On this day in 2001, India pulled off a historic win in the second and penultimate Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia on home soil. After losing the series opener convincingly, the then Sourav Ganguly-led Indian team were on the mat after being asked to follow-on. Dismissing Steve Waugh's Australia for 445, India only managed 171 and were 232-4 in their second essay.

VVS Laxman (281) and Rahul Dravid (180)&nbsp;joined forces for the fifth-wicket stand, which added a mammoth 376 runs as the two's daddy hundreds propelled India to set a daunting 384-run target for the visitors. Waugh &amp; Co., who were riding high on their 16-match unbeaten streak, fell flat and bundled out for 212 on the final day as Harbhajan Singh's match figures of 13 for 196 took India to a stunning 171-run win.

On Wednesday (March 15), India's former player Hemang Badani shared some interesting and unheard tales from the iconic Kolkata Test. Badani wrote on Twitter, "Not many know that at the end of day 3 we had packed our suitcases, they were to be taken straight to the airport and the team were to go straight to the airport from the ground. And then these two batted like magicians without losing a wicket the entire day."

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"When we got back to the hotel, we didn’t have our suitcases and were stuck with our match gear and tracks until about 9 pm or so. Lot of us ate dinner at the hotel restaurant in our whites," he added.

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Not many know that at the end of day 3 we had packed our suitcases, they were to be taken straight to airport and the team were to go straight to the airport from ground. And then these two batted like magicians without losing a wicket the entire day …cont <a href="https://t.co/jTyuUTD4o9">https://t.co/jTyuUTD4o9</a>
— Hemang Badani (@hemangkbadani) <a href="https://twitter.com/hemangkbadani/status/1635533988453552128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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At the end of Day 3, India were reeling at 254-4 in their second essay before they eventually declared at 657/7 courtesy of Laxman-Dravid's brilliance.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fact-check-is-aussie-legend-adam-gilchrist-the-richest-cricketer-in-the-world-heres-the-truth-571877">FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH</a>

An uncapped Badani sledged legend Waugh!

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And here is another story. On day five our keeper Mongia got injured and yours truly was on as a substitute fielder and Sourav knowing that I was one of the few who could speak English well asked me to make it tough for the Aussie’s ..cont 1/2 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/SxgOXKudpO">https://t.co/SxgOXKudpO</a>
— Hemang Badani (@hemangkbadani) <a href="https://twitter.com/hemangkbadani/status/1635859877867454464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Badani further revealed, in reply to another tweet, "And here is another story. On day five our keeper Mongia got injured and yours truly was on as a substitute fielder and Sourav knowing that I was one of the few who could speak English well asked me to make it tough for the Aussie’s .."

"I hadn’t even made my test debut then and imagine I was going hard at their Skip who had played over a 100 test games and I was lucky enough to be a part of his dismissal. Haven’t been a part of any better cricket match than this.Fabulous cricket and great memories for me," he added.

Ganguly-led India not only levelled the three-match series in Kolkata, but they also went ahead to win the series decider in Chennai by two wickets. Hence, India emerged on top of a daunting Australian unit to win the series 2-1 after trailing 0-1. The Kolkata Test changed Indian cricket completely and is vividly remembered to date as one of the best red-ball games ever.

Currently, hosts Rohit Sharma-led India -- under Dravid's coaching -- defeated Australia 2-1 in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and both sides will meet in this year's ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London in early June.
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On this day in 2001, India pulled off a historic win in the second and penultimate Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia on home soil. After losing the series opener convincingly, the then Sourav Ganguly-led Indian team were on the mat after being asked to follow-on.

On this day in 2001, India pulled off a historic win in the second and penultimate Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia on home soil. After losing the series opener convincingly, the then Sourav Ganguly-led Indian team were on the mat after being asked to follow-on. Dismissing Steve Waugh's Australia for 445, India only managed 171 and were 232-4 in their second essay. VVS Laxman (281) and Rahul Dravid (180) joined forces for the fifth-wicket stand, which added a mammoth 376 runs as the two's daddy hundreds propelled India to set a daunting 384-run target for the visitors. Waugh & Co., who were riding high on their 16-match unbeaten streak, fell flat and bundled out for 212 on the final day as Harbhajan Singh's match figures of 13 for 196 took India to a stunning 171-run win. On Wednesday (March 15), India's former player Hemang Badani shared some interesting and unheard tales from the iconic Kolkata Test. Badani wrote on Twitter, "Not many know that at the end of day 3 we had packed our suitcases, they were to be taken straight to the airport and the team were to go straight to the airport from the ground. And then these two batted like magicians without losing a wicket the entire day." "When we got back to the hotel, we didn’t have our suitcases and were stuck with our match gear and tracks until about 9 pm or so. Lot of us ate dinner at the hotel restaurant in our whites," he added. Not many know that at the end of day 3 we had packed our suitcases, they were to be taken straight to airport and the team were to go straight to the airport from ground. And then these two batted like magicians without losing a wicket the entire day …cont https://t.co/jTyuUTD4o9 — Hemang Badani (@hemangkbadani) March 14, 2023 × At the end of Day 3, India were reeling at 254-4 in their second essay before they eventually declared at 657/7 courtesy of Laxman-Dravid's brilliance. Also read: FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH An uncapped Badani sledged legend Waugh! And here is another story. On day five our keeper Mongia got injured and yours truly was on as a substitute fielder and Sourav knowing that I was one of the few who could speak English well asked me to make it tough for the Aussie’s ..cont 1/2 #INDvsAUS https://t.co/SxgOXKudpO — Hemang Badani (@hemangkbadani) March 15, 2023 × Badani further revealed, in reply to another tweet, "And here is another story. On day five our keeper Mongia got injured and yours truly was on as a substitute fielder and Sourav knowing that I was one of the few who could speak English well asked me to make it tough for the Aussie’s .." "I hadn’t even made my test debut then and imagine I was going hard at their Skip who had played over a 100 test games and I was lucky enough to be a part of his dismissal. Haven’t been a part of any better cricket match than this.Fabulous cricket and great memories for me," he added. Ganguly-led India not only levelled the three-match series in Kolkata, but they also went ahead to win the series decider in Chennai by two wickets. Hence, India emerged on top of a daunting Australian unit to win the series 2-1 after trailing 0-1. The Kolkata Test changed Indian cricket completely and is vividly remembered to date as one of the best red-ball games ever. Currently, hosts Rohit Sharma-led India -- under Dravid's coaching -- defeated Australia 2-1 in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and both sides will meet in this year's ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London in early June.

'Packed our suitcases': Ex-India player shares UNHEARD tale from famous 2001 Kolkata Test win vs Australia

The Border-Gavaskar series is over with India winning it 2-1 after the last Test in Ahmedabad ended in a draw. Australia was in strong position on a batting paradise, amassing 480 runs in the first innings. India too replied in the same manner as they scored 571/9 with right-hand batsman Shreyas Iyer not coming out to bat.

Iyer was taken to hospital on day four of the final Test for scans after complaining of back issues. The batsman had missed the first Test in Nagpur due to back injury as well before coming back in the side for the second Test in Delhi.&nbsp;

Skipper Rohit Sharma, at the post-match presentation of Ahmedabad Test, spoke about Iyer's injury.&nbsp;

"Poor guy. It just was such an unfortunate incident. He had to wait all day to bat and then when the day got over, the issue he had with his back, recurred. He was sent to the hospital to take scans. I don't know the exact report of the scans, but he does not seem to be doing that well," said the skipper.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-india-opener-sunil-gavaskar-picks-this-star-player-to-replace-rohit-as-odi-captain-after-2023-world-cup-572154">Ex-India opener Sunil Gavaskar picks THIS star player to replace Rohit as ODI captain after 2023 World Cup</a>

Rohit further said that he doesn't know how long the batsman will take to recover.

"Obviously, that’s why he's not present here, so we don't know the exact status of how long he will take to recover or when he will be back. When it happened, it did not look that great. I hope he recovers quickly and comes back and plays again," he added.

Due to the injury, Iyer has been sidelined from the upcoming ODI series against Australia as well. The three-match ODI series is set to begin from March 17 in Mumbai with next two matches scheduled in Vishakhapatnam and Chennai on March 19 and 22, respectively.

Iyer is also likely to be unavailable for the first few matches for his IPL side Kolkata Knight Riders as report by media outlet PTI says that he is set to be out for a prolonged period of time.

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The Border-Gavaskar series is over with India winning it 2-1 after the last Test in Ahmedabad ended in a draw. Australia was in strong position on a batting paradise, amassing 480 runs in the first innings.

The Border-Gavaskar series is over with India winning it 2-1 after the last Test in Ahmedabad ended in a draw. Australia was in strong position on a batting paradise, amassing 480 runs in the first innings. India too replied in the same manner as they scored 571/9 with right-hand batsman Shreyas Iyer not coming out to bat. Iyer was taken to hospital on day four of the final Test for scans after complaining of back issues. The batsman had missed the first Test in Nagpur due to back injury as well before coming back in the side for the second Test in Delhi. Skipper Rohit Sharma, at the post-match presentation of Ahmedabad Test, spoke about Iyer's injury. "Poor guy. It just was such an unfortunate incident. He had to wait all day to bat and then when the day got over, the issue he had with his back, recurred. He was sent to the hospital to take scans. I don't know the exact report of the scans, but he does not seem to be doing that well," said the skipper. Also Read: Ex-India opener Sunil Gavaskar picks THIS star player to replace Rohit as ODI captain after 2023 World Cup Rohit further said that he doesn't know how long the batsman will take to recover. "Obviously, that’s why he's not present here, so we don't know the exact status of how long he will take to recover or when he will be back. When it happened, it did not look that great. I hope he recovers quickly and comes back and plays again," he added. Due to the injury, Iyer has been sidelined from the upcoming ODI series against Australia as well. The three-match ODI series is set to begin from March 17 in Mumbai with next two matches scheduled in Vishakhapatnam and Chennai on March 19 and 22, respectively. Iyer is also likely to be unavailable for the first few matches for his IPL side Kolkata Knight Riders as report by media outlet PTI says that he is set to be out for a prolonged period of time. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India captain Rohit Sharma opens up on Shreyas Iyer's back injury

Rohit Sharma-led India's fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended in a tame draw in Ahmedabad as the hosts won the series 2-1. In the high-scoring series decider, Australia posted 480 all-out riding on centuries from Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green whereas India replied back strongly with tons from Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli (186). On Day 5, on Monday (March 13), both sides settled for a draw when Australia were 175 for 2 in the final session with no chance of any result.

There were a lot of positives for Team India in the just-concluded BGT. While the biggest positive is that India entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), the likes of Shubman Gill and Axar Patel also impressed and were some bright performers along with senior pros R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, captain Rohit. Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lavished huge praise on Gill and revealed 'another of his rare strengths' while comparing him with Virender Sehwag.

During a discussion on&nbsp;Star Sports, Manjrekar said, "He showed glimpses of it when he made his debut in Australia. It seemed that he is a capable player and can play Test cricket as well. We knew his fundamentals were good when we saw him in Under-19. Rahul Dravid was the coach then and was very happy with his basic abilities."

&nbsp;"The things I liked - one thing I will talk about is the footwork. The front foot is now going further forward although the trigger movement is the back foot. This will help him a lot in Test cricket," Manjrekar opined.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-does-become-kohlis-brutally-honest-reply-to-dravds-question-on-century-drought-watch-571912">'It does become...': Kohli's 'brutally honest' reply to Dravd's question on century drought - WATCH</a>

'This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag'

Manjrekar further added, "The second thing we saw in Test cricket as well is the big game, the confidence with which he plays the lofted shots. When you see him, it seems he is a purist, a classical player to an extent, but the power game comes whenever he calls for it. In this match also he played a lofted shot in the nineties to go close to a hundred. He reached his (ODI) double hundred also with a six. This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag. I didn't know about this but now it has come to the fore that this is another of his rare strengths."

Gill will now shift his focus on the ODI series versus Australia, which kicks off in Mumbai on March 17. After that, he will gear up for defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2023, which commences on March 31 in Ahmedabad.

Rohit Sharma-led India's fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended in a tame draw in Ahmedabad as the hosts won the series 2-1.

Rohit Sharma-led India's fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended in a tame draw in Ahmedabad as the hosts won the series 2-1. In the high-scoring series decider, Australia posted 480 all-out riding on centuries from Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green whereas India replied back strongly with tons from Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli (186). On Day 5, on Monday (March 13), both sides settled for a draw when Australia were 175 for 2 in the final session with no chance of any result. There were a lot of positives for Team India in the just-concluded BGT. While the biggest positive is that India entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), the likes of Shubman Gill and Axar Patel also impressed and were some bright performers along with senior pros R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, captain Rohit. Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lavished huge praise on Gill and revealed 'another of his rare strengths' while comparing him with Virender Sehwag. During a discussion on Star Sports, Manjrekar said, "He showed glimpses of it when he made his debut in Australia. It seemed that he is a capable player and can play Test cricket as well. We knew his fundamentals were good when we saw him in Under-19. Rahul Dravid was the coach then and was very happy with his basic abilities." "The things I liked - one thing I will talk about is the footwork. The front foot is now going further forward although the trigger movement is the back foot. This will help him a lot in Test cricket," Manjrekar opined. Also Read: 'It does become...': Kohli's 'brutally honest' reply to Dravd's question on century drought - WATCH 'This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag' Manjrekar further added, "The second thing we saw in Test cricket as well is the big game, the confidence with which he plays the lofted shots. When you see him, it seems he is a purist, a classical player to an extent, but the power game comes whenever he calls for it. In this match also he played a lofted shot in the nineties to go close to a hundred. He reached his (ODI) double hundred also with a six. This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag. I didn't know about this but now it has come to the fore that this is another of his rare strengths." Gill will now shift his focus on the ODI series versus Australia, which kicks off in Mumbai on March 17. After that, he will gear up for defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2023, which commences on March 31 in Ahmedabad.

Ind vs Aus: Sanjay Manjrekar lavishes huge praise on Shubman Gill, reveals 'another of his rare strengths'

Virat Kohli’s best Test score (186) against Australia has put India on the brink of sealing the remaining one spot in the World Test Championship final as the hosts are in a commanding position heading into the final day of the Ahmedabad Test. With Australia being a batter down and trailing by 88 runs heading into the fifth day, they would be worried about yet another collapse in the Border-Gavaskar series.

Day four completely belonged to India and Virat Kohli in particular. Beginning the proceedings alongside Ravindra Jadeja, Kohli remained firm in his quest of ending his Test century drought in Ahmedabad. Getting assistance from each of the partners until the tail started, Kohli broke the ice and completed his first Test hundred since scoring last in&nbsp;November 2019.&nbsp;

In the process, he did break several records with one of them being registering his highest Test score against his favourite opponents Australia (186&nbsp;off&nbsp;364).

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-hits-first-test-hundred-since-november-2019-kisses-locket-and-receives-applauds-watch-571088">Virat Kohli hits first Test hundred since November 2019, kisses locket and receives applauds - WATCH</a>

Though tomorrow’s headlines would mention Kohli’s name, another player who hogged the limelight not only during this innings but also throughout the series was Axar Patel. The bowling all-rounder didn’t make it to the top in the wickets column but he made sure he isn’t going unnoticed as he smashed his third fifty of the series.

Slamming every one&nbsp;Axar was on a rampage at the Narendra Modi Stadium hitting a marvellous 79 off 1143 balls. A 162-run stand between these two left Australia clueless as India marched its way into a winning position with each passing over.&nbsp;

As Shreyas Iyer didn’t come out to bat after complaining of lower back pain earlier on day three, India’s all-nine wickets fell on 571, 91 more than Australia’s first innings total. &nbsp;

With hardly six overs left for the day’s play, the Indian bowlers kept it tight against Travis Head and a newcomer in the opening slot Matthew Kuhnemann – the number 11 batter. Yes, you read it right! In Usman Khawaja’s absence, who suffered an injury while fielding, Kuhnemann was asked to be a make-shift opener.

Now with India ahead in the game, they will fancy their chances of beating Australia tomorrow and not only winning the four-match Test series 3-1 but also sealing the WTC final spot.

Virat Kohli’s best Test score (186) against Australia has put India on the brink of sealing the remaining one spot in the World Test Championship final as the hosts are in a commanding position heading into the final day of the Ahmedabad Test.

Virat Kohli’s best Test score (186) against Australia has put India on the brink of sealing the remaining one spot in the World Test Championship final as the hosts are in a commanding position heading into the final day of the Ahmedabad Test. With Australia being a batter down and trailing by 88 runs heading into the fifth day, they would be worried about yet another collapse in the Border-Gavaskar series. Day four completely belonged to India and Virat Kohli in particular. Beginning the proceedings alongside Ravindra Jadeja, Kohli remained firm in his quest of ending his Test century drought in Ahmedabad. Getting assistance from each of the partners until the tail started, Kohli broke the ice and completed his first Test hundred since scoring last in November 2019. In the process, he did break several records with one of them being registering his highest Test score against his favourite opponents Australia (186 off 364). ALSO READ: Virat Kohli hits first Test hundred since November 2019, kisses locket and receives applauds - WATCH Though tomorrow’s headlines would mention Kohli’s name, another player who hogged the limelight not only during this innings but also throughout the series was Axar Patel. The bowling all-rounder didn’t make it to the top in the wickets column but he made sure he isn’t going unnoticed as he smashed his third fifty of the series. Slamming every one Axar was on a rampage at the Narendra Modi Stadium hitting a marvellous 79 off 1143 balls. A 162-run stand between these two left Australia clueless as India marched its way into a winning position with each passing over. As Shreyas Iyer didn’t come out to bat after complaining of lower back pain earlier on day three, India’s all-nine wickets fell on 571, 91 more than Australia’s first innings total. With hardly six overs left for the day’s play, the Indian bowlers kept it tight against Travis Head and a newcomer in the opening slot Matthew Kuhnemann – the number 11 batter. Yes, you read it right! In Usman Khawaja’s absence, who suffered an injury while fielding, Kuhnemann was asked to be a make-shift opener. Now with India ahead in the game, they will fancy their chances of beating Australia tomorrow and not only winning the four-match Test series 3-1 but also sealing the WTC final spot.

4th Test, day 4: Virat Kohli's best Test score against Australia puts India on brink of sealing WTC final

The fourth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar series ended in a draw and with that India won the series 2-1. Steve Smith, Australia's stand-in captain for the last two Tests, speaking at the presentation ceremony after the Ahmedabad Tests, pointed out what was the turning point of the series.

"Did end slowly. It was pretty flat at the back end. The boys had a great time. The hospitality has been amazing. The crowd has been amazing. We started to play better as the series went on. The madness in one hour in Delhi cost us that game," said Smith.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/long-may-it-continue-india-coach-rahul-dravid-praises-this-exciting-young-player-after-australia-tests-571608">'Long may it continue...': India coach Rahul Dravid praises THIS exciting young player after Australia Tests</a>

Notably, Delhi hosted the second Test of the series and Australia, who were already 0-1 in the series, got bowled out for a paltry 113 in the second innings. India then chased the 115-run target with ease and took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. Australia, however, bounced back in the next Test in Indore and won by nine wickets.

Australia had lost eight wickets for 28 runs as they went from 85/2 to 113/10 in the second innings of the Delhi Test with Ravindra Jadeja claiming seven wickets and Ravi Ashwin taking rest three. Many of Australian players got out trying to play sweep shots for which they were criticised a lot by the former Australian players after the Test.

After winning the Indore Test, it was down to Ahmedabad if the Aussies wanted to draw the series and they started well by putting up 480 on the board in their first innings. India, however, replied equally well, thanks to centuries by Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli, as they took a 91-run lead in the first innings.

The pitch in Ahmedabad was nothing compared to previous three Tests in terms of turn offered and Smith acknowledged the same.

"The wicket here was too flat for us to force a result. The spinners bowled really well. Murphy and Kuhnemann bowled with composure. Lyon bowled his best in the first innings here, the best I have seen him bowl,," Smith said.

The two sides now will face each other in the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June in England.

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The fourth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar series ended in a draw and with that India won the series 2-1. Steve Smith, Australia's stand-in captain for the last two Tests, speaking at the presentation ceremony after the Ahmedabad Tests, pointed out what was the turning point of the series.

The fourth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar series ended in a draw and with that India won the series 2-1. Steve Smith, Australia's stand-in captain for the last two Tests, speaking at the presentation ceremony after the Ahmedabad Tests, pointed out what was the turning point of the series. "Did end slowly. It was pretty flat at the back end. The boys had a great time. The hospitality has been amazing. The crowd has been amazing. We started to play better as the series went on. The madness in one hour in Delhi cost us that game," said Smith. Also Read: 'Long may it continue...': India coach Rahul Dravid praises THIS exciting young player after Australia Tests Notably, Delhi hosted the second Test of the series and Australia, who were already 0-1 in the series, got bowled out for a paltry 113 in the second innings. India then chased the 115-run target with ease and took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. Australia, however, bounced back in the next Test in Indore and won by nine wickets. Australia had lost eight wickets for 28 runs as they went from 85/2 to 113/10 in the second innings of the Delhi Test with Ravindra Jadeja claiming seven wickets and Ravi Ashwin taking rest three. Many of Australian players got out trying to play sweep shots for which they were criticised a lot by the former Australian players after the Test. After winning the Indore Test, it was down to Ahmedabad if the Aussies wanted to draw the series and they started well by putting up 480 on the board in their first innings. India, however, replied equally well, thanks to centuries by Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli, as they took a 91-run lead in the first innings. The pitch in Ahmedabad was nothing compared to previous three Tests in terms of turn offered and Smith acknowledged the same. "The wicket here was too flat for us to force a result. The spinners bowled really well. Murphy and Kuhnemann bowled with composure. Lyon bowled his best in the first innings here, the best I have seen him bowl,," Smith said. The two sides now will face each other in the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June in England. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Madness in one hour...': Steve Smith rues BIG moment after Australia lose Test series 2-1

The end of the fifth day at the Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad put curtains down on the marquee 2023 Border-Gavaskar series with India winning it (2-1) for the fourth straight time.

The end of the fifth day at the Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad put curtains down on the marquee 2023 Border-Gavaskar series with India winning it (2-1) for the fourth straight time. Continuing their dominance at home the Indian spinners fared the best not only with the ball but also with the bat in hand. In this piece we will look at the top five players from the recently-concluded India vs Australia series. Ravindra Jadeja It’s not easy being Ravindran Jadeja. From remaining out of cricket for more than five months to winning the Player of the Series award for an all-round show upon returning to the side straightaway, only Jadeja could have done it. The left-arm maestro picked 22 wickets and scored 135 runs across four Tests to remain on top of the all-rounder's chart in the ICC rankings. In his first game since August 2022, Jadeja returned with a five-for in the first innings in Nagpur. He mounted pressure on Australia with a fighting 70 in the first innings before picking up two more wickets in the second innings to help India win the Test by an inning and 132 runs. His best performance, however, came in the following Test in Delhi where he picked his career-best figures of seven for 42 in the second innings, finishing with match figures of ten for 110, bagging yet another player of the match award. ALSO READ: BGT 2022/23: Axar Patel attains STAGGERING feat after India beat Australia 2-1 Axar Patel If there was an award for the game-changing inning in a Test, Axar would have won it not once, not twice but thrice, and that too for his batting and not bowling. India’s best player in this Border-Gavaskar series, Axar Patel impressed everyone with his batting display. Rather known and ranked as a specialised spinner, what Axar achieved with the bat in hand even promoted the Aussies to take a leaf out of his book. In Nagpur Axar scored a counter-attacking 84, whereas, in Delhi the left-handed batter completed yet another fifty, hitting 74 in the first innings. After a rare failure in the Indore Test, Axar returned with a 113-ball 79 in India’s first innings in the final Test. What’s exciting about these fifties – Axar scored the majority of these runs while India was struggling to put up runs on the board. Meanwhile, given these scores, Axar was not only India’s second-best batter in the series in terms of runs scored but was also the third-highest run-scorer (264 runs at an average of 88) after Usman Khawaja and Virat Kohli. He didn’t fare any well in bowling though picking up just three wickets. Ravichandran Ashwin There cannot be a discussion of the best players in a series in India without mentioning Ravi Ashwin’s name. The veteran spinner, for the nth time in his Test career, had an impactful series with the ball in hand. The off-spin legend was again the thorn in the flesh of the Aussies as he won the Player of the Series award alongside Jadeja for picking up the most wickets (25) this time. Throughout the series, Ashwin remained on the top of Australia and while he troubled them big time on the rank-turners in the first three Tests, he left an impression with a six-wicket haul in the final Test in Ahmedabad where the pitch refused to assist the spinners. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Reliving India's run in second cycle as they qualify for summit clash Nathan Lyon Called the best overseas spinner to have travelled to India in a very long time by the India captain Rohit Sharma, Nathan Lyon delivered what was expected out of him. Equalled with Jadeja in the wickets tally (22) in this series, Lyon, following a rusty start in the first match, tore into India’s middle-order in the Indore Test with his second eight-wicket haul in an inning in India. Despite being India's nemesis, even in Australia, Lyon got good support from the newcomers in Todd Murphy and Matthew Kuhnemann throughout the series as they returned with 14 and nine wickets, respectively. Meanwhile, with 116 wickets In the Border-Gavaskar series and 482 in Tests, Lyon stays ahead of India’s Ashwin on both lists. Usman Khawaja After warming benches during his previous two India tours, the left-handed Usman Khawaja finally got his turn this time, and he made the most of his chance. In a team full of batting superstars, Usman came good after early jitters in the first Test and remained on top by scoring the most runs among all batters. While Ashwin had his number on most of the occasions, Khawaja shined on two separate instances – one during the first innings in Delhi, where he scored a fighting 81 and then during the final Test in Ahmedabad, where he registered his maiden hundred on the Indian soil, hitting an incredible 180.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: From Axar Patel to Nathan Lyon, here are the top five players of the series

India ended the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia by beating the visitors 2-1 after the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, ended in a tame draw on Monday (March 13).&nbsp;The series saw India enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, where they will once again face Australia, on June 07, in order to win the coveted title. There were many top performers for India with the likes of captain Rohit Sharma, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel doing well in the four Tests. Talking about the spin-bowling all-rounder Axar, he saw his stocks rising as a batter with three crucial half-centuries. During the Ahmedabad Test, the local boy Axar achieved a massive feat on Day 5 of the series decider.&nbsp;

Axar became the fifth cricketer to hit 500 runs and take 50 wickets in 12 Tests. He now has 513 runs and 50 wickets in the purest format of the game. In addition, he became only the second Indian to achieve the historic feat after veteran R Ashwin (596 runs and 63 wickets).

The exclusive club is led by South Africa's Aubrey Faulkner (682 runs and 52 wickets), who is followed by Australia's Jack Gregory (744 runs and 57 wickets) and England great Ian Botham (549 runs and 70 wickets).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-r-ashwin-recalls-conversation-with-virat-kohli-before-former-captains-ahmedabad-test-heroics-571578">Ind vs Aus: R Ashwin recalls conversation with Virat Kohli before former captain's Ahmedabad Test heroics</a>

Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh also lauded Axar for his performances in the 2022/23 BGT. "Well, he's been phenomenal with the bat. He didn't get too many chances with the ball in this particular series because Jadeja was doing the damage. Ashwin bowled well in the series. So, I feel as a batter, you know Axar coming at No.8 or 9 and scoring those winning knocks, 70 in Delhi and another one in Nagpur," Harbhajan told India Today.

"He put India ahead in this game by scoring those runs in quick fashion and, of course, good to see him evolving himself as an all-rounder more with the bat now, since he has got the opportunity and he is making the most of it and it's good to see that he's not shying away," Bhajji added.

Axar ended with 264 runs -- third-most overall -- along with three scalps in the just-concluded Australia Tests.&nbsp;

India ended the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia by beating the visitors 2-1 after the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, ended in a tame draw on Monday (March 13).

India ended the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia by beating the visitors 2-1 after the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, ended in a tame draw on Monday (March 13). The series saw India enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, where they will once again face Australia, on June 07, in order to win the coveted title. There were many top performers for India with the likes of captain Rohit Sharma, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel doing well in the four Tests. Talking about the spin-bowling all-rounder Axar, he saw his stocks rising as a batter with three crucial half-centuries. During the Ahmedabad Test, the local boy Axar achieved a massive feat on Day 5 of the series decider. Axar became the fifth cricketer to hit 500 runs and take 50 wickets in 12 Tests. He now has 513 runs and 50 wickets in the purest format of the game. In addition, he became only the second Indian to achieve the historic feat after veteran R Ashwin (596 runs and 63 wickets). The exclusive club is led by South Africa's Aubrey Faulkner (682 runs and 52 wickets), who is followed by Australia's Jack Gregory (744 runs and 57 wickets) and England great Ian Botham (549 runs and 70 wickets). Also read: Ind vs Aus: R Ashwin recalls conversation with Virat Kohli before former captain's Ahmedabad Test heroics Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh also lauded Axar for his performances in the 2022/23 BGT. "Well, he's been phenomenal with the bat. He didn't get too many chances with the ball in this particular series because Jadeja was doing the damage. Ashwin bowled well in the series. So, I feel as a batter, you know Axar coming at No.8 or 9 and scoring those winning knocks, 70 in Delhi and another one in Nagpur," Harbhajan told India Today. "He put India ahead in this game by scoring those runs in quick fashion and, of course, good to see him evolving himself as an all-rounder more with the bat now, since he has got the opportunity and he is making the most of it and it's good to see that he's not shying away," Bhajji added. Axar ended with 264 runs -- third-most overall -- along with three scalps in the just-concluded Australia Tests.

BGT 2022/23: Axar Patel attains STAGGERING feat after India beat Australia 2-1

Indian batter Shreyas Iyer has complained of pain in his lower back and has been sent for scans, BCCI said in a statement. Iyer returned from a back injury during the second Test in Delhi having missed the first game in Nagpur alongside missing the white-ball series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand earlier.&nbsp;

As he didn’t come out to bat in his regular number five position on Saturday with Jadeja being sent ahead of him, doubts started getting created on what has happened to Iyer – is he injured or is that a tactical move by India?

The BCCI, however, cleared the air with the following statement, "Shreyas Iyer complained of pain in his lower back following the third day's play. He has gone for scans and the BCCI Medical Team is monitoring him."

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-hits-first-test-hundred-since-november-2019-kisses-locket-and-receives-applauds-watch-571088">Virat Kohli hits first Test hundred since November 2019, kisses locket and receives applauds - WATCH</a>

Going by the statement, it remains unclear if Iyer&nbsp;would return anytime soon to bat in the first innings on day four of the final Ahmedabad Test. Now given that India hasn’t qualified for the WTC final yet, and for them to punch their ticket directly for the finals, they need to win this Test else they’ll have to rely on New Zealand to do the job for them.

While India is looking to cross Australia’s first-inning tally with century-maker Virat Kohli and the man-in-form with bat Axar Patel at the crease as things stand, Iyer’s absence could hamper their flow going forward. For India to pace up the innings and take any good lead on this wicket against Australia considering only one day is left for the result to come out, Iyer’s attacking approach would have made a difference. 
 
Meanwhile, coming back to the ongoing Test, former India captain Virat Kohli completed his 28th Test hundred – first in over three years, and his 75th overall in international cricket.

Indian batter Shreyas Iyer has complained of pain in his lower back and has been sent for scans, BCCI said in a statement. Iyer returned from a back injury during the second Test in Delhi having missed the first game in Nagpur alongside missing the white-ball series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand earlier.

Indian batter Shreyas Iyer has complained of pain in his lower back and has been sent for scans, BCCI said in a statement. Iyer returned from a back injury during the second Test in Delhi having missed the first game in Nagpur alongside missing the white-ball series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand earlier. As he didn’t come out to bat in his regular number five position on Saturday with Jadeja being sent ahead of him, doubts started getting created on what has happened to Iyer – is he injured or is that a tactical move by India? The BCCI, however, cleared the air with the following statement, "Shreyas Iyer complained of pain in his lower back following the third day's play. He has gone for scans and the BCCI Medical Team is monitoring him." ALSO READ: Virat Kohli hits first Test hundred since November 2019, kisses locket and receives applauds - WATCH Going by the statement, it remains unclear if Iyer would return anytime soon to bat in the first innings on day four of the final Ahmedabad Test. Now given that India hasn’t qualified for the WTC final yet, and for them to punch their ticket directly for the finals, they need to win this Test else they’ll have to rely on New Zealand to do the job for them. While India is looking to cross Australia’s first-inning tally with century-maker Virat Kohli and the man-in-form with bat Axar Patel at the crease as things stand, Iyer’s absence could hamper their flow going forward. For India to pace up the innings and take any good lead on this wicket against Australia considering only one day is left for the result to come out, Iyer’s attacking approach would have made a difference. Meanwhile, coming back to the ongoing Test, former India captain Virat Kohli completed his 28th Test hundred – first in over three years, and his 75th overall in international cricket.

IND vs AUS: Shreyas Iyer complains of lower-back pain, unclear if he will bat in Ahmedabad Test or not

The moment that every Indian cricket fan was waiting for for the past three years came well and truly alive on Sunday in Ahmedabad as Virat Kohli completed his 28th Test hundred, his 75th overall in international cricket. In the process, he also equalled Sunil Gavaskar’s tally of scoring eight Test hundreds against Australia, only behind Sachin – who has 11 to his name.

It’s been more than three years since Virat last scored a Test hundred at the Eden Gardens against Bangladesh. Since November 2019, he did come close on a few occasions but could never cross the line. However, after 42 innings, he finally managed to have the monkey off his back much to everyone’s delight.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-pondering-over-resting-babar-azam-mohammad-rizwan-for-afghanistan-new-zealand-t20is-to-manage-workloads-571072">PCB pondering over resting Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan for Afghanistan, New Zealand T20Is to manage workloads</a>

After reaching the milestone, Kohli in a very non-Kohli manner celebrated his century without showing many emotions while he kissed his locket and slightly raised his bat to everyone’s appreciation inside the stadium. The commentators also went gaga over it as they celebrated Kohli’s much-awaited three-figure mark in this format.

YOU CAN WATCH THE VIDEO HERE -&nbsp;

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The Man. The Celebration. 
 
Take a bow, <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> 💯🫡<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/QrL8qbj6s9">pic.twitter.com/QrL8qbj6s9</a>
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While this was his first hundred at the newly-built Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, off 241 balls this was also among his slowest hundreds in Tests – after the Nagpur one against England in 2012 that came off 289 balls. This ton is also his 14th in India and 24th while batting at number four in Tests.

Meanwhile, the former India captain looked composed so far throughout his innings and didn’t give too many chances to the opposition to get him out. Coming to bat just around lunch time on day three after Pujara’s wicket, Kohli first accompanied another century-maker Shubman Gill and was then backed by Ravindra Jadeja and keeper-batter KS Bharat, who also played a handy knock of 44.&nbsp;

However, since crossing that mark, Kohli upped the ante and alongside Axar Patel started playing a bit more attacking cricket keeping one eye on finding the result of the game in their favour.

With the WTC final spot at stake, India need to win this Test and qualify directly else they have to rely on New Zealand to do the job for them.

The moment that every Indian cricket fan was waiting for for the past three years came well and truly alive on Sunday in Ahmedabad as Virat Kohli completed his 28th Test hundred, his 75th overall in international cricket.

The moment that every Indian cricket fan was waiting for for the past three years came well and truly alive on Sunday in Ahmedabad as Virat Kohli completed his 28th Test hundred, his 75th overall in international cricket. In the process, he also equalled Sunil Gavaskar’s tally of scoring eight Test hundreds against Australia, only behind Sachin – who has 11 to his name. It’s been more than three years since Virat last scored a Test hundred at the Eden Gardens against Bangladesh. Since November 2019, he did come close on a few occasions but could never cross the line. However, after 42 innings, he finally managed to have the monkey off his back much to everyone’s delight. ALSO READ: PCB pondering over resting Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan for Afghanistan, New Zealand T20Is to manage workloads After reaching the milestone, Kohli in a very non-Kohli manner celebrated his century without showing many emotions while he kissed his locket and slightly raised his bat to everyone’s appreciation inside the stadium. The commentators also went gaga over it as they celebrated Kohli’s much-awaited three-figure mark in this format. YOU CAN WATCH THE VIDEO HERE - The Man. The Celebration. Take a bow, @imVkohli 💯🫡#INDvAUS #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/QrL8qbj6s9 — BCCI (@BCCI) March 12, 2023 × While this was his first hundred at the newly-built Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, off 241 balls this was also among his slowest hundreds in Tests – after the Nagpur one against England in 2012 that came off 289 balls. This ton is also his 14th in India and 24th while batting at number four in Tests. Meanwhile, the former India captain looked composed so far throughout his innings and didn’t give too many chances to the opposition to get him out. Coming to bat just around lunch time on day three after Pujara’s wicket, Kohli first accompanied another century-maker Shubman Gill and was then backed by Ravindra Jadeja and keeper-batter KS Bharat, who also played a handy knock of 44. However, since crossing that mark, Kohli upped the ante and alongside Axar Patel started playing a bit more attacking cricket keeping one eye on finding the result of the game in their favour. With the WTC final spot at stake, India need to win this Test and qualify directly else they have to rely on New Zealand to do the job for them.

Virat Kohli hits first Test hundred since November 2019, kisses locket and receives applauds - WATCH

On his third tour to India in the past decade, Usman Khawaja finally got his chance this time. Making most of this opportunity&nbsp;now, the left-handed batter completed his maiden Test hundred on the Indian soil during the first innings of the final Test in Ahmedabad. In the process, he did accomplish a few records and even earned praises including one from the former India batter Aakash Chopra.

Cricketer-turned-commentator Chopra - a popular analyst and someone who also runs his YouTube channel, hailed Usman as one of the best openers to travel to India in the past eight years or so. Considering India hadn’t lost a Test series at home since last losing to England in 2012 and that touring teams often have horrid time touring this part of the world especially in Tests, Usman’s hundred in that context looks grander.

Chopra feels the same. He added&nbsp;even though the pitch remained flat during most parts of the first two days, Khawaja’s ability to stand tall against a potent bowling attack that dismantled this Australian team in the first two Tests shouldn’t be discounted and instead be appreciated.&nbsp;

"Usman Khawaja was simply brilliant for his 180. No matter how flat the pitch is, it's never easy to bat for so long as it requires a lot of concentration. His wicket itself was a lapse in concentration, but he is definitely the best overseas opener who has visited Indian shores in the past 7-8 years," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-wi-temba-bavuma-ends-seven-year-wait-for-2nd-test-ton-puts-proteas-in-strong-position-in-jo-burg-570805">SA vs WI: Temba Bavuma ends seven-year wait for 2nd Test ton, puts Proteas in strong position in Jo 'burg</a>

Following Peter Handscomb’s wicket on day one, pair of Khawaja and returning Cameron Green took the attack to the opposition, stitching a mammoth 208-run stand for the fifth wicket. While Khawaja scored 180 – becoming only the second Aussie opener in over 50 years to score 150 plus against India in India in Tests, his partner Green also completed his maiden hundred in this format.

Tipped to be the future of Australian cricket, Green scored 114 off 170 balls.&nbsp;

Showering praises on Green as well, Aakash said there is no doubt that he will be one of the best all-rounders of the game in times to come while&nbsp;he lamented&nbsp;India’s tactics against him – which was disappointing as they didn’t bowl short to him.

"Cameron Green played a special knock and will be one of the best all-rounders the world has ever seen. The one thing that I was disappointed to see was that we didn't even try the short ball trap to Green," Chopra said.

"You could have had fielders on leg side and then from around the wicket could have tried to pin him and induce a false shot. You get a lot of rest as a fast bowler when you have three spinners in the line-up so it could have been tried," he added.

However, as things stand, India at lunch on day three is 129 for one with Shubman Gill playing on 65 while Cheteshwar Pujara on 22.

On his third tour to India in the past decade, Usman Khawaja finally got his chance this time. Making most of this opportunity now, the left-handed batter completed his maiden Test hundred on the Indian soil during the first innings of the final Test in Ahmedabad.

On his third tour to India in the past decade, Usman Khawaja finally got his chance this time. Making most of this opportunity now, the left-handed batter completed his maiden Test hundred on the Indian soil during the first innings of the final Test in Ahmedabad. In the process, he did accomplish a few records and even earned praises including one from the former India batter Aakash Chopra. Cricketer-turned-commentator Chopra - a popular analyst and someone who also runs his YouTube channel, hailed Usman as one of the best openers to travel to India in the past eight years or so. Considering India hadn’t lost a Test series at home since last losing to England in 2012 and that touring teams often have horrid time touring this part of the world especially in Tests, Usman’s hundred in that context looks grander. Chopra feels the same. He added even though the pitch remained flat during most parts of the first two days, Khawaja’s ability to stand tall against a potent bowling attack that dismantled this Australian team in the first two Tests shouldn’t be discounted and instead be appreciated. "Usman Khawaja was simply brilliant for his 180. No matter how flat the pitch is, it's never easy to bat for so long as it requires a lot of concentration. His wicket itself was a lapse in concentration, but he is definitely the best overseas opener who has visited Indian shores in the past 7-8 years," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel. ALSO READ: SA vs WI: Temba Bavuma ends seven-year wait for 2nd Test ton, puts Proteas in strong position in Jo 'burg Following Peter Handscomb’s wicket on day one, pair of Khawaja and returning Cameron Green took the attack to the opposition, stitching a mammoth 208-run stand for the fifth wicket. While Khawaja scored 180 – becoming only the second Aussie opener in over 50 years to score 150 plus against India in India in Tests, his partner Green also completed his maiden hundred in this format. Tipped to be the future of Australian cricket, Green scored 114 off 170 balls. Showering praises on Green as well, Aakash said there is no doubt that he will be one of the best all-rounders of the game in times to come while he lamented India’s tactics against him – which was disappointing as they didn’t bowl short to him. "Cameron Green played a special knock and will be one of the best all-rounders the world has ever seen. The one thing that I was disappointed to see was that we didn't even try the short ball trap to Green," Chopra said. "You could have had fielders on leg side and then from around the wicket could have tried to pin him and induce a false shot. You get a lot of rest as a fast bowler when you have three spinners in the line-up so it could have been tried," he added. However, as things stand, India at lunch on day three is 129 for one with Shubman Gill playing on 65 while Cheteshwar Pujara on 22.

IND vs AUS: Aakash Chopra hails Usman Khawaja, calls him the best opener to tour India in 8 years

Australian captain Pat Cummins’ mother Maria passed away overnight on Thursday after losing battle against prolonged illness. As a mark of respect, the Aussie players will wear black armbands on day two of the fourth Test in Ahmedabad. Cricket Australia broke the news of Cummins’s mother being no more ahead of the start of the day’s play.

"We are deeply saddened at the passing of Maria Cummins overnight. On behalf of Australian Cricket, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Pat, the Cummins family, and their friends. The Australian Men's team will today wear black armbands as a mark of respect," Cricket Australia said in a statement.

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We are deeply saddened at the passing of Maria Cummins overnight. On behalf of Australian Cricket, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Pat, the Cummins family and their friends. The Australian Men's team will today wear black armbands as a mark of respect.
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The BCCI also shared condolences with the Australian pacer and his family in this dark hour in a tweet saying, "On behalf of Indian Cricket, we express our sadness at the passing away of Pat Cummins's mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family in this difficult period."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/top-players-must-have-played-some-ranji-games-ahead-of-australia-series-says-gambhir-on-indias-batting-woes-570443">Top players must have played some Ranji games ahead of Australia series, says Gambhir on India's batting woes</a>

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On behalf of Indian Cricket, we express our sadness at the passing away of Pat Cummins mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family in this difficult period 🙏
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Meanwhile, after the end of the second Test in Delhi Cummins departed for Sydney to be with his ailing mother. Though he was supposed to return for&nbsp;the following Indore Test, given his mother’s health status then, Cummins stayed home as Steve Smith captained in the third match. The same happened ahead of the ongoing fourth Test in Ahmedabad.

In Pat’s absence, Australia roped in fit-again Mitchell Starc in the XI who proved to be vital in Australia’s quest of making a comeback in the Test series. As Australia won the Indore Test by nine wickets, they booked their ticket in the finals of the World Test Championship to be held in June.

As things stand, Australia are cruising ahead with a rather brilliant start in this innings. The man-in-form, Usman Khawaja notched up his maiden hundred against India in India while all-rounder Cameron Green also looked good, having crossed his first fifty on tour.

However, Pat Cummins is slated to return to India for the three-match ODI series that starts on March 17th in Mumbai.

Australian captain Pat Cummins’ mother Maria passed away overnight on Thursday after losing battle against prolonged illness. As a mark of respect, the Aussie players will wear black armbands on day two of the fourth Test in Ahmedabad.

Australian captain Pat Cummins’ mother Maria passed away overnight on Thursday after losing battle against prolonged illness. As a mark of respect, the Aussie players will wear black armbands on day two of the fourth Test in Ahmedabad. Cricket Australia broke the news of Cummins’s mother being no more ahead of the start of the day’s play. "We are deeply saddened at the passing of Maria Cummins overnight. On behalf of Australian Cricket, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Pat, the Cummins family, and their friends. The Australian Men's team will today wear black armbands as a mark of respect," Cricket Australia said in a statement. We are deeply saddened at the passing of Maria Cummins overnight. On behalf of Australian Cricket, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Pat, the Cummins family and their friends. The Australian Men's team will today wear black armbands as a mark of respect. — Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) March 10, 2023 × The BCCI also shared condolences with the Australian pacer and his family in this dark hour in a tweet saying, "On behalf of Indian Cricket, we express our sadness at the passing away of Pat Cummins's mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family in this difficult period." ALSO READ: Top players must have played some Ranji games ahead of Australia series, says Gambhir on India's batting woes On behalf of Indian Cricket, we express our sadness at the passing away of Pat Cummins mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family in this difficult period 🙏 — BCCI (@BCCI) March 10, 2023 × Meanwhile, after the end of the second Test in Delhi Cummins departed for Sydney to be with his ailing mother. Though he was supposed to return for the following Indore Test, given his mother’s health status then, Cummins stayed home as Steve Smith captained in the third match. The same happened ahead of the ongoing fourth Test in Ahmedabad. In Pat’s absence, Australia roped in fit-again Mitchell Starc in the XI who proved to be vital in Australia’s quest of making a comeback in the Test series. As Australia won the Indore Test by nine wickets, they booked their ticket in the finals of the World Test Championship to be held in June. As things stand, Australia are cruising ahead with a rather brilliant start in this innings. The man-in-form, Usman Khawaja notched up his maiden hundred against India in India while all-rounder Cameron Green also looked good, having crossed his first fifty on tour. However, Pat Cummins is slated to return to India for the three-match ODI series that starts on March 17th in Mumbai.

Pat Cummins' mother Maria loses battle against illness, Aussie players wear black armband in respect

The Indian batters have had their struggle in this ongoing Border-Gavaskar series. Barring Rohit Sharma, who stood out for his maiden hundred against Australia in Tests in the Nagpur game, none of the batters looked comfortable out there. Pin-pointing India’s visible weakness against spin, former opener Gautam Gambhir opined that had some of the star batters played domestic cricket in the lead up to this series, it would have benefited them.

While the top order hasn’t left the mark so far as they would have liked, bowling all-rounders in Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja compensated with their game-changing fifties&nbsp;coming lower down the order in the first two matches. Although Pujara shined with the bat in the second innings in Indore hitting a gritty fifty (59 off 142), that could also not help India as they lost the match by nine wickets inside three days.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/international-cricket-must-be-protected-mcc-on-growth-of-franchise-based-t20-leagues-570428">International cricket must be protected - MCC on growth of franchise-based T20 leagues</a>

Addressing the elephant in the room in regards to if some of the big names should have played Ranji Trophy matches instead of just attending&nbsp;net sessions before the start of this series, Gambhir said yes, not even 100% but 200%.

“Not 100 percent make that 200 percent. The Indian batters should have played a few Ranji Trophy matches ahead of the Test series against Australia. However, they shouldn't have played those matches just to prepare. It doesn't matter if you conduct 20-day camps or bat in the nets,” Gambhir told Sports Tak.

Though India had claimed the Border-Gavaskar trophy following wins in the opening two Tests, the hosts still haven’t punched their ticket for the finals of the World Test Championship. For them to seal the remaining spot, their batters must take the onus and deliver big in the ongoing final Test.

As things stand Australia are in the driver’s seat after the first day’s play in Ahmedabad with opener Usman Khawaja completing his first hundred on Indian soil. In absence of veteran David Warner, left-handed Khawaja led the charge and made the most of his chance. Returning young all-rounder Cameron Green also hit his maiden Test fifty on this tour.

Meanwhile, India currently lead the four-match Test series 2-1.

The Indian batters have had their struggle in this ongoing Border-Gavaskar series. Barring Rohit Sharma, who stood out for his maiden hundred against Australia in Tests in the Nagpur game, none of the batters looked comfortable out there.

The Indian batters have had their struggle in this ongoing Border-Gavaskar series. Barring Rohit Sharma, who stood out for his maiden hundred against Australia in Tests in the Nagpur game, none of the batters looked comfortable out there. Pin-pointing India’s visible weakness against spin, former opener Gautam Gambhir opined that had some of the star batters played domestic cricket in the lead up to this series, it would have benefited them. While the top order hasn’t left the mark so far as they would have liked, bowling all-rounders in Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja compensated with their game-changing fifties coming lower down the order in the first two matches. Although Pujara shined with the bat in the second innings in Indore hitting a gritty fifty (59 off 142), that could also not help India as they lost the match by nine wickets inside three days. ALSO READ: International cricket must be protected - MCC on growth of franchise-based T20 leagues Addressing the elephant in the room in regards to if some of the big names should have played Ranji Trophy matches instead of just attending net sessions before the start of this series, Gambhir said yes, not even 100% but 200%. “Not 100 percent make that 200 percent. The Indian batters should have played a few Ranji Trophy matches ahead of the Test series against Australia. However, they shouldn't have played those matches just to prepare. It doesn't matter if you conduct 20-day camps or bat in the nets,” Gambhir told Sports Tak. Though India had claimed the Border-Gavaskar trophy following wins in the opening two Tests, the hosts still haven’t punched their ticket for the finals of the World Test Championship. For them to seal the remaining spot, their batters must take the onus and deliver big in the ongoing final Test. As things stand Australia are in the driver’s seat after the first day’s play in Ahmedabad with opener Usman Khawaja completing his first hundred on Indian soil. In absence of veteran David Warner, left-handed Khawaja led the charge and made the most of his chance. Returning young all-rounder Cameron Green also hit his maiden Test fifty on this tour. Meanwhile, India currently lead the four-match Test series 2-1.

Top players must have played some Ranji games ahead of Australia series, says Gambhir on India's batting woes

Day 2 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia saw the Steve Smith-led visitors post a challenging 480 on a belter of a surface at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. On the opening day,&nbsp;on Thursday (March 9), Australia opted to bat first and went to stumps at 255 for 4. The second day's play saw the visitors ride on Usman Khawaja's 180 and Cameron Green's 114&nbsp;to post a mammoth 480 before Rohit Sharma-led India went to stumps at 36 for no loss.&nbsp;

During the day's proceedings, Indian bowlers were made to work hard for every wicket. The opening session saw the home side remain wicketless as Khawaja-Green's partnership frustrated them. As a result, Rohit &amp; Co. took a horrendous review on the last ball of the 128th over, bowled by Ravindra Jadeja. The Indian players made an lbw appeal versus Khawaja, who was batting on 160 along with Green on 112, but the replays showed the ball to be miles away from the stumps. Hence, umpire Richard&nbsp;Kettleborough's reaction went viral as he couldn't stop smiling on the poor DRS call from Team India.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-ms-dhoni-turns-back-the-clock-with-magnanimous-sixes-in-csk-practice-session-watch-570632">IPL 2023: MS Dhoni turns back the clock with MAGNANIMOUS sixes in CSK practice session - WATCH</a>

Here's the viral video:

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— Anna 24GhanteChaukanna (@Anna24GhanteCh2) <a href="https://twitter.com/Anna24GhanteCh2/status/1634107222811721728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Eventually, India got rid of centurion Khawaja for 180, trapping him lbw off Axar Patel. Green, on the other hand, fell for 114 after scoring his maiden ton in whites. Some help from their tail-enders saw Australia post a mammoth 480 all-out before Indian openers Rohit (17 not out) and Shubman Gill (unbeaten 18) negated any threat from the Aussie bowlers to take India to 36 for no loss at the end of day's play.&nbsp;

Day 3 will be extremely crucial for Team India, who trail Australia by a whopping 444-run margin. The hosts lead the four-match series 2-1 but need a win in this tie to not only clinch the Border-Gavaskar Trophy but also enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Australia are already through to the WTC summit clash.

Day 2 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia saw the Steve Smith-led visitors post a challenging 480 on a belter of a surface at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad.

Day 2 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia saw the Steve Smith-led visitors post a challenging 480 on a belter of a surface at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. On the opening day, on Thursday (March 9), Australia opted to bat first and went to stumps at 255 for 4. The second day's play saw the visitors ride on Usman Khawaja's 180 and Cameron Green's 114 to post a mammoth 480 before Rohit Sharma-led India went to stumps at 36 for no loss. During the day's proceedings, Indian bowlers were made to work hard for every wicket. The opening session saw the home side remain wicketless as Khawaja-Green's partnership frustrated them. As a result, Rohit & Co. took a horrendous review on the last ball of the 128th over, bowled by Ravindra Jadeja. The Indian players made an lbw appeal versus Khawaja, who was batting on 160 along with Green on 112, but the replays showed the ball to be miles away from the stumps. Hence, umpire Richard Kettleborough's reaction went viral as he couldn't stop smiling on the poor DRS call from Team India. Also read: IPL 2023: MS Dhoni turns back the clock with MAGNANIMOUS sixes in CSK practice session - WATCH Here's the viral video: pic.twitter.com/eMxKD9khgT — Anna 24GhanteChaukanna (@Anna24GhanteCh2) March 10, 2023 × Eventually, India got rid of centurion Khawaja for 180, trapping him lbw off Axar Patel. Green, on the other hand, fell for 114 after scoring his maiden ton in whites. Some help from their tail-enders saw Australia post a mammoth 480 all-out before Indian openers Rohit (17 not out) and Shubman Gill (unbeaten 18) negated any threat from the Aussie bowlers to take India to 36 for no loss at the end of day's play. Day 3 will be extremely crucial for Team India, who trail Australia by a whopping 444-run margin. The hosts lead the four-match series 2-1 but need a win in this tie to not only clinch the Border-Gavaskar Trophy but also enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Australia are already through to the WTC summit clash.

Watch: India take HORRENDOUS review as umpire's reaction goes viral on Day 2 of 4th Test vs Australia

R Ashwin returned with 6 for 91 as India finally managed to dismiss Australia for 480 on Day 2 of the fourth and final Test in Ahmedabad on Friday (March 10). Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green kicked off proceedings on Day 2 (March 10) from the overnight score 255/4 and continued to pile runs. The pair added a whopping 208-run fifth-wicket stand, from 170-4 to 378 for 5, as the duo struck a century each on a flat track but Ashwin remained economical all throughout the innings and ended with 6 for 91 to attain a huge feat.

The 36-year-old wily off-spinner Ashwin is now tied with Australian counterpart Nathan Lyon with most wickets in India-Australia Tests. Lyon, who was the Player-of-the-Match in Australia's inspiring nine-wicket win in the third Test in Indore (courtesy of his 11-fer), will aim to once again take the lead in India's first essay.&nbsp;

Most wickets in Ind - Aus Tests 
113 N Lyon 
113 R Ashwin * 
111 A Kumble 
95 Harbhajan

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-usman-khawaja-becomes-second-aussie-test-opener-in-21st-century-to-hit-150-in-india-570574">IND vs AUS: Usman Khawaja becomes second Aussie Test opener in 21st century to hit 150 in India</a>

Ashwin also achieved his 32nd five-wicket haul in Tests. He is the second Indian with most five-fers in an innings, sixth overall.&nbsp;

Most five-wickets-in-an-innings&nbsp;

Muttiah Muralitharan - 67 
Shane Warne - 37 
Sir Richard Hadlee - 36 
Anil Kumble - 35 
Rangana Herath - 34 
R Ashwin - 32

After getting rid of Australia for 480, Rohit Sharma-led India have a herculean task to bat well and challenge Steve Smith &amp; Co.'s score. India lead the four-match series 2-1 and need a win in the series decider to enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, where Australia have already qualified.&nbsp;

R Ashwin returned with 6 for 91 as India finally managed to dismiss Australia for 480 on Day 2 of the fourth and final Test in Ahmedabad on Friday (March 10). Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green kicked off proceedings on Day 2 (March 10) from the overnight score 255/4 and continued to pile runs.

R Ashwin returned with 6 for 91 as India finally managed to dismiss Australia for 480 on Day 2 of the fourth and final Test in Ahmedabad on Friday (March 10). Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green kicked off proceedings on Day 2 (March 10) from the overnight score 255/4 and continued to pile runs. The pair added a whopping 208-run fifth-wicket stand, from 170-4 to 378 for 5, as the duo struck a century each on a flat track but Ashwin remained economical all throughout the innings and ended with 6 for 91 to attain a huge feat. The 36-year-old wily off-spinner Ashwin is now tied with Australian counterpart Nathan Lyon with most wickets in India-Australia Tests. Lyon, who was the Player-of-the-Match in Australia's inspiring nine-wicket win in the third Test in Indore (courtesy of his 11-fer), will aim to once again take the lead in India's first essay. Most wickets in Ind - Aus Tests 113 N Lyon 113 R Ashwin * 111 A Kumble 95 Harbhajan Also read: IND vs AUS: Usman Khawaja becomes second Aussie Test opener in 21st century to hit 150 in India Ashwin also achieved his 32nd five-wicket haul in Tests. He is the second Indian with most five-fers in an innings, sixth overall. Most five-wickets-in-an-innings Muttiah Muralitharan - 67 Shane Warne - 37 Sir Richard Hadlee - 36 Anil Kumble - 35 Rangana Herath - 34 R Ashwin - 32 After getting rid of Australia for 480, Rohit Sharma-led India have a herculean task to bat well and challenge Steve Smith & Co.'s score. India lead the four-match series 2-1 and need a win in the series decider to enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, where Australia have already qualified.

R Ashwin equals Nathan Lyon with most wickets in India-Australia Tests during Day 2 of Ahmedabad tie

Cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Sri Lanka are incapable of beating New Zealand in their conditions while backing India to reach the finals of the World Test Championship. With Australia already qualifying for the WTC final after beating India in the Indore Test, Sri Lanka and India are the two teams left fighting for the remaining spot.

For any of them to qualify, there are some stipulations in place. For Sri Lanka to enter the summit clash, they first have to beat the Kiwis 2-0 in the ongoing away series&nbsp;while&nbsp;hoping&nbsp;for Australia to either defeat India in Ahmedabad or play out a draw. Whereas India will have to beat the mighty Aussies in the ongoing Test to play the finals.&nbsp;However, if the opposite happens, i.e. if India loses the final Test, they would then need a favour from New Zealand to hand Sri Lanka a defeat in any of the Tests.

As both matches are currently underway and with Sri Lanka and Australia both looking stronger as things stand, India’s path towards reaching the final doesn't looking as smooth as how Manjrekar feels it is. Speaking during the final Test, Manjrekar said the atmosphere at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium was electric following visits from Prime Ministers of both countries.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cleaned-up-md-shami-rattles-marnus-labuschagnes-stumps-on-day-1-of-ahmedabad-test-watch-570152">CLEANED UP! Md Shami rattles Marnus Labuschagne's stumps on Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test - Watch</a>

Shedding thoughts on which team will join Australia in the WTC finals, Sanjay said,

"It was a brilliant start and we were right there on the ground, experiencing the vibe at the start. There were so many things going for this Test match. It's being played at one of the biggest stadiums in the world. It's a great setting when people are there, every seat was taken. World Test Championship takes for India, on the verge of getting there. I think India will get there. I don't think Sri Lanka are capable of upsetting New Zealand," Manjrekar said.

Claiming that India already has one foot one in the finals and it’s about time before they officially make, Sanjay said

"So I believe, India are already in the final. But, you still have to actually, you know, officially get there. So that tension was there. Plus the series hanging the way it has,&nbsp; Australia making that brilliant comeback in Indore and plus a figure like Narendra Modi at the ground. That buzz was there. Every box was ticked before the start of this Test," he added.

Meanwhile, day one in Christchurch belonged to Sri Lanka who managed to put up a fighting 305 for six in 75 overs. India, on the other hand, picked up huge wicket of Steve Smith post team during final session of day one.

Cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Sri Lanka are incapable of beating New Zealand in their conditions while backing India to reach the finals of the World Test Championship.

Cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Sri Lanka are incapable of beating New Zealand in their conditions while backing India to reach the finals of the World Test Championship. With Australia already qualifying for the WTC final after beating India in the Indore Test, Sri Lanka and India are the two teams left fighting for the remaining spot. For any of them to qualify, there are some stipulations in place. For Sri Lanka to enter the summit clash, they first have to beat the Kiwis 2-0 in the ongoing away series while hoping for Australia to either defeat India in Ahmedabad or play out a draw. Whereas India will have to beat the mighty Aussies in the ongoing Test to play the finals. However, if the opposite happens, i.e. if India loses the final Test, they would then need a favour from New Zealand to hand Sri Lanka a defeat in any of the Tests. As both matches are currently underway and with Sri Lanka and Australia both looking stronger as things stand, India’s path towards reaching the final doesn't looking as smooth as how Manjrekar feels it is. Speaking during the final Test, Manjrekar said the atmosphere at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium was electric following visits from Prime Ministers of both countries. ALSO READ: CLEANED UP! Md Shami rattles Marnus Labuschagne's stumps on Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test - Watch Shedding thoughts on which team will join Australia in the WTC finals, Sanjay said, "It was a brilliant start and we were right there on the ground, experiencing the vibe at the start. There were so many things going for this Test match. It's being played at one of the biggest stadiums in the world. It's a great setting when people are there, every seat was taken. World Test Championship takes for India, on the verge of getting there. I think India will get there. I don't think Sri Lanka are capable of upsetting New Zealand," Manjrekar said. Claiming that India already has one foot one in the finals and it’s about time before they officially make, Sanjay said "So I believe, India are already in the final. But, you still have to actually, you know, officially get there. So that tension was there. Plus the series hanging the way it has, Australia making that brilliant comeback in Indore and plus a figure like Narendra Modi at the ground. That buzz was there. Every box was ticked before the start of this Test," he added. Meanwhile, day one in Christchurch belonged to Sri Lanka who managed to put up a fighting 305 for six in 75 overs. India, on the other hand, picked up huge wicket of Steve Smith post team during final session of day one.

Sanjay Manjrekar plays down Sri Lanka's ability to beat New Zealand, backs India to reach WTC final

India's pace spearhead Mohammed Shami returned to the playing XI for the fourth and final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad and looked out of touch in his first spell. Conceding ten runs in the first over itself that included a four-bye, Shami’s line and length was all but wayward.

Even in the following overs, Shami didn't&nbsp;appear to be in rhythm as Sunil Gavaskar, sitting in the commentary box, slammed the management for resting him for the Indore Test as the reason for the break in his flow here at the Narendra Modi Stadium.&nbsp;Gavaskar said there was no need to rest him as there ample time between both Tests for a bowler to get the required break.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pm-modi-and-his-australian-counterpart-anthony-albanese-meet-ind-aus-players-before-4th-test-570105">WATCH: PM Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese meet Ind-Aus players before 4th Test</a>

"Resting Mohammed Shami was not a smart move. You had 8 days break between the 2nd and the 3rd Test. He bowled military medium in his first two deliveries," Gavaskar said on air for Star Sports during the 4th Test.

Speaking further on Shami’s off-track line and length early on, the former India legend said instead of troubling the batter with the new ball, he made them comfortable by not being on point. Unlike how it happened in the previous three Tests, the pacers failed to break the opening stand this time as it was Ravi Ashwin who got out Travis Head.

"That's how it's got to be. The batter is nervous; he is not yet off the mark. If he sees the ball go harmlessly to the keeper, he gets an opportunity to see what the pitch is doing. He can then mentally start to relax just that little bit," Gavaskar added. "Great bowlers were at you straightaway, from the first ball.

"He is just not getting his line right. Look at how far that went. It's going to be called byes because it hasn't gone away from the marker, which indicates wide. I think you know that Mohammed Shami is the kind of bowler who likes to be in rhythm, may be you shouldn't rest him. I think it's important to get your bowling muscles going, in the gym, you don't get your bowling muscles going," Gavaskar added.

However, Shami returned with a big wicket of Marnus Labuschagne on just three. Before lunch one day one, Australia were two wickets down but looked in a space on a track that surprised Rohit Sharma during the toss.

India's pace spearhead Mohammed Shami returned to the playing XI for the fourth and final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad and looked out of touch in his first spell.

India's pace spearhead Mohammed Shami returned to the playing XI for the fourth and final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad and looked out of touch in his first spell. Conceding ten runs in the first over itself that included a four-bye, Shami’s line and length was all but wayward. Even in the following overs, Shami didn't appear to be in rhythm as Sunil Gavaskar, sitting in the commentary box, slammed the management for resting him for the Indore Test as the reason for the break in his flow here at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Gavaskar said there was no need to rest him as there ample time between both Tests for a bowler to get the required break. ALSO READ: WATCH: PM Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese meet Ind-Aus players before 4th Test "Resting Mohammed Shami was not a smart move. You had 8 days break between the 2nd and the 3rd Test. He bowled military medium in his first two deliveries," Gavaskar said on air for Star Sports during the 4th Test. Speaking further on Shami’s off-track line and length early on, the former India legend said instead of troubling the batter with the new ball, he made them comfortable by not being on point. Unlike how it happened in the previous three Tests, the pacers failed to break the opening stand this time as it was Ravi Ashwin who got out Travis Head. "That's how it's got to be. The batter is nervous; he is not yet off the mark. If he sees the ball go harmlessly to the keeper, he gets an opportunity to see what the pitch is doing. He can then mentally start to relax just that little bit," Gavaskar added. "Great bowlers were at you straightaway, from the first ball. "He is just not getting his line right. Look at how far that went. It's going to be called byes because it hasn't gone away from the marker, which indicates wide. I think you know that Mohammed Shami is the kind of bowler who likes to be in rhythm, may be you shouldn't rest him. I think it's important to get your bowling muscles going, in the gym, you don't get your bowling muscles going," Gavaskar added. However, Shami returned with a big wicket of Marnus Labuschagne on just three. Before lunch one day one, Australia were two wickets down but looked in a space on a track that surprised Rohit Sharma during the toss.

4th Test: 'Wayward' Shami turns heads in commentary box as Indian legend slams call to rest seamer in Indore

Australia bounced back in style in the third and penultimate Test, of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, versus India to win by nine wickets and keep the series alive. However, the venue for the third Test received a lot of flak. The Holkar Stadium, Indore hosted the game which concluded in less than three days with Aussies winning in the morning session on Day 3; making the series scoreline 2-1 in India's favour with one game to go.

The Indore pitch became the talk of the town post the conclusion of the match. Recently, the International Cricket Council (ICC) gave a 'poor' rating to the pitch and many former cricketers and experts of the game shared their take on the surface, which spun considerably from Day 1, and now former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir also joined the bandwagon.

While speaking to Sports Today, Gambhir said he doesn't appreciate Test matches finishing in 2.5 days.&nbsp;"I feel, yes, playing on turning tracks is fine, but I won't appreciate Test matches finishing in 2.5 days. We want to see tight finishes, like the one we saw in the New Zealand vs England Test. (If a Test goes to) 4th or 5th day, it is fine. But 2.5 days is too short," Gambhir said in a chat on Sports Today.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-team-india-jasprit-bumrah-out-of-action-for-6-months-with-back-surgery-in-new-zealand-report-569836">Big blow to Team India! Jasprit Bumrah set to be out of action for six months post surgery in NZ: Report</a>

It is to be noted that none of the three Tests in the BGT 2022/23 have stretched till the fourth day. All the matches have concluded on the third day, either by first or second session.

Questions were also raised on Rohit Sharma-led India's ability to play spin after they fell for 109 and 163 in the Indore Test. However, Gambhir has backed Rohit-led Indian batters. "I don't think so. People like (Cheteshwar) Pujara, (Virat) Kohli, Rohit Sharma are good players of spin bowling. If they weren't, they won't have played in 100 Tests. You have to be very good player of spin and fast bowling to reach that mark. One thing that has changed is that the DRS has played a massive role," Gambhir added.

The fourth and penultimate Test begins tomorrow (on March 9) as India aim for WTC final qualification. Australia have already confirmed their spot with a famous win in Indore.

Australia bounced back in style in the third and penultimate Test, of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, versus India to win by nine wickets and keep the series alive. However, the venue for the third Test received a lot of flak.

Australia bounced back in style in the third and penultimate Test, of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, versus India to win by nine wickets and keep the series alive. However, the venue for the third Test received a lot of flak. The Holkar Stadium, Indore hosted the game which concluded in less than three days with Aussies winning in the morning session on Day 3; making the series scoreline 2-1 in India's favour with one game to go. The Indore pitch became the talk of the town post the conclusion of the match. Recently, the International Cricket Council (ICC) gave a 'poor' rating to the pitch and many former cricketers and experts of the game shared their take on the surface, which spun considerably from Day 1, and now former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir also joined the bandwagon. While speaking to Sports Today, Gambhir said he doesn't appreciate Test matches finishing in 2.5 days. "I feel, yes, playing on turning tracks is fine, but I won't appreciate Test matches finishing in 2.5 days. We want to see tight finishes, like the one we saw in the New Zealand vs England Test. (If a Test goes to) 4th or 5th day, it is fine. But 2.5 days is too short," Gambhir said in a chat on Sports Today. Also read: Big blow to Team India! Jasprit Bumrah set to be out of action for six months post surgery in NZ: Report It is to be noted that none of the three Tests in the BGT 2022/23 have stretched till the fourth day. All the matches have concluded on the third day, either by first or second session. Questions were also raised on Rohit Sharma-led India's ability to play spin after they fell for 109 and 163 in the Indore Test. However, Gambhir has backed Rohit-led Indian batters. "I don't think so. People like (Cheteshwar) Pujara, (Virat) Kohli, Rohit Sharma are good players of spin bowling. If they weren't, they won't have played in 100 Tests. You have to be very good player of spin and fast bowling to reach that mark. One thing that has changed is that the DRS has played a massive role," Gambhir added. The fourth and penultimate Test begins tomorrow (on March 9) as India aim for WTC final qualification. Australia have already confirmed their spot with a famous win in Indore.

BGT 2022/23: Won't appreciate Test matches finishing in 2.5 days, opines Gautam Gambhir

India face Australia in the fourth and final Test, of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. The series decider commences on Thursday morning (March 9) where Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will aim for a 3-1 series scoreline and also confirm&nbsp;a place in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Captain Rohit, on the other hand, is also eyeing to emulate one of Sunil Gavaskar's elite feats.

So far, Rohit has been India's top performer with the bat in the series, which has comprised batting on tough pitches. In the three Tests, the Hitman has scored&nbsp;207 runs and remains the only batter with a hundred (120). He is the leading run-getter of the four-match series. If he scores another ton in the series finale, he will&nbsp;join Sunil Gavaskar and&nbsp;become the only second Indian captain to have&nbsp;more than one hundred&nbsp;in India-Australia home Test matches.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unmissable-rohit-sharma-leads-the-charge-as-team-india-celebrate-holi-in-ahmedabad-watch-569894">UNMISSABLE! Rohit Sharma leads the charge as Team India celebrate Holi in Ahmedabad - Watch</a>

MOST HUNDREDS IN IND v AUS TESTS AT HOME (CAPTAINS)

Sunil Gavaskar - 2 in 6 Tests - 425 runs 
MS Dhoni - 1 in 8 Tests - 643 runs 
Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi - 1 in 8 Tests - 490 runs 
Mohammad Azharuddin - 1 in 3 Tests - 311 runs 
Kapil Dev - 1 in 3 Tests - 120 runs 
Rohit Sharma - 1 in 3 Tests - 207 runs*

Gavaskar had a memorable run in the home series versus Australia in 1979. He returned with&nbsp;425 runs in the six-match series, including two tons and an equal number of fifties.

Meanwhile, MS Dhoni has most runs as India captain in India-Australia home Tests.&nbsp;He scored 643 runs, including a double hundred and as many as four&nbsp;half-centuries in eight&nbsp;matches.

Rohit will aim for a daddy hundred and lead India to a memorable series win over Steve Smith &amp; Co. With a win in the final Test, India will also qualify for the WTC final. Australia became the first finalist after their Indore Test victory.

India face Australia in the fourth and final Test, of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. The series decider commences on Thursday morning (March 9) where Rohit Sharma & Co.

India face Australia in the fourth and final Test, of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. The series decider commences on Thursday morning (March 9) where Rohit Sharma & Co. will aim for a 3-1 series scoreline and also confirm a place in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Captain Rohit, on the other hand, is also eyeing to emulate one of Sunil Gavaskar's elite feats. So far, Rohit has been India's top performer with the bat in the series, which has comprised batting on tough pitches. In the three Tests, the Hitman has scored 207 runs and remains the only batter with a hundred (120). He is the leading run-getter of the four-match series. If he scores another ton in the series finale, he will join Sunil Gavaskar and become the only second Indian captain to have more than one hundred in India-Australia home Test matches. Also read: UNMISSABLE! Rohit Sharma leads the charge as Team India celebrate Holi in Ahmedabad - Watch MOST HUNDREDS IN IND v AUS TESTS AT HOME (CAPTAINS) Sunil Gavaskar - 2 in 6 Tests - 425 runs MS Dhoni - 1 in 8 Tests - 643 runs Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi - 1 in 8 Tests - 490 runs Mohammad Azharuddin - 1 in 3 Tests - 311 runs Kapil Dev - 1 in 3 Tests - 120 runs Rohit Sharma - 1 in 3 Tests - 207 runs* Gavaskar had a memorable run in the home series versus Australia in 1979. He returned with 425 runs in the six-match series, including two tons and an equal number of fifties. Meanwhile, MS Dhoni has most runs as India captain in India-Australia home Tests. He scored 643 runs, including a double hundred and as many as four half-centuries in eight matches. Rohit will aim for a daddy hundred and lead India to a memorable series win over Steve Smith & Co. With a win in the final Test, India will also qualify for the WTC final. Australia became the first finalist after their Indore Test victory.

IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma aims to emulate Sunil Gavaskar’s elite feat in Test series finale at Ahmedabad

With the fourth and final Test between India and Australia set to begin in a couple of days time, Aussie assistant coach Daniel Vettori feels the way the Indian lower order has contributed with the bat in this series so far, the Aussie bowlers must take a note of it&nbsp;and be as effective with the willow in hand in the Ahmedabad Test.&nbsp;

Other than traumatising the Australian batters with the ball in hand, the left-handed bowling pair of Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja further hurt the visitors with fifties in the first two Tests. While Axar Patel scored 84 in the first Test in Nagpur, Jadeja hit a fighting 77 in addition to picking up 12 wickets in the same match. Their 88-run stand for the eighth wicket bailed India out of trouble after they got reduced to 240 for seven in first innings.

Even in the second Test in Delhi, Axar smashed yet another fifty, scoring 74 in India's first innings alongside Ravi Ashwin, who also scored a decent 37. These contributions led to India not only winning the first two Tests within three days, but also saw them retaining&nbsp;the coveted Border-Gavaskar trophy for the straight third time.

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On the flip side of it, Australia's lower order struggled big time to put up runs on the board. Other than Cummins' 33 in the first innings of the second Test, none of the tail-enders could make a difference with bat across three Tests.&nbsp;Pointing this out while conversing with the reporters ahead of the start of the final Test, Vettori said it's time the Aussie bowlers collect some courage and deliver with the bat.&nbsp;

"I think Pat (Cummins) did that (batting) exceptionally well in the first innings in Delhi, and I think the lower four have got an understanding of how to do it and how they want to do it. It's just having the courage to actually take it out there," Vettori told news.com.au.

"I think we all understand that defence is not necessarily a way through that situation because of how much the ball is turning and how good the bowlers are, and finding your scoring areas," he added.

Citing example of Umesh Yadav's short 13-ball 17-run knock in which he smoked two sixes and a four during the first innings in Indore, Vettori feels there's nothing that's stopping the Australian bowlers from walking out and doing so.

"Even you see an innings like Umesh Yadav, I know it's on the back of probably having that lisence (to go for the big hits), but that can be such a difference maker in the scheme of things. We've got to push our lower four to have the confidence to actually take the game on," Vettori added.

With the fourth and final Test between India and Australia set to begin in a couple of days time, Aussie assistant coach Daniel Vettori feels the way the Indian lower order has contributed with the bat in this series so far, the Aussie bowlers must take a note of it and be as effective with the willow in hand in the Ahmedabad Test.

With the fourth and final Test between India and Australia set to begin in a couple of days time, Aussie assistant coach Daniel Vettori feels the way the Indian lower order has contributed with the bat in this series so far, the Aussie bowlers must take a note of it and be as effective with the willow in hand in the Ahmedabad Test. Other than traumatising the Australian batters with the ball in hand, the left-handed bowling pair of Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja further hurt the visitors with fifties in the first two Tests. While Axar Patel scored 84 in the first Test in Nagpur, Jadeja hit a fighting 77 in addition to picking up 12 wickets in the same match. Their 88-run stand for the eighth wicket bailed India out of trouble after they got reduced to 240 for seven in first innings. Even in the second Test in Delhi, Axar smashed yet another fifty, scoring 74 in India's first innings alongside Ravi Ashwin, who also scored a decent 37. These contributions led to India not only winning the first two Tests within three days, but also saw them retaining the coveted Border-Gavaskar trophy for the straight third time. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Calling this tour a nightmare for the batters, Ponting backs Virat Kohli to bounce back soon On the flip side of it, Australia's lower order struggled big time to put up runs on the board. Other than Cummins' 33 in the first innings of the second Test, none of the tail-enders could make a difference with bat across three Tests. Pointing this out while conversing with the reporters ahead of the start of the final Test, Vettori said it's time the Aussie bowlers collect some courage and deliver with the bat. "I think Pat (Cummins) did that (batting) exceptionally well in the first innings in Delhi, and I think the lower four have got an understanding of how to do it and how they want to do it. It's just having the courage to actually take it out there," Vettori told news.com.au. "I think we all understand that defence is not necessarily a way through that situation because of how much the ball is turning and how good the bowlers are, and finding your scoring areas," he added. Citing example of Umesh Yadav's short 13-ball 17-run knock in which he smoked two sixes and a four during the first innings in Indore, Vettori feels there's nothing that's stopping the Australian bowlers from walking out and doing so. "Even you see an innings like Umesh Yadav, I know it's on the back of probably having that lisence (to go for the big hits), but that can be such a difference maker in the scheme of things. We've got to push our lower four to have the confidence to actually take the game on," Vettori added.

IND vs AUS: Inspired by India's lower order, Daniel Vettori urges bowlers to contribute with bat in final Test

It's been some time since Virat Kohli last hit a hundred in the Test format, but for someone like Ricky Ponting, nothing worries him about the India legend. Against Afghanistan in the Asia Cup last year Virat ended his century drought in international cricket and&nbsp;despite hitting a couple more hundreds in the white-ball format prior to this series,&nbsp;he hasn't looked comfortable replicating his same form in Tests. Speaking of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series itself, Kohli has just scored 111 runs across three Tests, let alone being a threat to the opposition in home conditions.&nbsp;

Talking about Kohli, Ponting said he's not bothered about Virat's form as he knows he will bounce back. Admitting a batter is as aware of his poor form as those who are watching and writing about him is, Ponting believes Kohli will find a way back soon.

"For Kohli, I have said that over and over, champion players always find a way. He might be in a bit of a drought at the moment and might be not scoring runs which we all expect him to score but he is a realist as well. When you are a batsman and you are struggling and not scoring runs, you are pretty aware of that yourself. I am not concerned about this because I am confident he will bounce back," Ponting said on ICC Review.

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Speaking about Australia's big win in the Indore Test and how with that they sealed&nbsp;their qualification in the finals of the World Test Championship, Ponting said what they achieved after being down badly in the first two Tests calls for appreciation.&nbsp;

Opening up about the pitches that were used during this series and how the batters from both teams have fared on them, Ponting admits it's all but incredibly difficult for anyone to score runs on such tracks,&nbsp;and it's not just because of the turn, but because of the uneven bounce that has caused more trouble.

"I am not looking at anybody's form in the series because for batters it has been an absolute nightmare. Australia have done a remarkable job by turning around those first two Test matches and coming back to win the third. We all know batting has been so incredibly difficult. And it has not been because of the turn, but also the uneven bounce which makes you lose trust in the wicket and if that happens you are guessing all the time which makes batting really difficult," he added.

The fourth and final Test begins in Ahmedabad on March 9th.&nbsp;

It's been some time since Virat Kohli last hit a hundred in the Test format, but for someone like Ricky Ponting, nothing worries him about the India legend. Against Afghanistan in the Asia Cup last year Virat ended his century drought in international cricket and despite hitting a couple more hundreds in the white-ball format prior to this series, he hasn't looked comfortable replicating his same form in Tests.

It's been some time since Virat Kohli last hit a hundred in the Test format, but for someone like Ricky Ponting, nothing worries him about the India legend. Against Afghanistan in the Asia Cup last year Virat ended his century drought in international cricket and despite hitting a couple more hundreds in the white-ball format prior to this series, he hasn't looked comfortable replicating his same form in Tests. Speaking of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series itself, Kohli has just scored 111 runs across three Tests, let alone being a threat to the opposition in home conditions. Talking about Kohli, Ponting said he's not bothered about Virat's form as he knows he will bounce back. Admitting a batter is as aware of his poor form as those who are watching and writing about him is, Ponting believes Kohli will find a way back soon. "For Kohli, I have said that over and over, champion players always find a way. He might be in a bit of a drought at the moment and might be not scoring runs which we all expect him to score but he is a realist as well. When you are a batsman and you are struggling and not scoring runs, you are pretty aware of that yourself. I am not concerned about this because I am confident he will bounce back," Ponting said on ICC Review. ALSO READ: India vs Australia, BGT 2022/23: Steve Smith set to lead in final Test in Pat Cummins's absence Speaking about Australia's big win in the Indore Test and how with that they sealed their qualification in the finals of the World Test Championship, Ponting said what they achieved after being down badly in the first two Tests calls for appreciation. Opening up about the pitches that were used during this series and how the batters from both teams have fared on them, Ponting admits it's all but incredibly difficult for anyone to score runs on such tracks, and it's not just because of the turn, but because of the uneven bounce that has caused more trouble. "I am not looking at anybody's form in the series because for batters it has been an absolute nightmare. Australia have done a remarkable job by turning around those first two Test matches and coming back to win the third. We all know batting has been so incredibly difficult. And it has not been because of the turn, but also the uneven bounce which makes you lose trust in the wicket and if that happens you are guessing all the time which makes batting really difficult," he added. The fourth and final Test begins in Ahmedabad on March 9th.

IND vs AUS: Calling this tour a nightmare for the batters, Ponting backs Virat Kohli to bounce back soon

Clinical behind the wickets in the recently-concluded Indore Test that Australia won by nine wickets, keeper Alex Carey is keen on being equally effective with the bat in hand in the final Test in Ahmedabad, which is scheduled to start on March 9th. The left-handed Carey earned praises from head coach Andrew McDonald, who believes Australia was in control of the game from ball one at the Holkar Stadium.

Carey, who stumped India’s captain Rohit Sharma in the first innings in the previous Test and conceded only three byes throughout the game, told reporters on Sunday that before travelling to India he actually spoke with some of the past stumpers taking notes of how to make the most of his chance on the Indian tracks.

"I speak to guys regularly who've played for Australia in terms of (Brad) Haddin and (Adam) Gilchrist and Ian Healy's always in the corner there," Carey told reporters on Sunday, as quoted by the Reuters. "I think our training wickets have been really difficult as well so it's been nice to actually stand in a training wicket and keep to our bowlers. You don't always do that in Australia, the nets are a bit shorter, and you probably go about your business more standing back," he added.

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Despite winning the Indore Test, Carey believes Australia’s batting hasn’t been up to the mark and has lagged behind in comparison to India’s batting that clearly has dominated so far in the Border-Gavaskar series.

Admitting to have not contributed enough with the bat and considering the series is also on line in the final Test, Carey looks confident in turning the tables around and give Aussie tail something to fight for.

"We know that we haven't given enough at the tail there," Carey said. "We also understand that India's batting line-up's very, very strong. We'll have those conversations about how we can navigate and try to get 10-15 runs each more."

Although India had already retained the marquee Border-Gavaskar series following a win in the Delhi Test, they still haven’t secured their place in the finals of the World Test Championship; however, Australia has punched their ticket with a big win in the previous Test and will look to spoil India’s plans with yet another win under Steven Smith in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

Clinical behind the wickets in the recently-concluded Indore Test that Australia won by nine wickets, keeper Alex Carey is keen on being equally effective with the bat in hand in the final Test in Ahmedabad, which is scheduled to start on March 9th.

Clinical behind the wickets in the recently-concluded Indore Test that Australia won by nine wickets, keeper Alex Carey is keen on being equally effective with the bat in hand in the final Test in Ahmedabad, which is scheduled to start on March 9th. The left-handed Carey earned praises from head coach Andrew McDonald, who believes Australia was in control of the game from ball one at the Holkar Stadium. Carey, who stumped India’s captain Rohit Sharma in the first innings in the previous Test and conceded only three byes throughout the game, told reporters on Sunday that before travelling to India he actually spoke with some of the past stumpers taking notes of how to make the most of his chance on the Indian tracks. "I speak to guys regularly who've played for Australia in terms of (Brad) Haddin and (Adam) Gilchrist and Ian Healy's always in the corner there," Carey told reporters on Sunday, as quoted by the Reuters. "I think our training wickets have been really difficult as well so it's been nice to actually stand in a training wicket and keep to our bowlers. You don't always do that in Australia, the nets are a bit shorter, and you probably go about your business more standing back," he added. ALSO READ: Ind vs Aus: Matthew Hayden slams Australia for dropping Travis Head from first Test Despite winning the Indore Test, Carey believes Australia’s batting hasn’t been up to the mark and has lagged behind in comparison to India’s batting that clearly has dominated so far in the Border-Gavaskar series. Admitting to have not contributed enough with the bat and considering the series is also on line in the final Test, Carey looks confident in turning the tables around and give Aussie tail something to fight for. "We know that we haven't given enough at the tail there," Carey said. "We also understand that India's batting line-up's very, very strong. We'll have those conversations about how we can navigate and try to get 10-15 runs each more." Although India had already retained the marquee Border-Gavaskar series following a win in the Delhi Test, they still haven’t secured their place in the finals of the World Test Championship; however, Australia has punched their ticket with a big win in the previous Test and will look to spoil India’s plans with yet another win under Steven Smith in Ahmedabad.

IND vs AUS: 'Clinical' with gloves, Alex Carey wants to be as effective with the bat in final Test

Following the third Test in Indore where Australia walked away with a nine-wicket win, stand-in captain Steve Smith said his run as the skipper ends here as Pat Cummins will now take over the reins heading into the fourth Test.

"My time is done. It's Pat's team now," Smith said after leading Australia to its second win on Indian soil under his captaincy.

Meanwhile, it was after the end of the Delhi Test when Cummins flew home to be with his ailing mother&nbsp;and was said to be returning before the start of the Indore game. That eventually didn’t happen as Smith led in his absence;&nbsp;and now as per the latest reports, he could well lead the side in the Ahmedabad Test also as Cummins is likely to stay back and spend some more time with his mother.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-mohammed-shami-set-to-return-for-final-test-in-ahmedabad-as-india-eye-spot-in-wtc-final-568603">IND vs AUS: Mohammed Shami set to return for final Test in Ahmedabad as India eye spot in WTC final</a>

As reported in the Times of India (TOI), the Australian head coach Andrew McDonald is in touch with Cummins and is also keeping a tab on his status ahead of the final Test that begins in five days'&nbsp;time. McDonald said while Pat is very much invested in what’s happening here in India, for him to stay home in Sydney with his mother is what is required now.

"He's obviously dealing with what he's dealing with at home but he's still so invested in this group," McDonald told reporters on Saturday. "Our thoughts are still with him and his family at this difficult time.

"We're in constant contact with him daily, so at the moment he's not here and the test match is a few days away, so we'll discuss with Pat on a daily basis," the coach added.

Indore win seals Australia’s place in the WTC final

After winning the third Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, Australia qualified for the finals of the WTC that will take place at the Oval in London on June 7th. For India to now qualify for the finals, they must beat the touring side in the final Test, or even if they lose or the match is drawn, they then must hope for New Zealand to win their home two-match Test series against Sri Lanka to ensure India is staying ahead on the points tally.

Following the third Test in Indore where Australia walked away with a nine-wicket win, stand-in captain Steve Smith said his run as the skipper ends here as Pat Cummins will now take over the reins heading into the fourth Test.

Following the third Test in Indore where Australia walked away with a nine-wicket win, stand-in captain Steve Smith said his run as the skipper ends here as Pat Cummins will now take over the reins heading into the fourth Test. "My time is done. It's Pat's team now," Smith said after leading Australia to its second win on Indian soil under his captaincy. Meanwhile, it was after the end of the Delhi Test when Cummins flew home to be with his ailing mother and was said to be returning before the start of the Indore game. That eventually didn’t happen as Smith led in his absence; and now as per the latest reports, he could well lead the side in the Ahmedabad Test also as Cummins is likely to stay back and spend some more time with his mother. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Mohammed Shami set to return for final Test in Ahmedabad as India eye spot in WTC final As reported in the Times of India (TOI), the Australian head coach Andrew McDonald is in touch with Cummins and is also keeping a tab on his status ahead of the final Test that begins in five days' time. McDonald said while Pat is very much invested in what’s happening here in India, for him to stay home in Sydney with his mother is what is required now. "He's obviously dealing with what he's dealing with at home but he's still so invested in this group," McDonald told reporters on Saturday. "Our thoughts are still with him and his family at this difficult time. "We're in constant contact with him daily, so at the moment he's not here and the test match is a few days away, so we'll discuss with Pat on a daily basis," the coach added. Indore win seals Australia’s place in the WTC final After winning the third Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, Australia qualified for the finals of the WTC that will take place at the Oval in London on June 7th. For India to now qualify for the finals, they must beat the touring side in the final Test, or even if they lose or the match is drawn, they then must hope for New Zealand to win their home two-match Test series against Sri Lanka to ensure India is staying ahead on the points tally.

Pat Cummins set to stay home with ailing mother as Steve Smith likely to lead side in final Test: Reports

Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami is all set to return to playing XI for the final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad as India eye a slot in the finals of the World Test Championship (WTC). Shami was rested for the third Test in Indore as part of the workload management drill by the BCCI and team management for the key players who are in the scheme of things for the 50-over World Cup.

Shami and Mohammed Siraj both of whom played in the first two Tests in Nagpur and Delhi and are also part of the ODI series that starts from March 17th in Mumbai, probably won’t play together in the final Test as Siraj is now expected to be rested for the Ahmedabad game. Umesh Yadav, who was picked in the playing XI in the third Test, is likely to retain his place for the deciding game.

As India currently lead the four-match series 2-1, having lost the previous match at the Holkar Stadium by nine wickets on a wicket that ICC rated ‘poor’, they will aim to win the final Test and qualify directly for the finals of WTC for the second time. As of now, only Australia has qualified for the WTC final, which is scheduled to take place at the Oval in London on June 7th.&nbsp;

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As reported by the PTI, following the drama surrounding the Indore pitch, the Gujarat State Association is unlikely to put its reputation on the line by preparing a similar surface as the one used in Indore.&nbsp;A&nbsp;source in the Association has told PTI that they haven’t received any instructions on how the wicket should play for the final match as they are likely to go ahead with the normal pitch.

"We haven't received any instructions from the Indian team management and our local curators are preparing a normal track as we have always done through the season," a state association source told PTI. "In fact, last Ranji game over here in January, Railways scored 500 plus (508) batting first, and Gujarat, although had innings defeat, scored 200 plus in both innings. It won't be too different this time," the source added.

Meanwhile, the last time a Test match took place at the Narendra Modi Stadium between India and England in 2021, it ended in two days.

Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami is all set to return to playing XI for the final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad as India eye a slot in the finals of the World Test Championship (WTC).

Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami is all set to return to playing XI for the final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad as India eye a slot in the finals of the World Test Championship (WTC). Shami was rested for the third Test in Indore as part of the workload management drill by the BCCI and team management for the key players who are in the scheme of things for the 50-over World Cup. Shami and Mohammed Siraj both of whom played in the first two Tests in Nagpur and Delhi and are also part of the ODI series that starts from March 17th in Mumbai, probably won’t play together in the final Test as Siraj is now expected to be rested for the Ahmedabad game. Umesh Yadav, who was picked in the playing XI in the third Test, is likely to retain his place for the deciding game. As India currently lead the four-match series 2-1, having lost the previous match at the Holkar Stadium by nine wickets on a wicket that ICC rated ‘poor’, they will aim to win the final Test and qualify directly for the finals of WTC for the second time. As of now, only Australia has qualified for the WTC final, which is scheduled to take place at the Oval in London on June 7th. ALSO READ: From Tendulkar to Gilchrist, here's how top players paid tribute to Shane Warne on his death anniversary As reported by the PTI, following the drama surrounding the Indore pitch, the Gujarat State Association is unlikely to put its reputation on the line by preparing a similar surface as the one used in Indore. A source in the Association has told PTI that they haven’t received any instructions on how the wicket should play for the final match as they are likely to go ahead with the normal pitch. "We haven't received any instructions from the Indian team management and our local curators are preparing a normal track as we have always done through the season," a state association source told PTI. "In fact, last Ranji game over here in January, Railways scored 500 plus (508) batting first, and Gujarat, although had innings defeat, scored 200 plus in both innings. It won't be too different this time," the source added. Meanwhile, the last time a Test match took place at the Narendra Modi Stadium between India and England in 2021, it ended in two days.

IND vs AUS: Mohammed Shami set to return for final Test in Ahmedabad as India eye spot in WTC final

Australia thumped India by nine wickets on Day 3 of the third and penultimate Test, at the Holkar Stadium, Indore, on Friday (March 03), to keep the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar series alive at 2-1, with the final Test on March 09. Resuming the day's play, Australia needed only 76 runs for a famous win and chased down the target with Travis Head leading the charge (49*). With this win, Australia have also qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.

The day's play started with R Ashwin getting rid of in-form opener Usman Khawaja. The left-hander failed to open his account and was caught behind by KS Bharat as Ashwin drew the first blood in the opening over. However, from thereon, there was not much to cheer for India as Head-Labuschagne looked confident, bought some time in the middle, and guided the side to a memorable nine-wicket triumph.&nbsp;

Talking about the Test match, Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bat first. Nothing clicked for India on a pitch that turned fair and square. The likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ravindra Jadeja, Shreyas Iyer, etc. all fell flat as&nbsp;Matthew Kuhnemann, playing his second Test, ended with a five-fer (5 for 16). India started with the ball by not being consistent in their line and length and Australia ended the opening day with a 47-run lead, with six wickets in hand.&nbsp;

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Day 2 saw a fightback from India with Jadeja, Umesh Yadav and Ashwin dismissing Australia for 197. However, the Steve Smith-led side managed to take a vital 88-run lead. In their second essay, India once again fell flat and got dismissed for 163 with Nathan Lyon taking 8 for 64 (ending with an 11-wicket haul). By virtue of his match-winning spell, Lyon&nbsp;became the second&nbsp;in the list of most wickets against India (going past Muttiah Muralitharan) and&nbsp;also equalled Richie Benaud's tally of most 5-fers&nbsp;(five) against India on their home soil.

On Friday morning, Australia ended the formalities by chasing a 76-run target and have qualified for the WTC final, to be held in early June at The Oval, London.&nbsp;

Shortest home Tests that ended in a defeat for India 
1135 balls Aus vs Ind Indore 2022/23 * 
1459 balls Eng vs Ind Kanpur 1951/52 
1474 balls WI vs Ind Kolkata 1983/84 
1476 balls Aus vs Ind Mumbai WS 2000/01

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy remains alive as both teams will now to go Ahmedabad for the series finale. India will aim for a revamp and end the series with a 3-1 scoreline and also enter the WTC final.

Australia thumped India by nine wickets on Day 3 of the third and penultimate Test, at the Holkar Stadium, Indore, on Friday (March 03), to keep the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar series alive at 2-1, with the final Test on March 09.

Australia thumped India by nine wickets on Day 3 of the third and penultimate Test, at the Holkar Stadium, Indore, on Friday (March 03), to keep the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar series alive at 2-1, with the final Test on March 09. Resuming the day's play, Australia needed only 76 runs for a famous win and chased down the target with Travis Head leading the charge (49*). With this win, Australia have also qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. The day's play started with R Ashwin getting rid of in-form opener Usman Khawaja. The left-hander failed to open his account and was caught behind by KS Bharat as Ashwin drew the first blood in the opening over. However, from thereon, there was not much to cheer for India as Head-Labuschagne looked confident, bought some time in the middle, and guided the side to a memorable nine-wicket triumph. Talking about the Test match, Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bat first. Nothing clicked for India on a pitch that turned fair and square. The likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ravindra Jadeja, Shreyas Iyer, etc. all fell flat as Matthew Kuhnemann, playing his second Test, ended with a five-fer (5 for 16). India started with the ball by not being consistent in their line and length and Australia ended the opening day with a 47-run lead, with six wickets in hand. Also read: 'It did not make any sense': Sanjay Manjrekar slams Rohit Sharma's tactics in Indore Test Day 2 saw a fightback from India with Jadeja, Umesh Yadav and Ashwin dismissing Australia for 197. However, the Steve Smith-led side managed to take a vital 88-run lead. In their second essay, India once again fell flat and got dismissed for 163 with Nathan Lyon taking 8 for 64 (ending with an 11-wicket haul). By virtue of his match-winning spell, Lyon became the second in the list of most wickets against India (going past Muttiah Muralitharan) and also equalled Richie Benaud's tally of most 5-fers (five) against India on their home soil. On Friday morning, Australia ended the formalities by chasing a 76-run target and have qualified for the WTC final, to be held in early June at The Oval, London. Shortest home Tests that ended in a defeat for India 1135 balls Aus vs Ind Indore 2022/23 * 1459 balls Eng vs Ind Kanpur 1951/52 1474 balls WI vs Ind Kolkata 1983/84 1476 balls Aus vs Ind Mumbai WS 2000/01 The Border-Gavaskar Trophy remains alive as both teams will now to go Ahmedabad for the series finale. India will aim for a revamp and end the series with a 3-1 scoreline and also enter the WTC final.

Indore Test: Nathan Lyon stars in visitors' famous win to keep series alive; Australia enter WTC final

Nathan Lyon is the best overseas spinner to travel to India and achieve so much, reckons Indian captain Rohit Sharma following the Indore Test. For the third time in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, a Test match ended inside three days as Australia on Friday chased a moderate target of 76 with nine wickets in hand. With this win, they not only avoided the possibility of a series whitewash, but also punched their ticket for the finals of the World Test Championship.

Speaking to the media after the match, Rohit showered praise&nbsp;on Nathan Lyon, who for the second time in his career picked up an eight-wicket haul in an innings in India. During the second innings, Lyon produced the figures of eight for 63, accounting for almost everyone from top to bottom. Already under pressure with a deficit of nearly 100 runs after the end of Australia's first innings, the Indian batters tried taking the attack to the opposition but failed in their attempt big time.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-cricketers-did-not-rohit-sharma-on-ex-players-rant-on-indore-test-pitch-after-indias-defeat-568136">'Former cricketers did not...': Rohit Sharma on ex-players' rant on Indore Test pitch after India's defeat</a>

Starting with the openers Shubman Gill and Rohit, Lyon deceived them with the angle before trapping Ravindra Jadeja right in front of the wickets. He then picked up keeper KS Bharat before getting the fish in Cheteshwar Pujara. It was about time before he ran through the tail and wrapped up India’s second innings on a mere 163.

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Meanwhile, when asked about how he would rate Nathan Lyon following his match-winning spell in Indore, Rohit said,

“Lyon should be at the top in my opinion. I have not played guys like Murali and Warner. Among the current crop he would be my number one overseas bowler to come and play here in India," Rohit Sharma said. "He has got so much consistency in his line and length. When someone is bowling with that accuracy you have to try and do something different to score runs.”

Earlier, it was during the Bengaluru Test in 2017 when Lyon picked up his first eight-wicket haul (8 for 50) against India in India. As of now, with 19 wickets in three Tests, Lyon is second on the list with most wickets in this series while Jadeja sits at the top with 21 scalps to his name.

The marquee four-match series currently stands at 2-1 in favour of India with one match left in Ahmedabad scheduled to begin on March 9th.

&nbsp;

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Nathan Lyon is the best overseas spinner to travel to India and achieve so much, reckons Indian captain Rohit Sharma following the Indore Test. For the third time in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, a Test match ended inside three days as Australia on Friday chased a moderate target of 76 with nine wickets in hand.

Nathan Lyon is the best overseas spinner to travel to India and achieve so much, reckons Indian captain Rohit Sharma following the Indore Test. For the third time in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, a Test match ended inside three days as Australia on Friday chased a moderate target of 76 with nine wickets in hand. With this win, they not only avoided the possibility of a series whitewash, but also punched their ticket for the finals of the World Test Championship. Speaking to the media after the match, Rohit showered praise on Nathan Lyon, who for the second time in his career picked up an eight-wicket haul in an innings in India. During the second innings, Lyon produced the figures of eight for 63, accounting for almost everyone from top to bottom. Already under pressure with a deficit of nearly 100 runs after the end of Australia's first innings, the Indian batters tried taking the attack to the opposition but failed in their attempt big time. ALSO READ: 'Former cricketers did not...': Rohit Sharma on ex-players' rant on Indore Test pitch after India's defeat Starting with the openers Shubman Gill and Rohit, Lyon deceived them with the angle before trapping Ravindra Jadeja right in front of the wickets. He then picked up keeper KS Bharat before getting the fish in Cheteshwar Pujara. It was about time before he ran through the tail and wrapped up India’s second innings on a mere 163. 🐐#INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/P5hVqfk74I — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) March 2, 2023 × Meanwhile, when asked about how he would rate Nathan Lyon following his match-winning spell in Indore, Rohit said, “Lyon should be at the top in my opinion. I have not played guys like Murali and Warner. Among the current crop he would be my number one overseas bowler to come and play here in India," Rohit Sharma said. "He has got so much consistency in his line and length. When someone is bowling with that accuracy you have to try and do something different to score runs.” Earlier, it was during the Bengaluru Test in 2017 when Lyon picked up his first eight-wicket haul (8 for 50) against India in India. As of now, with 19 wickets in three Tests, Lyon is second on the list with most wickets in this series while Jadeja sits at the top with 21 scalps to his name. The marquee four-match series currently stands at 2-1 in favour of India with one match left in Ahmedabad scheduled to begin on March 9th. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

IND vs AUS: Nathan Lyon is the best overseas spinner I have faced in India, says Rohit Sharma

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has come down hard on the Indore pitch used during&nbsp;the third Test between India and Australia, by rating it ‘poor’. This decision came hours after the third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series ended inside three days with Australia winning it by nine wickets. Although the previous two Tests also got wrapped up well before stumps on day three, this Indore pitch has received three demerit points as the match referee Chris Broad feels ‘the pitch that was very dry didn’t provide the right balance between bat and ball.’

Broad after consulting captains of both teams – Rohit Sharma and Steve Smith submitted his report to the apex body and mentioned that this surface was not suitable for a Test match as it had uneven bounce throughout the game.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-nathan-lyon-is-the-best-overseas-spinner-i-have-faced-in-india-rohit-sharma-568203">IND vs AUS: Nathan Lyon is the best overseas spinner I have faced in India: Rohit Sharma</a>

Speaking on the same, Chris Broad said, “The pitch, which was very dry, did not provide a balance between bat and ball, favouring spinners from the start.

"The fifth ball of the match broke through the pitch surface and continued to occasionally break the surface providing little or no seam movement and there was excessive and uneven bounce throughout the match.”

As a result, the Indore pitch will receive three demerit points while the BCCI will have a two-week window to appeal against the sanction. As per ICC’s Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process, a venue will be suspended from hosting an international match for one year if it accumulates five or more demerit points over a rolling period of five years.

Meanwhile, the spinners from both teams found great purchase off the pitch as out of the 31 wickets that fell across four innings, 26 of them went to the spinners and just four to the pacers. While for India, Jadeja picked five wickets and Ashwin returned with three, Australia’s veteran spinner Nathan Lyon picked up his second eighth-wicket haul (8 for 63 in the second innings) in Tests, ending the match with a total of 11 wickets to his name.

Following this Test, the series stands at 2-1 in favour of India with the final match scheduled to take place at Ahmedabad on March 9th.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has come down hard on the Indore pitch used during the third Test between India and Australia, by rating it ‘poor’. This decision came hours after the third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series ended inside three days with Australia winning it by nine wickets.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has come down hard on the Indore pitch used during the third Test between India and Australia, by rating it ‘poor’. This decision came hours after the third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series ended inside three days with Australia winning it by nine wickets. Although the previous two Tests also got wrapped up well before stumps on day three, this Indore pitch has received three demerit points as the match referee Chris Broad feels ‘the pitch that was very dry didn’t provide the right balance between bat and ball.’ Broad after consulting captains of both teams – Rohit Sharma and Steve Smith submitted his report to the apex body and mentioned that this surface was not suitable for a Test match as it had uneven bounce throughout the game. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Nathan Lyon is the best overseas spinner I have faced in India: Rohit Sharma Speaking on the same, Chris Broad said, “The pitch, which was very dry, did not provide a balance between bat and ball, favouring spinners from the start. "The fifth ball of the match broke through the pitch surface and continued to occasionally break the surface providing little or no seam movement and there was excessive and uneven bounce throughout the match.” As a result, the Indore pitch will receive three demerit points while the BCCI will have a two-week window to appeal against the sanction. As per ICC’s Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process, a venue will be suspended from hosting an international match for one year if it accumulates five or more demerit points over a rolling period of five years. Meanwhile, the spinners from both teams found great purchase off the pitch as out of the 31 wickets that fell across four innings, 26 of them went to the spinners and just four to the pacers. While for India, Jadeja picked five wickets and Ashwin returned with three, Australia’s veteran spinner Nathan Lyon picked up his second eighth-wicket haul (8 for 63 in the second innings) in Tests, ending the match with a total of 11 wickets to his name. Following this Test, the series stands at 2-1 in favour of India with the final match scheduled to take place at Ahmedabad on March 9th.

IND vs AUS: ICC rates Indore pitch 'poor' after third Test ends inside three days at Holkar Stadium

WTC 2023 Points Table: On Friday (March 03), Australia thrashed India by nine wickets to win the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy to keep the series alive at 2-1.

WTC 2023 Points Table: On Friday (March 03), Australia thrashed India by nine wickets to win the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy to keep the series alive at 2-1. Moreover, Australia also qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, to be held at The Oval, London in early June, with their famous triumph on a turning track at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. Resuming Day 3, Australia started their run-chase, where they needed 76 for a win, and lost Usman Khawaja in the first over. Nonetheless, Travis Head's 49* and Marnus Labuschagne's 28 not out led the Steve Smith-led Aussies to victory, and through to the final of the second cycle of the WTC. The damage was done for India after they only managed 109, opting to bat first on Day 1 on Wednesday (March 01), before conceding a vital 88-run lead to the visitors -- who were all-out for 197 -- on a tough batting pitch tough. In their second essay, Rohit Sharma & Co. fell flat once again with Nathan Lyon taking 8 for 64 (ending with an 11-wicket haul in the match). Being all-out for 163, India gave a paltry 76-run target which the Aussies chased down in style during the first session of Day 3. With this win, Australia have become the first side to enter the WTC final. India have to wait for the final Test, in Ahmedabad and need a win to not depend on other results and meet the Aussies in the summit clash. Sri Lanka is the only other team who can play spoilsport for India and reach the final if they whitewash hosts New Zealand in their forthcoming two-match series. Here's a look at the updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Australia beat India in Indore Test: Also read: Indore Test: Nathan Lyon stars in visitors' famous win to keep series alive; Australia enter WTC final SN TEAM PCT (%) PTS W L D 1 AUSTRALIA 68.52 148 11 3 4 2 INDIA 60.29 123 10 5 2 3 SRI LANKA 53.33 64 5 4 1 4 SOUTH AFRICA 52.38 88 7 6 1 5 ENGLAND 46.97 124 10 8 4 6 PAKISTAN 38.1 64 4 6 4 7 WEST INDIES 37.5 54 4 6 2 8 NEW ZEALAND 27.27 36 2 6 3 9 BANGLADESH 11.11 16 1 10 1 At the post-match presentation, losing captain Rohit said, "We need to keep it simple and follow the plan. When you are playing on challenging pitches, we need to be brave. We allowed their bowlers to bowl on one particular spot. Not taking any credit away from their bowlers. especially Nathan Lyon, he kept challenging us hitting the right lengths. When the bowler is trying to do that, gotta be a little brave which I thought we were not. Things happen like that, but we can take a lot of credit about how we batted in the first 2 games." On the way forward, he opined, "Its all about everyone coming together and chipping in. We want few guys stand up and put their hand up to take the team through. You will falter in your plans and that's what happened in this game, we didn't adapt as well as we would have liked to." The fourth and final Test begins in Ahmedabad on March 09.

WTC points table 2023 ICC World Test Championship ranking after Australia beat India in Indore

Mitchell Starc has declared himself ‘fit-enough’ to be considered for selection for the third Test in Indore that begins on March 1st. Out with a broken finger since playing in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa last year, Starc can’t wait to getting back to the field having already missed first two Tests in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series. In the absence of the regular skipper, Pat Cummins, who flew home to be with his ailing mother, Starc’s presence in the XI would boost the confidence in the Aussie camp. However, the seamer, in his latest discussion with SEN Cricket, admitted that he is not 100% fit but enough to get going at the Holkar Stadium.

The left-arm pacer said his recovery took longer than what he would have liked, and that he remained patient with the same.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-prepares-a-blueprint-for-inducting-women-umpires-into-top-panels-reports-566299">ICC prepares a blueprint for inducting women umpires into top panels: Reports</a>

"It's all right, it's good enough. Good to go, that'll do for selection. It's a Test match, so it'll be good. The progress was slower than what I would have liked, but I am quite patient in that regard, so it is still progressing, but it has progressed enough to be comfortable playing, Hopefully, I can play a role with this team," Mitchell Starc told SEN Cricket.

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Mitchell Starc is getting it to reverse in Indore. Great signs for Australia to have him back even if Cam Green, who is also back, might not particularly appreciate the first clip <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvAus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvAus</a> <a href="https://t.co/cT2HujCvbg">pic.twitter.com/cT2HujCvbg</a>
— Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) <a href="https://twitter.com/beastieboy07/status/1630071949354471424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Starc said even ahead of the Delhi Test he was physically and mentally ready to play but it’s good that he didn’t because that bought him extra time to work on his fitness and get accustomed to the discomfort of the injured finger.

"The fact that I was not required last week gave me an opportunity for another week to prepare and progress, and get accustomed to the discomfort. I certainly felt that I was ready to go physically and mentally before the last Test itself," he added.

Meanwhile, not only Cummins, Australia will also miss the services of opener David Warner, who got out ruled out due to concussion and injury to his left arm, and Ashton Agar, who also flew home to take part in Sheffield Shield game for Western Australia. Whereas, Cameron Green is declared fit and Mitchell Swepson, who also went home following the first Test for the birth of his first child, has returned for the remainder of Tests.

Australia trails the marquee four-match series 0-2 with two matches more to be played.

Mitchell Starc has declared himself ‘fit-enough’ to be considered for selection for the third Test in Indore that begins on March 1st. Out with a broken finger since playing in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa last year, Starc can’t wait to getting back to the field having already missed first two Tests in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series.

Mitchell Starc has declared himself ‘fit-enough’ to be considered for selection for the third Test in Indore that begins on March 1st. Out with a broken finger since playing in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa last year, Starc can’t wait to getting back to the field having already missed first two Tests in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series. In the absence of the regular skipper, Pat Cummins, who flew home to be with his ailing mother, Starc’s presence in the XI would boost the confidence in the Aussie camp. However, the seamer, in his latest discussion with SEN Cricket, admitted that he is not 100% fit but enough to get going at the Holkar Stadium. The left-arm pacer said his recovery took longer than what he would have liked, and that he remained patient with the same. ALSO READ: ICC prepares a blueprint for inducting women umpires into top panels: Reports "It's all right, it's good enough. Good to go, that'll do for selection. It's a Test match, so it'll be good. The progress was slower than what I would have liked, but I am quite patient in that regard, so it is still progressing, but it has progressed enough to be comfortable playing, Hopefully, I can play a role with this team," Mitchell Starc told SEN Cricket. Mitchell Starc is getting it to reverse in Indore. Great signs for Australia to have him back even if Cam Green, who is also back, might not particularly appreciate the first clip #IndvAus pic.twitter.com/cT2HujCvbg — Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) February 27, 2023 × Starc said even ahead of the Delhi Test he was physically and mentally ready to play but it’s good that he didn’t because that bought him extra time to work on his fitness and get accustomed to the discomfort of the injured finger. "The fact that I was not required last week gave me an opportunity for another week to prepare and progress, and get accustomed to the discomfort. I certainly felt that I was ready to go physically and mentally before the last Test itself," he added. Meanwhile, not only Cummins, Australia will also miss the services of opener David Warner, who got out ruled out due to concussion and injury to his left arm, and Ashton Agar, who also flew home to take part in Sheffield Shield game for Western Australia. Whereas, Cameron Green is declared fit and Mitchell Swepson, who also went home following the first Test for the birth of his first child, has returned for the remainder of Tests. Australia trails the marquee four-match series 0-2 with two matches more to be played.

IND vs AUS: Almost fit-enough Mitchell Starc raring to hit deck in Indore Test

Since the time Shubman Gill scored his maiden ODI double hundred against New Zealand early this year, he’s been everywhere except in the playing XI against Australia in the Test series. Rather confused with the management’s call to play struggling KL Rahul over Gill, the fans were left wondering for the answers. Sourav Ganguly, one of India’s greatest captains and an ex-BCCI President recently spoke on this matter and said though there is no doubt that Gill is a tremendous batter and that’s why he’s playing all the formats, he still has to wait for his turn in Tests.

Having led teams across formats during his time, Ganguly understands the selection process better than many other; and on that he said when Gill’s time will come, he would get a lot of chances.

"I am sure when his time comes, he will also get a lot of opportunities," Ganguly said. "I think the selectors, the captain and the coach think of him and rate him very highly. That's why he is playing ODIs and T20Is, and he has performed as well,” Ganguly said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

"But at the present moment, perhaps message from team management is that he has to wait," Dada, as Ganguly’s fans used to call him, added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-almost-fit-enough-mitchell-starc-raring-to-hit-deck-in-indore-test-566319">IND vs AUS: Almost fit-enough Mitchell Starc raring to hit deck in Indore Test</a>

Warming the benches in the first two Tests with the team deciding to go ahead with KL Rahul as the opener, Gill will probably get into contention for the third Test that begins on March 1st in Indore.

Meanwhile, in both Nagpur and Delhi, openers from both teams struggled to get going barring the India captain Rohit Sharma, who scored a match-winning hundred in the first innings of Nagpur Test. More so, that after Rohit, who is leading the runs chart in the Border-Gavaskar series, bowling all-rounder Axar Patel is second on the list. Other than them, the performer with the bat had been Ravindra Jadeja, who scored 77 in Nagpur.

Talking about playing spin on such tracks where matches got finished inside three days on both occasions, Ganguly said,

"These are very tough wickets. I saw in the first two Tests and it's not easy, boss," Ganguly said. "Playing Ashwin, Jadeja, Lyon and the new guy, Todd Murphy, it is never easy with odd ball turning square. There is unevenness, there is everything happening for spinners," Ganguly added.

Since the time Shubman Gill scored his maiden ODI double hundred against New Zealand early this year, he’s been everywhere except in the playing XI against Australia in the Test series.

Since the time Shubman Gill scored his maiden ODI double hundred against New Zealand early this year, he’s been everywhere except in the playing XI against Australia in the Test series. Rather confused with the management’s call to play struggling KL Rahul over Gill, the fans were left wondering for the answers. Sourav Ganguly, one of India’s greatest captains and an ex-BCCI President recently spoke on this matter and said though there is no doubt that Gill is a tremendous batter and that’s why he’s playing all the formats, he still has to wait for his turn in Tests. Having led teams across formats during his time, Ganguly understands the selection process better than many other; and on that he said when Gill’s time will come, he would get a lot of chances. "I am sure when his time comes, he will also get a lot of opportunities," Ganguly said. "I think the selectors, the captain and the coach think of him and rate him very highly. That's why he is playing ODIs and T20Is, and he has performed as well,” Ganguly said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. "But at the present moment, perhaps message from team management is that he has to wait," Dada, as Ganguly’s fans used to call him, added. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Almost fit-enough Mitchell Starc raring to hit deck in Indore Test Warming the benches in the first two Tests with the team deciding to go ahead with KL Rahul as the opener, Gill will probably get into contention for the third Test that begins on March 1st in Indore. Meanwhile, in both Nagpur and Delhi, openers from both teams struggled to get going barring the India captain Rohit Sharma, who scored a match-winning hundred in the first innings of Nagpur Test. More so, that after Rohit, who is leading the runs chart in the Border-Gavaskar series, bowling all-rounder Axar Patel is second on the list. Other than them, the performer with the bat had been Ravindra Jadeja, who scored 77 in Nagpur. Talking about playing spin on such tracks where matches got finished inside three days on both occasions, Ganguly said, "These are very tough wickets. I saw in the first two Tests and it's not easy, boss," Ganguly said. "Playing Ashwin, Jadeja, Lyon and the new guy, Todd Murphy, it is never easy with odd ball turning square. There is unevenness, there is everything happening for spinners," Ganguly added.

'When his time will come I am sure he will get lots of opportunities,' says Sourav Ganguly on Shubman Gill

The No. 1 ranked Australian Test side have been a pale shadow of themselves in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus hosts India. After the first two Tests, Pat Cummins &amp; Co. have already conceded an unassailable 2-0 lead to Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. and will be aiming to keep the series alive in the third and penultimate Test, which kicks off on March 01 in Indore.

Ahead of the third Test, former Australian skipper Ian Chappell has lashed out at the current Aussie line-up for their poor performances, raised questions on their preparations, shot and team selections. In his coloum for ESPNCricinfo, he wrote, "Sweeping regularly is not the answer to playing good spin bowling, and anyone who says so is talking through his hat."

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Chappell further opined, "The odd player is very good at sweeping and should utilise the shot, but for the majority there are better ways. Any good spin bowler who makes the ball bounce is likely to expose the dangers in sweeping constantly. Australia prepared on special scarified pitches in Sydney and chose not to play a single tour game in India for the gruelling month-long series."

"You don't discover how to play good spin bowling later in life on a scarified Australian pitch just prior to a vital tour of India. You have to learn good footwork -- coming three paces out of your crease or retreating quickly onto the back foot -- at a young age," he mentioned.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-guys-are-very-annoying-sune-luus-tells-t20-wc-champions-australia-after-sas-heartbreaking-loss-566346">'You guys are very annoying': Sune Luus tells T20 WC champions Australia after SA's heartbreaking loss</a>

'Australia's selection&nbsp;has been awfully inconsistent and&nbsp;irrational'

Chappell went on to blast the Australian team management for their lack of batting strategies on Indian tracks&nbsp;and raised eyebrows on the team selection for&nbsp;the first two Tests. "It should have been obvious in Australia's build-up what kinds of batting strategies needed to be used in India. The most beneficial are to watch the ball closely, more so than in Australia, and that there is a fraction more time than you think. Selectors can be fooled into thinking that playing spin bowling well in Australia automatically means success will follow on Indian pitches.

"That isn't so but if the method in Australia is a sound one, selectors should assume it could lead to success in India. Once a batter understands about the extra time on slightly slower Indian pitches, he can work the ball into a gap to collect precious runs. Those runs, especially early in an innings, when survival is treacherous, can frustrate even the best spinners, " said Chappell.

The ex-Aussie captain added, "Australia's selection on this tour has been awfully inconsistent and at times irrational. Getting selection right makes for an air of calm, which, along with effectively putting a stop to dressing-room tantrums, can aid team spirit.

"Like picking a well-balanced cricket team, good administrations should be a sensible combination of playing knowledge at the highest level along with sound business acumen so the game is well managed. The Australian cricket team is very good at many venues around the cricket world but alarm bells should have rung long ago about the trip to India."

Cummins won't lead the national side in the third Test as he remains in Australia for his ailing mother. In his absence, Steve Smith will take charge of the side and aim for a 2-1 scoreline after the end of the Indore Test to keep the series alive. Meanwhile another win for India, in Indore, will cement their spot in the ICC World Test Championship final (WTC).
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The No. 1 ranked Australian Test side have been a pale shadow of themselves in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus hosts India. After the first two Tests, Pat Cummins & Co.

The No. 1 ranked Australian Test side have been a pale shadow of themselves in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus hosts India. After the first two Tests, Pat Cummins & Co. have already conceded an unassailable 2-0 lead to Rohit Sharma & Co. and will be aiming to keep the series alive in the third and penultimate Test, which kicks off on March 01 in Indore. Ahead of the third Test, former Australian skipper Ian Chappell has lashed out at the current Aussie line-up for their poor performances, raised questions on their preparations, shot and team selections. In his coloum for ESPNCricinfo, he wrote, "Sweeping regularly is not the answer to playing good spin bowling, and anyone who says so is talking through his hat." Chappell further opined, "The odd player is very good at sweeping and should utilise the shot, but for the majority there are better ways. Any good spin bowler who makes the ball bounce is likely to expose the dangers in sweeping constantly. Australia prepared on special scarified pitches in Sydney and chose not to play a single tour game in India for the gruelling month-long series." "You don't discover how to play good spin bowling later in life on a scarified Australian pitch just prior to a vital tour of India. You have to learn good footwork -- coming three paces out of your crease or retreating quickly onto the back foot -- at a young age," he mentioned. Also Read: 'You guys are very annoying': Sune Luus tells T20 WC champions Australia after SA's heartbreaking loss 'Australia's selection has been awfully inconsistent and irrational' Chappell went on to blast the Australian team management for their lack of batting strategies on Indian tracks and raised eyebrows on the team selection for the first two Tests. "It should have been obvious in Australia's build-up what kinds of batting strategies needed to be used in India. The most beneficial are to watch the ball closely, more so than in Australia, and that there is a fraction more time than you think. Selectors can be fooled into thinking that playing spin bowling well in Australia automatically means success will follow on Indian pitches. "That isn't so but if the method in Australia is a sound one, selectors should assume it could lead to success in India. Once a batter understands about the extra time on slightly slower Indian pitches, he can work the ball into a gap to collect precious runs. Those runs, especially early in an innings, when survival is treacherous, can frustrate even the best spinners, " said Chappell. The ex-Aussie captain added, "Australia's selection on this tour has been awfully inconsistent and at times irrational. Getting selection right makes for an air of calm, which, along with effectively putting a stop to dressing-room tantrums, can aid team spirit. "Like picking a well-balanced cricket team, good administrations should be a sensible combination of playing knowledge at the highest level along with sound business acumen so the game is well managed. The Australian cricket team is very good at many venues around the cricket world but alarm bells should have rung long ago about the trip to India." Cummins won't lead the national side in the third Test as he remains in Australia for his ailing mother. In his absence, Steve Smith will take charge of the side and aim for a 2-1 scoreline after the end of the Indore Test to keep the series alive. Meanwhile another win for India, in Indore, will cement their spot in the ICC World Test Championship final (WTC).

Awfully inconsistent, irrational: Ex-Australia captain rips apart Pat Cummins & Co for poor show in India

Australian middle-order batter Travis Head said being dropped for the opening Test in India came as a surprise after "robust" conversations with the selectors, and he was ready to play anywhere in the line-up after being recalled. The 29-year-old aggressive left-hander was left out of the team for the first Test of the four-match series in Nagpur after struggling against spin on the tours of Pakistan and Sri Lanka. But the move came under fire from former players including Steve Waugh and Matthew Hayden.

"It was something that I didn't expect coming here," Head told reporters in New Delhi. "The conversations were robust. Everyone has different opinions. I respect the coaching staff and selectors and I have a strong relationship with them.

"I think that's what made the conversations the way they went, because there's respect that goes both ways and we were able to voice our opinions.

"I woke up the next morning and I'm still on tour playing for Australia, I still get to do what I love to do. I'd love to be competing and playing but there's another way I can support the guys... I still feel like I'm in a great space."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-what-future-holds-for-chennai-super-kings-after-ms-dhoni-leaves-who-will-take-forward-his-legacy-565804">Explained: What future holds for Chennai Super Kings after Dhoni? Who will take forward his legacy?</a>

Head, who scored three half-centuries in Australia's recent home series against South Africa and also impressed against the West Indies, was recalled for the second test in the Indian capital.

Australia went on to lose by six wickets to go 2-0 down in the series but Head scored 12 before top-scoring for his team with 43 in the second innings after being promoted to open the batting with David Warner substituted after suffering a concussion.

"It was a small sample piece, but over here small sample pieces can be a little bit of gold to hopefully push on for the next two tests," Head said. "After missing out in the first Test, I'd bat anywhere that the team needed me to get a game."

The third test begins in Indore on March 1, with the final match in Ahmedabad. The two teams then face off in three one-day internationals beginning March 17.

Australian middle-order batter Travis Head said being dropped for the opening Test in India came as a surprise after "robust" conversations with the selectors, and he was ready to play anywhere in the line-up after being recalled.

Australian middle-order batter Travis Head said being dropped for the opening Test in India came as a surprise after "robust" conversations with the selectors, and he was ready to play anywhere in the line-up after being recalled. The 29-year-old aggressive left-hander was left out of the team for the first Test of the four-match series in Nagpur after struggling against spin on the tours of Pakistan and Sri Lanka. But the move came under fire from former players including Steve Waugh and Matthew Hayden. "It was something that I didn't expect coming here," Head told reporters in New Delhi. "The conversations were robust. Everyone has different opinions. I respect the coaching staff and selectors and I have a strong relationship with them. "I think that's what made the conversations the way they went, because there's respect that goes both ways and we were able to voice our opinions. "I woke up the next morning and I'm still on tour playing for Australia, I still get to do what I love to do. I'd love to be competing and playing but there's another way I can support the guys... I still feel like I'm in a great space." ALSO READ: Explained: What future holds for Chennai Super Kings after Dhoni? Who will take forward his legacy? Head, who scored three half-centuries in Australia's recent home series against South Africa and also impressed against the West Indies, was recalled for the second test in the Indian capital. Australia went on to lose by six wickets to go 2-0 down in the series but Head scored 12 before top-scoring for his team with 43 in the second innings after being promoted to open the batting with David Warner substituted after suffering a concussion. "It was a small sample piece, but over here small sample pieces can be a little bit of gold to hopefully push on for the next two tests," Head said. "After missing out in the first Test, I'd bat anywhere that the team needed me to get a game." The third test begins in Indore on March 1, with the final match in Ahmedabad. The two teams then face off in three one-day internationals beginning March 17.

IND vs AUS: Shocked with his omission in 1st Test, Travis Head ready to bat anywhere in remaining matches