India lost three early wickets in the form of KL Rahul, Murli Vijay and skipper Virat Kohli.

While batting, India were at a score of 21 for a loss of three wickets after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-test-day-1-virat-kohli-opts-to-bat-in-adelaide-test-181755">winning the toss</a> in the first innings of the first Test against Australia at Adelaide Oval.

Josh Hazelwood struck in the second over itself and got KL Rahul's wicket, who thought to go for the drive but edged it in the safe hands of Aaron Finch.

Murli Vijay,&nbsp;in the side after young gun Prithvi Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in a warm-up game, was struggling with the seam and caught by Australian skipper Tim Paine as he edged Mitchell Starc's ball.

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Huge wicket! 
 
Cummins sends back Kohli in his first over, with Khawaja taking an absolute blinder at gully. 
 
India in all sorts of trouble at 19/3. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/gfZRF74IvF">pic.twitter.com/gfZRF74IvF</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1070481956570320896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Australia got the most prized scalp in the form of Kohli when Khawaja dived on his left side to take a stunner on Pat Cummins ball.

Ajinkya Rahane and Pujara were playing at two and three runs respectively.

India have never won a Test series in Australia.

India lost three early wickets in the form of KL Rahul, Murli Vijay and skipper Virat Kohli. While batting, India were at a score of 21 for a loss of three wickets after winning the toss in the first innings of the first Test against Australia at Adelaide Oval.

India lost three early wickets in the form of KL Rahul, Murli Vijay and skipper Virat Kohli. While batting, India were at a score of 21 for a loss of three wickets after winning the toss in the first innings of the first Test against Australia at Adelaide Oval. Josh Hazelwood struck in the second over itself and got KL Rahul's wicket, who thought to go for the drive but edged it in the safe hands of Aaron Finch. Murli Vijay, in the side after young gun Prithvi Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in a warm-up game, was struggling with the seam and caught by Australian skipper Tim Paine as he edged Mitchell Starc's ball. Huge wicket! Cummins sends back Kohli in his first over, with Khawaja taking an absolute blinder at gully. India in all sorts of trouble at 19/3. #AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/gfZRF74IvF — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × Australia got the most prized scalp in the form of Kohli when Khawaja dived on his left side to take a stunner on Pat Cummins ball. Ajinkya Rahane and Pujara were playing at two and three runs respectively. India have never won a Test series in Australia.

India vs Australia, 1st Test, Day 1: India at 21-3 after 11 overs

Australia-India, the classic rivalry: Here are 5 memorable Test clashes

No.1 Test team India will take on Australia tomorrow in the first of the four test-game series. The upcoming games are seen by the cricket pundits as the best chance for the Men in Blue to end their Test series jinx as Australia will be without Steve Smith and David Warner.

The Indian cricket team has never won a Test series in Australia but with the star batsmen not being part of the Australian squad due to their roles in the ball-tampering scandal, the visitors for the first time will enter the ground as favourites.&nbsp;

A day before the nail-biting clash begins, let's take a look at the top five Indian batsmen who could make a big impact against Australia.&nbsp;

1) Virat Kohli:&nbsp;Virat, the number 1-ranked Test batsman in the world, has been in top form this year in all formats. So far in 2018, Kohli has played a total of 10 Test matches so far, scoring 1,063 runs, including four centuries, at an average of 59.05. Out of the 10 Tests, eight were outside of India - five in England and three in South Africa. In the five Tests in England, Kohli amassed 593 runs at an average of 59.30 while in South Africa, the Indian skipper scored 286 runs in 3 Tests at an average of 47.66.

2) Murali Vijay: The India opener has not been in his best form so far but has the potential to take the Aussie bowlers apart. He has played six Tests, scoring a total of 233 runs at a dismal average of 21.18 with just a solitary century to his name. &nbsp;Due to his poor show, Vijay was ignored for the two-Test series against the Windies in India but made his case for an opening slot in the Adelaide Test with a classy 132-ball 129, which included 16 boundaries and five sixes. The last time Vijay played in Adelaide, he scored 53 and 99. In the four-match series in 2014/15, which India lost 0-2, he had scored a total of 482 runs at an average of 60.25.

3) KL Rahul: Like his opening partner, Rahul too has struggled in the longest format of the game this year. The 26-year-old has played 10 Tests this year, scoring a total of 420 runs at an average of 24.70 with just a single hundred. Consistency has been Rahul's biggest problem and the right-hander should count himself lucky that Prithvi Shaw is injured, getting a chance to prove his worth again.&nbsp;

4) Cheteshwar Pujara: Pujara too has had an underwhelming year but the middle-order batsman has scored 509 runs in 10 Tests this year at an average of 31.81 with one century to his name. The right-hander struggled big time in South Africa with a return of just 100 runs in the three Tests at an average of 16.66. His poor performance against the Proteas saw him being dropped from the first Test against England at Edgbaston. But he returned for the next four Tests where he managed to score 278 runs at an average of 39.71.

5) Rishabh Pant: The young wicketkeeper-batsman is seen as the perfect replacement for MS Dhoni, both as gloveman and middle-order batsman. &nbsp;His performances with the bat, in his brief period with the Indian Test team that has also raised expectations among the fans. Pant has played five Tests in total -- three in England and two against the Windies in India. He has scored 346 runs at an average of 43.25. The youngster already has a Test century to his name and that also in England. The 21-year-old was prolific against the Windies as well, scoring 184 runs in the two-Test series at an average of 92.

No.1 Test team India will take on Australia tomorrow in the first of the four test-game series. The upcoming games are seen by the cricket pundits as the best chance for the Men in Blue to end their Test series jinx as Australia will be without Steve Smith and David Warner.

No.1 Test team India will take on Australia tomorrow in the first of the four test-game series. The upcoming games are seen by the cricket pundits as the best chance for the Men in Blue to end their Test series jinx as Australia will be without Steve Smith and David Warner. The Indian cricket team has never won a Test series in Australia but with the star batsmen not being part of the Australian squad due to their roles in the ball-tampering scandal, the visitors for the first time will enter the ground as favourites. A day before the nail-biting clash begins, let's take a look at the top five Indian batsmen who could make a big impact against Australia. 1) Virat Kohli: Virat, the number 1-ranked Test batsman in the world, has been in top form this year in all formats. So far in 2018, Kohli has played a total of 10 Test matches so far, scoring 1,063 runs, including four centuries, at an average of 59.05. Out of the 10 Tests, eight were outside of India - five in England and three in South Africa. In the five Tests in England, Kohli amassed 593 runs at an average of 59.30 while in South Africa, the Indian skipper scored 286 runs in 3 Tests at an average of 47.66. 2) Murali Vijay: The India opener has not been in his best form so far but has the potential to take the Aussie bowlers apart. He has played six Tests, scoring a total of 233 runs at a dismal average of 21.18 with just a solitary century to his name. Due to his poor show, Vijay was ignored for the two-Test series against the Windies in India but made his case for an opening slot in the Adelaide Test with a classy 132-ball 129, which included 16 boundaries and five sixes. The last time Vijay played in Adelaide, he scored 53 and 99. In the four-match series in 2014/15, which India lost 0-2, he had scored a total of 482 runs at an average of 60.25. 3) KL Rahul: Like his opening partner, Rahul too has struggled in the longest format of the game this year. The 26-year-old has played 10 Tests this year, scoring a total of 420 runs at an average of 24.70 with just a single hundred. Consistency has been Rahul's biggest problem and the right-hander should count himself lucky that Prithvi Shaw is injured, getting a chance to prove his worth again. 4) Cheteshwar Pujara: Pujara too has had an underwhelming year but the middle-order batsman has scored 509 runs in 10 Tests this year at an average of 31.81 with one century to his name. The right-hander struggled big time in South Africa with a return of just 100 runs in the three Tests at an average of 16.66. His poor performance against the Proteas saw him being dropped from the first Test against England at Edgbaston. But he returned for the next four Tests where he managed to score 278 runs at an average of 39.71. 5) Rishabh Pant: The young wicketkeeper-batsman is seen as the perfect replacement for MS Dhoni, both as gloveman and middle-order batsman. His performances with the bat, in his brief period with the Indian Test team that has also raised expectations among the fans. Pant has played five Tests in total -- three in England and two against the Windies in India. He has scored 346 runs at an average of 43.25. The youngster already has a Test century to his name and that also in England. The 21-year-old was prolific against the Windies as well, scoring 184 runs in the two-Test series at an average of 92.

1st Test: 5 Indian batsmen to watch out for against Australia at Adelaide

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Wednesday said India would bring their 'A' game from the first ball that would be played at the Adelaide Oval against Australia in the first test and look to build on a positive start.

Kohli has plenty of respect Down Under having plundered former Australian captain Michael Clarke's side for 692 runs during the 2014/15 series.

But Australia and its unforgiving pitches have been kryptonite to Indian cricket, and Kohli's starring role in the last series was in a losing cause.

Pundits have nonetheless backed Kohli's side to do what no other Asian team has done and win a test series in Australia, though for that to happen the skipper will need his team mates to chip in with more runs than they did in series defeats in South Africa and England.

"They still have the skill to dominate at home. We're not taking anything for granted," Kohli told reporters at Adelaide Oval.

With scorching heat forecast for Thursday (December 06), Kohli said Pandya's absence would be a blow but he backed his quicks to pick up the extra burden.

Meanwhile, Australian captain Tim Paine said Paine said the hosts would be inclined to bat first if he won the toss against counterpart Virat Kohli.

"You want to bat on days when it's 40 degrees," said the wicketkeeper.

Paine also confirmed that fast bowling all-rounder Mitchell Marsh had been omitted and the hosts will go into the match with six specialist batsmen.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Wednesday said India would bring their 'A' game from the first ball that would be played at the Adelaide Oval against Australia in the first test and look to build on a positive start.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Wednesday said India would bring their 'A' game from the first ball that would be played at the Adelaide Oval against Australia in the first test and look to build on a positive start. Kohli has plenty of respect Down Under having plundered former Australian captain Michael Clarke's side for 692 runs during the 2014/15 series. But Australia and its unforgiving pitches have been kryptonite to Indian cricket, and Kohli's starring role in the last series was in a losing cause. Pundits have nonetheless backed Kohli's side to do what no other Asian team has done and win a test series in Australia, though for that to happen the skipper will need his team mates to chip in with more runs than they did in series defeats in South Africa and England. "They still have the skill to dominate at home. We're not taking anything for granted," Kohli told reporters at Adelaide Oval. With scorching heat forecast for Thursday (December 06), Kohli said Pandya's absence would be a blow but he backed his quicks to pick up the extra burden. Meanwhile, Australian captain Tim Paine said Paine said the hosts would be inclined to bat first if he won the toss against counterpart Virat Kohli. "You want to bat on days when it's 40 degrees," said the wicketkeeper. Paine also confirmed that fast bowling all-rounder Mitchell Marsh had been omitted and the hosts will go into the match with six specialist batsmen.

Virat Kohli says India to bring ‘A’ game versus Australia in Adelaide

The brother of Australian cricket star Usman Khawaja was charged on Tuesday with creating what police described as fake plans for attacks against prominent people that led to the imprisonment of another man he saw as a rival for the affections of a woman.

Arsalan Tariq Khawaja was granted bail in Sydney's Parramatta Local Court on Tuesday afternoon on charges of attempting to pervert the course of justice and forgery. He was arrested in western Sydney earlier as part of a New South Wales Joint Counter Terrorism Team investigation.

Police allege 39-year-old Arsalan Khawaja created a fake document "containing plans that purported to facilitate terrorism attacks". The document led them to arrest and imprison 25-year-old Mohamed Kamer Nizamdeen in August.

Nizamdeen was released in October after it was shown his handwriting did not match that in the document, which domestic media reported included threats against then prime minister Malcolm Turnbull and others.

"We regret what happened to Mr Nizamdeen. But, really, the person who is responsible for what occurred to him is the person we're alleging manufactured this document," Assistant Police Commissioner Mick Willing told reporters in Sydney.

"We will be alleging that he was set up in a planned and calculated manner," he said.

Willing said police believed the plot was motivated by a grievance over a woman who was courted by both men.

Police said there was no actual threat related to the document they allege Khawaja fabricated.

The arrest came just two days before his brother, Usman, is expected to play for Australia in the first test match of a four-game series against India in Adelaide.

"This is a matter for the police to deal with," Usman Khawaja said a statement he read out in Adelaide on Tuesday.

"Out of respect for the process it'd be inappropriate for me to be making any further comment. I just ask for you to please respect my privacy and my family's privacy during this time," he said.

The brother of Australian cricket star Usman Khawaja was charged on Tuesday with creating what police described as fake plans for attacks against prominent people that led to the imprisonment of another man he saw as a rival for the affections of a woman.

The brother of Australian cricket star Usman Khawaja was charged on Tuesday with creating what police described as fake plans for attacks against prominent people that led to the imprisonment of another man he saw as a rival for the affections of a woman. Arsalan Tariq Khawaja was granted bail in Sydney's Parramatta Local Court on Tuesday afternoon on charges of attempting to pervert the course of justice and forgery. He was arrested in western Sydney earlier as part of a New South Wales Joint Counter Terrorism Team investigation. Police allege 39-year-old Arsalan Khawaja created a fake document "containing plans that purported to facilitate terrorism attacks". The document led them to arrest and imprison 25-year-old Mohamed Kamer Nizamdeen in August. Nizamdeen was released in October after it was shown his handwriting did not match that in the document, which domestic media reported included threats against then prime minister Malcolm Turnbull and others. "We regret what happened to Mr Nizamdeen. But, really, the person who is responsible for what occurred to him is the person we're alleging manufactured this document," Assistant Police Commissioner Mick Willing told reporters in Sydney. "We will be alleging that he was set up in a planned and calculated manner," he said. Willing said police believed the plot was motivated by a grievance over a woman who was courted by both men. Police said there was no actual threat related to the document they allege Khawaja fabricated. The arrest came just two days before his brother, Usman, is expected to play for Australia in the first test match of a four-game series against India in Adelaide. "This is a matter for the police to deal with," Usman Khawaja said a statement he read out in Adelaide on Tuesday. "Out of respect for the process it'd be inappropriate for me to be making any further comment. I just ask for you to please respect my privacy and my family's privacy during this time," he said.

Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja's brother charged for faking 'terrorism attacks'

West Indies cricket star Chris Gayle Monday won a Aus$300,000 (US$221,000) payout from an Australian media group which claimed he exposed his genitals to a massage therapist.

The all-rounder was accused by Fairfax Media, publisher of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, in a series of stories in the newspapers in 2016.

They alleged he exposed his penis and indecently propositioned the woman in a dressing room at the 2015 World Cup in Sydney.

Gayle strenuously denied the allegations, claiming at the time that the journalists behind the story wanted to "destroy him".

His teammate Dwayne Smith, who was in the changing room at the time, also denied the incident took place.

He won his defamation case in October last year, with jurors finding Fairfax was motivated by malice and had failed to establish a defence of truth.

New South Wales Supreme Court Justice Lucy McCallum said in awarding the payout that being accused of such conduct was "very damaging to Mr Gayle's reputation", according to a report in Fairfax newspapers.

She added that Gayle's evidence on hurt to his feelings was "surprisingly compelling".

Fairfax said it planned to lodge an immediate appeal.

The publication of the stories followed an uproar after Gayle attempted to flirt with an Australian presenter on live TV, asking her out for a drink and telling her: "Don't blush, baby."

After winning the court case, Gayle tried to spark a bidding war for a tell-all interview on the case, promising that "when I break this down to y'all it will be like a movie".

"Biding (sic) starts at US$300K for this interview! So much to say &amp; I will!" he tweeted to his then 3.75 million followers.

There were no takers.

West Indies cricket star Chris Gayle Monday won a Aus$300,000 (US$221,000) payout from an Australian media group which claimed he exposed his genitals to a massage therapist.

West Indies cricket star Chris Gayle Monday won a Aus$300,000 (US$221,000) payout from an Australian media group which claimed he exposed his genitals to a massage therapist. The all-rounder was accused by Fairfax Media, publisher of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, in a series of stories in the newspapers in 2016. They alleged he exposed his penis and indecently propositioned the woman in a dressing room at the 2015 World Cup in Sydney. Gayle strenuously denied the allegations, claiming at the time that the journalists behind the story wanted to "destroy him". His teammate Dwayne Smith, who was in the changing room at the time, also denied the incident took place. He won his defamation case in October last year, with jurors finding Fairfax was motivated by malice and had failed to establish a defence of truth. New South Wales Supreme Court Justice Lucy McCallum said in awarding the payout that being accused of such conduct was "very damaging to Mr Gayle's reputation", according to a report in Fairfax newspapers. She added that Gayle's evidence on hurt to his feelings was "surprisingly compelling". Fairfax said it planned to lodge an immediate appeal. The publication of the stories followed an uproar after Gayle attempted to flirt with an Australian presenter on live TV, asking her out for a drink and telling her: "Don't blush, baby." After winning the court case, Gayle tried to spark a bidding war for a tell-all interview on the case, promising that "when I break this down to y'all it will be like a movie". "Biding (sic) starts at US$300K for this interview! So much to say & I will!" he tweeted to his then 3.75 million followers. There were no takers.

Chris Gayle wins Australia masseuse defamation payout

Two armed men were holed up in an apartment building on Monday after a shot was fired at police in Brisbane, Australia.

The area in Auchenflower suburb was on lockdown with all surrounding areas cordoned off.

Two armed men remain inside the unit, Queensland Police said on Twitter, but no one has been injured.

Police responded to the incident on Coronation Drive shortly after 11 am and an emergency declaration was made, police said in a statement.

The public has been asked to avoid the area.

Two armed men were holed up in an apartment building on Monday after a shot was fired at police in Brisbane, Australia. The area in Auchenflower suburb was on lockdown with all surrounding areas cordoned off.

Two armed men were holed up in an apartment building on Monday after a shot was fired at police in Brisbane, Australia. The area in Auchenflower suburb was on lockdown with all surrounding areas cordoned off. Two armed men remain inside the unit, Queensland Police said on Twitter, but no one has been injured. Police responded to the incident on Coronation Drive shortly after 11 am and an emergency declaration was made, police said in a statement. The public has been asked to avoid the area.

Brisbane suburb on lockdown after 2 armed men hole up in apartment

India vs Australia, 1st Test: Adelaide pitch will play crucial role

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/act-now-or-risk-disaster-world-told-at-un-climate-summit-181034">Act now or risk disaster, world told at UN climate summit</a>

After the starkest warnings yet of the catastrophic threat posed by climate change, nations gathered in Poland on Sunday to chart a way for mankind to avert runaway global warming.&nbsp;

The COP24 climate summit comes at a crucial juncture in the battle to rein in the effects of our heating planet.&nbsp;

UN General Assembly president Maria Espinosa said mankind was "in danger of disappearing" if climate change was allowed to progress at its current rate.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-speaking-against-pm-modi-or-bjp-require-me-to-leave-is-it-not-my-country-owaisi-181036">History </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-speaking-against-pm-modi-or-bjp-require-me-to-leave-is-it-not-my-country-owaisi-181036">mein</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-speaking-against-pm-modi-or-bjp-require-me-to-leave-is-it-not-my-country-owaisi-181036"> zero </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-speaking-against-pm-modi-or-bjp-require-me-to-leave-is-it-not-my-country-owaisi-181036">hain</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-speaking-against-pm-modi-or-bjp-require-me-to-leave-is-it-not-my-country-owaisi-181036"> </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-speaking-against-pm-modi-or-bjp-require-me-to-leave-is-it-not-my-country-owaisi-181036">aap</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-speaking-against-pm-modi-or-bjp-require-me-to-leave-is-it-not-my-country-owaisi-181036">: Asaduddin Owaisi responds to Yogi Adityanath</a>

AIMIM chief, Asaduddin Owaisi, on Sunday launched an attack on BJP asking if those who speak against the saffron party or its leadership will be asked to leave the country.&nbsp;

Owaisi's comments came as a reaction to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's remark wherein he stated that Owaisi will have to flee the state if BJP comes to power in Telangana.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-will-grant-kim-jong-uns-wishes-after-denuclearisation-south-korea-president-181032">Trump will grant Kim Jong Un's wishes after denuclearisation: South Korea president</a>

US President Donald Trump will grant North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un his wishes if he delivers on denuclearisation, the South Korean president said Sunday, following talks on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

As officials work to arrange a second meeting between Trump and Kim, South Korea's Moon Jae-in relayed a message to reporters given to him by the US president to pass on to the North's leader.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-link-to-rajiv-gandhis-assassination-claims-ltte-181030">'No link' to Rajiv Gandhi's assassination, claims LTTE</a>

In an alleged statement, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has claimed that they had 'no link' in the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in May 1991.

The alleged letter from LTTE has been signed by their Political Wing representative Kurburan Guruswami and Legal Wing representative Lathan Chandralingam.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/un-doctors-hammer-australia-over-refugee-camps-181042">UN, doctors hammer Australia over refugee camps</a>

Australia's under-pressure government received a double blow Monday from the United Nations and a leading doctors' group over harsh treatment of refugees on off-shore island camps.

In an unusual broadside, a top official for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees accused "bureaucrats and politicians" of overruling doctors and putting lives at risk at camps on Nauru and Manus.

Act now or risk disaster, world told at UN climate summit After the starkest warnings yet of the catastrophic threat posed by climate change, nations gathered in Poland on Sunday to chart a way for mankind to avert runaway global warming.

Act now or risk disaster, world told at UN climate summit After the starkest warnings yet of the catastrophic threat posed by climate change, nations gathered in Poland on Sunday to chart a way for mankind to avert runaway global warming. The COP24 climate summit comes at a crucial juncture in the battle to rein in the effects of our heating planet. UN General Assembly president Maria Espinosa said mankind was "in danger of disappearing" if climate change was allowed to progress at its current rate. History mein zero hain aap: Asaduddin Owaisi responds to Yogi Adityanath AIMIM chief, Asaduddin Owaisi, on Sunday launched an attack on BJP asking if those who speak against the saffron party or its leadership will be asked to leave the country. Owaisi's comments came as a reaction to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's remark wherein he stated that Owaisi will have to flee the state if BJP comes to power in Telangana. Trump will grant Kim Jong Un's wishes after denuclearisation: South Korea president US President Donald Trump will grant North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un his wishes if he delivers on denuclearisation, the South Korean president said Sunday, following talks on the sidelines of the G20 summit. As officials work to arrange a second meeting between Trump and Kim, South Korea's Moon Jae-in relayed a message to reporters given to him by the US president to pass on to the North's leader. 'No link' to Rajiv Gandhi's assassination, claims LTTE In an alleged statement, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has claimed that they had 'no link' in the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in May 1991. The alleged letter from LTTE has been signed by their Political Wing representative Kurburan Guruswami and Legal Wing representative Lathan Chandralingam. UN, doctors hammer Australia over refugee camps Australia's under-pressure government received a double blow Monday from the United Nations and a leading doctors' group over harsh treatment of refugees on off-shore island camps. In an unusual broadside, a top official for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees accused "bureaucrats and politicians" of overruling doctors and putting lives at risk at camps on Nauru and Manus.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Australia's under-pressure government received a double blow Monday from the United Nations and a leading doctors' group over harsh treatment of refugees on off-shore island camps.

In an unusual broadside, a top official for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees accused "bureaucrats and politicians" of overruling doctors and putting lives at risk at camps on Nauru and Manus.

Australia holds unauthorised migrants who try to reach the island continent by boat in "off-shore detention" -- part of a harsh policy designed to deter would-be asylum-seekers.

UNHCR's Catherine Stubberfield decried the policy as "sold too simplistically" and said changing it was now a matter of "basic human treatment and decency."

The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) on Monday also threw its voice behind those calling for the government to change course.

Around 160 people remain on the island of Nauru -- including women and children -- and it is believed as many as 600 men are still in transition centres on Manus after the Australian-run camp there was closed late last year.

The minority government of Prime Minister Scott Morrison has quietly agreed to transfer children off Nauru, but is under fierce pressure to close it completely.

Doctor and independent member of parliament Kerryn Phelps on Monday put forward legislation requiring the temporary transfer from Nauru or Manus of anyone assessed as needing medical treatment as well as the temporary transfer of all children and their families from Nauru.

Eyewitnesses -- including AFP journalists -- have reported a dire situation on Nauru, with families living under constant fear of loved ones committing suicide.

On Monday, Medecins Sans Frontieres also reported that almost a third of the people they had treated on Nauru before being expelled by the government in October had reported attempted suicide.

A dozen patients, the organisation said, had been diagnosed with "resignation syndrome" -- a condition that causes people to withdraw into themselves in an almost comatose state.

David Isaacs of the RACP, a paediatrician who treated children on Nauru in 2015, said access to medical care "must be determined by a doctor – not a politician".

"There is a medical crisis in offshore detention," said Isaacs. "It is a crisis that is entirely preventable. The government can act to end it."

Polls show that a large number of Australians would like to bring the remaining children off Nauru, but are split on whether the broader population should be brought to Australia.

The tough offshore detention policy is popular with Morrison's right-wing base, which he needs to shore up dwindling support in parliament ahead of national elections due to be held by May.

Morrison has argued the policy deters people smugglers and saves lives.

"There are more medical professionals on Nauru, than there are children," he claimed last month.&nbsp;

But the latest volley from the UNHCR will only add to the pressure.

"Australia retains responsibility for those it has relocated under so-called 'offshore processing'," warned Stubberfield.

She suggested the government policy was partly responsible for the death of 24-year-old Hamid Khazaei, who died of sepsis contracted on Manus Island.

"Had he been evacuated to Australia within 24 hours of developing severe sepsis, Khazaei would have survived."

Australia's under-pressure government received a double blow Monday from the United Nations and a leading doctors' group over harsh treatment of refugees on off-shore island camps.

Australia's under-pressure government received a double blow Monday from the United Nations and a leading doctors' group over harsh treatment of refugees on off-shore island camps. In an unusual broadside, a top official for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees accused "bureaucrats and politicians" of overruling doctors and putting lives at risk at camps on Nauru and Manus. Australia holds unauthorised migrants who try to reach the island continent by boat in "off-shore detention" -- part of a harsh policy designed to deter would-be asylum-seekers. UNHCR's Catherine Stubberfield decried the policy as "sold too simplistically" and said changing it was now a matter of "basic human treatment and decency." The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) on Monday also threw its voice behind those calling for the government to change course. Around 160 people remain on the island of Nauru -- including women and children -- and it is believed as many as 600 men are still in transition centres on Manus after the Australian-run camp there was closed late last year. The minority government of Prime Minister Scott Morrison has quietly agreed to transfer children off Nauru, but is under fierce pressure to close it completely. Doctor and independent member of parliament Kerryn Phelps on Monday put forward legislation requiring the temporary transfer from Nauru or Manus of anyone assessed as needing medical treatment as well as the temporary transfer of all children and their families from Nauru. Eyewitnesses -- including AFP journalists -- have reported a dire situation on Nauru, with families living under constant fear of loved ones committing suicide. On Monday, Medecins Sans Frontieres also reported that almost a third of the people they had treated on Nauru before being expelled by the government in October had reported attempted suicide. A dozen patients, the organisation said, had been diagnosed with "resignation syndrome" -- a condition that causes people to withdraw into themselves in an almost comatose state. David Isaacs of the RACP, a paediatrician who treated children on Nauru in 2015, said access to medical care "must be determined by a doctor – not a politician". "There is a medical crisis in offshore detention," said Isaacs. "It is a crisis that is entirely preventable. The government can act to end it." Polls show that a large number of Australians would like to bring the remaining children off Nauru, but are split on whether the broader population should be brought to Australia. The tough offshore detention policy is popular with Morrison's right-wing base, which he needs to shore up dwindling support in parliament ahead of national elections due to be held by May. Morrison has argued the policy deters people smugglers and saves lives. "There are more medical professionals on Nauru, than there are children," he claimed last month. But the latest volley from the UNHCR will only add to the pressure. "Australia retains responsibility for those it has relocated under so-called 'offshore processing'," warned Stubberfield. She suggested the government policy was partly responsible for the death of 24-year-old Hamid Khazaei, who died of sepsis contracted on Manus Island. "Had he been evacuated to Australia within 24 hours of developing severe sepsis, Khazaei would have survived."

UN, doctors hammer Australia over refugee camps

Former Australian player Steve Waugh praised Indian skipper Virat Kohli saying, he is a "great player", ahead of the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2018-19-schedule-teams-time-and-venue-177740">Adelaide Test</a>, which will start from December 6.

While speaking to a&nbsp;cricket-related website,&nbsp;Waugh was asked how Australia should tackle the Kohli threat.

Waugh replied, "He [Virat Kohli] is a great player and loves the big moment, a bit like Tendulkar and Lara."

India captain Virat Kohli is likely to be the biggest threat for the Australian bowlers, as they look to maintain their unbeaten record at home against the Asian giants.

The&nbsp;53-year-old said that&nbsp;the upcoming four-match rubber is a "significant chance" for India to win their first Test series Down Under.&nbsp;

Aussies' former captain added, "They wait for these big series and that's where they want to show their best. So who is the dangerman for Australia? They have got some really good batsmen, they have got a very good all-round team."

"I will see this as a significant chance and they would have prepared for this tour for a long time, I think it's going to be a really close series."

Former wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist said the visitors would mainly bank on their talismanic skipper to get runs on the board.

"Virat is clearly the best player in the world at the moment. So India will look to him to score heavily but all are going to have their challenges and as too will the Australian batting line-up," Gilchrist said.&nbsp;

The big-hitting batsman of yesteryears was of the opinion that the Australian pace attack comprising Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood could pose tough questions.

"I think Pat Cummins is outstanding, Hazlewood is almost McGrath like with his bowling. Those three guys and there are a couple in the wings who are high-quality fast bowlers."

Former Australian player Steve Waugh praised Indian skipper Virat Kohli saying, he is a "great player", ahead of the Adelaide Test, which will start from December 6.

Former Australian player Steve Waugh praised Indian skipper Virat Kohli saying, he is a "great player", ahead of the Adelaide Test, which will start from December 6. While speaking to a cricket-related website, Waugh was asked how Australia should tackle the Kohli threat. Waugh replied, "He [Virat Kohli] is a great player and loves the big moment, a bit like Tendulkar and Lara." India captain Virat Kohli is likely to be the biggest threat for the Australian bowlers, as they look to maintain their unbeaten record at home against the Asian giants. The 53-year-old said that the upcoming four-match rubber is a "significant chance" for India to win their first Test series Down Under. Aussies' former captain added, "They wait for these big series and that's where they want to show their best. So who is the dangerman for Australia? They have got some really good batsmen, they have got a very good all-round team." "I will see this as a significant chance and they would have prepared for this tour for a long time, I think it's going to be a really close series." Former wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist said the visitors would mainly bank on their talismanic skipper to get runs on the board. "Virat is clearly the best player in the world at the moment. So India will look to him to score heavily but all are going to have their challenges and as too will the Australian batting line-up," Gilchrist said. The big-hitting batsman of yesteryears was of the opinion that the Australian pace attack comprising Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood could pose tough questions. "I think Pat Cummins is outstanding, Hazlewood is almost McGrath like with his bowling. Those three guys and there are a couple in the wings who are high-quality fast bowlers."

Virat Kohli is bit like Tendulkar and Lara, says Steve Waugh ahead of Adelaide Test

India batsman Prithvi Shaw has been ruled out of next week's first Test against Australia after the young opener injured his ankle while fielding during a tour match in Sydney on Friday, according to the country's cricket board (BCCI).

The 19-year-old was taken to hospital for scans after he rolled his left ankle when taking a catch on the deep mid-wicket boundary and tumbled over the rope during the third day of the warm-up contest against an Australia XI.

Shaw was chaired off the field by India physiotherapist Patrick Farhart and a support staff member into the away team dressing room at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

"Shaw underwent scans this morning and the reports revealed a lateral ligament injury," BCCI said in a statement. "Shaw will be unavailable for the first Test against Australia in Adelaide.

"He will undergo an intensive rehabilitation program to hasten the recovery and be available for selection at the earliest."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2018-19-schedule-teams-time-and-venue-177740">India vs Australia 2018-19: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

It was a massive blow for India with the promising teenager an almost certain starter in the four-match series after a spectacular debut against West Indies last month.

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Update: The medical team is assessing Prithvi Shaw at the moment. He hurt his left ankle while attempting to take a catch at the boundary ropes. Shaw is being taken to the hospital for scans <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/PVyCHBO98e">pic.twitter.com/PVyCHBO98e</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1068297480452759552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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UPDATE: Prithvi Shaw ruled out of first Test against Australia in Adelaide. Full details here ---&gt; <a href="https://t.co/bKZRSodVyR">https://t.co/bKZRSodVyR</a> <a href="https://t.co/gqFWUJKxNf">pic.twitter.com/gqFWUJKxNf</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1068372247792934912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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India's other opening batsman Lokesh Rahul has struggled for runs and the third option, Murali Vijay, is on the comeback trail after he was dropped following a poor tour of England earlier this year.

Shaw scored an attacking 134 on his debut against West Indies and followed up with a 70 and unbeaten 33 in the second Test against the Caribbean side.

He was also impressive on Thursday with a sparkling 66, hitting 11 boundaries in his 69-ball knock.

India would hope to have him back in the starting lineup for the second Test at Perth, starting on Dec. 14.

India batsman Prithvi Shaw has been ruled out of next week's first Test against Australia after the young opener injured his ankle while fielding during a tour match in Sydney on Friday, according to the country's cricket board (BCCI).

India batsman Prithvi Shaw has been ruled out of next week's first Test against Australia after the young opener injured his ankle while fielding during a tour match in Sydney on Friday, according to the country's cricket board (BCCI). The 19-year-old was taken to hospital for scans after he rolled his left ankle when taking a catch on the deep mid-wicket boundary and tumbled over the rope during the third day of the warm-up contest against an Australia XI. Shaw was chaired off the field by India physiotherapist Patrick Farhart and a support staff member into the away team dressing room at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). "Shaw underwent scans this morning and the reports revealed a lateral ligament injury," BCCI said in a statement. "Shaw will be unavailable for the first Test against Australia in Adelaide. "He will undergo an intensive rehabilitation program to hasten the recovery and be available for selection at the earliest." Also Read: India vs Australia 2018-19: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue It was a massive blow for India with the promising teenager an almost certain starter in the four-match series after a spectacular debut against West Indies last month. Update: The medical team is assessing Prithvi Shaw at the moment. He hurt his left ankle while attempting to take a catch at the boundary ropes. Shaw is being taken to the hospital for scans #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/PVyCHBO98e — BCCI (@BCCI) November 30, 2018 × UPDATE: Prithvi Shaw ruled out of first Test against Australia in Adelaide. Full details here ---> https://t.co/bKZRSodVyR pic.twitter.com/gqFWUJKxNf — BCCI (@BCCI) November 30, 2018 × India's other opening batsman Lokesh Rahul has struggled for runs and the third option, Murali Vijay, is on the comeback trail after he was dropped following a poor tour of England earlier this year. Shaw scored an attacking 134 on his debut against West Indies and followed up with a 70 and unbeaten 33 in the second Test against the Caribbean side. He was also impressive on Thursday with a sparkling 66, hitting 11 boundaries in his 69-ball knock. India would hope to have him back in the starting lineup for the second Test at Perth, starting on Dec. 14.

India vs Australia: Prithvi Shaw ruled out of Adelaide Test with ankle injury

Australia's quest for a record hat-trick of titles started with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Ireland in the opening Pool B match of the men's hockey World Cup here on Friday.&nbsp;

Having won the back-to-back World Cups in 2010 and 2014, world no.1 Australia came into the ongoing tournament as a firm favourite but they were far from impressive and were made to toil hard by Ireland in their opener.

World no. 10 Ireland gave Australia a run for their money with impressive display in both attack and defence. The Kookaburras were dismal with penalty corners, converting just one out of five.

Blake Govers (11th minute) and Tim Brand scored for the winners, while Ireland's lone goal came from the sticks of Shane O'Donoghue.

Ten places might separate the two teams, but the Irish fought valiantly and matched the title holders stick-for-stick in the first two quarters.

In fact, it was Ireland who had the first shot at the goal and Australia goalie Andrew Charter had to come up with a double save to deny Sean Murray and then Matthew Nelson from the rebound in the fourth minute.

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-hockey-world-cup-2018-australia-vs-ireland-180454">As it happened | Australia 2-1 Ireland</a>

Australia grew in confidence as time passed by and earned a penalty stroke in the 11th minute but the umpire's decision was changed to penalty corner after Ireland asked for video referral.

From the resultant penalty corner, Australia secured another and this time Govers' flick found the back of the Irish net.

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📸 | If you missed out on the match, here are some amazing moments from the game.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Odisha2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Odisha2018</a> 
🇦🇺 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIRL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIRL</a> 🇮🇪 <a href="https://t.co/LfJiLREAwr">pic.twitter.com/LfJiLREAwr</a>
— Hockey World Cup 2018 - Host Partner (@sports_odisha) <a href="https://twitter.com/sports_odisha/status/1068495222730936321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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But Australia's lead lasted just two minutes as Ireland drew level when O'Donoghue scored after he was set up by Murray, who dribbled past two defenders to pass the ball on to the goal scorer.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/mens-hockey-world-cup-2018-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-177870">Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

The second quarter too produced exciting hockey as both the teams went on the offensive and it was Australia who came close to scoring, but Ireland captain David Harte made a fine save in front of the post to deny Dylan Wotherspoon.

Five minutes into the quarter, Ireland secured their first penalty corner and Charter came to Australia's rescue and kept out O'Donoghue's attempt.

Towards the end of the second quarter, Australia secured back-to-back penalty corners but wasted both as the two teams went into the halfway break locked at 1-1.

Australia restored their lead four minutes after the breather through Brand. Corey Weyer's workmanship in the midfield finally helped Australia when his inch-perfect through ball found Brand unmarked inside the box and the striker scored from his second attempt.

Australia's quest for a record hat-trick of titles started with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Ireland in the opening Pool B match of the men's hockey World Cup here on Friday.

Australia's quest for a record hat-trick of titles started with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Ireland in the opening Pool B match of the men's hockey World Cup here on Friday. Having won the back-to-back World Cups in 2010 and 2014, world no.1 Australia came into the ongoing tournament as a firm favourite but they were far from impressive and were made to toil hard by Ireland in their opener. World no. 10 Ireland gave Australia a run for their money with impressive display in both attack and defence. The Kookaburras were dismal with penalty corners, converting just one out of five. Blake Govers (11th minute) and Tim Brand scored for the winners, while Ireland's lone goal came from the sticks of Shane O'Donoghue. Ten places might separate the two teams, but the Irish fought valiantly and matched the title holders stick-for-stick in the first two quarters. In fact, it was Ireland who had the first shot at the goal and Australia goalie Andrew Charter had to come up with a double save to deny Sean Murray and then Matthew Nelson from the rebound in the fourth minute. Also Read: As it happened | Australia 2-1 Ireland Australia grew in confidence as time passed by and earned a penalty stroke in the 11th minute but the umpire's decision was changed to penalty corner after Ireland asked for video referral. From the resultant penalty corner, Australia secured another and this time Govers' flick found the back of the Irish net. 📸 | If you missed out on the match, here are some amazing moments from the game.#HWC2018 #Odisha2018 🇦🇺 #AUSvIRL 🇮🇪 pic.twitter.com/LfJiLREAwr — Hockey World Cup 2018 - Host Partner (@sports_odisha) November 30, 2018 × But Australia's lead lasted just two minutes as Ireland drew level when O'Donoghue scored after he was set up by Murray, who dribbled past two defenders to pass the ball on to the goal scorer. Also Read | Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue The second quarter too produced exciting hockey as both the teams went on the offensive and it was Australia who came close to scoring, but Ireland captain David Harte made a fine save in front of the post to deny Dylan Wotherspoon. Five minutes into the quarter, Ireland secured their first penalty corner and Charter came to Australia's rescue and kept out O'Donoghue's attempt. Towards the end of the second quarter, Australia secured back-to-back penalty corners but wasted both as the two teams went into the halfway break locked at 1-1. Australia restored their lead four minutes after the breather through Brand. Corey Weyer's workmanship in the midfield finally helped Australia when his inch-perfect through ball found Brand unmarked inside the box and the striker scored from his second attempt.

Defending champions Australia struggle past Ireland 2-1 in World Cup opener

Australian police have opened an investigation into allegations of war crimes committed by Australian military personnel in Afghanistan, officials said Thursday.

A spokesman for the Australian Federal Police (AFP) said they had received a "referral" concerning the war crimes allegations in June and has "accepted the matters for investigation".

"As this investigation is ongoing, the AFP will not confirm or deny the specific incidents or the identity of those subject to the investigation," the spokesman said.

The spokesman would not provide additional details or say who referred the allegations to the police.

Three other inquiries have already been launched into reports of abuses by special forces who served in Afghanistan as part of a US-led coalition between 2001 and 2014.

That includes one investigation being conducted by the inspector general of the Australian Defence Force since 2016.

A separate classified defence department investigation leaked to the press in June quoted testimony from special forces insiders saying some troops engaged in the "unsanctioned and illegal application of violence on operations" in Afghanistan with "a disregard for human dignity".

Government officials confirmed at the time that investigations were under way concerning Australian troop conduct in Afghanistan, but would not provide any details.&nbsp;

Australian police have opened an investigation into allegations of war crimes committed by Australian military personnel in Afghanistan, officials said Thursday.

Australian police have opened an investigation into allegations of war crimes committed by Australian military personnel in Afghanistan, officials said Thursday. A spokesman for the Australian Federal Police (AFP) said they had received a "referral" concerning the war crimes allegations in June and has "accepted the matters for investigation". "As this investigation is ongoing, the AFP will not confirm or deny the specific incidents or the identity of those subject to the investigation," the spokesman said. The spokesman would not provide additional details or say who referred the allegations to the police. Three other inquiries have already been launched into reports of abuses by special forces who served in Afghanistan as part of a US-led coalition between 2001 and 2014. That includes one investigation being conducted by the inspector general of the Australian Defence Force since 2016. A separate classified defence department investigation leaked to the press in June quoted testimony from special forces insiders saying some troops engaged in the "unsanctioned and illegal application of violence on operations" in Afghanistan with "a disregard for human dignity". Government officials confirmed at the time that investigations were under way concerning Australian troop conduct in Afghanistan, but would not provide any details.

Australian police join probes into alleged Afghanistan war crimes

Back amongst runs following a prolonged bad patch, Shikhar Dhawan has "moved on" after initially feeling sad about his omission from the Indian Test team for the Australia series.&nbsp;

"Yes, I was a bit sad but I have moved on and I am in a good frame of mind. I am in a happy positive mood. I am enjoying my game. I have got a bit off time and I am going to enjoy my training and get myself fitter. I am happy and once I am happy things go well for me," Dhawan, who was adjudged 'Man of the Series' in the recently concluded T20 series, told 'ESPN Cricinfo'.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2018-19-schedule-teams-time-and-venue-177740">India vs Australia 2018-19: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

The Delhi opener is confident that India will do well in the four-Test series beginning December 6 at Adelaide.&nbsp;

"I think we have got a very good chance to win the series here. We have to play good complete cricket in all three departments whether it's batting, bowling or fielding and also catching. We have to be consistent and then we will have a good chance of beating Australia," said Dhawan, who will be turning 33 in a week's time.&nbsp;

While the World Cup is still six months away, the focus will be on the process for the veteran of 115 ODIs.&nbsp;

"I am going to give my best. I am a big believer in process and once I get it right, other things will follow on its own. Of course, we would like to bring the World Cup back home," he exuded confidence.&nbsp;

What makes him confident about his success in England is his past record in limited overs cricket.&nbsp;

"I have done well in both Champions Trophies in England and with my experience, I hope to score a lot of runs in World Cup and give good starts and sail through so that we can get the Cup back."

Back amongst runs following a prolonged bad patch, Shikhar Dhawan has "moved on" after initially feeling sad about his omission from the Indian Test team for the Australia series.

Back amongst runs following a prolonged bad patch, Shikhar Dhawan has "moved on" after initially feeling sad about his omission from the Indian Test team for the Australia series. "Yes, I was a bit sad but I have moved on and I am in a good frame of mind. I am in a happy positive mood. I am enjoying my game. I have got a bit off time and I am going to enjoy my training and get myself fitter. I am happy and once I am happy things go well for me," Dhawan, who was adjudged 'Man of the Series' in the recently concluded T20 series, told 'ESPN Cricinfo'. India vs Australia 2018-19: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue The Delhi opener is confident that India will do well in the four-Test series beginning December 6 at Adelaide. "I think we have got a very good chance to win the series here. We have to play good complete cricket in all three departments whether it's batting, bowling or fielding and also catching. We have to be consistent and then we will have a good chance of beating Australia," said Dhawan, who will be turning 33 in a week's time. While the World Cup is still six months away, the focus will be on the process for the veteran of 115 ODIs. "I am going to give my best. I am a big believer in process and once I get it right, other things will follow on its own. Of course, we would like to bring the World Cup back home," he exuded confidence. What makes him confident about his success in England is his past record in limited overs cricket. "I have done well in both Champions Trophies in England and with my experience, I hope to score a lot of runs in World Cup and give good starts and sail through so that we can get the Cup back."

Was a bit sad but moved on: Shikhar Dhawan on Test omission

November 27 will always be remembered as the black day in the history of international cricket. On this day, Australian cricketer Phillip Hughes lost his life in a freak accident while playing at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

On his fourth death anniversary, wishes poured in from cricketers and fans from all across. Former Australian captain Steve Smith and Michael Clarke shared emotional posts remembering Phil.

Phillip Joel Hughes was an Australian Test and One Day International (ODI) cricketer who played domestic for South Australia and Worcestershire.&nbsp;

On this day in 2014, he was struck by a bouncer bowled by Sean Abbott during a Sheffield Shield match at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

The bouncer struck on Hughes' neck caused a vertebral artery dissection that led to a subarachnoid haemorrhage.&nbsp;

Peter Brukner, the Australian team doctor said that only 100 such cases had ever been reported, with "only one case reported as a result of a cricket ball".

Immediately after the accident, Hughes was taken to St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney, where he underwent surgery, was placed into an induced coma and was in intensive care in a critical condition.

Eventually, he died on November 27, having never regained consciousness, three days before his 26th birthday. Many tributes were paid to Hughes within and outside the world of cricket.

In his short career span, Hughes played 26 Tests and 25 one-day matches scoring 1535 and 826 runs respectively.

November 27 will always be remembered as the black day in the history of international cricket. On this day, Australian cricketer Phillip Hughes lost his life in a freak accident while playing at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

November 27 will always be remembered as the black day in the history of international cricket. On this day, Australian cricketer Phillip Hughes lost his life in a freak accident while playing at the Sydney Cricket Ground. On his fourth death anniversary, wishes poured in from cricketers and fans from all across. Former Australian captain Steve Smith and Michael Clarke shared emotional posts remembering Phil. Phillip Joel Hughes was an Australian Test and One Day International (ODI) cricketer who played domestic for South Australia and Worcestershire. On this day in 2014, he was struck by a bouncer bowled by Sean Abbott during a Sheffield Shield match at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The bouncer struck on Hughes' neck caused a vertebral artery dissection that led to a subarachnoid haemorrhage. Peter Brukner, the Australian team doctor said that only 100 such cases had ever been reported, with "only one case reported as a result of a cricket ball". Immediately after the accident, Hughes was taken to St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney, where he underwent surgery, was placed into an induced coma and was in intensive care in a critical condition. Eventually, he died on November 27, having never regained consciousness, three days before his 26th birthday. Many tributes were paid to Hughes within and outside the world of cricket. In his short career span, Hughes played 26 Tests and 25 one-day matches scoring 1535 and 826 runs respectively.

63 forever not out: Remembering Phillip Hughes on his 4th death anniversary

'Unprecedented weather' in the Australian state of Queensland said Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, sparked 40 bushfires across the state on Monday, as emergency services tried to put containment lines around the fire zones.

"As we know there has been unprecedented weather in Queensland at the moment and this entire week we are going to see heat wave conditions right across Queensland. Around Rockhampton there has been averages the likes of which we have never seen in Queensland before. And these conditions are worse than what we saw in 2009 in Queensland. There are currently 40 wildfires that are happening right across Queensland as we speak."

Palaszczuk added that conditions were worse than those of 2009, when fire burnt through more than 11,500 hectares of bushland, and this entire week would see heatwave conditions across the state.

The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services said the bushfires were being fanned by a combination of the temperature, the low humidity and the variable winds.

Two homes were lost near the Bundaberg region as authorities tried to evacuate residents.

'Unprecedented weather' in the Australian state of Queensland said Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, sparked 40 bushfires across the state on Monday, as emergency services tried to put containment lines around the fire zones.

'Unprecedented weather' in the Australian state of Queensland said Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, sparked 40 bushfires across the state on Monday, as emergency services tried to put containment lines around the fire zones. "As we know there has been unprecedented weather in Queensland at the moment and this entire week we are going to see heat wave conditions right across Queensland. Around Rockhampton there has been averages the likes of which we have never seen in Queensland before. And these conditions are worse than what we saw in 2009 in Queensland. There are currently 40 wildfires that are happening right across Queensland as we speak." Palaszczuk added that conditions were worse than those of 2009, when fire burnt through more than 11,500 hectares of bushland, and this entire week would see heatwave conditions across the state. The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services said the bushfires were being fanned by a combination of the temperature, the low humidity and the variable winds. Two homes were lost near the Bundaberg region as authorities tried to evacuate residents.

Video: 'Unprecedented weather' in Australia's Queensland causes bushfires

India defeated <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-3rd-t20-india-need-165-to-win-against-australia-179316">Australia by six wickets</a> in the third and final T20 International to level the series 1-1 at Sydney Cricket Ground on Sunday.

D'Arcy Short (33) was the top-scorer for Australia, while Krunal Pandya snatched four precious wickets for India for which he got the man of the match award.

Despite Pandya's four-wicket haul, the hosts managed to put up a defendable total of 164 runs but Virat Kohli's side chased down the total with two balls remaining.

Dhawan-Rohit partnership had put pressure on the Australian bowling attack but with Shikhar Dhawan's wicket, pace sensation Mitchell Starc got a breakthrough for the Aussies. Dhawan scored quick 41 with 121.74 strike rate.&nbsp;

Spinner Adam Zampa got another wicket as he sent off Rohit Sharma for 23 with a quicker length ball that ripped through Sharma which he failed to assess.

Australia looked in control in the middle overs but skipper Kohli's unbeaten 61-run stand helped India to register a much-needed&nbsp;win.

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India level the T20I series against Australia! 
 
Virat 'The Chaser' Kohli does it again, ending 61* from 41 balls as India chase down 165 with just two balls remaining. What a knock from the skipper!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> SCORE 👇<a href="https://t.co/vuuqcrYXlw">https://t.co/vuuqcrYXlw</a> <a href="https://t.co/0IlDYZRdZ2">pic.twitter.com/0IlDYZRdZ2</a>
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Earlier, After winning the toss, Australia started off the innings well as both the openers D Arcy short and Aaron Finch looked in control but after Finch's wicket, Aussies lost their momentum.

Finch lost his wicket to Kuldeep Yadav after scoring 28 runs with 121.74 strike rate and soon after that Short lost his wicket to Krunal Pandya at 33 runs.

Pandya struck against and outbowled Ben McDermott on the next ball.

Wicket-keeper batsman Alex Carey scored 27 and Chris Lynn scored 13 runs crucial.

Australia won the first T20 International by four runs via D/L method before the second match was abandoned due to rain.

Brief Score:

Australia: 164 for 6 in 20 overs (D'Arcy Short 33; Krunal Pandya 4/36).&nbsp; 
India: 168 for 4 in 19.4 overs (Virat Kohli 61 not out, Shikhar Dhawan 41; Mitchell Starc 1/26).

India defeated Australia by six wickets in the third and final T20 International to level the series 1-1 at Sydney Cricket Ground on Sunday. D'Arcy Short (33) was the top-scorer for Australia, while Krunal Pandya snatched four precious wickets for India for which he got the man of the match award.

India defeated Australia by six wickets in the third and final T20 International to level the series 1-1 at Sydney Cricket Ground on Sunday. D'Arcy Short (33) was the top-scorer for Australia, while Krunal Pandya snatched four precious wickets for India for which he got the man of the match award. Despite Pandya's four-wicket haul, the hosts managed to put up a defendable total of 164 runs but Virat Kohli's side chased down the total with two balls remaining. Dhawan-Rohit partnership had put pressure on the Australian bowling attack but with Shikhar Dhawan's wicket, pace sensation Mitchell Starc got a breakthrough for the Aussies. Dhawan scored quick 41 with 121.74 strike rate. Spinner Adam Zampa got another wicket as he sent off Rohit Sharma for 23 with a quicker length ball that ripped through Sharma which he failed to assess. Australia looked in control in the middle overs but skipper Kohli's unbeaten 61-run stand helped India to register a much-needed win. India level the T20I series against Australia! Virat 'The Chaser' Kohli does it again, ending 61* from 41 balls as India chase down 165 with just two balls remaining. What a knock from the skipper!#AUSvIND SCORE 👇https://t.co/vuuqcrYXlw pic.twitter.com/0IlDYZRdZ2 — ICC (@ICC) November 25, 2018 × Earlier, After winning the toss, Australia started off the innings well as both the openers D Arcy short and Aaron Finch looked in control but after Finch's wicket, Aussies lost their momentum. Finch lost his wicket to Kuldeep Yadav after scoring 28 runs with 121.74 strike rate and soon after that Short lost his wicket to Krunal Pandya at 33 runs. Pandya struck against and outbowled Ben McDermott on the next ball. Wicket-keeper batsman Alex Carey scored 27 and Chris Lynn scored 13 runs crucial. Australia won the first T20 International by four runs via D/L method before the second match was abandoned due to rain. Brief Score: Australia: 164 for 6 in 20 overs (D'Arcy Short 33; Krunal Pandya 4/36). India: 168 for 4 in 19.4 overs (Virat Kohli 61 not out, Shikhar Dhawan 41; Mitchell Starc 1/26).

IND vs AUS, 3rd T20: India beat Australia by 6 wickets to level series

Chasing Australia's 165-run target, India were 92 for the loss of two wickets with KL Rahul and skipper Virat Kohli at standing unbeaten at nine and 14 runs respectively.

Dhawan-Rohit partnership put pressure on the Australian bowling attack. Both the openers got off to a flying start before Mitchell Starc dismissed the Shikhar Dhawan for 41 (22 balls).&nbsp;

India lost the second wicket in 7th over, Adam Zampa clean bowled Rohit Sharma with a quicker length ball that ripped through Sharma which he failed to assess.

Earlier,&nbsp;Krunal Pandya snatched four precious wickets&nbsp;to slow Australia's run rate in the third and final T20I&nbsp;but due to India's poor fielding, the hosts managed to put up a defendable total of 164 runs against India.

After <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-3rd-t20-witch-mitchell-starc-in-squad-aaron-finch-opts-to-bat-against-india-179295">winning the toss</a>, Australia started off the innings well as both the openers D Arcy short and Aaron Finch looked in control&nbsp;but after Finch's wicket, Aussies lost their momentum.

Finch lost his wicket to Kuldeep Yadav after scoring 28 runs with 121.74 strike rate and soon after that Short lost his wicket to Krunal Pandya at 33 runs.

Pandya struck against and outbowled Ben McDermott on the next ball.

Wicket-keeper batsman Alex Carey scored 27 and Chris Lynn scored 13 runs crucial.

Krunal Pandya was the most economical bowler for India as he took the most prized wicket of Glenn Maxwell.

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Innings Break! 
 
Australia 164/6 in 20 overs. 
 
What's your prediction for the game? 🤔🤔 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/vTBIdmfcWc">pic.twitter.com/vTBIdmfcWc</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1066624697998237697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Aaron Finch-led Australia are leading the three-match series 1-0 after winning the first match at Brisbane, while the second match was called off due to heavy rains in Melbourne on Friday.

After winning the toss, Finch said, "Looks a pretty good wicket, a bit dry and if we can put runs on the board, we are backing ourselves to defend anything,"

Australian pace spearhead has been Mitchell Starc called up for his first Twenty20 international in two years. He replaced Jason Behrendorff.

Stanlake was ruled out of the series decider after sustaining an ankle injury in the warm-up before the washed-out second T20I.

Chasing Australia's 165-run target, India were 92 for the loss of two wickets with KL Rahul and skipper Virat Kohli at standing unbeaten at nine and 14 runs respectively.

Chasing Australia's 165-run target, India were 92 for the loss of two wickets with KL Rahul and skipper Virat Kohli at standing unbeaten at nine and 14 runs respectively. Dhawan-Rohit partnership put pressure on the Australian bowling attack. Both the openers got off to a flying start before Mitchell Starc dismissed the Shikhar Dhawan for 41 (22 balls). India lost the second wicket in 7th over, Adam Zampa clean bowled Rohit Sharma with a quicker length ball that ripped through Sharma which he failed to assess. Earlier, Krunal Pandya snatched four precious wickets to slow Australia's run rate in the third and final T20I but due to India's poor fielding, the hosts managed to put up a defendable total of 164 runs against India. After winning the toss, Australia started off the innings well as both the openers D Arcy short and Aaron Finch looked in control but after Finch's wicket, Aussies lost their momentum. Finch lost his wicket to Kuldeep Yadav after scoring 28 runs with 121.74 strike rate and soon after that Short lost his wicket to Krunal Pandya at 33 runs. Pandya struck against and outbowled Ben McDermott on the next ball. Wicket-keeper batsman Alex Carey scored 27 and Chris Lynn scored 13 runs crucial. Krunal Pandya was the most economical bowler for India as he took the most prized wicket of Glenn Maxwell. Innings Break! Australia 164/6 in 20 overs. What's your prediction for the game? 🤔🤔 #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/vTBIdmfcWc — BCCI (@BCCI) November 25, 2018 × Aaron Finch-led Australia are leading the three-match series 1-0 after winning the first match at Brisbane, while the second match was called off due to heavy rains in Melbourne on Friday. After winning the toss, Finch said, "Looks a pretty good wicket, a bit dry and if we can put runs on the board, we are backing ourselves to defend anything," Australian pace spearhead has been Mitchell Starc called up for his first Twenty20 international in two years. He replaced Jason Behrendorff. Stanlake was ruled out of the series decider after sustaining an ankle injury in the warm-up before the washed-out second T20I.

IND vs AUS, 3rd T20: India are 92-2 after 10 overs in 165-run chase against Australia

Australia will eye a series win when they take on India in the second T20I of a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20i-rohit-falls-cheaply-in-174-chase-178589">three-match series </a>at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday.

While India will hope for a turn-around in a must-win clash to keep the series alive.

In the first match, India made few sloppy mistakes in the field&nbsp;that proved to be the ultimate difference in a game.

In fact,&nbsp;Kohli himself was guilty of poor effort on the field on at least two occasions, dropping counterpart Aaron Finch in the fourth over and later involved in a misfielding from the deep.

On the eve of the series, Virat Kohli said that the team will look to minimise the mistakes&nbsp;happened during their recently concluded England and West Indies series.

"We don't want to be a team that wins one odd test match here and there," Kohli told reporters. "We have figured out our mistakes in England which, I have mentioned before, were very radical.

"The quality of cricket was very high but our mistakes were as radical and that's why we lost the games. We won the game in which we committed fewer mistakes. We were at par with the other team throughout," Virat added.

India, currently the top test team, have not lost a home series since late 2012 but have struggled outside the sub-continent, beaten 2-1 in South Africa and 4-1 in England this year.

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Melbourne! We are here for the 2nd T20I <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/8xEp62g3Ex">pic.twitter.com/8xEp62g3Ex</a>
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The Indian batting line-up could see some changes which is also the urgent need of an hour.

KL Rahul's performance, in particular, scrutinised, since scoring 101 not out in the first T20I against England at Manchester, Rahul hasn't been able to cross the 30-run mark in next six matches.&nbsp;

He occupies a very crucial, number three, batting spot in the current squad.

There is a special need to check the bowling department as per the behaviour of MCG's pitch.

Krunal Pandya was plundered for 55 runs in his four wicketless overs and was hit for as many as half a dozen sixes.&nbsp;

If the MCG is also of Gabba's nature, Kohli might be tempted to bring in leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, who boasts of a brilliant wicket-taking record in T20Is.

While he can not take the risk of giving away an additional batsman.

Australia boasts of bigger grounds than in India, with bigger boundaries of course, and the MCG will prove to be another humongous challenge in that regard.&nbsp;

The task is cut out in front of the team management to work on fielding angles to elevate their efforts in the second T20I.&nbsp;

It doesn't help that there is such a short turn-around time during this series, that fielding coach R Sridhar won't be able to work with the players at the MCG.

Any improvements in the field will have to be drilled in theoretically in the dressing room. And thus India will also seek to look at other areas where improvements can be made.&nbsp;

The ploy to introduce Adam Zampa as the lone spinner worked wonders for Australia and with an intense fielding effort, Australia were able to make a winning difference.&nbsp;

Things seem very different in the hosts' camp all of a sudden when they were simply considered second best to the Men in Blue across all departments less than 48 hours ago.

Melbourne is experiencing a stormy spell in the latter half of this week, so there is a slight chance that the second T20I could also be rain-affected.

Australia will eye a series win when they take on India in the second T20I of a three-match series at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday. While India will hope for a turn-around in a must-win clash to keep the series alive.

Australia will eye a series win when they take on India in the second T20I of a three-match series at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday. While India will hope for a turn-around in a must-win clash to keep the series alive. In the first match, India made few sloppy mistakes in the field that proved to be the ultimate difference in a game. In fact, Kohli himself was guilty of poor effort on the field on at least two occasions, dropping counterpart Aaron Finch in the fourth over and later involved in a misfielding from the deep. On the eve of the series, Virat Kohli said that the team will look to minimise the mistakes happened during their recently concluded England and West Indies series. "We don't want to be a team that wins one odd test match here and there," Kohli told reporters. "We have figured out our mistakes in England which, I have mentioned before, were very radical. "The quality of cricket was very high but our mistakes were as radical and that's why we lost the games. We won the game in which we committed fewer mistakes. We were at par with the other team throughout," Virat added. India, currently the top test team, have not lost a home series since late 2012 but have struggled outside the sub-continent, beaten 2-1 in South Africa and 4-1 in England this year. Melbourne! We are here for the 2nd T20I #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/8xEp62g3Ex — BCCI (@BCCI) November 22, 2018 × The Indian batting line-up could see some changes which is also the urgent need of an hour. KL Rahul's performance, in particular, scrutinised, since scoring 101 not out in the first T20I against England at Manchester, Rahul hasn't been able to cross the 30-run mark in next six matches. He occupies a very crucial, number three, batting spot in the current squad. There is a special need to check the bowling department as per the behaviour of MCG's pitch. Krunal Pandya was plundered for 55 runs in his four wicketless overs and was hit for as many as half a dozen sixes. If the MCG is also of Gabba's nature, Kohli might be tempted to bring in leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, who boasts of a brilliant wicket-taking record in T20Is. While he can not take the risk of giving away an additional batsman. Australia boasts of bigger grounds than in India, with bigger boundaries of course, and the MCG will prove to be another humongous challenge in that regard. The task is cut out in front of the team management to work on fielding angles to elevate their efforts in the second T20I. It doesn't help that there is such a short turn-around time during this series, that fielding coach R Sridhar won't be able to work with the players at the MCG. Any improvements in the field will have to be drilled in theoretically in the dressing room. And thus India will also seek to look at other areas where improvements can be made. The ploy to introduce Adam Zampa as the lone spinner worked wonders for Australia and with an intense fielding effort, Australia were able to make a winning difference. Things seem very different in the hosts' camp all of a sudden when they were simply considered second best to the Men in Blue across all departments less than 48 hours ago. Melbourne is experiencing a stormy spell in the latter half of this week, so there is a slight chance that the second T20I could also be rain-affected.

2nd T20: Australia eye series victory, India look to minimise mistakes

Relieved at being able to break a run of recent reverses with a four-run win over India in the first T20 International, Australia coach Justin Langer said they were tired of being "bashed up".

Glenn Maxwell carried on his impressive form with 46 off just 24 balls, Marcus Stoinis made 33 from 19 balls, while leg-spinner Adam Zampa (2/22 off four overs) was Man of the Match for Australia in Brisbane.

"What did it (the win) do the team? I loved seeing the way we were brave. We talked about it. Aussies are great at getting to a point where (we say): 'We have had enough of this. It doesn't matter what part of our summer - we have had enough of it'," Langer was quoted as saying by the 'Sydney Morning Herald'.&nbsp;

"We have had enough of getting beaten, we have had enough of getting bashed up and I just loved how brave the boys were. The way they fielded, the way they batted, they were brave, they had a red-hot dip.

"That's what Australians are good at, aren't we? We get to a point - we say: 'You know what, we have had enough of this. When are we going to turn it around?'

It was a rare win for Australia since the ball-tampering fiasco in South Africa, and just their second from five matches this home summer.

"Hopefully, they were some really good signs. The way they ran around, dived around, there were some challenging overs with the bowling but let's not underestimate we are bowling to some great players as well," Langer said.&nbsp;

"It's going to be an arm-wrestle all summer. India are a very good team but there are some really good signs."

Relieved at being able to break a run of recent reverses with a four-run win over India in the first T20 International, Australia coach Justin Langer said they were tired of being "bashed up".

Relieved at being able to break a run of recent reverses with a four-run win over India in the first T20 International, Australia coach Justin Langer said they were tired of being "bashed up". Glenn Maxwell carried on his impressive form with 46 off just 24 balls, Marcus Stoinis made 33 from 19 balls, while leg-spinner Adam Zampa (2/22 off four overs) was Man of the Match for Australia in Brisbane. "What did it (the win) do the team? I loved seeing the way we were brave. We talked about it. Aussies are great at getting to a point where (we say): 'We have had enough of this. It doesn't matter what part of our summer - we have had enough of it'," Langer was quoted as saying by the 'Sydney Morning Herald'. "We have had enough of getting beaten, we have had enough of getting bashed up and I just loved how brave the boys were. The way they fielded, the way they batted, they were brave, they had a red-hot dip. "That's what Australians are good at, aren't we? We get to a point - we say: 'You know what, we have had enough of this. When are we going to turn it around?' It was a rare win for Australia since the ball-tampering fiasco in South Africa, and just their second from five matches this home summer. "Hopefully, they were some really good signs. The way they ran around, dived around, there were some challenging overs with the bowling but let's not underestimate we are bowling to some great players as well," Langer said. "It's going to be an arm-wrestle all summer. India are a very good team but there are some really good signs."

We have had enough of getting bashed up: Justin Langer

Australia dethroned the West Indies and booked a place in Saturday's Women's World Twenty20 final with a crushing 71-run victory in the first semi-final on Thursday at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua.

Stunned by the Caribbean side in 2016 final in Kolkata, the three-time champions were at their most ruthless to the dismay of a huge home crowd as they reached 142 for five batting first on a turgid pitch and then routed the West Indies for just 71 off 17.3 overs.

Australia will face the winner of the second semi-final between England and India, being played later on Thursday, in Saturday's championship match at the same venue.

Put in to bat on a pitch where the experienced three-time former champions found free scoring difficult, the Aussies were indebted again to the prolific Alyssa Healy, the opening batter topscoring with 46 to earn her fourth 'Player of the Match' award in five games so far in this tournament.

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Is there a more valuable player in cricket right now?<a href="https://twitter.com/ahealy77?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ahealy77</a> does it with bat, and in the field, scooping her FOURTH Player of the Match award at this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WT20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WT20</a> as the Aussies march into a fifth consecutive final 👏 <a href="https://t.co/kCXGYIO2P4">pic.twitter.com/kCXGYIO2P4</a>
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"It was really tricky out there given the fluffiness of the pitch," was her post-match assessment of the conditions. "I felt that once we got past 120 our bowlers would have had a good chance of defending that total."

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🇦🇺 <a href="https://twitter.com/SouthernStars?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SouthernStars</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WT20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WT20</a> finalists! <a href="https://t.co/aqIJXbMx0s">pic.twitter.com/aqIJXbMx0s</a>
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She had passed a late fitness test after sustaining a concussion in the field during their last group match against India in Guyana five days earlier.

Healy and captain Meg Lanning produced the best partnership of the innings, putting on 51 for the second wicket.

After Healy fell to leg-spinner Afy Fletcher and Lanning was bowled by all-rounder Deandra Dottin, Rachael Haynes struck a flurry of boundaries to reach an unbeaten 25 off 15 balls to give her side a fighting chance against the title-holders.

She was particularly harsh on Dottin, who despite claiming the important wicket of Lanning, conceded 23 runs off two overs at the end of the innings.

West Indian hopes of a strong reply evaporated in the early overs of their innings with openers Hayley Matthews and Dottin dismissed cheaply.

Matthews was run out by wicketkeeper Healy while champion seamer Ellyse Perry accounted for Dottin, adding the scalp of Shemaine Campbelle to finish with the outstanding figures of two for two from two overs.

She was not required by Lanning to return to the attack as the rest of the West Indies batting folded meekly, only captain Stafanie Taylor (16) getting into double-figures as all the bowlers shared in the rout, with seamer Delissa Kimmince and spinner Ashleigh Gardner also taking two wickets each.

Australia dethroned the West Indies and booked a place in Saturday's Women's World Twenty20 final with a crushing 71-run victory in the first semi-final on Thursday at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua.

Australia dethroned the West Indies and booked a place in Saturday's Women's World Twenty20 final with a crushing 71-run victory in the first semi-final on Thursday at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua. Stunned by the Caribbean side in 2016 final in Kolkata, the three-time champions were at their most ruthless to the dismay of a huge home crowd as they reached 142 for five batting first on a turgid pitch and then routed the West Indies for just 71 off 17.3 overs. Australia will face the winner of the second semi-final between England and India, being played later on Thursday, in Saturday's championship match at the same venue. Put in to bat on a pitch where the experienced three-time former champions found free scoring difficult, the Aussies were indebted again to the prolific Alyssa Healy, the opening batter topscoring with 46 to earn her fourth 'Player of the Match' award in five games so far in this tournament. Is there a more valuable player in cricket right now?@ahealy77 does it with bat, and in the field, scooping her FOURTH Player of the Match award at this #WT20 as the Aussies march into a fifth consecutive final 👏 pic.twitter.com/kCXGYIO2P4 — ICC World Twenty20 (@WorldT20) November 22, 2018 × "It was really tricky out there given the fluffiness of the pitch," was her post-match assessment of the conditions. "I felt that once we got past 120 our bowlers would have had a good chance of defending that total." 🇦🇺 @SouthernStars - #WT20 finalists! pic.twitter.com/aqIJXbMx0s — ICC World Twenty20 (@WorldT20) November 22, 2018 × She had passed a late fitness test after sustaining a concussion in the field during their last group match against India in Guyana five days earlier. Healy and captain Meg Lanning produced the best partnership of the innings, putting on 51 for the second wicket. After Healy fell to leg-spinner Afy Fletcher and Lanning was bowled by all-rounder Deandra Dottin, Rachael Haynes struck a flurry of boundaries to reach an unbeaten 25 off 15 balls to give her side a fighting chance against the title-holders. She was particularly harsh on Dottin, who despite claiming the important wicket of Lanning, conceded 23 runs off two overs at the end of the innings. West Indian hopes of a strong reply evaporated in the early overs of their innings with openers Hayley Matthews and Dottin dismissed cheaply. Matthews was run out by wicketkeeper Healy while champion seamer Ellyse Perry accounted for Dottin, adding the scalp of Shemaine Campbelle to finish with the outstanding figures of two for two from two overs. She was not required by Lanning to return to the attack as the rest of the West Indies batting folded meekly, only captain Stafanie Taylor (16) getting into double-figures as all the bowlers shared in the rout, with seamer Delissa Kimmince and spinner Ashleigh Gardner also taking two wickets each.

Women's World Twenty20: Australia thrash West Indies to reach final

The 2nd T20I between India and Australia has been called off due to rain.&nbsp;

The Australian team were 132 for the loss seven wickets after 19 overs. The game which was reduced to 19 overs and the target was readjusted to 137 runs for the 'Men in Blue' will have no result.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> won the toss and opted to bowl against Australia in the second T20I at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday.

Despite several options, India have entered at MCG with the same&nbsp;combination of players. While there is one change for Australia, which is the addition of Nathan Coulter-Nile.

After winning the toss, Virat said, "I thought we did well chasing in the last game, Duckworth-Lewis made it beyond our reach. If we manage to bat better in certain situations, which we didn't do last game, we should be able to do alright."

Australia <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20i-rohit-falls-cheaply-in-174-chase-178589">won a nail-biting and rain-affected first match</a> in Brisbane by four runs, with the third and final game in Sydney on Sunday.

It was a confidence-boosting win for the home team -- their first in five T20s and only their sixth in 23 internationals -- ahead of a four-Test series against the visitors.

"Not too fussed as the pitch won't change in 40 overs. Hopefully, put some runs on the board and put some pressure on them," said Australian skipper&nbsp;

Stanlake hurt his ankle, hence, he has been replaced by Coulter-Nile.

The last time India played a T20 series in Australia (in 2016) they blanked the hosts 3-0.

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Playing XI:

Australia: D Arcy Short, Aaron Finch(c), Chris Lynn, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Ben McDermott, Alex Carey(w), Nathan Coulter-Nile, Andrew Tye, Adam Zampa, Jason Behrendorff.

India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Lokesh Rahul, Rishabh Pant(w), Dinesh Karthik, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, K Khaleel Ahmed.

The 2nd T20I between India and Australia has been called off due to rain. The Australian team were 132 for the loss seven wickets after 19 overs. The game which was reduced to 19 overs and the target was readjusted to 137 runs for the 'Men in Blue' will have no result.

The 2nd T20I between India and Australia has been called off due to rain. The Australian team were 132 for the loss seven wickets after 19 overs. The game which was reduced to 19 overs and the target was readjusted to 137 runs for the 'Men in Blue' will have no result. Earlier, Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bowl against Australia in the second T20I at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday. Despite several options, India have entered at MCG with the same combination of players. While there is one change for Australia, which is the addition of Nathan Coulter-Nile. After winning the toss, Virat said, "I thought we did well chasing in the last game, Duckworth-Lewis made it beyond our reach. If we manage to bat better in certain situations, which we didn't do last game, we should be able to do alright." Australia won a nail-biting and rain-affected first match in Brisbane by four runs, with the third and final game in Sydney on Sunday. It was a confidence-boosting win for the home team -- their first in five T20s and only their sixth in 23 internationals -- ahead of a four-Test series against the visitors. "Not too fussed as the pitch won't change in 40 overs. Hopefully, put some runs on the board and put some pressure on them," said Australian skipper Stanlake hurt his ankle, hence, he has been replaced by Coulter-Nile. The last time India played a T20 series in Australia (in 2016) they blanked the hosts 3-0. × Playing XI: Australia: D Arcy Short, Aaron Finch(c), Chris Lynn, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Ben McDermott, Alex Carey(w), Nathan Coulter-Nile, Andrew Tye, Adam Zampa, Jason Behrendorff. India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Lokesh Rahul, Rishabh Pant(w), Dinesh Karthik, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, K Khaleel Ahmed.

2nd T20: Australia 132/7 after 19 overs; match called off due to rain

India and Australia signed five agreements on Thursday to boost investments and enhance cooperation in key sectors like disability, agricultural research and education as President Ram Nath Kovind met Australian Prime minister Scott Morrison in Sydney. Kovind, the first-ever Indian head of state to visit Australia, arrived in Sydney on Wednesday on the second leg of his two-nation trip.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said that during the state visit of President Kovind to Australia, five agreements were exchanged in the presence of Marise Payne, Foreign Minister of Australia and Anantkumar Hegde, Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, by High Commissioners of both countries.

The first agreement was for cooperation in the area of disability and to deliver services to the differently-abled. The second one was between Invest India and Austrade to facilitate bilateral investment. The third agreement was signed between the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute, Ranchi, and the Commonwealth Scientific and Research Organisation, Canberra, to foster scientific collaboration and innovation.

The fourth one between the Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, and the University of Western Australia, Perth, for cooperation in agricultural research and education while the last one was between the Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, New Delhi, and the Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane for a joint PhD agreement.

Following the meeting with President Kovind, Prime Minister Morrison announced the release of Australia’s response to the India Economic Strategy, a blueprint to transform the economic engagement. “This report provides a roadmap for our economic future with India,” Morrison said.

India is the world’s fastest-growing major economy and offers more opportunity for Australian business over the next 20 years than any other single market, he said. The Australian government said it endorsed the report and provides in-principle support to its 20 priority recommendations. “Our work will focus on greater economic engagement targeting 10 Indian states and 10 key sectors while providing practical support for Australian businesses entering or expanding operations in India,” Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said.

Australia also pinpointed the initial implementation plan with key actions for next one year which will include agreements forged between Austrade and Invest India, the establishment of an Australia-India Food Partnership, opening up new opportunities for agri-tech and service companies and Australia-India Strategic Research Fund grants of up to Australian dollar 500,000.

The fund is designed to help researchers solve the challenges shared by both nations, including energy storage, marine science and plant genomics. Other actions include the expansion of the Australia-India Mining Partnership at the Indian School of Mines, connecting Australian companies to India’s mineral-rich northeastern states, supported by the new Consulate-General in Kolkata, engagement with airlines to increase direct flights through the Australia-India air services agreement.

Ministers across education, agribusiness, resources and tourism will oversee the progress of the government’s response and ongoing implementation of the India Economic Strategy. Morrison along with the ministers for trade and resources will join President Kovind at the launch of the Australian chapter of the Confederation of Indian Industry – India Business Forum, which will serve as a platform for networking and policy advocacy for Indian businesses in Australia.

“I look forward to continuing discussing the opportunities presented in the India Economic Strategy with President Kovind, and how we can continue to work together to develop enhanced economic ties,” Morrison said. “Today’s steps are only the first on a long journey that will see Australia and India grow together,” he said. 
Kovind, who was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour by Governor General Peter Cosgrove in Sydney, will be visiting Melbourne on Friday to address university students.

India and Australia signed five agreements on Thursday to boost investments and enhance cooperation in key sectors like disability, agricultural research and education as President Ram Nath Kovind met Australian Prime minister Scott Morrison in Sydney.

India and Australia signed five agreements on Thursday to boost investments and enhance cooperation in key sectors like disability, agricultural research and education as President Ram Nath Kovind met Australian Prime minister Scott Morrison in Sydney. Kovind, the first-ever Indian head of state to visit Australia, arrived in Sydney on Wednesday on the second leg of his two-nation trip. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said that during the state visit of President Kovind to Australia, five agreements were exchanged in the presence of Marise Payne, Foreign Minister of Australia and Anantkumar Hegde, Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, by High Commissioners of both countries. The first agreement was for cooperation in the area of disability and to deliver services to the differently-abled. The second one was between Invest India and Austrade to facilitate bilateral investment. The third agreement was signed between the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute, Ranchi, and the Commonwealth Scientific and Research Organisation, Canberra, to foster scientific collaboration and innovation. The fourth one between the Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, and the University of Western Australia, Perth, for cooperation in agricultural research and education while the last one was between the Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, New Delhi, and the Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane for a joint PhD agreement. Following the meeting with President Kovind, Prime Minister Morrison announced the release of Australia’s response to the India Economic Strategy, a blueprint to transform the economic engagement. “This report provides a roadmap for our economic future with India,” Morrison said. India is the world’s fastest-growing major economy and offers more opportunity for Australian business over the next 20 years than any other single market, he said. The Australian government said it endorsed the report and provides in-principle support to its 20 priority recommendations. “Our work will focus on greater economic engagement targeting 10 Indian states and 10 key sectors while providing practical support for Australian businesses entering or expanding operations in India,” Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said. Australia also pinpointed the initial implementation plan with key actions for next one year which will include agreements forged between Austrade and Invest India, the establishment of an Australia-India Food Partnership, opening up new opportunities for agri-tech and service companies and Australia-India Strategic Research Fund grants of up to Australian dollar 500,000. The fund is designed to help researchers solve the challenges shared by both nations, including energy storage, marine science and plant genomics. Other actions include the expansion of the Australia-India Mining Partnership at the Indian School of Mines, connecting Australian companies to India’s mineral-rich northeastern states, supported by the new Consulate-General in Kolkata, engagement with airlines to increase direct flights through the Australia-India air services agreement. Ministers across education, agribusiness, resources and tourism will oversee the progress of the government’s response and ongoing implementation of the India Economic Strategy. Morrison along with the ministers for trade and resources will join President Kovind at the launch of the Australian chapter of the Confederation of Indian Industry – India Business Forum, which will serve as a platform for networking and policy advocacy for Indian businesses in Australia. “I look forward to continuing discussing the opportunities presented in the India Economic Strategy with President Kovind, and how we can continue to work together to develop enhanced economic ties,” Morrison said. “Today’s steps are only the first on a long journey that will see Australia and India grow together,” he said. Kovind, who was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour by Governor General Peter Cosgrove in Sydney, will be visiting Melbourne on Friday to address university students.

India, Australia ink 5 pacts as President Ram Nath Kovind meets PM Scott Morrison

Turkish top-tier soccer club Sivasspor has contacted Olympic sprint champion Usain Bolt over a potential deal for the second half of the season, state-run TRT television reported.

Earlier this month, Bolt finished his&nbsp;football&nbsp;trial at Central Coast Mariners in Australia and will leave the club after failing to agree on commercial terms, the A-League side said on Friday.

Last week, Bolt said he may give up on his dream of becoming a professional&nbsp;footballer despite having "a lot of offers" and added that he will make a decision on his future by the end of November.

"I have received offers from many clubs. I will make a decision at the end of November. Either I will continue or I will end my dreams. This is not about money. This is my dream," he told reporters.

The mid-season transfer for the Turkish league is between Jan. 5 and Jan. 31, 2019.

Sivasspor could not immediately be reached for comment.

The Turkish club, currently sitting in 11th place in the Super Lig, already has multiple international stars such as Robinho, Carl Medjani, Arouna Kone, Gabriel Torje and Douglas.

Turkish top-tier soccer club Sivasspor has contacted Olympic sprint champion Usain Bolt over a potential deal for the second half of the season, state-run TRT television reported.

Turkish top-tier soccer club Sivasspor has contacted Olympic sprint champion Usain Bolt over a potential deal for the second half of the season, state-run TRT television reported. Earlier this month, Bolt finished his football trial at Central Coast Mariners in Australia and will leave the club after failing to agree on commercial terms, the A-League side said on Friday. Last week, Bolt said he may give up on his dream of becoming a professional footballer despite having "a lot of offers" and added that he will make a decision on his future by the end of November. "I have received offers from many clubs. I will make a decision at the end of November. Either I will continue or I will end my dreams. This is not about money. This is my dream," he told reporters. The mid-season transfer for the Turkish league is between Jan. 5 and Jan. 31, 2019. Sivasspor could not immediately be reached for comment. The Turkish club, currently sitting in 11th place in the Super Lig, already has multiple international stars such as Robinho, Carl Medjani, Arouna Kone, Gabriel Torje and Douglas.

Usain Bolt contacted by Turkey's Sivasspor for potential deal: Reports

Hosts Australia won the first of the three T20I to be played against India, after the 'Men in Blue' fell just four runs shorts of the target readjusted under the Duckworth-Lewis method. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Australia rode on a collective top order effort to post 158/4 in 17 overs before the target was readjusted to 174, due to heavy showers, for India under the D/L method.&nbsp;

Talking about the team's performance, Indian skipper Virat Kohli said, wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant's wicket was the turning point of the game.&nbsp;

Dinesh Karthik and Pant were responsible for bringing India's chase back to life after hammering Andrew Tye for 25 runs in the 14th over. However, the latter's dismissal bought the home side back in contest.

"It was a close game, was a see-saw battle. Started well with the bat, fumbled in the middle overs, in the end we thought we`ll win with Pant and Karthik but it changed again with Pant`s dismissal," Kohli said at the post-match presentation.

The India skipper also praised opener Shikhar Dhawan, who top-scored for the tourists with a 42-ball 76, laced with 10 fours and two sixes.

"He's (Dhawan) a very strong player at the top of the order. Hasn't got a T20 hundred yet, but the way he plays it really benefits the team," the 30-year-old opined.

"That's how it goes in the game. What we can do is to learn from them (mistakes) and get back better," Kohli added.

Meanwhile, Australia skipper Aaron Finch felt his bowlers performed well in crunch situation, resulting in their win.

"Thought the boys played really well, especially in the middle overs with the bat. Showed a lot of courage to take it on. Some of our bowling was outstanding under pressure," Finch said.

The two sides will play the second T20I on Friday in Melbourne.

Hosts Australia won the first of the three T20I to be played against India, after the 'Men in Blue' fell just four runs shorts of the target readjusted under the Duckworth-Lewis method.

Hosts Australia won the first of the three T20I to be played against India, after the 'Men in Blue' fell just four runs shorts of the target readjusted under the Duckworth-Lewis method. Australia rode on a collective top order effort to post 158/4 in 17 overs before the target was readjusted to 174, due to heavy showers, for India under the D/L method. Talking about the team's performance, Indian skipper Virat Kohli said, wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant's wicket was the turning point of the game. Dinesh Karthik and Pant were responsible for bringing India's chase back to life after hammering Andrew Tye for 25 runs in the 14th over. However, the latter's dismissal bought the home side back in contest. "It was a close game, was a see-saw battle. Started well with the bat, fumbled in the middle overs, in the end we thought we`ll win with Pant and Karthik but it changed again with Pant`s dismissal," Kohli said at the post-match presentation. The India skipper also praised opener Shikhar Dhawan, who top-scored for the tourists with a 42-ball 76, laced with 10 fours and two sixes. "He's (Dhawan) a very strong player at the top of the order. Hasn't got a T20 hundred yet, but the way he plays it really benefits the team," the 30-year-old opined. "That's how it goes in the game. What we can do is to learn from them (mistakes) and get back better," Kohli added. Meanwhile, Australia skipper Aaron Finch felt his bowlers performed well in crunch situation, resulting in their win. "Thought the boys played really well, especially in the middle overs with the bat. Showed a lot of courage to take it on. Some of our bowling was outstanding under pressure," Finch said. The two sides will play the second T20I on Friday in Melbourne.

Pant's dismissal changed first T20I's outcome: Kohli on India's loss to Australia

Hockey World Cup 2018: Champions Australia eye to defend the title

In response to the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/smith-warner-bans-to-be-reviewed-this-week-reports-178166">Australian Cricketers' Association's plea</a> to bring <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=steve+smith">Steve Smith</a>, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=david+warner">David Warner</a> and Cameron Bancroft back before their original bans would end, Cricket Australia has released an official statement on Tuesday to deny it.

The trio was banned from state and international cricket for 12 months over the incident in South Africa in March, while Bancroft was suspended for nine months and after CA's ruling, they will have to serve their full bans.

CA interim chairman Earl Eddings said the board had "determined that it is not appropriate to make any changes to the sanctions handed down to the three players".

There has been pressure on the governing body to reinstate the players amid a recent poor run of results.

Eddings reinforced the unanimous decision of the Board stating: "Despite the absence of any recommendation regarding the sanctions in the recently released Ethics Centre Review, the Board has deliberated on the ACA's submission at length. We have reconsidered the sanctions as they apply to each of Steve, David and Cameron in light of the ACA's submission and the Ethics Centre Review and Recommendations." &nbsp; &nbsp;

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The Cricket Australia Board has released a statement in response to the Australian Cricketers' Association submission. <a href="https://t.co/9RyxC9V1fW">https://t.co/9RyxC9V1fW</a> <a href="https://t.co/H50HMmSSBE">pic.twitter.com/H50HMmSSBE</a>
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"The original decision of the Board to sanction the players was determined after rigorous discussion and consideration. CA maintains that both the length and nature of the sanctions remain an appropriate response in light of the considerable impact on the reputation of Australian cricket, here and abroad." &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Steve, David and Cameron are working hard to demonstrate their commitment to cricket and have our continued support to ensure their pathway to return is as smooth as possible." &nbsp;

"We believe the ongoing conversation about reducing the sanctions puts undue pressure on the three players – all of whom accepted the sanctions earlier this year - and the Australian men's cricket team. As such, the Cricket Australia Board doesn’t intend to consider further calls for amendments to the sanctions."

"Though we recognise that this decision will be disappointing for the ACA, we thank them for their submission. &nbsp;Our commitment to continue building a strong relationship between CA and the ACA in the interests of cricket in Australia remains and we look forward to meeting with them shortly to that end," concluded Eddings.

Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft were found in breach of Article 2.3.5 of the CA Code of Conduct, namely that their conduct:&nbsp; 
(a) was contrary to the spirit of the game;&nbsp; 
(b) was unbecoming of a representative or official;&nbsp; 
(c) is or could be harmful to the interests of cricket; and/or&nbsp; 
(d) did bring the game of cricket into disrepute.

In response to the Australian Cricketers' Association's plea to bring Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft back before their original bans would end, Cricket Australia has released an official statement on Tuesday to deny it.

In response to the Australian Cricketers' Association's plea to bring Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft back before their original bans would end, Cricket Australia has released an official statement on Tuesday to deny it. The trio was banned from state and international cricket for 12 months over the incident in South Africa in March, while Bancroft was suspended for nine months and after CA's ruling, they will have to serve their full bans. CA interim chairman Earl Eddings said the board had "determined that it is not appropriate to make any changes to the sanctions handed down to the three players". There has been pressure on the governing body to reinstate the players amid a recent poor run of results. Eddings reinforced the unanimous decision of the Board stating: "Despite the absence of any recommendation regarding the sanctions in the recently released Ethics Centre Review, the Board has deliberated on the ACA's submission at length. We have reconsidered the sanctions as they apply to each of Steve, David and Cameron in light of the ACA's submission and the Ethics Centre Review and Recommendations." The Cricket Australia Board has released a statement in response to the Australian Cricketers' Association submission. https://t.co/9RyxC9V1fW pic.twitter.com/H50HMmSSBE — Cricket Australia (@CAComms) November 20, 2018 × "The original decision of the Board to sanction the players was determined after rigorous discussion and consideration. CA maintains that both the length and nature of the sanctions remain an appropriate response in light of the considerable impact on the reputation of Australian cricket, here and abroad." "Steve, David and Cameron are working hard to demonstrate their commitment to cricket and have our continued support to ensure their pathway to return is as smooth as possible." "We believe the ongoing conversation about reducing the sanctions puts undue pressure on the three players – all of whom accepted the sanctions earlier this year - and the Australian men's cricket team. As such, the Cricket Australia Board doesn’t intend to consider further calls for amendments to the sanctions." "Though we recognise that this decision will be disappointing for the ACA, we thank them for their submission. Our commitment to continue building a strong relationship between CA and the ACA in the interests of cricket in Australia remains and we look forward to meeting with them shortly to that end," concluded Eddings. Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft were found in breach of Article 2.3.5 of the CA Code of Conduct, namely that their conduct: (a) was contrary to the spirit of the game; (b) was unbecoming of a representative or official; (c) is or could be harmful to the interests of cricket; and/or (d) did bring the game of cricket into disrepute.

No changes to Smith, Warner, Bancroft ball-tampering bans: Cricket Australia

Steve Smith and David Warner could have their one-year bans from international and state cricket reduced or adjusted after a review by the board of Cricket Australia (CA) this week, local media reports said on Monday.

Former test captain Smith and vice-captain Warner were handed the bans by CA after the ball-tampering scandal earlier this year and are not scheduled to resume playing at the top level until the end of March 2019.

Batsman Cameron Bancroft was handed a nine-month ban for his part in the affair and is scheduled to return to action at the end of December.

The Australian Cricketers' Association have always contested the bans were overly-harsh and have continued to push for all three to be able to return to representative cricket immediately.

Those calls intensified after a cultural review into Cricket Australia last month that suggested that the culture fostered in the game by the governing body had contributed to the incident in a test against South Africa.

That review led to the resignation of chairman David Peever, who had forcefully maintained that the players should see out the full terms of their suspensions.

Sydney's Daily Telegraph on Monday reported that "serious discussions" had taken place among senior officials over allowing the players to return to state cricket, adding that the board would consider lifting the suspensions this week.

Smith and Warner are two of the best batsmen in world cricket and the debate over their bans is being played out against the backdrop of Australia's continued struggles in all formats of the men's game.

With Australia's defence of the 50-overs World Cup starting in England at the end of May and the defence of the Ashes following in August and September, there is clearly a desire among some Down Under to get the duo back as soon as possible.

Both have been keeping their hand in by playing Sydney club cricket and have received praise in local media for the way they have conducted themselves.

Smith and Warner have both been retained by their franchises in the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) for the next version of the competition, which starts on March 29.

Australia take on India in the first of three Twenty20 internationals in Brisbane on Wednesday looking to snap a run of four consecutive defeats in the format.

They then face the tourists, who are top of the world rankings, in four tests over December and January looking to avoid what would be a first ever home series loss to India.

Steve Smith and David Warner could have their one-year bans from international and state cricket reduced or adjusted after a review by the board of Cricket Australia (CA) this week, local media reports said on Monday.

Steve Smith and David Warner could have their one-year bans from international and state cricket reduced or adjusted after a review by the board of Cricket Australia (CA) this week, local media reports said on Monday. Former test captain Smith and vice-captain Warner were handed the bans by CA after the ball-tampering scandal earlier this year and are not scheduled to resume playing at the top level until the end of March 2019. Batsman Cameron Bancroft was handed a nine-month ban for his part in the affair and is scheduled to return to action at the end of December. The Australian Cricketers' Association have always contested the bans were overly-harsh and have continued to push for all three to be able to return to representative cricket immediately. Those calls intensified after a cultural review into Cricket Australia last month that suggested that the culture fostered in the game by the governing body had contributed to the incident in a test against South Africa. That review led to the resignation of chairman David Peever, who had forcefully maintained that the players should see out the full terms of their suspensions. Sydney's Daily Telegraph on Monday reported that "serious discussions" had taken place among senior officials over allowing the players to return to state cricket, adding that the board would consider lifting the suspensions this week. Smith and Warner are two of the best batsmen in world cricket and the debate over their bans is being played out against the backdrop of Australia's continued struggles in all formats of the men's game. With Australia's defence of the 50-overs World Cup starting in England at the end of May and the defence of the Ashes following in August and September, there is clearly a desire among some Down Under to get the duo back as soon as possible. Both have been keeping their hand in by playing Sydney club cricket and have received praise in local media for the way they have conducted themselves. Smith and Warner have both been retained by their franchises in the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) for the next version of the competition, which starts on March 29. Australia take on India in the first of three Twenty20 internationals in Brisbane on Wednesday looking to snap a run of four consecutive defeats in the format. They then face the tourists, who are top of the world rankings, in four tests over December and January looking to avoid what would be a first ever home series loss to India.

Smith, Warner bans to be reviewed this week: Reports

India have the quality and confidence in their batting ranks to master the extra pace and bounce on Australian wickets and excel across formats, batsman Rohit Sharma said on Monday.

India have never won a Test series Down Under but fancy their chances against an Australian team yet to recover from a ball-tampering scandal that led to bans for former captain Steve Smith, opener David Warner and batsman Cameron Bancroft.

"This is one place we want to leave our mark on and do well as an unit," Rohit told reporters in Brisbane where the three-match Twenty20 series kicks off on Wednesday.

"The last time we came here there were a few close games. We want to make it count this time around. There is real good feeling in the group across all three formats. The motive of the team is to try and seize all the moments and try and win.

"When you do well in places like Australia you feel good as a team. Thinking about the World Cup ahead it can only give you confidence winning in places like Australia."

The Twenty20 Internationals will be followed by a four-Test series beginning in Adelaide on Dec. 6.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2018-19-schedule-teams-time-and-venue-177740">India vs Australia 2018-19: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

Gabba, which Rohit considers to be Australia's fastest surface, does not host any Test but Perth, known for assisting the quicks, is the venue for the second match while Melbourne and Sydney host the last two Tests.

"India have always played either at Perth or Brisbane," Rohit said. "This time around we are playing at Perth and not Brisbane. Last time we played at Brisbane but not Perth.

"Those two conditions are obviously very challenging and Australia specially have tall bowlers who extract bounce and use it to their advantage. Indian batsmen generally are not that tall. It's not that easy for us.

"But all the guys are determined to change things around this time. It will be a challenge but we are ready to accept the challenge."

Rohit has scored heavily in the limited-overs matches in Australia and his strong backfoot play earned him a place in India's Test squad after being dropped following modest returns in South Africa earlier this year.

The elegant right-hander said the extra bounce would suit his batting as he seeks to cement his place in the Test squad.

"The good bounce allows me to play my game because I have grown up playing on cement pitches back home," Rohit added.

"I have done well in limited overs, but the challenge obviously is red ball cricket, which right now I am not thinking of, just want to do well in the T20 format and take it from there."

India have the quality and confidence in their batting ranks to master the extra pace and bounce on Australian wickets and excel across formats, batsman Rohit Sharma said on Monday.

India have the quality and confidence in their batting ranks to master the extra pace and bounce on Australian wickets and excel across formats, batsman Rohit Sharma said on Monday. India have never won a Test series Down Under but fancy their chances against an Australian team yet to recover from a ball-tampering scandal that led to bans for former captain Steve Smith, opener David Warner and batsman Cameron Bancroft. "This is one place we want to leave our mark on and do well as an unit," Rohit told reporters in Brisbane where the three-match Twenty20 series kicks off on Wednesday. "The last time we came here there were a few close games. We want to make it count this time around. There is real good feeling in the group across all three formats. The motive of the team is to try and seize all the moments and try and win. "When you do well in places like Australia you feel good as a team. Thinking about the World Cup ahead it can only give you confidence winning in places like Australia." The Twenty20 Internationals will be followed by a four-Test series beginning in Adelaide on Dec. 6. India vs Australia 2018-19: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue Gabba, which Rohit considers to be Australia's fastest surface, does not host any Test but Perth, known for assisting the quicks, is the venue for the second match while Melbourne and Sydney host the last two Tests. "India have always played either at Perth or Brisbane," Rohit said. "This time around we are playing at Perth and not Brisbane. Last time we played at Brisbane but not Perth. "Those two conditions are obviously very challenging and Australia specially have tall bowlers who extract bounce and use it to their advantage. Indian batsmen generally are not that tall. It's not that easy for us. "But all the guys are determined to change things around this time. It will be a challenge but we are ready to accept the challenge." Rohit has scored heavily in the limited-overs matches in Australia and his strong backfoot play earned him a place in India's Test squad after being dropped following modest returns in South Africa earlier this year. The elegant right-hander said the extra bounce would suit his batting as he seeks to cement his place in the Test squad. "The good bounce allows me to play my game because I have grown up playing on cement pitches back home," Rohit added. "I have done well in limited overs, but the challenge obviously is red ball cricket, which right now I am not thinking of, just want to do well in the T20 format and take it from there."

'Want to leave our mark on and do well as an unit' in Australia, says Rohit Sharma

The Australian High Commission has issued a warning for Indian nationals wanting to live permanently or seek permanent residency in Australia against organised contrived marriage scams targeting South Asians.

The High Commission asked Indians to be aware of the scam which targeted&nbsp;young Australian women, many of whom come from disadvantaged and low socio-economic backgrounds.&nbsp;

The warning comes after the Australian Border Force (ABF) shut down an elaborate contrived marriages syndicate operating out of Sydney.

The syndicate had a 32-year-old Indian national facing court over his alleged role as the main facilitator.4 Australian citizens are also facing charges for allegedly convincing individuals to fraudulently marry non-citizens seeking to obtain permanent residency.&nbsp;

ABF Acting Investigations Commander, Clinton Sims, said, "Those seeking a visa through a contrived marriage also need to understand that paying a facilitator will not buy them a permanent visa pathway in Australia."

The Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) has charged the 32- year-old Indian national with four counts of arranging a marriage to obtain permanent residence, contrary to Section 240 of the Migration Act 1958. The maximum penalty is a fine up to $210,000 and/or 10 years imprisonment.

The remaining four individuals have each been charged with offences under the Migration Act and Criminal Code.

An Australian High Commission release said, "While contrived marriages are not unique to any one nationality, this particular syndicate was attempting to illegally facilitate fake marriages with non-citizens in the South Asian community."

ABF also acted on contrived marriages in Victoria, with one individual sentenced to six months imprisonment for fraud offences against the Migration Act.

Earlier this year, the Australian High Commission had warned of a visa scam which was being allegedly perpetrated by an employment agency operating in south-west Delhi.

The Australian High Commission has issued a warning for Indian nationals wanting to live permanently or seek permanent residency in Australia against organised contrived marriage scams targeting South Asians.

The Australian High Commission has issued a warning for Indian nationals wanting to live permanently or seek permanent residency in Australia against organised contrived marriage scams targeting South Asians. The High Commission asked Indians to be aware of the scam which targeted young Australian women, many of whom come from disadvantaged and low socio-economic backgrounds. The warning comes after the Australian Border Force (ABF) shut down an elaborate contrived marriages syndicate operating out of Sydney. The syndicate had a 32-year-old Indian national facing court over his alleged role as the main facilitator.4 Australian citizens are also facing charges for allegedly convincing individuals to fraudulently marry non-citizens seeking to obtain permanent residency. ABF Acting Investigations Commander, Clinton Sims, said, "Those seeking a visa through a contrived marriage also need to understand that paying a facilitator will not buy them a permanent visa pathway in Australia." The Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) has charged the 32- year-old Indian national with four counts of arranging a marriage to obtain permanent residence, contrary to Section 240 of the Migration Act 1958. The maximum penalty is a fine up to $210,000 and/or 10 years imprisonment. The remaining four individuals have each been charged with offences under the Migration Act and Criminal Code. An Australian High Commission release said, "While contrived marriages are not unique to any one nationality, this particular syndicate was attempting to illegally facilitate fake marriages with non-citizens in the South Asian community." ABF also acted on contrived marriages in Victoria, with one individual sentenced to six months imprisonment for fraud offences against the Migration Act. Earlier this year, the Australian High Commission had warned of a visa scam which was being allegedly perpetrated by an employment agency operating in south-west Delhi.

Be aware of fake marriage scams: Australian govt to Indians

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