Ashwin #AshwinRetires pic.twitter.com/PzuLNoaTyP — Disney+ Hotstar (@DisneyPlusHS) December 18, 2024 × Not too many retire with much left in the tank. But Ashwin has. Like many, the decision surprised me. Will really miss that spinner with magic in his fingers. ???#AshwinRetires — Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) December 18, 2024 × I’ve played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you ash, your skill and match winning contributions to Indian… pic.twitter.com/QGQ2Z7pAgc — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) December 18, 2024 × Congratulations @ashwinravi99 for incredible career.#AshwinRetires #Ashwin #IndvsAus pic.twitter.com/MFKbkH6Amm — Munaf Patel (@munafpa99881129) December 18, 2024 × Ashwin, I’ve always admired how you approached the game with your mind and heart in perfect sync. From perfecting the carrom ball to contributing crucial runs, you always found a way to win. Watching you grow from a promising talent to one of India’s finest match-winners has been… pic.twitter.com/XawHfacaUh — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) December 18, 2024 × Ashwin, the Match winner ? Ashwin, the Centurion ? Ashwin, the Magician with the ball ? Ashwin, the Team man ? International cricket will miss them all ❤️#TeamIndia | #ThankYouAshwin | @ashwinravi99 pic.twitter.com/ThvJ7pwRNT — BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024 × From match-winning spells to historic milestones, Ravichandran Ashwin bhai’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Thank you for everything, Ashwin bhai. Here’s to an incredible legacy that will live on forever. ? pic.twitter.com/idZTXCcgCN — Mohammed Siraj (@mdsirajofficial) December 18, 2024 × The privilege of seeing you grow from a young bowler to a legend of modern cricket is something that I wouldn’t trade for the world! I know that generations of bowlers to come will say that I became a bowler coz of Ashwin! U will be missed brother! ❤️ @ashwinravi99 pic.twitter.com/fuATAjE8aw — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) December 18, 2024 × An Intellectual Who Happened To Be A Top Cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin To me & in essence, Ravichandran Ashwin was a polymath in a cricketer’s body. An artisan, athlete, innovator & highest on game awareness. An off spinner, his skills were bewildering. His bowling, his… pic.twitter.com/axaFbbZPhA — Dr. Nauman Niaz (@DrNaumanNiaz) December 18, 2024 × Thanks @ashwinravi99 .. Have loved watching you play for India .. ? — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) December 18, 2024 × One of the greatest to have played our game. I have enjoyed our interactions @ashwinravi99 and I can only wish you the very best in life. What you leave behind puts you among the best and there is a page in the Hall of Fame for you. pic.twitter.com/Jjlg8tyq7k — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) December 18, 2024 × .@ashwinravi99 ?? pic.twitter.com/z4VlTpVf4M — Washington Sundar (@Sundarwashi5) December 18, 2024 × Thank you Ravi Ashwin. Glad you came, and that you were a part of the international game for so long, with such excellence. You taught, you educated and you entertained??. — Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi) December 18, 2024 × Only one on the list with 6 test 100s ?? https://t.co/3wcaqTYYSC — Herschelle Gibbs (@hershybru) December 18, 2024 × Congratulations @ashwinravi99 You’ve been one of the greats and it was a pleasure to play with and against you! pic.twitter.com/2Yoany79hC — Aaron Finch (@AaronFinch5) December 18, 2024 × Well played Ash and congratulations on a legendary journey! From spinning webs around the best in the world to standing tall in tough situations, you’ve been a real asset to the team. Welcome to the other side! ?? @ashwinravi99 — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) December 18, 2024 × Like his “mystery ball” no-one saw it coming! @ashwinravi99 calls time on his outstanding 14-year career in international cricket. Unplayable on his day with his own code for playing the game. A maestro, the equivalent of a Grand Master in Chess. His latest move a stunner. — Alan Wilkins (@alanwilkins22) December 18, 2024 × One of @bcci’s greatest match-winners - a magician with the ball and an astute thinker of the game. An international career to be proud of @ashwinravi99, wishing you the best for the future. pic.twitter.com/6RKbiG8jsw — Jay Shah (@JayShah) December 18, 2024 × Meanwhile, Ashwin ends his international career with 287 matches, 765 wickets, 4394 runs, and six hundreds across formats. The Test genius will play for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2025. (With inputs from agencies)

Ravi Ashwin retirement reactions: Sachin, Jay Shah, fellow mates thank Test genius for countless memories

<p><span class="region">Gabba, Brisbane</span>
<p>Having already lost seamer Josh Hazlewood for the remainder of the BGT due to a side strain, Australia cannot afford to lose another match-winner in Travis Head for the two remaining Tests against India. After the third game at the Gabba ended in a draw, with rain playing spoilsport throughout, local media suggested that Head suffered a groin injury during Australia’s second innings, casting doubts over his MCG Test participation.</p></p>
<p>Head, who hammered India with twin hundreds in Adelaide and Brisbane, clarified it's the soreness that troubled him a bit while running between the wickets on day five, insisting he will be fit to play the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG.</p>
<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rohit-sharma-unwilling-to-push-for-mohammed-shamis-test-call-up-amid-fitness-concerns-784991">BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns</a></strong></p>
<p>"I've had a big couple of weeks, no doubt about that. But I'll be fine for Melbourne, so no stress," Head said in a chat with cricket.com.au.</p>
<h2>Travis not done with India yet </h2>
<p>The left-handed batter has been a thorn in the flesh for the Indian Team for over a year now, having cost them two out of three ICC finals. Head helped Australia beat India last year in the WTC Final and ODI World Cup final, and was closing in on doing the same in the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, but failed.</p>
<p>Even during the ongoing marquee five-match series against India, he starred in the Pink-Ball Test (hitting a hundred), helping Australia stage a stunning comeback after Perth howler. Head continued his purple patch at the Gabba, where, before the just-concluded Test, he got out on a first-ball duck three straight times, slamming a brilliant hundred in the first innings. </p>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">HE'S DONE IT AGAIN!</p>
<p>Travis Head brings up another hundred ⭐️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayOfTheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayOfTheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/10yBuL883X">pic.twitter.com/10yBuL883X</a></p>
<p>— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868159132416483776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<p>Although he stayed for over ten hours at the crease across three matches, Head asked everyone not to follow his laidback preparation in the lead-up to matches. The star batter has expressed openly about not preparing too hard in the nets, unlike his fellow teammates like Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne.</p>
<p>"I feel like I'm moving really well, I'm playing well. I've just got to make sure that I continue to stay fresh mentally and that means not hitting as many balls at training (when) others do," Head continued.</p>
<p>"It's all personal preference. But it's hard – there's not many left-handers above me. 'Uz' (Usman Khawaja) is the only one, and we play a completely different game style and then the rest are right-handers.</p>
<p>"So, it's hard to all communicate the same way on what different plans are. But we back each guy. Hopefully, I'm still doing it (making runs) next week. But if that's not the case, then different guys will step up at different times and hopefully build those partnerships,” Head noted. </p>
<p>Meanwhile, following the Gabba Test result, the series is tied at 1-1, with the fourth Test scheduled at the MCG on Boxing Day (Jan 26). </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Travis Head insisted he will be fit to play the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG.



Gabba, Brisbane Having already lost seamer Josh Hazlewood for the remainder of the BGT due to a side strain, Australia cannot afford to lose another match-winner in Travis Head for the two remaining Tests against India. After the third game at the Gabba ended in a draw, with rain playing spoilsport throughout, local media suggested that Head suffered a groin injury during Australia’s second innings, casting doubts over his MCG Test participation. Head, who hammered India with twin hundreds in Adelaide and Brisbane, clarified it's the soreness that troubled him a bit while running between the wickets on day five, insisting he will be fit to play the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG. ALSO READ: BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns "I've had a big couple of weeks, no doubt about that. But I'll be fine for Melbourne, so no stress," Head said in a chat with cricket.com.au. Travis not done with India yet The left-handed batter has been a thorn in the flesh for the Indian Team for over a year now, having cost them two out of three ICC finals. Head helped Australia beat India last year in the WTC Final and ODI World Cup final, and was closing in on doing the same in the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, but failed. Even during the ongoing marquee five-match series against India, he starred in the Pink-Ball Test (hitting a hundred), helping Australia stage a stunning comeback after Perth howler. Head continued his purple patch at the Gabba, where, before the just-concluded Test, he got out on a first-ball duck three straight times, slamming a brilliant hundred in the first innings. HE'S DONE IT AGAIN! Travis Head brings up another hundred ⭐️#AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/10yBuL883X — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Although he stayed for over ten hours at the crease across three matches, Head asked everyone not to follow his laidback preparation in the lead-up to matches. The star batter has expressed openly about not preparing too hard in the nets, unlike his fellow teammates like Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne. "I feel like I'm moving really well, I'm playing well. I've just got to make sure that I continue to stay fresh mentally and that means not hitting as many balls at training (when) others do," Head continued. "It's all personal preference. But it's hard – there's not many left-handers above me. 'Uz' (Usman Khawaja) is the only one, and we play a completely different game style and then the rest are right-handers. "So, it's hard to all communicate the same way on what different plans are. But we back each guy. Hopefully, I'm still doing it (making runs) next week. But if that's not the case, then different guys will step up at different times and hopefully build those partnerships,” Head noted. Meanwhile, following the Gabba Test result, the series is tied at 1-1, with the fourth Test scheduled at the MCG on Boxing Day (Jan 26). (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Travis Head quashes injury scare after Gabba draw, insists remaining fit for Boxing Day Test in Melbourne

<p><span class="region">Gabba, Brisbane</span>
<p>Mohammed Shami has resumed bowling but remains uncertain of a Test call-up for the remainder of the BGT Down Under. Following the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, which ended in a draw, all thanks to countless and continuous rain interruptions throughout, India captain Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Shami’s potential return to the side for the remaining two matches at the MCG and SCG, respectively.</p></p>
<p>Rohit said the ball is in the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, formerly the National Cricket Academy (NCA) court, to clarify his fitness concerns. Although Shami returned last month for Bengal playing the Ranji Trophy and has since played several games across formats, including in SMAT, Rohit said there were complaints about his knee causing concerns, which restricts him from considering his India call-up.</p>
<p>The right-arm seamer is also picked in the Bengal squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy starting December 21.</p>
<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/he-could-have-said-i-am-sunil-gavaskar-critical-of-r-ashwins-sudden-international-retirement-784947">He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement</a></strong></p>
<p>"About Shami, I think it's high time somebody from NCA talks about him, where he is rehabbing. Those guys are the ones who need to come up and give us some kind of update,” Rohit said at the post-match presser in Brisbane. </p>
<h2>Fit Shami better than risking his return</h2>
<p>The Indian skipper said he knows that Shami has returned to playing domestic cricket back home following an extended hiatus but remains cautious of a possible recurrence of an injury, which remains a bigger concern to Shami’s future than he re-linking with the Indian Team in Australia and help them complete the three-peat. </p>
<p>"I understand he's playing a lot of cricket back home, but there have been some complaints about his knee as well. So, look, the last thing you want is the player coming here and then pulling out in the middle of the game. You know what happens when that kind of thing happens."</p>
<p>"So, there is no way we want to take that chance unless we are like, not 100%, 200% sure, we're not going to take any risk. But yeah, like I said in the last press conference, the door is open if those guys at the NCA feel that he is okay to go and recover and play, we'll be happy to have him,” Rohit continued.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, as things stand, the BCCI’s medical team is yet to clear Shami of any discomfort, something even Rohit picked upon following the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide.</p>
<p>Though Shami’s comeback looks unlikely given three Tests against Australia are already over, he could be handy for the ODI side in the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled for the February-March window. </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The right-arm seamer is also picked in the Bengal squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy starting December 21.



Gabba, Brisbane Mohammed Shami has resumed bowling but remains uncertain of a Test call-up for the remainder of the BGT Down Under. Following the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, which ended in a draw, all thanks to countless and continuous rain interruptions throughout, India captain Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Shami’s potential return to the side for the remaining two matches at the MCG and SCG, respectively. Rohit said the ball is in the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, formerly the National Cricket Academy (NCA) court, to clarify his fitness concerns. Although Shami returned last month for Bengal playing the Ranji Trophy and has since played several games across formats, including in SMAT, Rohit said there were complaints about his knee causing concerns, which restricts him from considering his India call-up. The right-arm seamer is also picked in the Bengal squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy starting December 21. ALSO READ: He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement "About Shami, I think it's high time somebody from NCA talks about him, where he is rehabbing. Those guys are the ones who need to come up and give us some kind of update,” Rohit said at the post-match presser in Brisbane. Fit Shami better than risking his return The Indian skipper said he knows that Shami has returned to playing domestic cricket back home following an extended hiatus but remains cautious of a possible recurrence of an injury, which remains a bigger concern to Shami’s future than he re-linking with the Indian Team in Australia and help them complete the three-peat. "I understand he's playing a lot of cricket back home, but there have been some complaints about his knee as well. So, look, the last thing you want is the player coming here and then pulling out in the middle of the game. You know what happens when that kind of thing happens." "So, there is no way we want to take that chance unless we are like, not 100%, 200% sure, we're not going to take any risk. But yeah, like I said in the last press conference, the door is open if those guys at the NCA feel that he is okay to go and recover and play, we'll be happy to have him,” Rohit continued. Meanwhile, as things stand, the BCCI’s medical team is yet to clear Shami of any discomfort, something even Rohit picked upon following the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide. Though Shami’s comeback looks unlikely given three Tests against Australia are already over, he could be handy for the ODI side in the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled for the February-March window. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns

<p>Ravi Ashwin’s shock international retirement made many shed a tear, but what forced the Test great to call up time midway through the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT)? Ashwin decided to hang his boots from all formats following the conclusion of the Gabba Test against Australia in Brisbane, which ended in a draw.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though Virat Kohli and Ashwin sharing an emotional moment just before the umpires called off the game indicated something, Ashwin joining captain Rohit Sharma at the post-game presser cleared the air. Ashwin quickly announced his decision to step aside from international cricket, drawing curtains on a glorious 14-year career in the India jersey.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ravi-ashwin-retirement-reactions-sachin-jay-shah-fellow-mates-thank-test-genius-for-countless-memories-785049">Ravi Ashwin retirement reactions: Sachin, Jay Shah, fellow mates thank Test genius for countless memories</a></strong></p>

<p>That call must have shocked everyone, including the broadcasters, the opposition, and the media worldwide, but a report in the Indian Express suggests something else. Per that report, Ashwin contemplated retiring from international cricket (following New Zealand Tests at home) owing to a troubled knee issue; he remained undecided till he landed in Perth - the venue for the first BGT Test.</p>

<p>Ashwin’s family also urged him to think it through and that the spinner decided on taking a final call on how things unfold Down Under; he, however, on Tuesday (Dec 17) informed his family that he is retiring the next day, the day five of the Gabba Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit also mentioned during the post-match presser that he and Ashwin had a brief chat about Ashwin’s future (upon Rohit’s arrival in Perth), with the skipper convincing him to stick around for the second game (the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide), which Ashwin played, replacing Washington Sundar in the XI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though he was in contention to retain his place for the third match, the management decided to replace him with Jadeja. That, however, is assumed to be the final nail in the coffin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report also suggested that Ashwin informed each member of the BGT-bound Test squad individually about his decision to retire, which shocked most players.</p>

<p>Ashwin stood a chance to play either at the MCG or the SCG – the venues for the final two matches, but Jadeja’s 77 with the bat more or less sealed his chances of playing in the remainder of BGT, forcing Ashwin to take a call midway through the series.</p>

<h2>Ashwin to fly home</h2>

<p>Ashwin will return home on Thursday (Dec 19) and might link up with his state team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Tamil Nadu alive in the race for a Ranji Trophy playoff spot, Ashwin could play in the premier domestic tournament, pushing to relive a dream of winning the trophy that eluded his glorious career.</p>

<p>Besides, Ashwin will play for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL 2025.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ravi Ashwin’s shock international retirement made many shed a tear, but what forced the Test great to call up time midway through the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT)?

Ravi Ashwin’s shock international retirement made many shed a tear, but what forced the Test great to call up time midway through the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT)? Ashwin decided to hang his boots from all formats following the conclusion of the Gabba Test against Australia in Brisbane, which ended in a draw. Though Virat Kohli and Ashwin sharing an emotional moment just before the umpires called off the game indicated something, Ashwin joining captain Rohit Sharma at the post-game presser cleared the air. Ashwin quickly announced his decision to step aside from international cricket, drawing curtains on a glorious 14-year career in the India jersey. ALSO READ: Ravi Ashwin retirement reactions: Sachin, Jay Shah, fellow mates thank Test genius for countless memories That call must have shocked everyone, including the broadcasters, the opposition, and the media worldwide, but a report in the Indian Express suggests something else. Per that report, Ashwin contemplated retiring from international cricket (following New Zealand Tests at home) owing to a troubled knee issue; he remained undecided till he landed in Perth - the venue for the first BGT Test. Ashwin’s family also urged him to think it through and that the spinner decided on taking a final call on how things unfold Down Under; he, however, on Tuesday (Dec 17) informed his family that he is retiring the next day, the day five of the Gabba Test. Rohit also mentioned during the post-match presser that he and Ashwin had a brief chat about Ashwin’s future (upon Rohit’s arrival in Perth), with the skipper convincing him to stick around for the second game (the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide), which Ashwin played, replacing Washington Sundar in the XI. Though he was in contention to retain his place for the third match, the management decided to replace him with Jadeja. That, however, is assumed to be the final nail in the coffin. The report also suggested that Ashwin informed each member of the BGT-bound Test squad individually about his decision to retire, which shocked most players. Ashwin stood a chance to play either at the MCG or the SCG – the venues for the final two matches, but Jadeja’s 77 with the bat more or less sealed his chances of playing in the remainder of BGT, forcing Ashwin to take a call midway through the series. Ashwin to fly home Ashwin will return home on Thursday (Dec 19) and might link up with his state team. With Tamil Nadu alive in the race for a Ranji Trophy playoff spot, Ashwin could play in the premier domestic tournament, pushing to relive a dream of winning the trophy that eluded his glorious career. Besides, Ashwin will play for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL 2025. (With inputs from agencies)

<p>Ravichandran Ashwin, the ace Indian spinner, announced his international retirement after the conclusion of the Gabba Test against Australia on Wednesday (Dec 18). Just before the umpires decided to call off the game due to rain interruption ahead of tea on day five, visuals of Virat Kohli and Ashwin hugging in the dressing room indicated what was about to unfold.</p>

<p>Following the game, Ashwin joined Team India captain Rohit Sharma for the post-game presser,&nbsp;announced his retirement, and calmly left the arena, as he did with Test cricket despite being the seventh highest-ranked bowler in the format.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rohit-sharma-unwilling-to-push-for-mohammed-shamis-test-call-up-amid-fitness-concerns-784991">BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns</a></strong></p>

<p>Ashwin has countless records to his name; despite being the only cricketer to score more than five Test hundreds and picking over 500 wickets at the same time, the off-spinner is India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests (533) after Anil Kumble (619). Ashwin also has joint second-most five-wicket hauls (37) with the late Shane Warne in red-ball cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since debuting against the West Indies at the Wankhede Stadium in 2011, Ashwin has pioneered his way to become India’s greatest matchwinner, especially at home. For the record, Ravi Ashwin is an ODI World Cup and a Champions Trophy winner.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, upon announcing his retirement, his teammates, former cricketers, experts, and even broadcasters took to social media to share delight over watching him play and win countless matches for the team across formats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From the legendary Sachin Tendulkar to current veterans Virat and captain Rohit Sharma, everyone lauded Ashwin’s contributions to world cricket, let alone India.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Abhi naa jao... 💔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvINDonHotstar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvINDonHotstar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashwin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashwin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AshwinRetires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AshwinRetires</a> <a href="https://t.co/PzuLNoaTyP">pic.twitter.com/PzuLNoaTyP</a></p>
— Disney+ Hotstar (@DisneyPlusHS) <a href="https://twitter.com/DisneyPlusHS/status/1869294304096870878?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Not too many retire with much left in the tank. But Ashwin has. Like many, the decision surprised me. Will really miss that spinner with magic in his fingers. 🙏🙏🙏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AshwinRetires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AshwinRetires</a></p>
— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanjaymanjrekar/status/1869321399942410569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I’ve played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you ash, your skill and match winning contributions to Indian… <a href="https://t.co/QGQ2Z7pAgc">pic.twitter.com/QGQ2Z7pAgc</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1869269640154923429?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a><br />
for incredible career.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AshwinRetires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AshwinRetires</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashwin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashwin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvsAus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvsAus</a> <a href="https://t.co/MFKbkH6Amm">pic.twitter.com/MFKbkH6Amm</a></p>
— Munaf Patel (@munafpa99881129) <a href="https://twitter.com/munafpa99881129/status/1869292649154527280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ashwin, I’ve always admired how you approached the game with your mind and heart in perfect sync. From perfecting the carrom ball to contributing crucial runs, you always found a way to win.<br />
Watching you grow from a promising talent to one of India’s finest match-winners has been… <a href="https://t.co/XawHfacaUh">pic.twitter.com/XawHfacaUh</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1869324169445568713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ashwin, the Match winner 🙌<br />
Ashwin, the Centurion 💯<br />
Ashwin, the Magician with the ball 🪄<br />
Ashwin, the Team man 🤝<br />
<br />
International cricket will miss them all ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThankYouAshwin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThankYouAshwin</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> <a href="https://t.co/ThvJ7pwRNT">pic.twitter.com/ThvJ7pwRNT</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1869385885466366275?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">From match-winning spells to historic milestones, Ravichandran Ashwin bhai’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Thank you for everything, Ashwin bhai. Here’s to an incredible legacy that will live on forever. 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/idZTXCcgCN">pic.twitter.com/idZTXCcgCN</a></p>
— Mohammed Siraj (@mdsirajofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/mdsirajofficial/status/1869338825715052631?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The privilege of seeing you grow from a young bowler to a legend of modern cricket is something that I wouldn’t trade for the world! I know that generations of bowlers to come will say that I became a bowler coz of Ashwin! U will be missed brother! ❤️ <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> <a href="https://t.co/fuATAjE8aw">pic.twitter.com/fuATAjE8aw</a></p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1869267174206173369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An Intellectual Who Happened To Be A Top Cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin<br />
<br />
To me &amp; in essence, Ravichandran Ashwin was a polymath in a cricketer’s body. An artisan, athlete, innovator &amp; highest on game awareness. An off spinner, his skills were bewildering. His bowling, his… <a href="https://t.co/axaFbbZPhA">pic.twitter.com/axaFbbZPhA</a></p>
— Dr. Nauman Niaz (@DrNaumanNiaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrNaumanNiaz/status/1869365551644004563?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thanks <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> .. Have loved watching you play for India .. 👍</p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1869264918308167886?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">One of the greatest to have played our game. I have enjoyed our interactions <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> and I can only wish you the very best in life. What you leave behind puts you among the best and there is a page in the Hall of Fame for you. <a href="https://t.co/Jjlg8tyq7k">pic.twitter.com/Jjlg8tyq7k</a></p>
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1869260313859850593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="und">.<a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> 🐐🤍 <a href="https://t.co/z4VlTpVf4M">pic.twitter.com/z4VlTpVf4M</a></p>
— Washington Sundar (@Sundarwashi5) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sundarwashi5/status/1869282320458698804?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you Ravi Ashwin. Glad you came, and that you were a part of the international game for so long, with such excellence. You taught, you educated and you entertained🙏🏽.</p>
— Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi) <a href="https://twitter.com/irbishi/status/1869277188559966466?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Only one on the list with 6 test 100s 👏👏 <a href="https://t.co/3wcaqTYYSC">https://t.co/3wcaqTYYSC</a></p>
— Herschelle Gibbs (@hershybru) <a href="https://twitter.com/hershybru/status/1869286287838269456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a><br />
You’ve been one of the greats and it was a pleasure to play with and against you! <a href="https://t.co/2Yoany79hC">pic.twitter.com/2Yoany79hC</a></p>
— Aaron Finch (@AaronFinch5) <a href="https://twitter.com/AaronFinch5/status/1869361716515213727?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Well played Ash and congratulations on a legendary journey! From spinning webs around the best in the world to standing tall in tough situations, you’ve been a real asset to the team. Welcome to the other side! 🙌🏻 <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a></p>
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1869274535729700873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Like his “mystery ball” no-one saw it coming! <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> calls time on his outstanding 14-year career in international cricket. Unplayable on his day with his own code for playing the game. A maestro, the equivalent of a Grand Master in Chess. His latest move a stunner.</p>
— Alan Wilkins (@alanwilkins22) <a href="https://twitter.com/alanwilkins22/status/1869299526563213326?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">One of <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bcci</a>’s greatest match-winners - a magician with the ball and an astute thinker of the game. An international career to be proud of <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a>, wishing you the best for the future. <a href="https://t.co/6RKbiG8jsw">pic.twitter.com/6RKbiG8jsw</a></p>
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah/status/1869285961542348824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Meanwhile, Ashwin ends his international career with 287 matches, 765 wickets, 4394 runs, and six hundreds across formats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Test genius will play for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2025.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ravichandran Ashwin, the ace Indian spinner, announced his international retirement after the conclusion of the Gabba Test against Australia on Wednesday (Dec 18).

Ravichandran Ashwin, the ace Indian spinner, announced his international retirement after the conclusion of the Gabba Test against Australia on Wednesday (Dec 18). Just before the umpires decided to call off the game due to rain interruption ahead of tea on day five, visuals of Virat Kohli and Ashwin hugging in the dressing room indicated what was about to unfold. Following the game, Ashwin joined Team India captain Rohit Sharma for the post-game presser, announced his retirement, and calmly left the arena, as he did with Test cricket despite being the seventh highest-ranked bowler in the format. ALSO READ: BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns Ashwin has countless records to his name; despite being the only cricketer to score more than five Test hundreds and picking over 500 wickets at the same time, the off-spinner is India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests (533) after Anil Kumble (619). Ashwin also has joint second-most five-wicket hauls (37) with the late Shane Warne in red-ball cricket. Since debuting against the West Indies at the Wankhede Stadium in 2011, Ashwin has pioneered his way to become India’s greatest matchwinner, especially at home. For the record, Ravi Ashwin is an ODI World Cup and a Champions Trophy winner. Meanwhile, upon announcing his retirement, his teammates, former cricketers, experts, and even broadcasters took to social media to share delight over watching him play and win countless matches for the team across formats. From the legendary Sachin Tendulkar to current veterans Virat and captain Rohit Sharma, everyone lauded Ashwin’s contributions to world cricket, let alone India. Abhi naa jao... 💔#AUSvINDonHotstar #INDvAUS #Ashwin #AshwinRetires pic.twitter.com/PzuLNoaTyP — Disney+ Hotstar (@DisneyPlusHS) December 18, 2024 × Not too many retire with much left in the tank. But Ashwin has. Like many, the decision surprised me. Will really miss that spinner with magic in his fingers. 🙏🙏🙏#AshwinRetires — Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) December 18, 2024 × I’ve played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you ash, your skill and match winning contributions to Indian… pic.twitter.com/QGQ2Z7pAgc — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) December 18, 2024 × Congratulations @ashwinravi99 for incredible career.#AshwinRetires #Ashwin #IndvsAus pic.twitter.com/MFKbkH6Amm — Munaf Patel (@munafpa99881129) December 18, 2024 × Ashwin, I’ve always admired how you approached the game with your mind and heart in perfect sync. From perfecting the carrom ball to contributing crucial runs, you always found a way to win. Watching you grow from a promising talent to one of India’s finest match-winners has been… pic.twitter.com/XawHfacaUh — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) December 18, 2024 × Ashwin, the Match winner 🙌 Ashwin, the Centurion 💯 Ashwin, the Magician with the ball 🪄 Ashwin, the Team man 🤝 International cricket will miss them all ❤️#TeamIndia | #ThankYouAshwin | @ashwinravi99 pic.twitter.com/ThvJ7pwRNT — BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024 × From match-winning spells to historic milestones, Ravichandran Ashwin bhai’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Thank you for everything, Ashwin bhai. Here’s to an incredible legacy that will live on forever. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/idZTXCcgCN — Mohammed Siraj (@mdsirajofficial) December 18, 2024 × The privilege of seeing you grow from a young bowler to a legend of modern cricket is something that I wouldn’t trade for the world! I know that generations of bowlers to come will say that I became a bowler coz of Ashwin! U will be missed brother! ❤️ @ashwinravi99 pic.twitter.com/fuATAjE8aw — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) December 18, 2024 × An Intellectual Who Happened To Be A Top Cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin To me & in essence, Ravichandran Ashwin was a polymath in a cricketer’s body. An artisan, athlete, innovator & highest on game awareness. An off spinner, his skills were bewildering. His bowling, his… pic.twitter.com/axaFbbZPhA — Dr. Nauman Niaz (@DrNaumanNiaz) December 18, 2024 × Thanks @ashwinravi99 .. Have loved watching you play for India .. 👍 — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) December 18, 2024 × One of the greatest to have played our game. I have enjoyed our interactions @ashwinravi99 and I can only wish you the very best in life. What you leave behind puts you among the best and there is a page in the Hall of Fame for you. pic.twitter.com/Jjlg8tyq7k — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) December 18, 2024 × .@ashwinravi99 🐐🤍 pic.twitter.com/z4VlTpVf4M — Washington Sundar (@Sundarwashi5) December 18, 2024 × Thank you Ravi Ashwin. Glad you came, and that you were a part of the international game for so long, with such excellence. You taught, you educated and you entertained🙏🏽. — Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi) December 18, 2024 × Only one on the list with 6 test 100s 👏👏 https://t.co/3wcaqTYYSC — Herschelle Gibbs (@hershybru) December 18, 2024 × Congratulations @ashwinravi99 You’ve been one of the greats and it was a pleasure to play with and against you! pic.twitter.com/2Yoany79hC — Aaron Finch (@AaronFinch5) December 18, 2024 × Well played Ash and congratulations on a legendary journey! From spinning webs around the best in the world to standing tall in tough situations, you’ve been a real asset to the team. Welcome to the other side! 🙌🏻 @ashwinravi99 — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) December 18, 2024 × Like his “mystery ball” no-one saw it coming! @ashwinravi99 calls time on his outstanding 14-year career in international cricket. Unplayable on his day with his own code for playing the game. A maestro, the equivalent of a Grand Master in Chess. His latest move a stunner. — Alan Wilkins (@alanwilkins22) December 18, 2024 × One of @bcci’s greatest match-winners - a magician with the ball and an astute thinker of the game. An international career to be proud of @ashwinravi99, wishing you the best for the future. pic.twitter.com/6RKbiG8jsw — Jay Shah (@JayShah) December 18, 2024 × Meanwhile, Ashwin ends his international career with 287 matches, 765 wickets, 4394 runs, and six hundreds across formats. The Test genius will play for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2025. (With inputs from agencies)

<p>Having already lost seamer Josh Hazlewood for the remainder of the BGT due to a side strain, Australia cannot afford to lose another match-winner in Travis Head for the two remaining Tests against India. After the third game at the Gabba ended in a draw, with rain playing spoilsport throughout, local media suggested that Head suffered a groin injury during Australia’s second innings, casting doubts over his MCG Test participation.</p>

<p>Head, who hammered India with twin hundreds in Adelaide and Brisbane, clarified it's the soreness that troubled him a bit while running between the wickets on day five, insisting he will be fit to play the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rohit-sharma-unwilling-to-push-for-mohammed-shamis-test-call-up-amid-fitness-concerns-784991">BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns</a></strong></p>

<p>"I've had a big couple of weeks, no doubt about that. But I'll be fine for Melbourne, so no stress," Head said in a chat with cricket.com.au.</p>

<h2>Travis not done with India yet&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The left-handed batter has been a thorn in the flesh for the Indian Team for over a year now, having cost them two out of three ICC finals. Head helped Australia beat India last year in the WTC Final and ODI World Cup final, and was closing in on doing the same in&nbsp;the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, but failed.</p>

<p>Even during the ongoing marquee five-match series against India, he starred in the Pink-Ball Test (hitting a hundred), helping Australia stage a stunning comeback after Perth howler. Head continued his purple patch at the Gabba, where, before the just-concluded Test, he got out on a first-ball duck three straight times, slamming a brilliant hundred in the first innings.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">HE'S DONE IT AGAIN!<br />
<br />
Travis Head brings up another hundred ⭐️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayOfTheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayOfTheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/10yBuL883X">pic.twitter.com/10yBuL883X</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868159132416483776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Although he stayed for over ten hours at the crease across three matches, Head asked everyone not to follow his laidback preparation in the lead-up to matches. The star batter has expressed openly about not preparing too hard in the nets, unlike his fellow teammates like Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne.</p>

<p>"I feel like I'm moving really well, I'm playing well. I've just got to make sure that I continue to stay fresh mentally and that means not hitting as many balls at training (when) others do," Head continued.</p>

<p>"It's all personal preference. But it's hard – there's not many left-handers above me. 'Uz' (Usman Khawaja) is the only one, and we play a completely different game style and then the rest are right-handers.</p>

<p>"So, it's hard to all communicate the same way on what different plans are. But we back each guy. Hopefully, I'm still doing it (making runs) next week. But if that's not the case, then different guys will step up at different times and hopefully build those partnerships,” Head noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, following the Gabba Test result, the series is tied at 1-1, with the fourth Test scheduled at the MCG on Boxing Day (Jan 26).&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Having already lost seamer Josh Hazlewood for the remainder of the BGT due to a side strain, Australia cannot afford to lose another match-winner in Travis Head for the two remaining Tests against India.

Having already lost seamer Josh Hazlewood for the remainder of the BGT due to a side strain, Australia cannot afford to lose another match-winner in Travis Head for the two remaining Tests against India. After the third game at the Gabba ended in a draw, with rain playing spoilsport throughout, local media suggested that Head suffered a groin injury during Australia’s second innings, casting doubts over his MCG Test participation. Head, who hammered India with twin hundreds in Adelaide and Brisbane, clarified it's the soreness that troubled him a bit while running between the wickets on day five, insisting he will be fit to play the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG. ALSO READ: BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns "I've had a big couple of weeks, no doubt about that. But I'll be fine for Melbourne, so no stress," Head said in a chat with cricket.com.au. Travis not done with India yet The left-handed batter has been a thorn in the flesh for the Indian Team for over a year now, having cost them two out of three ICC finals. Head helped Australia beat India last year in the WTC Final and ODI World Cup final, and was closing in on doing the same in the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, but failed. Even during the ongoing marquee five-match series against India, he starred in the Pink-Ball Test (hitting a hundred), helping Australia stage a stunning comeback after Perth howler. Head continued his purple patch at the Gabba, where, before the just-concluded Test, he got out on a first-ball duck three straight times, slamming a brilliant hundred in the first innings. HE'S DONE IT AGAIN! Travis Head brings up another hundred ⭐️#AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/10yBuL883X — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Although he stayed for over ten hours at the crease across three matches, Head asked everyone not to follow his laidback preparation in the lead-up to matches. The star batter has expressed openly about not preparing too hard in the nets, unlike his fellow teammates like Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne. "I feel like I'm moving really well, I'm playing well. I've just got to make sure that I continue to stay fresh mentally and that means not hitting as many balls at training (when) others do," Head continued. "It's all personal preference. But it's hard – there's not many left-handers above me. 'Uz' (Usman Khawaja) is the only one, and we play a completely different game style and then the rest are right-handers. "So, it's hard to all communicate the same way on what different plans are. But we back each guy. Hopefully, I'm still doing it (making runs) next week. But if that's not the case, then different guys will step up at different times and hopefully build those partnerships,” Head noted. Meanwhile, following the Gabba Test result, the series is tied at 1-1, with the fourth Test scheduled at the MCG on Boxing Day (Jan 26). (With inputs from agencies)

<p>Mohammed Shami has resumed bowling but remains uncertain of a Test call-up for the remainder of the BGT Down Under. Following the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, which ended in a draw, all thanks to countless and continuous rain interruptions throughout, India captain Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Shami’s potential return to the side for the remaining two matches at the MCG and SCG, respectively.</p>

<p>Rohit said the ball is in the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, formerly the National Cricket Academy (NCA) court, to clarify his fitness concerns. Although Shami returned last month for Bengal playing the Ranji Trophy and has since played several games across formats, including in SMAT, Rohit said there were complaints about his knee causing concerns, which restricts him from considering his India call-up.</p>

<p>The right-arm seamer is also picked in the Bengal squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy starting December 21.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/he-could-have-said-i-am-sunil-gavaskar-critical-of-r-ashwins-sudden-international-retirement-784947">He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement</a></strong></p>

<p>"About Shami, I think it's high time somebody from NCA talks about him, where he is rehabbing. Those guys are the ones who need to come up and give us some kind of update,” Rohit said at the post-match presser in Brisbane.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Fit Shami better than risking his return</h2>

<p>The Indian skipper said he knows that Shami has returned to playing domestic cricket back home following an extended hiatus but remains cautious of a possible recurrence of an injury, which remains a bigger concern to Shami’s future than he re-linking with the Indian Team in Australia and help them complete the three-peat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I understand he's playing a lot of cricket back home, but there have been some complaints about his knee as well. So, look, the last thing you want is the player coming here and then pulling out in the middle of the game. You know what happens when that kind of thing happens."</p>

<p>"So, there is no way we want to take that chance unless we are like, not 100%, 200% sure, we're not going to take any risk. But yeah, like I said in the last press conference, the door is open if those guys at the NCA feel that he is okay to go and recover and play, we'll be happy to have him,” Rohit continued.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, as things stand, the BCCI’s medical team is yet to clear Shami of any discomfort, something even Rohit picked upon following the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide.</p>

<p>Though Shami’s comeback looks unlikely given three Tests against Australia are already over, he could be handy for the ODI side in the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled for the February-March window.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Mohammed Shami has resumed bowling but remains uncertain of a Test call-up for the remainder of the BGT Down Under. Following the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, which ended in a draw, all thanks to countless and continuous rain interruptions throughout, India captain Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Shami’s potential return to the side for the remaining two matches at the MCG and SCG, respectively.

Mohammed Shami has resumed bowling but remains uncertain of a Test call-up for the remainder of the BGT Down Under. Following the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, which ended in a draw, all thanks to countless and continuous rain interruptions throughout, India captain Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Shami’s potential return to the side for the remaining two matches at the MCG and SCG, respectively. Rohit said the ball is in the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, formerly the National Cricket Academy (NCA) court, to clarify his fitness concerns. Although Shami returned last month for Bengal playing the Ranji Trophy and has since played several games across formats, including in SMAT, Rohit said there were complaints about his knee causing concerns, which restricts him from considering his India call-up. The right-arm seamer is also picked in the Bengal squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy starting December 21. ALSO READ: He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement "About Shami, I think it's high time somebody from NCA talks about him, where he is rehabbing. Those guys are the ones who need to come up and give us some kind of update,” Rohit said at the post-match presser in Brisbane. Fit Shami better than risking his return The Indian skipper said he knows that Shami has returned to playing domestic cricket back home following an extended hiatus but remains cautious of a possible recurrence of an injury, which remains a bigger concern to Shami’s future than he re-linking with the Indian Team in Australia and help them complete the three-peat. "I understand he's playing a lot of cricket back home, but there have been some complaints about his knee as well. So, look, the last thing you want is the player coming here and then pulling out in the middle of the game. You know what happens when that kind of thing happens." "So, there is no way we want to take that chance unless we are like, not 100%, 200% sure, we're not going to take any risk. But yeah, like I said in the last press conference, the door is open if those guys at the NCA feel that he is okay to go and recover and play, we'll be happy to have him,” Rohit continued. Meanwhile, as things stand, the BCCI’s medical team is yet to clear Shami of any discomfort, something even Rohit picked upon following the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide. Though Shami’s comeback looks unlikely given three Tests against Australia are already over, he could be handy for the ODI side in the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled for the February-March window. (With inputs from agencies)

<p><span class="region">Gabba, Brisbane</span>
<p>Weather conditions and 98 overs on the final day will decide the fate of the third BGT Test between Australia and India at the Gabba. With rain playing spoilsport for the fourth straight day in Brisbane, the overhead conditions predicted for the fifth day too looks gloomy. Due to countless interruptions during the past two days (third and fourth) and considering the first day getting washed out (with only 13.2 overs bowled), only 198 overs have been bowled, with India trailing behind by 193 runs in the first innings.</p></p>
<p>Though the only day left in this Test is unlikely to produce a result with two innings remaining, the chances of play getting underway and any team pushing for a potential result, let alone all 98 overs being bowled, are highly unlikely. </p>
<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-kohli-rohit-jam-in-pavilion-after-tailenders-help-india-avoid-follow-on-at-gabba-watch-784664">BGT: Kohli, Rohit jam in pavilion after tailenders help India avoid follow-on at Gabba – WATCH</a></strong></p>
<p>This situation would lead to the Gabba Test ending in a draw and both teams entering the Boxing Day Test with one win each.</p>
<h2>Will it rain on day five in Brisbane?</h2>
<p>Per Australia's Bureau of Meteorology, several rain interruptions will highlight day five of the Gabba Test, with showers expected to stop play during late morning or afternoon hours.</p>
<p>"High chance of showers, most likely in the late morning and afternoon. The chance of a thunderstorm, possibly severe,” Australia's Bureau of Meteorology said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.</p>
<p>While only 13.2 overs were possible on day one, day two saw the most action, including Travis Head’s second successive hundred against India; whereas, on day three and day four, partial cricket took place, with only 58 overs possible on Tuesday (Dec 17).</p>
<p>In case of no interruption on day five, Australia will aim to wrap up India’s innings at the earliest, looking to pile up on the lead and give them a handy target to chase within two sessions or less. Although the chances of things falling in place just for them are minute, considering India’s pace attack can also pull off an upset and dismiss them early and make the game out of it, a definite result looks like a far-fetched dream.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Australia’s bowling coach Daniel Vettori reflected on how the Aussie quicks coped with regular interruptions and Josh Hazlewood’s absence on day four, who got ruled out of the ongoing Test and perhaps the remainder of the series with a side strain.</p>
<p>"The weather, in terms of the breaks, allowed Mitch and Patty to come back on multiple occasions whereas if we'd played out the full 90 overs it would have been a lot tougher to manage. </p>
<p>"We always have the luxury of Nathan and his ability to bowl a lot of overs. So that alleviated a bit of the concern but it's always a tough one with a world-class bowler being out,” Vettori said. </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


While only 13.2 overs were possible on day one, day two saw the most action, including Travis Head’s second successive hundred against India; whereas, on day three and day four, partial cricket took place, with only 58 overs possible on Tuesday (Dec 17).



Gabba, Brisbane Weather conditions and 98 overs on the final day will decide the fate of the third BGT Test between Australia and India at the Gabba. With rain playing spoilsport for the fourth straight day in Brisbane, the overhead conditions predicted for the fifth day too looks gloomy. Due to countless interruptions during the past two days (third and fourth) and considering the first day getting washed out (with only 13.2 overs bowled), only 198 overs have been bowled, with India trailing behind by 193 runs in the first innings. Though the only day left in this Test is unlikely to produce a result with two innings remaining, the chances of play getting underway and any team pushing for a potential result, let alone all 98 overs being bowled, are highly unlikely. ALSO READ: BGT: Kohli, Rohit jam in pavilion after tailenders help India avoid follow-on at Gabba – WATCH This situation would lead to the Gabba Test ending in a draw and both teams entering the Boxing Day Test with one win each. Will it rain on day five in Brisbane? Per Australia's Bureau of Meteorology, several rain interruptions will highlight day five of the Gabba Test, with showers expected to stop play during late morning or afternoon hours. "High chance of showers, most likely in the late morning and afternoon. The chance of a thunderstorm, possibly severe,” Australia's Bureau of Meteorology said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. While only 13.2 overs were possible on day one, day two saw the most action, including Travis Head’s second successive hundred against India; whereas, on day three and day four, partial cricket took place, with only 58 overs possible on Tuesday (Dec 17). In case of no interruption on day five, Australia will aim to wrap up India’s innings at the earliest, looking to pile up on the lead and give them a handy target to chase within two sessions or less. Although the chances of things falling in place just for them are minute, considering India’s pace attack can also pull off an upset and dismiss them early and make the game out of it, a definite result looks like a far-fetched dream. Meanwhile, Australia’s bowling coach Daniel Vettori reflected on how the Aussie quicks coped with regular interruptions and Josh Hazlewood’s absence on day four, who got ruled out of the ongoing Test and perhaps the remainder of the series with a side strain. "The weather, in terms of the breaks, allowed Mitch and Patty to come back on multiple occasions whereas if we'd played out the full 90 overs it would have been a lot tougher to manage. "We always have the luxury of Nathan and his ability to bowl a lot of overs. So that alleviated a bit of the concern but it's always a tough one with a world-class bowler being out,” Vettori said. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT, Gabba Test, Australia vs India: Weather report of final day in Brisbane

<p>Weather conditions and 98 overs on the final day will decide the fate of the third BGT Test between Australia and India at the Gabba. With rain playing spoilsport for the fourth&nbsp;straight day&nbsp;in Brisbane, the overhead conditions predicted for the fifth day too looks gloomy. Due to countless interruptions during the past two days (third and fourth) and considering the first day getting washed out (with only 13.2 overs bowled), only 198 overs have been bowled, with India trailing behind by 193 runs in the first innings.</p>

<p>Though the only day left in this Test is unlikely to produce a result with two innings remaining, the chances of play getting underway and any team pushing for a potential result, let alone all 98 overs being bowled, are highly unlikely.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-kohli-rohit-jam-in-pavilion-after-tailenders-help-india-avoid-follow-on-at-gabba-watch-784664">BGT: Kohli, Rohit jam in pavilion after tailenders help India avoid follow-on at Gabba – WATCH</a></strong></p>

<p>This situation would lead to the Gabba Test ending in a draw and both teams entering the Boxing Day Test with one win each.</p>

<h2>Will it rain on day five in Brisbane?</h2>

<p>Per Australia's Bureau of Meteorology, several rain interruptions will highlight day five of the Gabba Test, with showers expected to stop play during late morning or afternoon hours.</p>

<p>"High chance of showers, most likely in the late morning and afternoon. The chance of a thunderstorm, possibly severe,” Australia's Bureau of Meteorology said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.</p>

<p>While only 13.2 overs were possible on day one, day two saw the most action, including Travis Head’s second successive hundred against India; whereas, on day three and day four, partial cricket took place, with only 58 overs possible on Tuesday (Dec 17).</p>

<p>In case of no interruption on day five, Australia will aim to wrap up India’s innings at the earliest, looking to pile up on the lead and give them a handy target to chase within two sessions or less. Although the chances of things falling in place just for them are minute, considering India’s pace attack can also pull off an upset and dismiss them early and make the game out of it, a definite result looks like a far-fetched dream.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Australia’s bowling coach Daniel Vettori reflected on how the Aussie quicks coped with regular interruptions and Josh Hazlewood’s absence on day four, who got ruled out of the ongoing Test and perhaps the remainder of the series with a side strain.</p>

<p>"The weather, in terms of the breaks, allowed Mitch and Patty to come back on multiple occasions whereas if we'd played out the full 90 overs it would have been a lot tougher to manage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We always have the luxury of Nathan and his ability to bowl a lot of overs. So that alleviated a bit of the concern but it's always a tough one with a world-class bowler being out,” Vettori said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Weather conditions and 98 overs on the final day will decide the fate of the third BGT Test between Australia and India at the Gabba. With rain playing spoilsport for the fourth straight day in Brisbane, the overhead conditions predicted for the fifth day too looks gloomy.

Weather conditions and 98 overs on the final day will decide the fate of the third BGT Test between Australia and India at the Gabba. With rain playing spoilsport for the fourth straight day in Brisbane, the overhead conditions predicted for the fifth day too looks gloomy. Due to countless interruptions during the past two days (third and fourth) and considering the first day getting washed out (with only 13.2 overs bowled), only 198 overs have been bowled, with India trailing behind by 193 runs in the first innings. Though the only day left in this Test is unlikely to produce a result with two innings remaining, the chances of play getting underway and any team pushing for a potential result, let alone all 98 overs being bowled, are highly unlikely. ALSO READ: BGT: Kohli, Rohit jam in pavilion after tailenders help India avoid follow-on at Gabba – WATCH This situation would lead to the Gabba Test ending in a draw and both teams entering the Boxing Day Test with one win each. Will it rain on day five in Brisbane? Per Australia's Bureau of Meteorology, several rain interruptions will highlight day five of the Gabba Test, with showers expected to stop play during late morning or afternoon hours. "High chance of showers, most likely in the late morning and afternoon. The chance of a thunderstorm, possibly severe,” Australia's Bureau of Meteorology said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. While only 13.2 overs were possible on day one, day two saw the most action, including Travis Head’s second successive hundred against India; whereas, on day three and day four, partial cricket took place, with only 58 overs possible on Tuesday (Dec 17). In case of no interruption on day five, Australia will aim to wrap up India’s innings at the earliest, looking to pile up on the lead and give them a handy target to chase within two sessions or less. Although the chances of things falling in place just for them are minute, considering India’s pace attack can also pull off an upset and dismiss them early and make the game out of it, a definite result looks like a far-fetched dream. Meanwhile, Australia’s bowling coach Daniel Vettori reflected on how the Aussie quicks coped with regular interruptions and Josh Hazlewood’s absence on day four, who got ruled out of the ongoing Test and perhaps the remainder of the series with a side strain. "The weather, in terms of the breaks, allowed Mitch and Patty to come back on multiple occasions whereas if we'd played out the full 90 overs it would have been a lot tougher to manage. "We always have the luxury of Nathan and his ability to bowl a lot of overs. So that alleviated a bit of the concern but it's always a tough one with a world-class bowler being out,” Vettori said. (With inputs from agencies)

<p><span class="region">Brisbane, Australia</span>
<p>Amid a wonderful day for Australia and India’s Jasprit Bumrah, who picked a five-wicket haul at the Gabba in Brisbane on the second day's play, a new controversy struck the BGT. Per several reports, broadcaster Isha Guha used a racial slur for ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah during the commentary, calling him a ‘primate’, which usually means 'any animal that belongs to the group that includes humans, monkeys and animals like monkeys without a tail (apes).'</p></p>
<p>Calling out the game for Fox Cricket alongside veteran seamer Brett Lee, Isha used this slur for Bumrah, who picked two wickets inside the first half an hour of the game, removing both Aussie openers Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney.</p>
<p>While Lee was impressed with Bumrah’s spell figures, praising him on air, Guha’s remarks on his performance raised eyebrows, with social media noting it.</p>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="tl">*Isa Guha <a href="https://t.co/VgmsHxoG21">https://t.co/VgmsHxoG21</a> <a href="https://t.co/zWTJ8HUxXE">pic.twitter.com/zWTJ8HUxXE</a></p>
<p>— Matt Krawczyk (@mjkrawz) <a href="https://twitter.com/mjkrawz/status/1868095619233169805?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-gabba-test-head-smith-punish-india-with-twin-tons-on-day-2-as-australia-go-past-400-mark-784129">BGT, Gabba Test: Head, Smith punish India with twin tons on day 2 as Australia go past 400-mark</a></strong></p>
<p>"Bumrah, today: five overs, 2-4. So, that's the tone, and that's what you want from the ex-skipper," Lee said, to which Ghua replied, "Well, he's the MVP, isn't he? Most valuable primate, Jasprit Bumrah.”</p>
<p>Meanwhile, this instance has drawn parallels with the 2008 Monkeygate episode, which made headlines worldwide, even leading to a situation where India were ready to forfeit the Test series. </p>
<p>This controversy involved two former cricketers, India’s Harbhajan Singh and late Aussie all-rounder Andrew Symonds; during that episode, Harbhajan was accused of using a slur by calling Symonds a monkey.</p>
<h2>Bumrah, the saviour for Team India</h2>
<p>India entered the third Test in Brisbane following a ten-wicket loss in Adelaide. Down and low on morale, Indian bowlers struggled on a gloomy day at the Gabba, picking seven wickets and conceding over 400 runs. For the hosts, Travis Head and Steve Smith struck respective centuries. </p>
<p>While Head completed his second hundred in as many innings against India, Smith reached the three-digit mark for the first time in 18 months.</p>
<p>With Australia on top during most of the three sessions, Bumrah pulled India back by picking his second five-for for the series. He first removed both openers before claiming the big fish: Head (152), Smith (101) and Mitchell Marsh (5). </p>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Jasprit Bumrah gets Travis Head to bring up his fifth wicket! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MilestoneMoment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MilestoneMoment</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/2QGUazarZP">pic.twitter.com/2QGUazarZP</a></p>
<p>— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868185527016423474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<p>Besides, Nitish Kumar Reddy was among the wickets, removing Marnus Labuschagne, caught in the slips; Mohammed Siraj, who earlier suffered an injury scare, removed captain Pat Cummins, caught behind on 20. </p>
<p>Thus far, in five innings, Bumrah has already picked 17 wickets, at an average of just over 12 (12.18), including one four-wicket and two five-wicket hauls. </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Calling out the game for Fox Cricket alongside veteran seamer Brett Lee, Isha used this slur for Bumrah, who picked two wickets inside the first half an hour of the game. 



Brisbane, Australia Amid a wonderful day for Australia and India’s Jasprit Bumrah, who picked a five-wicket haul at the Gabba in Brisbane on the second day's play, a new controversy struck the BGT. Per several reports, broadcaster Isha Guha used a racial slur for ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah during the commentary, calling him a ‘primate’, which usually means 'any animal that belongs to the group that includes humans, monkeys and animals like monkeys without a tail (apes).' Calling out the game for Fox Cricket alongside veteran seamer Brett Lee, Isha used this slur for Bumrah, who picked two wickets inside the first half an hour of the game, removing both Aussie openers Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney. While Lee was impressed with Bumrah’s spell figures, praising him on air, Guha’s remarks on his performance raised eyebrows, with social media noting it. *Isa Guha https://t.co/VgmsHxoG21 pic.twitter.com/zWTJ8HUxXE — Matt Krawczyk (@mjkrawz) December 15, 2024 × ALSO READ: BGT, Gabba Test: Head, Smith punish India with twin tons on day 2 as Australia go past 400-mark "Bumrah, today: five overs, 2-4. So, that's the tone, and that's what you want from the ex-skipper," Lee said, to which Ghua replied, "Well, he's the MVP, isn't he? Most valuable primate, Jasprit Bumrah.” Meanwhile, this instance has drawn parallels with the 2008 Monkeygate episode, which made headlines worldwide, even leading to a situation where India were ready to forfeit the Test series. This controversy involved two former cricketers, India’s Harbhajan Singh and late Aussie all-rounder Andrew Symonds; during that episode, Harbhajan was accused of using a slur by calling Symonds a monkey. Bumrah, the saviour for Team India India entered the third Test in Brisbane following a ten-wicket loss in Adelaide. Down and low on morale, Indian bowlers struggled on a gloomy day at the Gabba, picking seven wickets and conceding over 400 runs. For the hosts, Travis Head and Steve Smith struck respective centuries. While Head completed his second hundred in as many innings against India, Smith reached the three-digit mark for the first time in 18 months. With Australia on top during most of the three sessions, Bumrah pulled India back by picking his second five-for for the series. He first removed both openers before claiming the big fish: Head (152), Smith (101) and Mitchell Marsh (5). Jasprit Bumrah gets Travis Head to bring up his fifth wicket! #AUSvIND | #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/2QGUazarZP — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Besides, Nitish Kumar Reddy was among the wickets, removing Marnus Labuschagne, caught in the slips; Mohammed Siraj, who earlier suffered an injury scare, removed captain Pat Cummins, caught behind on 20. Thus far, in five innings, Bumrah has already picked 17 wickets, at an average of just over 12 (12.18), including one four-wicket and two five-wicket hauls. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Controversy hits Gabba Test as broadcaster uses racial slur for Jasprit Bumrah

<p><span class="region">Brisbane, Australia</span>
<p>Travis Head hit his second hundred in two innings against India on day two of the Gabba Test in Brisbane, while Steve Smith notched his first in 18 months to power Australia past the 400-run-mark in the first innings on Sunday (Dec 15). For India, ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah picked a five-for, his second of this BGT. At stumps on day two, Australia's scorecard read 405 for seven.</p></p>
<p>After losing close to 80 overs on day one due to rain interruption, the action began at the usual time on day two, with the weather forecast favouring playing conditions. Team India began proceedings by removing both openers inside the first half an hour, with Jasprit Bumrah accounting for both. </p>
<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-dumb-cricket-simon-katich-tears-into-rohit-sharmas-clueless-captaincy-as-head-hits-hundred-at-gabba-784101">BGT: ‘Dumb cricket’ Simon Katich tears into Rohit Sharma’s clueless captaincy as Head hits hundred at Gabba</a></strong></p>
<p>Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith played out the first hour before Mohammed Siraj’s mind games helped India get another breakthrough. During the 33rd over, Siraj ran up to Marnus in his follow-through and switched the bails to break Labuschagne’s concentration, a trick that worked wonders, as he departed in the next over to Nitish Kumar Reddy.</p>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">How good is this exchange between Siraj and Labuschange? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/GSv1XSrMHn">pic.twitter.com/GSv1XSrMHn</a></p>
<p>— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868105876357230622?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<p>Though Siraj and Bumrah suffered little injury scares just after that, both returned to bowl after lunch. </p>
<h2>Smith, Head crush India’s momentum</h2>
<p>Coming off a decisive hundred in the first innings in Adelaide, Travis Head continued from where he left. He played out the first few balls before opening his arms like before. </p>
<p>The left-handed batter smoked each bowler for a convincing boundary, including hitting Bumrah for the overhead six. Though he never let Ravindra Jadeja settle by whacking him to all parts of the ground, Head’s approach against Siraj, with whom he shared a heated moment in the second Test, kept the crowd on its feet.</p>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Oh that is class from Travis Head ?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/rqr2hzSCpd">pic.twitter.com/rqr2hzSCpd</a></p>
<p>— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868135734219075632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<p>Soon after, Head completed his hundred, his second of this BGT and ninth overall in Tests, piling pressure on the Indian Team. </p>
<p>On the other hand, Smith ended his century drought with a fantastic hundred, his first in 18 months. His 101 off 190 balls sees him equal Joe Root’s record for most Test tons against India (10) and second-most overall (33) for Australia in this format.</p>
<p>However, Bumrah brought India back into the game with three quick wickets, including removing Smith (101) and Head (152) alongside Mitchell Marsh on just five. </p>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Jasprit Bumrah gets Travis Head to bring up his fifth wicket! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MilestoneMoment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MilestoneMoment</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/2QGUazarZP">pic.twitter.com/2QGUazarZP</a></p>
<p>— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868185527016423474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></p></div>
<p><a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p></div>
<p>Captain Pat Cummins and Alex Carey kept the run-rate ticking with a handy, but Siraj’s Jaffa outdid Cummins, reducing Australia to 385 for seven. Carey (45*) and Mitchell Starc (7*) helped the host cross the 400-run mark.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


At stumps on day two, Australia's scorecard read 405 for seven.



Brisbane, Australia Travis Head hit his second hundred in two innings against India on day two of the Gabba Test in Brisbane, while Steve Smith notched his first in 18 months to power Australia past the 400-run-mark in the first innings on Sunday (Dec 15). For India, ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah picked a five-for, his second of this BGT. At stumps on day two, Australia's scorecard read 405 for seven. After losing close to 80 overs on day one due to rain interruption, the action began at the usual time on day two, with the weather forecast favouring playing conditions. Team India began proceedings by removing both openers inside the first half an hour, with Jasprit Bumrah accounting for both. ALSO READ: BGT: ‘Dumb cricket’ Simon Katich tears into Rohit Sharma’s clueless captaincy as Head hits hundred at Gabba Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith played out the first hour before Mohammed Siraj’s mind games helped India get another breakthrough. During the 33rd over, Siraj ran up to Marnus in his follow-through and switched the bails to break Labuschagne’s concentration, a trick that worked wonders, as he departed in the next over to Nitish Kumar Reddy. How good is this exchange between Siraj and Labuschange? #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/GSv1XSrMHn — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Though Siraj and Bumrah suffered little injury scares just after that, both returned to bowl after lunch. Smith, Head crush India’s momentum Coming off a decisive hundred in the first innings in Adelaide, Travis Head continued from where he left. He played out the first few balls before opening his arms like before. The left-handed batter smoked each bowler for a convincing boundary, including hitting Bumrah for the overhead six. Though he never let Ravindra Jadeja settle by whacking him to all parts of the ground, Head’s approach against Siraj, with whom he shared a heated moment in the second Test, kept the crowd on its feet. Oh that is class from Travis Head ?#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/rqr2hzSCpd — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Soon after, Head completed his hundred, his second of this BGT and ninth overall in Tests, piling pressure on the Indian Team. On the other hand, Smith ended his century drought with a fantastic hundred, his first in 18 months. His 101 off 190 balls sees him equal Joe Root’s record for most Test tons against India (10) and second-most overall (33) for Australia in this format. However, Bumrah brought India back into the game with three quick wickets, including removing Smith (101) and Head (152) alongside Mitchell Marsh on just five. Jasprit Bumrah gets Travis Head to bring up his fifth wicket! #AUSvIND | #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/2QGUazarZP — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Captain Pat Cummins and Alex Carey kept the run-rate ticking with a handy, but Siraj’s Jaffa outdid Cummins, reducing Australia to 385 for seven. Carey (45*) and Mitchell Starc (7*) helped the host cross the 400-run mark. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT, Gabba Test: Head, Smith punish India with twin tons on day 2 as Australia go past 400-mark

<p>Amid a wonderful day for Australia and India’s Jasprit Bumrah, who picked a five-wicket haul at the Gabba in Brisbane on the second day's play, a new controversy struck the BGT. Per several reports, broadcaster Isha Guha used a racial slur for ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah during the commentary, calling him a ‘primate’, which usually means 'any animal that belongs to the group that includes humans, monkeys and animals like monkeys without a tail (apes).'</p>

<p>Calling out the game for Fox Cricket alongside veteran seamer Brett Lee, Isha used this slur for Bumrah, who picked two wickets inside the first half an hour of the game, removing both Aussie openers Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney.</p>

<p>While Lee was impressed with Bumrah’s spell figures, praising him on air, Guha’s remarks on his performance raised eyebrows, with social media noting it.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="tl">*Isa Guha <a href="https://t.co/VgmsHxoG21">https://t.co/VgmsHxoG21</a> <a href="https://t.co/zWTJ8HUxXE">pic.twitter.com/zWTJ8HUxXE</a></p>
— Matt Krawczyk (@mjkrawz) <a href="https://twitter.com/mjkrawz/status/1868095619233169805?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-gabba-test-head-smith-punish-india-with-twin-tons-on-day-2-as-australia-go-past-400-mark-784129">BGT, Gabba Test: Head, Smith punish India with twin tons on day 2 as Australia go past 400-mark</a></strong></p>

<p>"Bumrah, today: five overs, 2-4. So, that's the tone, and that's what you want from the ex-skipper," Lee said, to which Ghua replied, "Well, he's the MVP, isn't he? Most valuable primate, Jasprit Bumrah.”</p>

<p>Meanwhile, this instance has drawn parallels with the 2008 Monkeygate episode, which made headlines worldwide, even leading to a situation where India were ready to forfeit the Test series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This controversy involved two former cricketers, India’s Harbhajan Singh and late Aussie all-rounder Andrew Symonds; during that episode, Harbhajan was accused of using a slur by calling Symonds a monkey.</p>

<h2>Bumrah, the saviour for Team India</h2>

<p>India entered the third Test in Brisbane following a ten-wicket loss in Adelaide. Down and low on morale, Indian bowlers struggled on a gloomy day at the Gabba, picking seven wickets and conceding over 400 runs. For the hosts, Travis Head and Steve Smith struck respective centuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Head completed his second hundred in as many innings against India, Smith reached the three-digit mark for the first time in 18 months.</p>

<p>With Australia on top during most of the three sessions, Bumrah pulled India back by picking his second five-for for the series. He first removed both openers before claiming the big fish: Head (152), Smith (101) and Mitchell Marsh (5).&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Jasprit Bumrah gets Travis Head to bring up his fifth wicket! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MilestoneMoment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MilestoneMoment</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/2QGUazarZP">pic.twitter.com/2QGUazarZP</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868185527016423474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Besides, Nitish Kumar Reddy was among the wickets, removing Marnus Labuschagne, caught in the slips; Mohammed Siraj, who earlier suffered an injury scare, removed captain Pat Cummins, caught behind on 20.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus far, in five innings, Bumrah has already picked 17 wickets, at an average of just over 12 (12.18), including one four-wicket and two five-wicket hauls.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Amid a wonderful day for Australia and India’s Jasprit Bumrah, who picked a five-wicket haul at the Gabba in Brisbane on the second day's play, a new controversy struck the BGT.

Amid a wonderful day for Australia and India’s Jasprit Bumrah, who picked a five-wicket haul at the Gabba in Brisbane on the second day's play, a new controversy struck the BGT. Per several reports, broadcaster Isha Guha used a racial slur for ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah during the commentary, calling him a ‘primate’, which usually means 'any animal that belongs to the group that includes humans, monkeys and animals like monkeys without a tail (apes).' Calling out the game for Fox Cricket alongside veteran seamer Brett Lee, Isha used this slur for Bumrah, who picked two wickets inside the first half an hour of the game, removing both Aussie openers Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney. While Lee was impressed with Bumrah’s spell figures, praising him on air, Guha’s remarks on his performance raised eyebrows, with social media noting it. *Isa Guha https://t.co/VgmsHxoG21 pic.twitter.com/zWTJ8HUxXE — Matt Krawczyk (@mjkrawz) December 15, 2024 × ALSO READ: BGT, Gabba Test: Head, Smith punish India with twin tons on day 2 as Australia go past 400-mark "Bumrah, today: five overs, 2-4. So, that's the tone, and that's what you want from the ex-skipper," Lee said, to which Ghua replied, "Well, he's the MVP, isn't he? Most valuable primate, Jasprit Bumrah.” Meanwhile, this instance has drawn parallels with the 2008 Monkeygate episode, which made headlines worldwide, even leading to a situation where India were ready to forfeit the Test series. This controversy involved two former cricketers, India’s Harbhajan Singh and late Aussie all-rounder Andrew Symonds; during that episode, Harbhajan was accused of using a slur by calling Symonds a monkey. Bumrah, the saviour for Team India India entered the third Test in Brisbane following a ten-wicket loss in Adelaide. Down and low on morale, Indian bowlers struggled on a gloomy day at the Gabba, picking seven wickets and conceding over 400 runs. For the hosts, Travis Head and Steve Smith struck respective centuries. While Head completed his second hundred in as many innings against India, Smith reached the three-digit mark for the first time in 18 months. With Australia on top during most of the three sessions, Bumrah pulled India back by picking his second five-for for the series. He first removed both openers before claiming the big fish: Head (152), Smith (101) and Mitchell Marsh (5). Jasprit Bumrah gets Travis Head to bring up his fifth wicket! #AUSvIND | #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/2QGUazarZP — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Besides, Nitish Kumar Reddy was among the wickets, removing Marnus Labuschagne, caught in the slips; Mohammed Siraj, who earlier suffered an injury scare, removed captain Pat Cummins, caught behind on 20. Thus far, in five innings, Bumrah has already picked 17 wickets, at an average of just over 12 (12.18), including one four-wicket and two five-wicket hauls. (With inputs from agencies)

<p>Travis Head hit his second hundred in two innings against India on day two of the Gabba Test in Brisbane, while Steve Smith notched his first in 18 months to power Australia past the 400-run-mark in the first innings on Sunday (Dec 15). For India, ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah picked a five-for, his second of this BGT. At stumps on day two, Australia's scorecard read 405 for seven.</p>

<p>After losing close to 80 overs on day one due to rain interruption, the action began at the usual time on day two, with the weather forecast favouring playing conditions. Team India began proceedings by removing both openers inside the first half an hour, with Jasprit Bumrah accounting for both.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-dumb-cricket-simon-katich-tears-into-rohit-sharmas-clueless-captaincy-as-head-hits-hundred-at-gabba-784101">BGT: ‘Dumb cricket’ Simon Katich tears into Rohit Sharma’s clueless captaincy as Head hits hundred at Gabba</a></strong></p>

<p>Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith played out the first hour before Mohammed Siraj’s mind games helped India get another breakthrough. During the 33rd over, Siraj ran up to Marnus in his follow-through and switched the bails to break Labuschagne’s concentration, a trick that worked wonders, as he departed in the next over to Nitish Kumar Reddy.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">How good is this exchange between Siraj and Labuschange? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/GSv1XSrMHn">pic.twitter.com/GSv1XSrMHn</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868105876357230622?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Though Siraj and Bumrah suffered little injury scares just after that, both returned to bowl after lunch.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Smith, Head crush India’s momentum</h2>

<p>Coming off a decisive hundred in the first innings in Adelaide, Travis Head continued from where he left. He played out the first few balls before opening his arms like before.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The left-handed batter smoked each bowler for a convincing boundary, including hitting Bumrah for the overhead six. Though he never let Ravindra Jadeja settle by whacking him to all parts of the ground, Head’s approach against Siraj, with whom he shared a heated moment in the second Test, kept the crowd on its feet.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Oh that is class from Travis Head 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/rqr2hzSCpd">pic.twitter.com/rqr2hzSCpd</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868135734219075632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Soon after, Head completed his hundred, his second of this BGT and ninth overall in Tests, piling pressure on the Indian Team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, Smith ended his century drought with a fantastic hundred, his first in 18 months. His 101 off 190 balls sees him equal Joe Root’s record for most Test tons against India (10) and second-most overall (33) for Australia in this format.</p>

<p>However, Bumrah brought India back into the game with three quick wickets, including removing Smith (101) and Head (152) alongside Mitchell Marsh on just five.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Jasprit Bumrah gets Travis Head to bring up his fifth wicket! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MilestoneMoment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MilestoneMoment</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/2QGUazarZP">pic.twitter.com/2QGUazarZP</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868185527016423474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Captain Pat Cummins and Alex Carey kept the run-rate ticking with a handy, but Siraj’s Jaffa outdid Cummins, reducing Australia to 385 for seven. Carey (45*) and Mitchell Starc (7*) helped the host cross the 400-run mark.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Travis Head hit his second hundred in two innings against India on day two of the Gabba Test in Brisbane, while Steve Smith notched his first in 18 months to power Australia past the 400-run-mark in the first innings on Sunday (Dec 15).

Travis Head hit his second hundred in two innings against India on day two of the Gabba Test in Brisbane, while Steve Smith notched his first in 18 months to power Australia past the 400-run-mark in the first innings on Sunday (Dec 15). For India, ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah picked a five-for, his second of this BGT. At stumps on day two, Australia's scorecard read 405 for seven. After losing close to 80 overs on day one due to rain interruption, the action began at the usual time on day two, with the weather forecast favouring playing conditions. Team India began proceedings by removing both openers inside the first half an hour, with Jasprit Bumrah accounting for both. ALSO READ: BGT: ‘Dumb cricket’ Simon Katich tears into Rohit Sharma’s clueless captaincy as Head hits hundred at Gabba Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith played out the first hour before Mohammed Siraj’s mind games helped India get another breakthrough. During the 33rd over, Siraj ran up to Marnus in his follow-through and switched the bails to break Labuschagne’s concentration, a trick that worked wonders, as he departed in the next over to Nitish Kumar Reddy. How good is this exchange between Siraj and Labuschange? #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/GSv1XSrMHn — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Though Siraj and Bumrah suffered little injury scares just after that, both returned to bowl after lunch. Smith, Head crush India’s momentum Coming off a decisive hundred in the first innings in Adelaide, Travis Head continued from where he left. He played out the first few balls before opening his arms like before. The left-handed batter smoked each bowler for a convincing boundary, including hitting Bumrah for the overhead six. Though he never let Ravindra Jadeja settle by whacking him to all parts of the ground, Head’s approach against Siraj, with whom he shared a heated moment in the second Test, kept the crowd on its feet. Oh that is class from Travis Head 👏#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/rqr2hzSCpd — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Soon after, Head completed his hundred, his second of this BGT and ninth overall in Tests, piling pressure on the Indian Team. On the other hand, Smith ended his century drought with a fantastic hundred, his first in 18 months. His 101 off 190 balls sees him equal Joe Root’s record for most Test tons against India (10) and second-most overall (33) for Australia in this format. However, Bumrah brought India back into the game with three quick wickets, including removing Smith (101) and Head (152) alongside Mitchell Marsh on just five. Jasprit Bumrah gets Travis Head to bring up his fifth wicket! #AUSvIND | #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/2QGUazarZP — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Captain Pat Cummins and Alex Carey kept the run-rate ticking with a handy, but Siraj’s Jaffa outdid Cummins, reducing Australia to 385 for seven. Carey (45*) and Mitchell Starc (7*) helped the host cross the 400-run mark. (With inputs from agencies)

<p>Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj received a hostile welcome at the Gabba in Brisbane as Australian fans booed him before he began his spell on day one of the third BGT Test on Saturday (Dec 14). Per the latest reports, after Jasprit Bumrah finished his first over, the local fans came down hard on Siraj, trying to tear into him with the boos. Siraj, however, kept his composure and concentrated on delivering goods for his team.</p>

<p>Per a report in the Times of India, the home crowd didn’t seem to forgive Siraj, let alone forget, for his send-off to Travis Head during the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-everyones-here-to-write-articles-labuschagne-hits-back-at-warner-over-batting-criticism-783914">BGT: ‘Everyone’s here to write articles,’ Labuschagne hits back at Warner over batting criticism</a></strong></p>

<p>During day two of the second game at the iconic Adelaide Oval, Siraj clean bowled Head off a searing Yorker on 140, giving him a fiery send-off by gesturing aggressively towards the dressing room. That reaction garnered attention from all spheres - the commentators, former cricketers, experts and fans worldwide.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The end of a sensational innings! 🗣️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/kEIlHmgNwT">pic.twitter.com/kEIlHmgNwT</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1865310776866595166?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Both, however, made contrasting claims reflecting on this incident following the day’s play. While Head, who hammered India with another decisive ton, revealed he said ‘well-bowled’ to Siraj, while the Indian pacer refuted this, adding Head didn’t utter those words but instead said something else.</p>

<h2>'Went too far'</h2>

<p>Though both hugged it out after the match, which Australia won by ten wickets, Head admitted regret over his reaction but maintained his stance of not backing down.</p>

<p>"It probably [went] a little bit far that's why I'm disappointed in the reaction I gave back, but I'm also going to stand up for myself. Like to think in our team we wouldn't do that. [It's] not the way I'd like to play the game and feel like my teammates are the same. If I see that, I probably call it out, which I did,” Head said of the incident.</p>

<p>Reverting, Siraj said, "It was a great battle going on [with Head], and he batted really well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“When you get hit for a six on a good ball, it fires you up differently. And when I bowled him, I just celebrated, and he abused me, and you saw that on TV too. I only celebrated at the start, I didn't say anything to him. What he said in the press conference wasn't right, it's a lie that he said 'well bowled' to me. It's there for everyone to see that that's not what he said to me.</p>

<p>"We respect everyone; it's not like we disrespect other players. I respect everybody because cricket is a gentleman's game, but what he did wasn't right. I didn't like it at all,” Siraj noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Australia was 28/0 before rain stopped play on day one of the third Test at the Gabba.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj received a hostile welcome at the Gabba in Brisbane as Australian fans booed him before he began his spell on day one of the third BGT Test on Saturday (Dec 14).

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj received a hostile welcome at the Gabba in Brisbane as Australian fans booed him before he began his spell on day one of the third BGT Test on Saturday (Dec 14). Per the latest reports, after Jasprit Bumrah finished his first over, the local fans came down hard on Siraj, trying to tear into him with the boos. Siraj, however, kept his composure and concentrated on delivering goods for his team. Per a report in the Times of India, the home crowd didn’t seem to forgive Siraj, let alone forget, for his send-off to Travis Head during the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide. ALSO READ: BGT: ‘Everyone’s here to write articles,’ Labuschagne hits back at Warner over batting criticism During day two of the second game at the iconic Adelaide Oval, Siraj clean bowled Head off a searing Yorker on 140, giving him a fiery send-off by gesturing aggressively towards the dressing room. That reaction garnered attention from all spheres - the commentators, former cricketers, experts and fans worldwide. The end of a sensational innings! 🗣️#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/kEIlHmgNwT — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 7, 2024 × Both, however, made contrasting claims reflecting on this incident following the day’s play. While Head, who hammered India with another decisive ton, revealed he said ‘well-bowled’ to Siraj, while the Indian pacer refuted this, adding Head didn’t utter those words but instead said something else. 'Went too far' Though both hugged it out after the match, which Australia won by ten wickets, Head admitted regret over his reaction but maintained his stance of not backing down. "It probably [went] a little bit far that's why I'm disappointed in the reaction I gave back, but I'm also going to stand up for myself. Like to think in our team we wouldn't do that. [It's] not the way I'd like to play the game and feel like my teammates are the same. If I see that, I probably call it out, which I did,” Head said of the incident. Reverting, Siraj said, "It was a great battle going on [with Head], and he batted really well. “When you get hit for a six on a good ball, it fires you up differently. And when I bowled him, I just celebrated, and he abused me, and you saw that on TV too. I only celebrated at the start, I didn't say anything to him. What he said in the press conference wasn't right, it's a lie that he said 'well bowled' to me. It's there for everyone to see that that's not what he said to me. "We respect everyone; it's not like we disrespect other players. I respect everybody because cricket is a gentleman's game, but what he did wasn't right. I didn't like it at all,” Siraj noted. Meanwhile, Australia was 28/0 before rain stopped play on day one of the third Test at the Gabba. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Mohammed Siraj booed by Australian fans in Brisbane before rain interrupted play on day one

<p>Australia Test number three Marnus Labuschagne is not impressed with his former teammate-turned-broadcaster David Warner’s remarks on his batting slump, saying everyone is here to write articles. Labuschagne found some form (against India) in the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide, hitting a gritty 64 off 126 balls in the first innings, but his dismissals in two outings before that concerned everyone, including Warner.</p>

<p>Ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah troubled Marnus in the series opener in Perth, trapping him in the front on three in the second innings; however, his dismissal in the first innings was similar, making Warner question his ‘awareness’ at the crease.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/reeza-hendricks-maiden-t20i-hundred-seals-first-series-win-for-south-africa-in-over-two-years-783900">Reeza Hendricks’ maiden T20I hundred seals first series win for South Africa in over two years</a></strong></p>

<p>Regarding Warner’s comments, Marnus said he doesn’t recall getting out caught at the gully more than twice (besides recently against India in Adelaide).&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I would like to see him check how many times I’ve been caught at gully because, apparently, I get out there every week. I’ve looked back, and I think I can only remember getting caught at gully twice. So, I might have to have a look at Bull’s (Warner’s) comment there. But like I said, everyone’s here to write newspapers, write articles,”</p>

<p>Labuschagne said to News Corp, as quoted by the Indian Express.</p>

<h2>'Marnus nowhere near his best'</h2>

<p>Warner earlier said Marnus, who has struggled since last summer, is nowhere near his best form.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I don’t think that was anywhere near what we know he’s capable of. He might have got a couple out of the middle, got a couple of freebies, batted well that night to get through but they bowled poorly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“So, from that perspective, he had the best conditions to come out and bat in. But he got out the same way he always does when he gets over 50, hits it straight to the gully.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“So, there’s a lack of awareness there of what he’s got to be mindful of. I don’t think he’s anywhere near where he should be,” Warner said of Labuschagne’s dismissal in Adelaide’s first innings while talking to Fox Sports.</p>

<p>Labuscagne also reacted to this remark saying, “I’m watching the game, and I’m trying to play pretty naturally. I mean, hitting a cut shot, the ball was there. It was a little bit short, and I tried to hit the ball through backward point, skidded on a little bit more, and I got a bit late, and (Yashasvi Jaiswal) took a very good catch. It’s a two-edged sword.”</p>

<p>“Week before, I wasn’t playing enough shots, and then this week, people are unhappy because you’re playing too many shots. So at the end of the day, I’m not here to please everyone. I’m here to win games for Australia,” the batter continued.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Marnus will aim to score big at the Gabba against India, a venue he scored a stunning hundred&nbsp;the last time both these teams played here.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Australia Test number three Marnus Labuschagne is not impressed with his former teammate-turned-broadcaster David Warner’s remarks on his batting slump, saying everyone is here to write articles.

Australia Test number three Marnus Labuschagne is not impressed with his former teammate-turned-broadcaster David Warner’s remarks on his batting slump, saying everyone is here to write articles. Labuschagne found some form (against India) in the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide, hitting a gritty 64 off 126 balls in the first innings, but his dismissals in two outings before that concerned everyone, including Warner. Ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah troubled Marnus in the series opener in Perth, trapping him in the front on three in the second innings; however, his dismissal in the first innings was similar, making Warner question his ‘awareness’ at the crease. ALSO READ: Reeza Hendricks’ maiden T20I hundred seals first series win for South Africa in over two years Regarding Warner’s comments, Marnus said he doesn’t recall getting out caught at the gully more than twice (besides recently against India in Adelaide). “I would like to see him check how many times I’ve been caught at gully because, apparently, I get out there every week. I’ve looked back, and I think I can only remember getting caught at gully twice. So, I might have to have a look at Bull’s (Warner’s) comment there. But like I said, everyone’s here to write newspapers, write articles,” Labuschagne said to News Corp, as quoted by the Indian Express. 'Marnus nowhere near his best' Warner earlier said Marnus, who has struggled since last summer, is nowhere near his best form. “I don’t think that was anywhere near what we know he’s capable of. He might have got a couple out of the middle, got a couple of freebies, batted well that night to get through but they bowled poorly. “So, from that perspective, he had the best conditions to come out and bat in. But he got out the same way he always does when he gets over 50, hits it straight to the gully. “So, there’s a lack of awareness there of what he’s got to be mindful of. I don’t think he’s anywhere near where he should be,” Warner said of Labuschagne’s dismissal in Adelaide’s first innings while talking to Fox Sports. Labuscagne also reacted to this remark saying, “I’m watching the game, and I’m trying to play pretty naturally. I mean, hitting a cut shot, the ball was there. It was a little bit short, and I tried to hit the ball through backward point, skidded on a little bit more, and I got a bit late, and (Yashasvi Jaiswal) took a very good catch. It’s a two-edged sword.” “Week before, I wasn’t playing enough shots, and then this week, people are unhappy because you’re playing too many shots. So at the end of the day, I’m not here to please everyone. I’m here to win games for Australia,” the batter continued. Meanwhile, Marnus will aim to score big at the Gabba against India, a venue he scored a stunning hundred the last time both these teams played here. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: ‘Everyone’s here to write articles,’ Labuschagne hits back at Warner over batting criticism

<p>Australia were 28-0 in a rain-affected first session of the third Test against India at the Gabba in Brisbane on Saturday.</p>

<p>After Indian skipper Rohit Sharma won the toss and chose to field on an overcast and humid day, only 13.2 overs were able to be bowled before lunch.</p>

<p>Usman Khawaja was 19 not out and Nathan McSweeney on four.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Usman Khawaja puts away his first boundary of the day with this cracking shot off Siraj 👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/xHJlbrFF8o">pic.twitter.com/xHJlbrFF8o</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1867731315446989032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/zim-vs-afg-convincing-afghanistan-win-in-harare-levels-t20i-series-against-zimbabwe-783828">ZIM vs AFG: Convincing Afghanistan win in Harare levels T20I series against Zimbabwe</a></strong></p>

<p>After a week of rain in the city, Rohit would have expected plenty of movement from his opening bowlers, but they struggled to find their length.</p>

<p>Spearhead Jasprit Bumrah appeared down on pace early and Mohammed Siraj was equally unthreatening.</p>

<p>Rain first came 25 minutes into the day's play, causing a half-hour delay, and when the players returned Akash Deep at last found the perfect length with movement in the air and off the wicket.</p>

<p>He troubled McSweeney in particular, but 35 minutes later much heavier rain sent the players off&nbsp;the field for the second time.</p>

<p>With water pooling in the outfield, there was no chance of play resuming before lunch.</p>

<p>The five-match series is evenly poised with India thrashing Australia in the first Test in Perth and Australia recording an equally impressive victory in Adelaide.</p>

<p>The Australians, as expected, brought back Josh Hazlewood for Scott Boland after he recovered from a side strain.</p>

<p>India dropped spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and fast bowler Harshit Rana, replacing them with Ravindra Jadeja and Deep.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer:</strong>&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Australia were 28-0 in a rain-affected first session of the third Test against India at the Gabba in Brisbane on Saturday. After Indian skipper Rohit Sharma won the toss and chose to field on an overcast and humid day, only 13.

Australia were 28-0 in a rain-affected first session of the third Test against India at the Gabba in Brisbane on Saturday. After Indian skipper Rohit Sharma won the toss and chose to field on an overcast and humid day, only 13.2 overs were able to be bowled before lunch. Usman Khawaja was 19 not out and Nathan McSweeney on four. Usman Khawaja puts away his first boundary of the day with this cracking shot off Siraj 👌#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/xHJlbrFF8o — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 14, 2024 × ALSO READ: ZIM vs AFG: Convincing Afghanistan win in Harare levels T20I series against Zimbabwe After a week of rain in the city, Rohit would have expected plenty of movement from his opening bowlers, but they struggled to find their length. Spearhead Jasprit Bumrah appeared down on pace early and Mohammed Siraj was equally unthreatening. Rain first came 25 minutes into the day's play, causing a half-hour delay, and when the players returned Akash Deep at last found the perfect length with movement in the air and off the wicket. He troubled McSweeney in particular, but 35 minutes later much heavier rain sent the players off the field for the second time. With water pooling in the outfield, there was no chance of play resuming before lunch. The five-match series is evenly poised with India thrashing Australia in the first Test in Perth and Australia recording an equally impressive victory in Adelaide. The Australians, as expected, brought back Josh Hazlewood for Scott Boland after he recovered from a side strain. India dropped spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and fast bowler Harshit Rana, replacing them with Ravindra Jadeja and Deep. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

BGT, Gabba Test: Australia score 28/0 inside first session as rain interrupts play on day one

<p>Rain played spoilsport on day one of the third BGT Test between Australia and India at the Gabba in Brisbane. After India won the toss and elected to bowl first, the Australian batters stood tall for 13.2 overs, hitting 28 runs without losing a wicket, before a second and extensive spell of showers forced early stumps, leaving the players and the fans frustrated. So, what does the weather forecast for the remaining four days in this Test say?</p>

<p>Following a week of rain in the city, the Indian captain would have wanted to make the most of the damp conditions, thus asking Australia to bat first on day one. With the green top and cloud cover on offer, the Indian seamers were expected to make early inroads; however, lack of zip and disciplined bowling saw the openers – Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney playing out the 13-plus overs bowled on Saturday (Dec 14).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-mohammed-siraj-booed-by-australian-fans-in-brisbane-before-rain-interrupted-play-on-day-one-783930">BGT: Mohammed Siraj booed by Australian fans in Brisbane before rain interrupted play on day one</a></strong></p>

<p>Though Jasprit Bumrah kept it tight, his pace seemed to dip a bit, while Mohammed Siraj conceded runs, including getting hit off a cracking pull shot for a four by Khawaja.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Akash Deep, one of the two changes in the Indian XI for this Test, was wayward at the start of his spell but troubled McSweeney with the outgoing deliveries.</p>

<p>It's good for India that rain halted play as they can regroup and come back stronger on day two, which will see 98 overs bowled, eight more than the usual limit.</p>

<h2><strong>Weather forecast for remaining four days in Brisbane?</strong></h2>

<p>While day one of the Gabba Test got abandoned due to continuous rain, day two would be dryer; as per Accuweather, the chances of rain are a mere eight per cent, though extensive cloud cover is expected.</p>

<p>On Monday (Dec 16), day three of the third Test, there is a 69 per cent rain probability, with expected precipitation for 90 minutes. While the temperature would be around 28 degrees Celsius, rain interruptions are expected. &nbsp;</p>

<p>On the last two days of the Test (Tuesday and Wednesday), rain probability is around 84 per cent and 56 per cent, respectively.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Rain played spoilsport on day one of the third BGT Test between Australia and India at the Gabba in Brisbane. After India won the toss and elected to bowl first, the Australian batters stood tall for 13.

Rain played spoilsport on day one of the third BGT Test between Australia and India at the Gabba in Brisbane. After India won the toss and elected to bowl first, the Australian batters stood tall for 13.2 overs, hitting 28 runs without losing a wicket, before a second and extensive spell of showers forced early stumps, leaving the players and the fans frustrated. So, what does the weather forecast for the remaining four days in this Test say? Following a week of rain in the city, the Indian captain would have wanted to make the most of the damp conditions, thus asking Australia to bat first on day one. With the green top and cloud cover on offer, the Indian seamers were expected to make early inroads; however, lack of zip and disciplined bowling saw the openers – Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney playing out the 13-plus overs bowled on Saturday (Dec 14). ALSO READ: BGT: Mohammed Siraj booed by Australian fans in Brisbane before rain interrupted play on day one Though Jasprit Bumrah kept it tight, his pace seemed to dip a bit, while Mohammed Siraj conceded runs, including getting hit off a cracking pull shot for a four by Khawaja. Akash Deep, one of the two changes in the Indian XI for this Test, was wayward at the start of his spell but troubled McSweeney with the outgoing deliveries. It's good for India that rain halted play as they can regroup and come back stronger on day two, which will see 98 overs bowled, eight more than the usual limit. Weather forecast for remaining four days in Brisbane? While day one of the Gabba Test got abandoned due to continuous rain, day two would be dryer; as per Accuweather, the chances of rain are a mere eight per cent, though extensive cloud cover is expected. On Monday (Dec 16), day three of the third Test, there is a 69 per cent rain probability, with expected precipitation for 90 minutes. While the temperature would be around 28 degrees Celsius, rain interruptions are expected. On the last two days of the Test (Tuesday and Wednesday), rain probability is around 84 per cent and 56 per cent, respectively. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT, Australia vs India, Gabba Test: Weather forecast for remaining four days in Brisbane

<p>Australia captain Pat Cummins confirmed that Josh Hazlewood will return to the playing XI for the third BGT Test against India at the Gabba in Brisbane starting Saturday (Dec 14). The veteran seamer suffered a side strain following the conclusion of the series opener in Perth, missing the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide, which the hosts won by ten wickets. Hazlewood was replaced by Scott Boland, who picked five wickets in the second match, in the final XI for the third Test.</p>

<p>In the lead-up to the Gabba Test, Hazlewood underwent several fitness tests during the week. Unlike how both teams prepared on the centre wicket in the WACA simulation ahead of the Perth tie, Hazlewood had short-run ups and no spare wicket to train in Brisbane.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/amir-jangoo-hits-hundred-on-debut-as-west-indies-complete-odi-whitewash-over-bangladesh-783622">Amir Jangoo hits hundred on debut as West Indies complete ODI whitewash over Bangladesh</a></strong></p>

<p>Instead, Hazlewood went out to the Allan Border Field on Thursday (Dec 12), bowling full throttle and training alongside teammate Mitchell Starc under the watchful eyes of bowling coach Daniel Vettori.</p>

<p>"He's had no hiccups. He had a really good bowl yesterday and a bowl in Adelaide a couple of days previous. The medical team is super confident,” Captain Cummins said ahead of the third Test.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>'Always tough to bench Boland'</h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Cummins also commented on Boland’s omission, admitting it is way tougher to bench him than it appears.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At home, Boland averages 13.54, with the skipper hinting at his inclusion in the XI for any of the final two matches. Given how he performed at the iconic MCG against England on his Test debut, picking six wickets for just seven runs, Cummins informed Boland to prepare for the Boxing Day game against India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's tough [leaving him out], he was fantastic in Adelaide," Cummins said.</p>

<p>"Unfortunately, he spent quite a bit of time on the bench over the last 18 months, and whenever he plays he's fantastic. Shame for Scotty, but still a fair bit to play out in the series, so I'd be surprised if he doesn't get another crack at some point."</p>

<p>"[We told him] it's about preparing for the MCG because there's a good chance we might need you. History suggests there's always some form of natural attrition throughout a Test series. A good thing [is], he's probably played a Test earlier in the series than he maybe thought. Showed that his standards are still super high. [It's] about trying to set him up for the last two Test matches,” the skipper noted.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Here is Australia’s Playing XI for the Gabba Test against India –</h3>

<p>Nathan McSweeney, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins ©, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Australia captain Pat Cummins confirmed that Josh Hazlewood will return to the playing XI for the third BGT Test against India at the Gabba in Brisbane starting Saturday (Dec 14).

Australia captain Pat Cummins confirmed that Josh Hazlewood will return to the playing XI for the third BGT Test against India at the Gabba in Brisbane starting Saturday (Dec 14). The veteran seamer suffered a side strain following the conclusion of the series opener in Perth, missing the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide, which the hosts won by ten wickets. Hazlewood was replaced by Scott Boland, who picked five wickets in the second match, in the final XI for the third Test. In the lead-up to the Gabba Test, Hazlewood underwent several fitness tests during the week. Unlike how both teams prepared on the centre wicket in the WACA simulation ahead of the Perth tie, Hazlewood had short-run ups and no spare wicket to train in Brisbane. ALSO READ: Amir Jangoo hits hundred on debut as West Indies complete ODI whitewash over Bangladesh Instead, Hazlewood went out to the Allan Border Field on Thursday (Dec 12), bowling full throttle and training alongside teammate Mitchell Starc under the watchful eyes of bowling coach Daniel Vettori. "He's had no hiccups. He had a really good bowl yesterday and a bowl in Adelaide a couple of days previous. The medical team is super confident,” Captain Cummins said ahead of the third Test. 'Always tough to bench Boland' Meanwhile, Cummins also commented on Boland’s omission, admitting it is way tougher to bench him than it appears. At home, Boland averages 13.54, with the skipper hinting at his inclusion in the XI for any of the final two matches. Given how he performed at the iconic MCG against England on his Test debut, picking six wickets for just seven runs, Cummins informed Boland to prepare for the Boxing Day game against India. "It's tough [leaving him out], he was fantastic in Adelaide," Cummins said. "Unfortunately, he spent quite a bit of time on the bench over the last 18 months, and whenever he plays he's fantastic. Shame for Scotty, but still a fair bit to play out in the series, so I'd be surprised if he doesn't get another crack at some point." "[We told him] it's about preparing for the MCG because there's a good chance we might need you. History suggests there's always some form of natural attrition throughout a Test series. A good thing [is], he's probably played a Test earlier in the series than he maybe thought. Showed that his standards are still super high. [It's] about trying to set him up for the last two Test matches,” the skipper noted. Here is Australia’s Playing XI for the Gabba Test against India – Nathan McSweeney, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins ©, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Josh Hazlewood returns from injury as Australia announces playing XI for Gabba Test

<p>The cricket action Down Under returns to the Gabba in Brisbane, a venue Australia once called its fortress until India breached it the last time. What happened three years ago remains the greatest win in cricket, let alone for India in Tests, but now, a resurgent Australian Team has revenge on their mind. Will they regain their pride, or will India make it two in two at their new favourite ground? Here is the match preview and result prediction of Australia and India's 3rd BGT Test in Brisbane.</p>

<h2><strong>Match Preview</strong></h2>

<p>The score line is even after the first two Tests, something Sourav Ganguly predicted before it even began; however, how Australia scripted a comeback should worry India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even Rohit Sharma’s return to the playing XI in Adelaide couldn’t prevent the inevitable; instead, it mounted a headache for the visiting camp over his batting position in the remaining three matches. Though he missed the BGT opener in Perth for personal reasons, Rohit played the Pink-Ball Test, batting at number six, solely to adjust KL Rahul at the top and reward him for his performance at the Optus Stadium.</p>

<p>With both failing across two innings, it remains to be seen if the management goes back to their strategy of opening with Rohit and playing KL at six or if they stick to their call and make no changes to the batting order for the Gabba tie.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-big-scores-around-the-corner-pat-cummins-backs-steve-smith-to-regain-form-in-brisbane-test-vs-india-783688">BGT: 'Big score's around the corner', Pat Cummins backs Steve Smith to regain form in Brisbane Test vs India</a></strong></p>

<p>Besides, batting form remains a concern for India, with the visitors getting folded inside 200 in the first innings in both matches. Though they made merry in the second innings in Perth, smashing 487-6 Dec, the batters looked far from convincing overall.</p>

<p>Moreover, India’s bowling must step up at Gabba, where the pitch offers more assistance and spice for the seamers. With Jasprit Bumrah in red-hot form, he will remain the thorn in the flesh for the Aussies.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Australia is back in form, not entirely. After the Perth Test embarrassment, where they surrendered by 295 runs, Australia returned to the drawing board only to come back stronger in Adelaide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Given Australia’s pace attack will be licking their lips looking at the Gabba surface, the time has come for the top order to also click, with the onus falling on the opening pair, Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith.</p>

<h2><strong>Result Prediction</strong></h2>

<p>Regardless of how well-placed Australia must be after levelling the series, India will enter this contest with a psychological advantage, knowing what they did the last time without several top players in the XI.</p>

<h3><strong>Predicted Playing XI of both teams</strong></h3>

<p><strong>Australia –</strong> Nathan McSweeney, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon</p>

<p><strong>India –</strong> Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah</p>


The cricket action Down Under returns to the Gabba in Brisbane, a venue Australia once called its fortress until India breached it the last time. What happened three years ago remains the greatest win in cricket, let alone for India in Tests, but now, a resurgent Australian Team has revenge on their mind.

The cricket action Down Under returns to the Gabba in Brisbane, a venue Australia once called its fortress until India breached it the last time. What happened three years ago remains the greatest win in cricket, let alone for India in Tests, but now, a resurgent Australian Team has revenge on their mind. Will they regain their pride, or will India make it two in two at their new favourite ground? Here is the match preview and result prediction of Australia and India's 3rd BGT Test in Brisbane. Match Preview The score line is even after the first two Tests, something Sourav Ganguly predicted before it even began; however, how Australia scripted a comeback should worry India. Even Rohit Sharma’s return to the playing XI in Adelaide couldn’t prevent the inevitable; instead, it mounted a headache for the visiting camp over his batting position in the remaining three matches. Though he missed the BGT opener in Perth for personal reasons, Rohit played the Pink-Ball Test, batting at number six, solely to adjust KL Rahul at the top and reward him for his performance at the Optus Stadium. With both failing across two innings, it remains to be seen if the management goes back to their strategy of opening with Rohit and playing KL at six or if they stick to their call and make no changes to the batting order for the Gabba tie. ALSO READ: BGT: 'Big score's around the corner', Pat Cummins backs Steve Smith to regain form in Brisbane Test vs India Besides, batting form remains a concern for India, with the visitors getting folded inside 200 in the first innings in both matches. Though they made merry in the second innings in Perth, smashing 487-6 Dec, the batters looked far from convincing overall. Moreover, India’s bowling must step up at Gabba, where the pitch offers more assistance and spice for the seamers. With Jasprit Bumrah in red-hot form, he will remain the thorn in the flesh for the Aussies. On the other hand, Australia is back in form, not entirely. After the Perth Test embarrassment, where they surrendered by 295 runs, Australia returned to the drawing board only to come back stronger in Adelaide. Given Australia’s pace attack will be licking their lips looking at the Gabba surface, the time has come for the top order to also click, with the onus falling on the opening pair, Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith. Result Prediction Regardless of how well-placed Australia must be after levelling the series, India will enter this contest with a psychological advantage, knowing what they did the last time without several top players in the XI. Predicted Playing XI of both teams Australia – Nathan McSweeney, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon India – Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah

BGT, Gabba Test Preview: Redemption or repetition? India-Australia gear up for blockbuster clash

<p>Australia allrounder Mitchell Marsh has vowed to turn into a regular bowler and throw as many overs as his team wants him to in the Brisbane Test against India. Marsh, dominantly a batting allrounder, has bowled just 21 overs in three innings across two games, with frontline seamers shouldering all the burden. Though Australia used just three seamers in India’s second innings in Adelaide, they would need Marsh, the bowler, at Gabba, the venue India beat them the last time.</p>

<p>Marsh suffered periodic back stiffness since the UK tour in September, where he bowled just once during the Lord’s ODI. Although there were plans to bowl him in the Sheffield Shield games in the lead-up to the marquee India series, ongoing back issues prevented him from doing so. Even during the series opener in Perth, he bowled 17 overs before pulling up sore, leading to Australia calling in Beau Webster as cover for the next game.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-india-lock-openers-for-gabba-test-as-rohit-sharma-to-continue-batting-at-6-report-783410">BGT: India lock openers for Gabba Test as Rohit Sharma to continue batting at 6 – Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Despite concerns over his fitness and availability for the Pink-Ball Test under the lights, Marsh retained his place but bowled just four overs in the game. With the series now tied and the momentum tilting towards the hosts, Marsh vows to work on his bowling, having put his trust in the bowling and medical staff.</p>

<p>"Not in my mind, no," said Marsh on being asked if there is a limit to the number of overs he can bowl at the Gabba.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'll try, and be ready to bowl as much as Patty needs me. Our allrounders haven't bowled a hell of a lot in Australia the last few years, but I am really thankful for our medical staff and Ronny [coach Andrew McDonald] and Patty, who have allowed me the space between that first and second Test to just get right for the game.</p>

<p>"I didn't bowl as much as I would have liked to in the lead-up to the series, but our medical staff, Ronnie and Patty were really clear. I trusted that,” he continued.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>‘I am well placed’</h2>

<p>With no Cameron Green around and Australia not using Nathan Lyon enough, let alone trying Travis Head as an option, Marsh is the only choice left with Cummins to try while resting his main speedsters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I had an interrupted lead-in, but I am really well placed," Marsh said. "For me, it is about being able to contribute. Whether that is five overs and bowling the occasional good ball and getting a wicket or just bowling overs to give our boys a chop out. Right now, it [the back] is feeling as good as it has felt,” the allrounder noted.</p>

<p>The third Test begins on Saturday (Dec 14) in Brisbane. Australia and India have won one game each thus far.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Australia allrounder Mitchell Marsh has vowed to turn into a regular bowler and throw as many overs as his team wants him to in the Brisbane Test against India. Marsh, dominantly a batting allrounder, has bowled just 21 overs in three innings across two games, with frontline seamers shouldering all the burden.

Australia allrounder Mitchell Marsh has vowed to turn into a regular bowler and throw as many overs as his team wants him to in the Brisbane Test against India. Marsh, dominantly a batting allrounder, has bowled just 21 overs in three innings across two games, with frontline seamers shouldering all the burden. Though Australia used just three seamers in India’s second innings in Adelaide, they would need Marsh, the bowler, at Gabba, the venue India beat them the last time. Marsh suffered periodic back stiffness since the UK tour in September, where he bowled just once during the Lord’s ODI. Although there were plans to bowl him in the Sheffield Shield games in the lead-up to the marquee India series, ongoing back issues prevented him from doing so. Even during the series opener in Perth, he bowled 17 overs before pulling up sore, leading to Australia calling in Beau Webster as cover for the next game. ALSO READ: BGT: India lock openers for Gabba Test as Rohit Sharma to continue batting at 6 – Report Despite concerns over his fitness and availability for the Pink-Ball Test under the lights, Marsh retained his place but bowled just four overs in the game. With the series now tied and the momentum tilting towards the hosts, Marsh vows to work on his bowling, having put his trust in the bowling and medical staff. "Not in my mind, no," said Marsh on being asked if there is a limit to the number of overs he can bowl at the Gabba. "I'll try, and be ready to bowl as much as Patty needs me. Our allrounders haven't bowled a hell of a lot in Australia the last few years, but I am really thankful for our medical staff and Ronny [coach Andrew McDonald] and Patty, who have allowed me the space between that first and second Test to just get right for the game. "I didn't bowl as much as I would have liked to in the lead-up to the series, but our medical staff, Ronnie and Patty were really clear. I trusted that,” he continued. ‘I am well placed’ With no Cameron Green around and Australia not using Nathan Lyon enough, let alone trying Travis Head as an option, Marsh is the only choice left with Cummins to try while resting his main speedsters. "I had an interrupted lead-in, but I am really well placed," Marsh said. "For me, it is about being able to contribute. Whether that is five overs and bowling the occasional good ball and getting a wicket or just bowling overs to give our boys a chop out. Right now, it [the back] is feeling as good as it has felt,” the allrounder noted. The third Test begins on Saturday (Dec 14) in Brisbane. Australia and India have won one game each thus far. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Boost for Australia as Mitchell Marsh vows to turn into ‘regular bowler’ in Brisbane Test

<p>Team India has locked in their openers for the third Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane starting December 14, while the skipper Rohit Sharma’s batting position has also been sealed, per the latest reports. After India drew first blood in this marquee five-match series with the win in Perth by 295 runs, they suffered an embarrassing 10-wicket loss in the second Test under the lights in Adelaide.</p>

<p>Following defeat&nbsp;in the Pink-Ball Test, several pundits and ex-cricketers shared contrasting views on India's batting order and failure. India conceded the lead within three days at the Adelaide Oval. With the scores level heading into Brisbane, reports of the team management locking KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal as openers are doing rounds.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-gabba-test-bcci-needs-robust-selectors-to-take-tough-calls-greg-chappell-on-kohli-rohits-test-future-783378">BGT, Gabba Test - BCCI needs robust selectors to take tough calls: Greg Chappell on Kohli, Rohit’s Test future</a></strong></p>

<p>This left-right combination did wonders for India in the series opener in Perth in Rohit Sharma’s absence, who missed the first Test due to personal reasons. Though both suffered Down Under blues in the first innings, they stitched a 202-run stand for the opening partnership, with Jaiswal completing his maiden Test hundred in Australia, hitting a superb 161.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the next game, both failed to replicate their Perth heroics, with Rohit failing miserably across both innings in his return game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, per the first practice session in Brisbane on Thursday (Dec 12), both openers hit the nets first before Rohit walked in earlier than the last time, replacing Rahul. KL returned for another batting session later. Considering India is unlikely to change their playing XI for the third time, barring injury concerns (if any), the batting order might look the same.</p>

<h2>Kohli, Bumrah take charge</h2>

<p>Another highlight of Team India’s first training session in Brisbane was Virat Kohli’s animated pep talk before the proceedings began. He assembled everyone and pumped them up before hitting the nets for an extended session. Virat also kept talking with batting coach Ryan ten Doeschate about working on the rising deliveries that troubled him twice in two matches.</p>

<p>On the other hand, pace leader Jasprit Bumrah led the charge, sharing inputs with newcomer Nitish Kumar Reddy on navigating his weight in the right direction, extracting more pace out of it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mohammed Siraj, who made headlines for his send-off to Travis Head during the Adelaide Test, also spent time with Team India’s video analyst Hari and bowling coach Morne Morkel, working on his release point to get more swing.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Team India has locked in their openers for the third Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane starting December 14, while the skipper Rohit Sharma’s batting position has also been sealed, per the latest reports.

Team India has locked in their openers for the third Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane starting December 14, while the skipper Rohit Sharma’s batting position has also been sealed, per the latest reports. After India drew first blood in this marquee five-match series with the win in Perth by 295 runs, they suffered an embarrassing 10-wicket loss in the second Test under the lights in Adelaide. Following defeat in the Pink-Ball Test, several pundits and ex-cricketers shared contrasting views on India's batting order and failure. India conceded the lead within three days at the Adelaide Oval. With the scores level heading into Brisbane, reports of the team management locking KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal as openers are doing rounds. ALSO READ: BGT, Gabba Test - BCCI needs robust selectors to take tough calls: Greg Chappell on Kohli, Rohit’s Test future This left-right combination did wonders for India in the series opener in Perth in Rohit Sharma’s absence, who missed the first Test due to personal reasons. Though both suffered Down Under blues in the first innings, they stitched a 202-run stand for the opening partnership, with Jaiswal completing his maiden Test hundred in Australia, hitting a superb 161. In the next game, both failed to replicate their Perth heroics, with Rohit failing miserably across both innings in his return game. However, per the first practice session in Brisbane on Thursday (Dec 12), both openers hit the nets first before Rohit walked in earlier than the last time, replacing Rahul. KL returned for another batting session later. Considering India is unlikely to change their playing XI for the third time, barring injury concerns (if any), the batting order might look the same. Kohli, Bumrah take charge Another highlight of Team India’s first training session in Brisbane was Virat Kohli’s animated pep talk before the proceedings began. He assembled everyone and pumped them up before hitting the nets for an extended session. Virat also kept talking with batting coach Ryan ten Doeschate about working on the rising deliveries that troubled him twice in two matches. On the other hand, pace leader Jasprit Bumrah led the charge, sharing inputs with newcomer Nitish Kumar Reddy on navigating his weight in the right direction, extracting more pace out of it. Mohammed Siraj, who made headlines for his send-off to Travis Head during the Adelaide Test, also spent time with Team India’s video analyst Hari and bowling coach Morne Morkel, working on his release point to get more swing. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: India lock openers for Gabba Test, Rohit Sharma to continue batting at 6 – Report

<p>After India suffered an embarrassing 10-wicket defeat against Australia in the second BGT Test in Adelaide, several former players and pundits came down hard on the visiting camp, mainly veteran duo of Virat Kohli and skipper Rohit Sharma, for their poor outing in the Pink-Ball Test. While Kohli got out chasing the fifth stump line in the second innings, Rohit never looked in his element across both, playing at number six in his return game.</p>

<p>The Indian captain missed the series opener in Perth for personal reasons and linked up with the BGT-bound squad midway through the first Test. Though he played the warm-up match against Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra, getting out cheaply, his demotion in the batting order to adjust KL Rahul at the top, who did wonders at the Optus Stadium, hurt Rohit and India massively in Adelaide.</p>

<p>As the star players failed to deliver under the lights, India conceded the 1-0 lead, with the scores tied heading into the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane starting December 14.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-chairman-jay-shah-arrives-in-brisbane-to-attend-the-2032-olympics-meet-783369">ICC chairman Jay Shah arrives in Brisbane to attend the 2032 Olympics meet</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, former India coach and Australia great Greg Chapell expressed his views on the Test future of these two stalwarts. Backing them to continue playing for as long as they wish, adding they deserve to take a call on their future whenever they want, Chappell argued if Virat and Rohit’s form is hurting India, the Indian Board must have robust selectors to take tougher calls for the betterment of their cricket.</p>

<p>“You know yourself whether you’re at your peak or not. But they obviously love playing the game. They want to play it as long as they can, and they have every reason, every right to want to go as long as they can. That’s why you need good, robust selection policies and selection panels to make those tough decisions,” Chappell said, as quoted by the Hindustan Times. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s not up to the players necessarily to make those decisions. They might want to make that decision. But it’s a well-paid job. Who’s going to walk away from it? Someone else has to make that decision. That’s why you need robust selection panels and policies,” he continued.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>‘Tough to take those calls’</h2>

<p>Pressing on how important it is for the selectors, the players and the board to be on the same page, with a mutual interest being the improvement and winning series and titles for the team, Chappell said it’s never easy to chat with ‘Big Boys’ of any team about their futures.</p>

<p>“It’s very tough. You’ve got to pick the right people to be selectors, the ones that are prepared to have those tough conversations. They can be. Depends on the relationships between the various people in the room. But we all go through it, everyone that plays at that level.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“You’ll have your ups and downs as a player. With good players, you prefer to give them a game too many than a game too few. So, it’s always tough to get that balance right.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Everyone goes through it; every team goes through it. No cricket team is ever a finished article. You’re always looking at ways that you might improve it. So, you’re constantly bringing players in, bringing players out. But when you get the superstars, you want them to go as long as they possibly can. So, occasionally you might let them go a bit too long,” Chappell noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After India suffered an embarrassing 10-wicket defeat against Australia in the second BGT Test in Adelaide, several former players and pundits came down hard on the visiting camp, mainly veteran duo of Virat Kohli and skipper Rohit Sharma, for their poor outing in the Pink-Ball Test.

After India suffered an embarrassing 10-wicket defeat against Australia in the second BGT Test in Adelaide, several former players and pundits came down hard on the visiting camp, mainly veteran duo of Virat Kohli and skipper Rohit Sharma, for their poor outing in the Pink-Ball Test. While Kohli got out chasing the fifth stump line in the second innings, Rohit never looked in his element across both, playing at number six in his return game. The Indian captain missed the series opener in Perth for personal reasons and linked up with the BGT-bound squad midway through the first Test. Though he played the warm-up match against Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra, getting out cheaply, his demotion in the batting order to adjust KL Rahul at the top, who did wonders at the Optus Stadium, hurt Rohit and India massively in Adelaide. As the star players failed to deliver under the lights, India conceded the 1-0 lead, with the scores tied heading into the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane starting December 14. ALSO READ: ICC chairman Jay Shah arrives in Brisbane to attend the 2032 Olympics meet Meanwhile, former India coach and Australia great Greg Chapell expressed his views on the Test future of these two stalwarts. Backing them to continue playing for as long as they wish, adding they deserve to take a call on their future whenever they want, Chappell argued if Virat and Rohit’s form is hurting India, the Indian Board must have robust selectors to take tougher calls for the betterment of their cricket. “You know yourself whether you’re at your peak or not. But they obviously love playing the game. They want to play it as long as they can, and they have every reason, every right to want to go as long as they can. That’s why you need good, robust selection policies and selection panels to make those tough decisions,” Chappell said, as quoted by the Hindustan Times. “It’s not up to the players necessarily to make those decisions. They might want to make that decision. But it’s a well-paid job. Who’s going to walk away from it? Someone else has to make that decision. That’s why you need robust selection panels and policies,” he continued. ‘Tough to take those calls’ Pressing on how important it is for the selectors, the players and the board to be on the same page, with a mutual interest being the improvement and winning series and titles for the team, Chappell said it’s never easy to chat with ‘Big Boys’ of any team about their futures. “It’s very tough. You’ve got to pick the right people to be selectors, the ones that are prepared to have those tough conversations. They can be. Depends on the relationships between the various people in the room. But we all go through it, everyone that plays at that level. “You’ll have your ups and downs as a player. With good players, you prefer to give them a game too many than a game too few. So, it’s always tough to get that balance right. “Everyone goes through it; every team goes through it. No cricket team is ever a finished article. You’re always looking at ways that you might improve it. So, you’re constantly bringing players in, bringing players out. But when you get the superstars, you want them to go as long as they possibly can. So, occasionally you might let them go a bit too long,” Chappell noted. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT, Gabba Test - BCCI needs robust selectors to take tough calls: Greg Chappell on Kohli, Rohit’s Test future