India Test captain Rohit Sharma will fly to Australia with the Indian Test squad while his participation in the first Test in Perth remains uncertain, per the latest report.&nbsp; 
 
“He is travelling, but his participation in the 1st Test is yet not confirmed. Will see what happens next anything in regards to this. His availability is subject to his personal matter," a source close to the information said, as quoted by India Today.

Earlier, several media reports indicated that Rohit could miss any one of the first two Tests Down Under for personal reasons, with the Indian skipper confirming the same in a media statement following the conclusion of the home New Zealand Tests.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sam-konstas-fires-reminder-to-selectors-with-match-winning-73-against-india-a-as-bgt-squad-announcement-looms-774815">Sam Konstas fires reminder to selectors with match-winning 73 against India A as BGT squad announcement looms</a>

“Right now, I am not too sure whether I’ll be going, but let’s see. Fingers crossed," Rohit said after the Mumbai Test against New Zealand.

Meanwhile, if Rohit remains unavailable for selection for the Perth Test, India could play either KL Rahul or Abhimanyu Easwaran in his place, accompanying Yashasvi Jaiswal at the top; the two contenders, however, failed to leave a mark in the second playing for India A against Australia A in the second unofficial Test in Melbourne.

While KL scored 4 and 10 in two innings in the recently concluded tie that India A lost, the right-handed Easwaran scored just 36 runs across four innings in two contested matches. Should Rohit decide against playing the Perth Test, KL leads the race to replace him in the XI.&nbsp;

Besides, with Dhruv Jurel impressing everyone with his gritty knocks in both innings, including hitting fifties in two outings, chances of him breaking into the Test side grow, if not for the first Test, then surely once during the marquee five-match series.

<h2>Six-hour review meeting</h2>

Following suffering a maiden Test series whitewash at home against New Zealand, the BCCI alongside the captain Rohit, head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar, held a marathon six-hour long review meeting discussing what went wrong, and with the Australian series on the horizon, how can they turn the tables around.

“It was a six-hour marathon meeting which was obviously on the cards after such a debacle. India are going on a tour of Australia and the BCCI would obviously like to ensure that the team is back on track and would like to know how the think-tank (Gambhir-Rohit-Agarkar) are going about it," a senior BCCI source privy to development was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.

The report also suggested that the BCCI was unhappy with team management’s call to rest Jasprit Bumrah for the final Test at the Wankhede and prepare a rank turner, which eventually cost India.

“Bumrah’s absence was discussed although it was a precautionary move. Opting for a rank turner despite India not faring well on these tracks are some of the issues that came up for discussion," the source concluded.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India Test captain Rohit Sharma will fly to Australia with the Indian Test squad while his participation in the first Test in Perth remains uncertain, per the latest report.

India Test captain Rohit Sharma will fly to Australia with the Indian Test squad while his participation in the first Test in Perth remains uncertain, per the latest report. “He is travelling, but his participation in the 1st Test is yet not confirmed. Will see what happens next anything in regards to this. His availability is subject to his personal matter," a source close to the information said, as quoted by India Today. Earlier, several media reports indicated that Rohit could miss any one of the first two Tests Down Under for personal reasons, with the Indian skipper confirming the same in a media statement following the conclusion of the home New Zealand Tests. ALSO READ: Sam Konstas fires reminder to selectors with match-winning 73 against India A as BGT squad announcement looms “Right now, I am not too sure whether I’ll be going, but let’s see. Fingers crossed," Rohit said after the Mumbai Test against New Zealand. Meanwhile, if Rohit remains unavailable for selection for the Perth Test, India could play either KL Rahul or Abhimanyu Easwaran in his place, accompanying Yashasvi Jaiswal at the top; the two contenders, however, failed to leave a mark in the second playing for India A against Australia A in the second unofficial Test in Melbourne. While KL scored 4 and 10 in two innings in the recently concluded tie that India A lost, the right-handed Easwaran scored just 36 runs across four innings in two contested matches. Should Rohit decide against playing the Perth Test, KL leads the race to replace him in the XI. Besides, with Dhruv Jurel impressing everyone with his gritty knocks in both innings, including hitting fifties in two outings, chances of him breaking into the Test side grow, if not for the first Test, then surely once during the marquee five-match series. Six-hour review meeting Following suffering a maiden Test series whitewash at home against New Zealand, the BCCI alongside the captain Rohit, head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar, held a marathon six-hour long review meeting discussing what went wrong, and with the Australian series on the horizon, how can they turn the tables around. “It was a six-hour marathon meeting which was obviously on the cards after such a debacle. India are going on a tour of Australia and the BCCI would obviously like to ensure that the team is back on track and would like to know how the think-tank (Gambhir-Rohit-Agarkar) are going about it," a senior BCCI source privy to development was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. The report also suggested that the BCCI was unhappy with team management’s call to rest Jasprit Bumrah for the final Test at the Wankhede and prepare a rank turner, which eventually cost India. “Bumrah’s absence was discussed although it was a precautionary move. Opting for a rank turner despite India not faring well on these tracks are some of the issues that came up for discussion," the source concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Rohit Sharma to fly to Australia but Perth Test participation remains uncertain – Report

Shreyas Iyer has continued his impressive form for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy as he slammed 233 runs for the record domestic champions on Thursday (Nov. 7). Playing at the historic Wankhede Stadium, Iyer showcased his batting prowess to the Indian team selectors while also attracting interest from several Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises. Interestingly, Iyer was not included in India A and the team touring South Africa despite being one of the senior members of the Indian team.

<h2>Shreyas slams double ton</h2>

Having scored unbeaten 152 at Stumps on Day 1, the right-hand batter continued his exploits on Day 2, and added&nbsp;81 runs to his overnight score against Odisha. His innings consisted of 24 fours and 9 sixes and at a strike rate above 100. He was well supported by Siddhesh Lad who&nbsp;remained unbeaten on 169 before the innings was declared. After Iyer’s dismissal, Suryansh Shedge played a quickfire knock of 79 runs from 36 balls, helping Mumbai reach 602/4 as captain Ajinkya Rahane decided to declare.

Iyer and Lad stitched a partnership of 354 runs for the fourth wicket as they stretched Mumbai’s dominance in the contest.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-sa-1st-t20i-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-series-opener-in-durban-774287">Ind vs SA, 1st T20I Live Streaming: When and where to watch series opener in Durban</a>

While Iyer’s batting dominance was the feature of the day, he made a huge statement at the end of 2024, having experienced ups and downs. He was first dropped from the central contract of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) but then helped KKR win the IPL. He was called back into the Indian side for the Sri Lanka tour but was not part of the Test side.

Another shock came on October 31 when he was released by KKR on the retention deadline day, meaning he will enter the auctions. The mega auctions will take place on November 24 and 25 in Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah, with Iyer having set a base price of INR 20 million.

Shreyas Iyer has continued his impressive form for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy as he slammed 233 runs for the record domestic champions on Thursday (Nov. 7). Playing at the historic Wankhede Stadium, Iyer showcased his batting prowess to the Indian team selectors while also attracting interest from several Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises.

Shreyas Iyer has continued his impressive form for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy as he slammed 233 runs for the record domestic champions on Thursday (Nov. 7). Playing at the historic Wankhede Stadium, Iyer showcased his batting prowess to the Indian team selectors while also attracting interest from several Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises. Interestingly, Iyer was not included in India A and the team touring South Africa despite being one of the senior members of the Indian team. Shreyas slams double ton Having scored unbeaten 152 at Stumps on Day 1, the right-hand batter continued his exploits on Day 2, and added 81 runs to his overnight score against Odisha. His innings consisted of 24 fours and 9 sixes and at a strike rate above 100. He was well supported by Siddhesh Lad who remained unbeaten on 169 before the innings was declared. After Iyer’s dismissal, Suryansh Shedge played a quickfire knock of 79 runs from 36 balls, helping Mumbai reach 602/4 as captain Ajinkya Rahane decided to declare. Iyer and Lad stitched a partnership of 354 runs for the fourth wicket as they stretched Mumbai’s dominance in the contest. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 1st T20I Live Streaming: When and where to watch series opener in Durban While Iyer’s batting dominance was the feature of the day, he made a huge statement at the end of 2024, having experienced ups and downs. He was first dropped from the central contract of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) but then helped KKR win the IPL. He was called back into the Indian side for the Sri Lanka tour but was not part of the Test side. Another shock came on October 31 when he was released by KKR on the retention deadline day, meaning he will enter the auctions. The mega auctions will take place on November 24 and 25 in Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah, with Iyer having set a base price of INR 20 million.

Shreyas Iyer slams double ton for Mumbai in Ranji Trophy, makes big statement ahead of IPL mega auction

With little over two weeks to go for the start of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, former Australia captain Michael Clarke has questioned the Indian team’s mentality, starting mind games before the high-voltage series. India, having been defeated 0-3 in the Test series against New Zealand, will have an uphill task against Australia as they search for a series win. According to Clarke, India are tired, and there is a cause of fatigue as they enter the five-match Test series Down Under.

<h2>Clarke plays mind games</h2>

"Take nothing away from New Zealand but It tells me India are so fatigued. Some of their shot selection, the use of bowlers and even Rohit to come out and say he wasn't at his best - just Think it was mental fatigue. They've played so much cricket without a break, but it'll be a little kick up the backside for them," Clarke said in Around the Wicket Podcast.

In the build-up to the Australia series, India lost to New Zealand, which has dented their chances of reaching a third consecutive World Test Championship (WTC) final. India now sit second and have the Australia series, where they will have to win at least four matches to keep their fate in their own hands.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ca-squashed-it-quickly-david-warner-on-india-as-ball-tampering-controversy-asks-board-to-release-statement-773945">CA squashed it quickly: David Warner on India A's ball tampering controversy, asks board to release statement</a>

The Indian team has been victorious in the last two visits to Australia and also won the Boxing Day Test in 2020. Rohit Sharma’s men will look to repeat the heroics as they look to take a giant step towards the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s.

<h2>Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India-Australia series) Schedule</h2>

1st Test: 22nd November to 26th November, Perth

2nd Test: 6th December to 10th December, Adelaide

3rd Test: 14th December to 18th December, Brisbane

4th Test: 26th December to 30th December, Melbourne

5th Test: 3rd January to 7th January, Sydney

With little over two weeks to go for the start of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, former Australia captain Michael Clarke has questioned the Indian team’s mentality, starting mind games before the high-voltage series.

With little over two weeks to go for the start of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, former Australia captain Michael Clarke has questioned the Indian team’s mentality, starting mind games before the high-voltage series. India, having been defeated 0-3 in the Test series against New Zealand, will have an uphill task against Australia as they search for a series win. According to Clarke, India are tired, and there is a cause of fatigue as they enter the five-match Test series Down Under. Clarke plays mind games "Take nothing away from New Zealand but It tells me India are so fatigued. Some of their shot selection, the use of bowlers and even Rohit to come out and say he wasn't at his best - just Think it was mental fatigue. They've played so much cricket without a break, but it'll be a little kick up the backside for them," Clarke said in Around the Wicket Podcast. In the build-up to the Australia series, India lost to New Zealand, which has dented their chances of reaching a third consecutive World Test Championship (WTC) final. India now sit second and have the Australia series, where they will have to win at least four matches to keep their fate in their own hands. ALSO READ | CA squashed it quickly: David Warner on India A's ball tampering controversy, asks board to release statement The Indian team has been victorious in the last two visits to Australia and also won the Boxing Day Test in 2020. Rohit Sharma’s men will look to repeat the heroics as they look to take a giant step towards the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s. Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India-Australia series) Schedule 1st Test: 22nd November to 26th November, Perth 2nd Test: 6th December to 10th December, Adelaide 3rd Test: 14th December to 18th December, Brisbane 4th Test: 26th December to 30th December, Melbourne 5th Test: 3rd January to 7th January, Sydney

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Ex-Aussie skipper Michael Clarke questions India's mentality, says 'they are so...'

After India's humiliating Test series whitewash against New Zealand, captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that he is 'not sure' of his availability for the Australia series opener in Perth. Former cricketer Abhinav Mukund&nbsp;confirmed, on air&nbsp;during the third Test in Mumbai, that Rohit and his wife Ritika are expecting the birth of their second child. After the final Test, Rohit also spoke about his availability and made a big statement.

After the third Test in Mumbai, Rohit told reporters, "Right now, I am not too sure whether I'll be going, but let's see. Fingers crossed." In the recent past, there have been rumours of Rohit missing the Australia Test series opener in Perth due to personal reasons. Mukund, while speaking on Jio Cinema, confirmed Rohit is set to become a father once again and, hence, Hitman is likely to be absent for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-out-bcci-set-to-take-harsh-calls-on-seniors-post-australia-tests-report-773055">Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli out? BCCI set to take harsh calls on seniors post Australia Tests: Report</a>

Jasprit Bumrah to&nbsp;lead?

In Rohit's absence, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah will lead the Indian team in the Perth Test, starting on Nov 22. It will be the second instance of the wily pacer leading India in the purest format. In mid-2022, Bumrah led India in the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, in Edgbaston, which the visitors lost by seven wickets.

At present, Rohit-led India are in a precarious position in the 2023-25 WTC cycle. Following a shocking 0-3 whitewash versus the Kiwis at home, India need to beat Aussies 4-0 in their own backyard to qualify for the WTC final, in June 2025. If this does not happen, they will have to depend on other results to qualify.

India are set to travel to Australia for a five-match Test series. They have beaten the Aussies in their last two Test series Down Under.

India squad for Australia Tests

Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar.

After India's humiliating Test series whitewash against New Zealand, captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that he is 'not sure' of his availability for the Australia series opener in Perth.

After India's humiliating Test series whitewash against New Zealand, captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that he is 'not sure' of his availability for the Australia series opener in Perth. Former cricketer Abhinav Mukund confirmed, on air during the third Test in Mumbai, that Rohit and his wife Ritika are expecting the birth of their second child. After the final Test, Rohit also spoke about his availability and made a big statement. After the third Test in Mumbai, Rohit told reporters, "Right now, I am not too sure whether I'll be going, but let's see. Fingers crossed." In the recent past, there have been rumours of Rohit missing the Australia Test series opener in Perth due to personal reasons. Mukund, while speaking on Jio Cinema, confirmed Rohit is set to become a father once again and, hence, Hitman is likely to be absent for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener. Also read: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli out? BCCI set to take harsh calls on seniors post Australia Tests: Report Jasprit Bumrah to lead? In Rohit's absence, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah will lead the Indian team in the Perth Test, starting on Nov 22. It will be the second instance of the wily pacer leading India in the purest format. In mid-2022, Bumrah led India in the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, in Edgbaston, which the visitors lost by seven wickets. At present, Rohit-led India are in a precarious position in the 2023-25 WTC cycle. Following a shocking 0-3 whitewash versus the Kiwis at home, India need to beat Aussies 4-0 in their own backyard to qualify for the WTC final, in June 2025. If this does not happen, they will have to depend on other results to qualify. India are set to travel to Australia for a five-match Test series. They have beaten the Aussies in their last two Test series Down Under. India squad for Australia Tests Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar.

BGT 2024/25: More miseries for India? Rohit Sharma 'not sure' of his participation in Perth Test

The BGT-bound Indian Test team was scheduled to play a three-day intra-squad match with India-A (from November 15-17) at the WACA ahead of the first Test against Australia in Perth starting November 22; but, with BCCI scraping this idea, the Rohit Sharma-led side will not play any warm-up game in the lead-up to the five-match Test series. Instead, the board has decided that the team will train during that window, including net sessions at the venue.

India vs India-A was supposed to be a closed-door warm-up game per BCCI's request, but with the Indian Cricket Board changing plans at the last moment, the team will continue training as they eye record a third successive Test series win Down Under.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/i-have-retired-rohit-sharma-acknowledges-being-mis-fourth-retention-ahead-of-ipl-2025-auction-772480">I have retired: Rohit Sharma acknowledges being MI's fourth retention ahead of IPL 2025 auction</a>

On the other hand, Australia will train at the venue after India’s stint in an important preparatory camp for some players who haven’t played red-ball cricket lately.&nbsp;

Australia batting great Steve Smith also noted how crucial this training session would be at the centre wicket at WACA, which will have conditions similar to the ones at the Optus Stadium, the venue for the first match.

"Going to be some good centre wickets with our boys bowling in Perth, in similar conditions to what you're going to get at Optus Stadium. [It's] probably going to be enough," Steven Smith recently said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the BCCI had earlier decided that India would play an intra-squad match instead of playing a practice match against one of Australia’s domestic sides.&nbsp;While the touring Indian Test team played a three-day tie against Australia-A ahead of their previous tour in 2020/21, they played a four-day game against Cricket Australia XI ahead of the 2018/19 series.

<h2>Indian Team to fly Down Under</h2>

Per the latest reports, the Indian Test squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will depart shortly after the conclusion of the ongoing third Test against New Zealand on November 5.&nbsp;

<h3>Here’s India's 18-man squad for Australia Tests –</h3>

Rohit Sharma (captain), Jasprit Bumrah (vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (wk), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar

Reserves: Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed

(With inputs from agencies)

The BGT-bound Indian Test team was scheduled to play a three-day intra-squad match with India-A (from November 15-17) at the WACA ahead of the first Test against Australia in Perth starting November 22; but, with BCCI scraping this idea, the Rohit Sharma-led side will not play any warm-up game in the lead-up to the five-match Test series.

The BGT-bound Indian Test team was scheduled to play a three-day intra-squad match with India-A (from November 15-17) at the WACA ahead of the first Test against Australia in Perth starting November 22; but, with BCCI scraping this idea, the Rohit Sharma-led side will not play any warm-up game in the lead-up to the five-match Test series. Instead, the board has decided that the team will train during that window, including net sessions at the venue. India vs India-A was supposed to be a closed-door warm-up game per BCCI's request, but with the Indian Cricket Board changing plans at the last moment, the team will continue training as they eye record a third successive Test series win Down Under. ALSO READ: I have retired: Rohit Sharma acknowledges being MI's fourth retention ahead of IPL 2025 auction On the other hand, Australia will train at the venue after India’s stint in an important preparatory camp for some players who haven’t played red-ball cricket lately. Australia batting great Steve Smith also noted how crucial this training session would be at the centre wicket at WACA, which will have conditions similar to the ones at the Optus Stadium, the venue for the first match. "Going to be some good centre wickets with our boys bowling in Perth, in similar conditions to what you're going to get at Optus Stadium. [It's] probably going to be enough," Steven Smith recently said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. Meanwhile, the BCCI had earlier decided that India would play an intra-squad match instead of playing a practice match against one of Australia’s domestic sides. While the touring Indian Test team played a three-day tie against Australia-A ahead of their previous tour in 2020/21, they played a four-day game against Cricket Australia XI ahead of the 2018/19 series. Indian Team to fly Down Under Per the latest reports, the Indian Test squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will depart shortly after the conclusion of the ongoing third Test against New Zealand on November 5. Here’s India's 18-man squad for Australia Tests – Rohit Sharma (captain), Jasprit Bumrah (vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (wk), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar Reserves: Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: No practice game for India ahead of Perth Test as BCCI scraps intra-squad match at WACA

Nitish Kumar Reddy and Shardul Thakur are likely to be included in the Indian team for the upcoming Australia tour with less than a month to go for the high-profile series. According to reports, Nitish and Shardul are seam bowling all-round options in the side as Hardik Pandya is out of favour in the red-ball format. Interestingly, Nitish only made his debut for India in the T20I format&nbsp;earlier this month while Shardul has not played for India since the 2023 Boxing Day Test against South Africa in Centurion.

<h2>Shardul, Nitish in contention for BGT?</h2>

According to reports, the selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar is considering picking a bowling all-rounder in the side as they look to challenge Australia on their turf. Shardul has played for India in high-profile away tours including England, West Indies and South Africa. He has played in 11 Test matches for India with only being played on Indian soil. During this period he has scalped 31 wickets and scored 331 runs and has been a productive asset for Rohit Sharma’s side.

On the other hand, Nitish has been in great form in the last few months and is one of the players on SunRisers Hyderabad's (SRH) retention list. He played a key role in SRH’s run to the final of the IPL 2024 before they lost to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ban-vs-sa-bangladesh-battle-at-101-3-as-south-africa-threaten-innings-defeat-769827">BAN vs SA: Bangladesh battle at 101-3 as South Africa threaten innings defeat</a>

The Indian team has been victorious in the last two visits to Australia and also won the Boxing Day Test in 2020. Rohit Sharma’s men will look to repeat the heroics as they look to take a giant step towards the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s.

<h2>Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule</h2>

1st Test: 22nd November to 26th November, Perth

2nd Test: 6th December to 10th December, Adelaide

3rd Test: 14th December to 18th December, Brisbane

4th Test: 26th December to 30th December, Melbourne

5th Test: 3rd January to 7th January, Sydney

Nitish Kumar Reddy and Shardul Thakur are likely to be included in the Indian team for the upcoming Australia tour with less than a month to go for the high-profile series.

Nitish Kumar Reddy and Shardul Thakur are likely to be included in the Indian team for the upcoming Australia tour with less than a month to go for the high-profile series. According to reports, Nitish and Shardul are seam bowling all-round options in the side as Hardik Pandya is out of favour in the red-ball format. Interestingly, Nitish only made his debut for India in the T20I format earlier this month while Shardul has not played for India since the 2023 Boxing Day Test against South Africa in Centurion. Shardul, Nitish in contention for BGT? According to reports, the selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar is considering picking a bowling all-rounder in the side as they look to challenge Australia on their turf. Shardul has played for India in high-profile away tours including England, West Indies and South Africa. He has played in 11 Test matches for India with only being played on Indian soil. During this period he has scalped 31 wickets and scored 331 runs and has been a productive asset for Rohit Sharma’s side. On the other hand, Nitish has been in great form in the last few months and is one of the players on SunRisers Hyderabad's (SRH) retention list. He played a key role in SRH’s run to the final of the IPL 2024 before they lost to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). ALSO READ | BAN vs SA: Bangladesh battle at 101-3 as South Africa threaten innings defeat The Indian team has been victorious in the last two visits to Australia and also won the Boxing Day Test in 2020. Rohit Sharma’s men will look to repeat the heroics as they look to take a giant step towards the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s. Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule 1st Test: 22nd November to 26th November, Perth 2nd Test: 6th December to 10th December, Adelaide 3rd Test: 14th December to 18th December, Brisbane 4th Test: 26th December to 30th December, Melbourne 5th Test: 3rd January to 7th January, Sydney

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shardul Thakur in contention for Team India - Report

Cricket Australia chief selector George Bailey has ended all speculations over Steve Smith’s batting position against India in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar series. Addressing the media ahead of the Pakistan white-ball series starting November 4, Bailey confirmed that Smith will return to his favourite number four position following his brief stint as a Test opener. He also confirmed that all-rounder Cameron Green will miss the marquee series against India.

Smith replaced David Warner at the top following his Test retirement. In his second match as an opener, Smith hit a gritty 91 against West Indies in Brisbane, although the visitors came on top in a famous win. Against New Zealand in the series after that, Smith struggled, scoring just 51 runs in four innings.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/womens-t20-world-cup-india-barely-hanging-in-semi-final-race-as-australia-book-place-with-thrilling-win-767112">Women's T20 World Cup: India barely hanging in semi-final race as Australia book place with thrilling win</a>

Green, who played at number four in Smith’s place, got ruled out of the summer after deciding to opt for the surgery on his back that troubled him lately.&nbsp;

Bailey confirmed that Captain Pat Cummins and coach Andrew McDonald decided to bring Smith back to number four in Tests.

"Pat, Andrew and Steve Smith had been having ongoing conversations, separate to the untimely injury to Cameron (Green)," Bailey said as quoted by cricket.australia.au. "Steve had expressed a desire to move back down from that opening position, and Pat and Andrew have confirmed that he will be dropping back down the order for the summer."

While Australia has three options to choose from in Marcus Harris, Cameron Bancroft and Matt Renshaw to replace Smith at the top, Sam Konstas’ fireworks in the Sheffield Shield with twin tons have rocketed his chances of bagging his maiden Australia call-up for the India series.

<h2>Green to miss India series</h2>

On the other hand, a bigger problem lies ahead of the decision-makers in the Australian camp, with whom to replace Green in the playing XI. The lanky all-rounder will undergo lower spine surgery, sidelining him from any on-field cricket for at least six months.

Following lengthy consultations with CA’s medical team over the fortnight after his initial scans in the UK, Green decided to get the titanium cable infused into his lower back to stabilise the stress fracture and prevent future occurrences.

"Cam has a unique defect in an adjacent area to the fracture that is believed to be contributing to the injury," the statement said. "After thorough consultation, it was determined Cameron would benefit from the surgery to stabilise the defect and reduce the risk of future recurrence."

Meanwhile, the first Test against India starts on November 22 in Perth.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket Australia chief selector George Bailey has ended all speculations over Steve Smith’s batting position against India in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar series.

Cricket Australia chief selector George Bailey has ended all speculations over Steve Smith’s batting position against India in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar series. Addressing the media ahead of the Pakistan white-ball series starting November 4, Bailey confirmed that Smith will return to his favourite number four position following his brief stint as a Test opener. He also confirmed that all-rounder Cameron Green will miss the marquee series against India. Smith replaced David Warner at the top following his Test retirement. In his second match as an opener, Smith hit a gritty 91 against West Indies in Brisbane, although the visitors came on top in a famous win. Against New Zealand in the series after that, Smith struggled, scoring just 51 runs in four innings. ALSO READ: Women's T20 World Cup: India barely hanging in semi-final race as Australia book place with thrilling win Green, who played at number four in Smith’s place, got ruled out of the summer after deciding to opt for the surgery on his back that troubled him lately. Bailey confirmed that Captain Pat Cummins and coach Andrew McDonald decided to bring Smith back to number four in Tests. "Pat, Andrew and Steve Smith had been having ongoing conversations, separate to the untimely injury to Cameron (Green)," Bailey said as quoted by cricket.australia.au. "Steve had expressed a desire to move back down from that opening position, and Pat and Andrew have confirmed that he will be dropping back down the order for the summer." While Australia has three options to choose from in Marcus Harris, Cameron Bancroft and Matt Renshaw to replace Smith at the top, Sam Konstas’ fireworks in the Sheffield Shield with twin tons have rocketed his chances of bagging his maiden Australia call-up for the India series. Green to miss India series On the other hand, a bigger problem lies ahead of the decision-makers in the Australian camp, with whom to replace Green in the playing XI. The lanky all-rounder will undergo lower spine surgery, sidelining him from any on-field cricket for at least six months. Following lengthy consultations with CA’s medical team over the fortnight after his initial scans in the UK, Green decided to get the titanium cable infused into his lower back to stabilise the stress fracture and prevent future occurrences. "Cam has a unique defect in an adjacent area to the fracture that is believed to be contributing to the injury," the statement said. "After thorough consultation, it was determined Cameron would benefit from the surgery to stabilise the defect and reduce the risk of future recurrence." Meanwhile, the first Test against India starts on November 22 in Perth. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia selector George Bailey confirms Steve Smith’s batting position against India; Green ruled out of BGT

The selectors of the Indian men’s national team will have a good headache in the coming days after reports emerged of Rohit Sharma’s unavailability for the first Test in Perth against Australia next month. With India set to take on Australia in a five-match Test series in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the selector’s panel led by Ajit Agarkar will now have to decide on who will succeed Rohit with long-term commitments also in sight.

<h2>Gill, Bumrah to lead in India?</h2>

After reports emerged of Rohit’s unavailability for the Perth Test, the attention has turned to who could succeed the veteran as skipper. Currently, the Indian team has no designated vice-captain but with Rohit unlikely to be available, the attention is now switched to the captaincy role. Bumrah is slightly ahead of Gill considering he has led the Indian team in the past.

The veteran fast bowler led India in the one-off Test match against England at Edgbaston in 2022 while Rohit was out with COVID-19. He also led India in the T20I series against Ireland in 2023 before the ODI World Cup.

Gill’s claims for the captaincy role are strengthened by his ability to lead Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He also led the India team during the Zimbabwe tour in July while taking charge of the side in the Irani Cup.

The selectors will have the final say on the situation as India get ready for the high-voltage series Down Under.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/baby-ab-dewald-brevis-earns-maiden-call-up-for-bangladesh-tests-bavuma-ruled-out-with-muscle-strain-766674">'Baby AB' Dewald Brevis earns maiden call-up for Bangladesh Tests; Bavuma ruled out with muscle strain</a>

The Indian team has been victorious in the last two visits to Australia and also won the Boxing Day Test in 2020. Rohit Sharma’s men will look to repeat the heroics as they look to take a giant step towards the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s.

<h2>Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule</h2>

1st Test: 22nd November to 26th November, Perth

2nd Test: 6th December to 10th December, Adelaide

3rd Test: 14th December to 18th December, Brisbane

4th Test: 26th December to 30th December, Melbourne

5th Test: 3rd January to 7th January, Sydney

The selectors of the Indian men’s national team will have a good headache in the coming days after reports emerged of Rohit Sharma’s unavailability for the first Test in Perth against Australia next month.

The selectors of the Indian men’s national team will have a good headache in the coming days after reports emerged of Rohit Sharma’s unavailability for the first Test in Perth against Australia next month. With India set to take on Australia in a five-match Test series in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the selector’s panel led by Ajit Agarkar will now have to decide on who will succeed Rohit with long-term commitments also in sight. Gill, Bumrah to lead in India? After reports emerged of Rohit’s unavailability for the Perth Test, the attention has turned to who could succeed the veteran as skipper. Currently, the Indian team has no designated vice-captain but with Rohit unlikely to be available, the attention is now switched to the captaincy role. Bumrah is slightly ahead of Gill considering he has led the Indian team in the past. The veteran fast bowler led India in the one-off Test match against England at Edgbaston in 2022 while Rohit was out with COVID-19. He also led India in the T20I series against Ireland in 2023 before the ODI World Cup. Gill’s claims for the captaincy role are strengthened by his ability to lead Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He also led the India team during the Zimbabwe tour in July while taking charge of the side in the Irani Cup. The selectors will have the final say on the situation as India get ready for the high-voltage series Down Under. ALSO READ | 'Baby AB' Dewald Brevis earns maiden call-up for Bangladesh Tests; Bavuma ruled out with muscle strain The Indian team has been victorious in the last two visits to Australia and also won the Boxing Day Test in 2020. Rohit Sharma’s men will look to repeat the heroics as they look to take a giant step towards the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s. Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule 1st Test: 22nd November to 26th November, Perth 2nd Test: 6th December to 10th December, Adelaide 3rd Test: 14th December to 18th December, Brisbane 4th Test: 26th December to 30th December, Melbourne 5th Test: 3rd January to 7th January, Sydney

BGT: Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah front-runners for vice-captaincy role with Rohit likely to miss Perth Test

India could be handed major concern ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar trophy against Australia as reports have suggested captain Rohit Sharma could be out of the Perth Test. According to a media report, Rohit could be out from the opening Test match in Perth, starting&nbsp;on November 22, due to personal reasons. India will play Australia in a five-match Test series, having&nbsp;won the last two series Down Under.

<h2>Rohit out of Perth Test?</h2>

"There isn't any complete clarity about the situation. It is understood that Rohit has intimated to the BCCI that there is a possibility that due to a pressing personal matter, he might have to skip one of the two Tests at the beginning of the series," a BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

"In case, the personal issue is sorted before the start of the series, he might play all five Tests. We will get to know more in the coming days," he said.

The tour will have a huge impetus as India and Australia search for vital World Test Championship (WTC) points. India sit top of the table while Australia occupy second spot which will see both sides in the driver’s seat.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-rafael-nadal-retires-roger-federer-novak-djokovic-pay-tribute-to-king-of-clay-766396">Rafael Nadal Retires: Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic pay tribute to King of Clay</a>

The Indian team has been victorious in the last two visits to Australia and also won the Boxing Day Test in 2020. Rohit Sharma’s men will look to repeat the heroics as they look to take a giant step towards the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s.

<h2>Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule</h2>

1st Test: 22nd November to 26th November, Perth

2nd Test: 6th December to 10th December, Adelaide

3rd Test: 14th December to 18th December, Brisbane

4th Test: 26th December to 30th December, Melbourne

5th Test: 3rd January to 7th January, Sydney

India could be handed major concern ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar trophy against Australia as reports have suggested captain Rohit Sharma could be out of the Perth Test.

India could be handed major concern ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar trophy against Australia as reports have suggested captain Rohit Sharma could be out of the Perth Test. According to a media report, Rohit could be out from the opening Test match in Perth, starting on November 22, due to personal reasons. India will play Australia in a five-match Test series, having won the last two series Down Under. Rohit out of Perth Test? "There isn't any complete clarity about the situation. It is understood that Rohit has intimated to the BCCI that there is a possibility that due to a pressing personal matter, he might have to skip one of the two Tests at the beginning of the series," a BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity. "In case, the personal issue is sorted before the start of the series, he might play all five Tests. We will get to know more in the coming days," he said. The tour will have a huge impetus as India and Australia search for vital World Test Championship (WTC) points. India sit top of the table while Australia occupy second spot which will see both sides in the driver’s seat. ALSO READ | Rafael Nadal Retires: Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic pay tribute to King of Clay The Indian team has been victorious in the last two visits to Australia and also won the Boxing Day Test in 2020. Rohit Sharma’s men will look to repeat the heroics as they look to take a giant step towards the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s. Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule 1st Test: 22nd November to 26th November, Perth 2nd Test: 6th December to 10th December, Adelaide 3rd Test: 14th December to 18th December, Brisbane 4th Test: 26th December to 30th December, Melbourne 5th Test: 3rd January to 7th January, Sydney

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Rohit Sharma likely to miss Perth Test; Abhimanyu Easwaran in contention

Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson has backed India’s star batter Rishabh Pant to come good in the upcoming Test series against India as the two nations are set to collide in a high-voltage series. Speaking during an event in Mumbai on Tuesday (Oct 8), Watson recalled Pant’s heroics from the 2020-21 series where he helped India win the Gabba Test. According to Watson, Pant will have a big Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) as India look for a hat-trick of series wins Down Under.

<h2>Watson backs Pant to shine</h2>

"He's [Pant] obviously got great memories from his last tour that he had from a batting perspective in Australia," Watson said on the sidelines of the launch of the International Masters League in Mumbai.

"That innings he played at the Gabba was something very special. So knowing that he's come through his challenges in the last couple of years to be able to come back as an even better player than what he left off, I think he's going to have a big series."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ryder-cup-captain-luke-donald-in-talks-with-sergio-garcia-over-possible-return-to-team-europe-765774">Ryder Cup: Captain Luke Donald in talks with Sergio Garcia over possible return to Team Europe</a>

Pant recently returned to the Indian Test side after almost 21 months having sustained injuries in a near-fatal car accident in December of 2022. He scored a hundred in the red-ball series against Bangladesh and is once again India’s number one choice wicketkeeper in the longer format. Since his return to cricket in March, Pant has led Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL) auctions while also playing a key role in India’s T20 World Cup win in the Caribbean in June.

His next target will be to help India win another Test series Down Under having done so in the 2018-19 and 2020-21 tour. In the latter series, Pant played a match-winning knock of unbeaten 89 runs as India won the Test while chasing 329 runs. The win also saw India pocket the series 2-1 having earlier lost the Adelaide Test, where Virat Kohli’s side was bowled out for 36 runs.

Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson has backed India’s star batter Rishabh Pant to come good in the upcoming Test series against India as the two nations are set to collide in a high-voltage series.

Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson has backed India’s star batter Rishabh Pant to come good in the upcoming Test series against India as the two nations are set to collide in a high-voltage series. Speaking during an event in Mumbai on Tuesday (Oct 8), Watson recalled Pant’s heroics from the 2020-21 series where he helped India win the Gabba Test. According to Watson, Pant will have a big Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) as India look for a hat-trick of series wins Down Under. Watson backs Pant to shine "He's [Pant] obviously got great memories from his last tour that he had from a batting perspective in Australia," Watson said on the sidelines of the launch of the International Masters League in Mumbai. "That innings he played at the Gabba was something very special. So knowing that he's come through his challenges in the last couple of years to be able to come back as an even better player than what he left off, I think he's going to have a big series." ALSO READ | Ryder Cup: Captain Luke Donald in talks with Sergio Garcia over possible return to Team Europe Pant recently returned to the Indian Test side after almost 21 months having sustained injuries in a near-fatal car accident in December of 2022. He scored a hundred in the red-ball series against Bangladesh and is once again India’s number one choice wicketkeeper in the longer format. Since his return to cricket in March, Pant has led Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL) auctions while also playing a key role in India’s T20 World Cup win in the Caribbean in June. His next target will be to help India win another Test series Down Under having done so in the 2018-19 and 2020-21 tour. In the latter series, Pant played a match-winning knock of unbeaten 89 runs as India won the Test while chasing 329 runs. The win also saw India pocket the series 2-1 having earlier lost the Adelaide Test, where Virat Kohli’s side was bowled out for 36 runs.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Aussie legend claims Rishabh Pant will be a big difference-maker for India

India’s Mohammed Shami has dismissed rumours of an injury as he remains available for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Taking to his social media on Wednesday (Oct 2), Shami dismissed the rumours by criticising some media reports that had stated he would miss the five-match Test match series Down Under. Shami added neither he nor the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have ruled him out of the Australia tour that begins on November 22 in Perth.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Why these type of baseless rumors? I'm working hard and trying my level best to recover. Neither the BCCI nor me have mentioned that I am out of the Border Gavaskar series. I request the public to stop paying attention to such news from unofficial sources. Please stop and don’t… <a href="https://t.co/0OgL1K2iKS">pic.twitter.com/0OgL1K2iKS</a>
— 𝕸𝖔𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖒𝖆𝖉 𝖘𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖎 (@MdShami11) <a href="https://twitter.com/MdShami11/status/1841500129922072871?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Shami dismissed injury reports</h2>

“Why these type of baseless rumors? I'm working hard and trying my level best to recover.&nbsp; Neither the BCCI nor me have mentioned that I am out of the Border Gavaskar series. I request the public to stop paying attention to such news from unofficial sources. Please stop and don’t spread such fake fake fake &amp; fake news, especially without my statement. #fakenews#stoprumors#rehab,” Shami posted on X handle.

Earlier, a few media reports had claimed that Shami had suffered a setback in his rehabilitation while recovering from a knee injury. According to the reports he had a swollen knee and could have seen him miss the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

However, according to Shami, he can still be available for the BGT as India look to extend their dominant run in the red-ball format against the Aussies.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pcb-accepts-babar-azams-resignation-as-skipper-adores-professionalism-commitment-to-pakistan-cricket-763950">PCB accepts Babar Azam's resignation as skipper; adores his professionalism, commitment to Pakistan cricket</a>

Shami has not played for India since the ODI World Cup final against Australia last November and has been on the sidelines ever since. The injury also forced him to miss out on the Indian Premier League (IPL) season for the Gujarat Titans.&nbsp;

<h2>Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule</h2>

1st Test: 22nd November to 26th November, Perth

2nd Test: 6th December to 10th December, Adelaide

3rd Test: 14th December to 18th December, Brisbane

4th Test: 26th December to 30th December, Melbourne

5th Test: 3rd January to 7th January, Sydney

India’s Mohammed Shami has dismissed rumours of an injury as he remains available for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Taking to his social media on Wednesday (Oct 2), Shami dismissed the rumours by criticising some media reports that had stated he would miss the five-match Test match series Down Under.

India’s Mohammed Shami has dismissed rumours of an injury as he remains available for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Taking to his social media on Wednesday (Oct 2), Shami dismissed the rumours by criticising some media reports that had stated he would miss the five-match Test match series Down Under. Shami added neither he nor the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have ruled him out of the Australia tour that begins on November 22 in Perth. Why these type of baseless rumors? I'm working hard and trying my level best to recover. Neither the BCCI nor me have mentioned that I am out of the Border Gavaskar series. I request the public to stop paying attention to such news from unofficial sources. Please stop and don’t… pic.twitter.com/0OgL1K2iKS — 𝕸𝖔𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖒𝖆𝖉 𝖘𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖎 (@MdShami11) October 2, 2024 × Shami dismissed injury reports “Why these type of baseless rumors? I'm working hard and trying my level best to recover. Neither the BCCI nor me have mentioned that I am out of the Border Gavaskar series. I request the public to stop paying attention to such news from unofficial sources. Please stop and don’t spread such fake fake fake & fake news, especially without my statement. #fakenews#stoprumors#rehab,” Shami posted on X handle. Earlier, a few media reports had claimed that Shami had suffered a setback in his rehabilitation while recovering from a knee injury. According to the reports he had a swollen knee and could have seen him miss the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. However, according to Shami, he can still be available for the BGT as India look to extend their dominant run in the red-ball format against the Aussies. ALSO READ | PCB accepts Babar Azam's resignation as skipper; adores his professionalism, commitment to Pakistan cricket Shami has not played for India since the ODI World Cup final against Australia last November and has been on the sidelines ever since. The injury also forced him to miss out on the Indian Premier League (IPL) season for the Gujarat Titans. Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule 1st Test: 22nd November to 26th November, Perth 2nd Test: 6th December to 10th December, Adelaide 3rd Test: 14th December to 18th December, Brisbane 4th Test: 26th December to 30th December, Melbourne 5th Test: 3rd January to 7th January, Sydney

Mohammed Shami dismisses injury rumours, remains available for Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia

Australia could have a huge injury scare in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India after Cameron Green was ruled out of the ongoing ODI series against England. According to a statement released by Cricket Australia on Friday (Sep 27), Green has suffered from a back injury which could see him miss the start of the five-match Test series against India starting in Perth on November 22. Green suffered an injury in the third ODI in Durham, where he bowled a spell of sustained short balls, and will undergo further assessment on returning home to understand the full extent of the injury.

<h2>Green likely to miss start of BGT</h2>

"Cameron Green has sustained a back injury and will play no further part in the ODI tour of England," a Cricket Australia statement said. "Scans in London overnight revealed the injury after Green reported soreness following the third ODI against England in Durham. He will return home for further assessment where his return to play management plan will be determined."

Green is one of the most important members of the Australia squad and has played a key role in the side’s dominance in both red-ball and white-ball format. Green comes as a utility option in the side who can both bat and bowl. In his 28 Test matches for the side, he scored 1377 runs and scalped 35 wickets. During that period he has also scored two hundreds and one five-for which proves his worth to the side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/was-dating-an-actress-she-followed-me-to-canberra-yuvraj-singh-recalls-hilarious-episode-from-australia-tour-762470">Was dating an actress, she followed me to Canberra: Yuvraj Singh recalls hilarious episode from Australia tour</a>

The Indian team has been victorious in the last two visits to Australia and also won the Boxing Day Test in 2020. Rohit Sharma’s men will look to repeat the heroics as they look to take a giant step towards the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s.

<h2>Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule</h2>

1st Test: 22nd November to 26th November, Perth

2nd Test: 6th December to 10th December, Adelaide

3rd Test: 14th December to 18th December, Brisbane

4th Test: 26th December to 30th December, Melbourne

5th Test: 3rd January to 7th January, Sydney

Australia could have a huge injury scare in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India after Cameron Green was ruled out of the ongoing ODI series against England.

Australia could have a huge injury scare in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India after Cameron Green was ruled out of the ongoing ODI series against England. According to a statement released by Cricket Australia on Friday (Sep 27), Green has suffered from a back injury which could see him miss the start of the five-match Test series against India starting in Perth on November 22. Green suffered an injury in the third ODI in Durham, where he bowled a spell of sustained short balls, and will undergo further assessment on returning home to understand the full extent of the injury. Green likely to miss start of BGT "Cameron Green has sustained a back injury and will play no further part in the ODI tour of England," a Cricket Australia statement said. "Scans in London overnight revealed the injury after Green reported soreness following the third ODI against England in Durham. He will return home for further assessment where his return to play management plan will be determined." Green is one of the most important members of the Australia squad and has played a key role in the side’s dominance in both red-ball and white-ball format. Green comes as a utility option in the side who can both bat and bowl. In his 28 Test matches for the side, he scored 1377 runs and scalped 35 wickets. During that period he has also scored two hundreds and one five-for which proves his worth to the side. ALSO READ | Was dating an actress, she followed me to Canberra: Yuvraj Singh recalls hilarious episode from Australia tour The Indian team has been victorious in the last two visits to Australia and also won the Boxing Day Test in 2020. Rohit Sharma’s men will look to repeat the heroics as they look to take a giant step towards the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s. Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule 1st Test: 22nd November to 26th November, Perth 2nd Test: 6th December to 10th December, Adelaide 3rd Test: 14th December to 18th December, Brisbane 4th Test: 26th December to 30th December, Melbourne 5th Test: 3rd January to 7th January, Sydney

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Cameron Green likely to miss start of India series in massive injury blow to Aussies

India is currently gearing up for the second and final Test versus Bangladesh&nbsp;in Kanpur&nbsp;on Thursday (Sep 26). From thereon, they will host New Zealand for&nbsp;three Tests before travelling to Australia for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The forthcoming edition is keenly awaited as Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. have a chance to make it three-Test series win in a row in Australia. For that, they will expect their daunting pacers to deliver, whereas the batters will be required to complement them. Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels India have the 'best bowling attack' to do the job in Australia.

Manjrekar, while taking to ESPNCricinfo,&nbsp;stated, "India has been to Australia before, but they might have the best bowling attack going this time, because Bumrah is at the peak of his career. Don't know what high or heights in seam bowling that's left for him. Shami comes back. Let's not forget that Mohammed Shami. Then we have Siraj, Mohammed Shami, Bumrah and Akash Deep as your options. Seam bowling, absolutely no issue for India. I think the Australians will find them a handful."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/hes-a-miracle-kid-wasim-akram-lauds-rishabh-pants-stunning-comeback-post-following-chennai-test-ton-761576">He’s a miracle kid: Wasim Akram LAUDS Rishabh Pant's stunning comeback, sublime ton in Chennai Test</a>

Manjrekar, however, was quick to point out that the batters, especially the young ones such as Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, will have to complement the bowlers for India to win another series Down Under.

Manjrekar added, "India will have to bat well, the seniors will obviously have to carry the burden. I think in many ways this will be a test for Shubman Gill and Yashashvi Jaiswal. If they come through, India might have another series win."

Gill made his Test debut during the 2020/21 tour of Australia, where India's second-stringed line-up came back from a shambolic defeat in the four-match Test series opener to win 2-1. Jaiswal, on the other hand, made his Test debut last year and has already amassed&nbsp;1,094 runs in 10 Tests, including three&nbsp;hundreds and five fifties. Apart from him, it will be interesting to see how Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel, Akash Deep, etc. perform as the trio are expected to be part of the India squad for the tour Down Under.

India will head to Australia having not lost the BGT since 2017. Moreover, they have won the last two series in Australia.

India is currently gearing up for the second and final Test versus Bangladesh in Kanpur on Thursday (Sep 26). From thereon, they will host New Zealand for three Tests before travelling to Australia for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

India is currently gearing up for the second and final Test versus Bangladesh in Kanpur on Thursday (Sep 26). From thereon, they will host New Zealand for three Tests before travelling to Australia for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The forthcoming edition is keenly awaited as Rohit Sharma & Co. have a chance to make it three-Test series win in a row in Australia. For that, they will expect their daunting pacers to deliver, whereas the batters will be required to complement them. Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels India have the 'best bowling attack' to do the job in Australia. Manjrekar, while taking to ESPNCricinfo, stated, "India has been to Australia before, but they might have the best bowling attack going this time, because Bumrah is at the peak of his career. Don't know what high or heights in seam bowling that's left for him. Shami comes back. Let's not forget that Mohammed Shami. Then we have Siraj, Mohammed Shami, Bumrah and Akash Deep as your options. Seam bowling, absolutely no issue for India. I think the Australians will find them a handful." Also read: He’s a miracle kid: Wasim Akram LAUDS Rishabh Pant's stunning comeback, sublime ton in Chennai Test Manjrekar, however, was quick to point out that the batters, especially the young ones such as Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, will have to complement the bowlers for India to win another series Down Under. Manjrekar added, "India will have to bat well, the seniors will obviously have to carry the burden. I think in many ways this will be a test for Shubman Gill and Yashashvi Jaiswal. If they come through, India might have another series win." Gill made his Test debut during the 2020/21 tour of Australia, where India's second-stringed line-up came back from a shambolic defeat in the four-match Test series opener to win 2-1. Jaiswal, on the other hand, made his Test debut last year and has already amassed 1,094 runs in 10 Tests, including three hundreds and five fifties. Apart from him, it will be interesting to see how Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel, Akash Deep, etc. perform as the trio are expected to be part of the India squad for the tour Down Under. India will head to Australia having not lost the BGT since 2017. Moreover, they have won the last two series in Australia.

BGT 2024-25: They've the best bowling attack - Manjrekar backs Indian pacers to do the job in Australia

While ticket sale of the Coldplay concert in India’s Navi Mumbai is the talk of the town, cricket has not distanced itself from making the headlines. On Tuesday (Sep 24), Cricket Australia Executive General Manager, Events &amp; Operations, Joel Morrison, confirmed the unprecedented demand for tickets for the upcoming India tour of Australia, which kickstarts on November 22. According to CA officials, there is a 5.5 times rise in ticket demand&nbsp;compared to the 2019-20 pre-Covid season.

<h2>Record ticket&nbsp;demand </h2>

"The Border Gavaskar series is a highly anticipated event and current ticket sales demonstrate there is enormous interest in the upcoming contest between Australia and India,” Morrison, Executive General Manager, Events &amp; Operations CA, was quoted as saying.

"Tickets are selling fast for all five Tests as excitement continues to build for the summer ahead, so we’re encouraging fans to buy tickets now to ensure they don’t miss out on any of the action."

"We also continue to see strong sales from Indian fans as well as Australian fans, presenting a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the enduring connection between our two countries both on and off the field, with a large contingent of travelling fans expected to attend Tests across the summer."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/just-accept-it-ravi-ashwin-on-india-pacer-jasprit-bumrah-calling-himself-fitter-than-virat-kohli-761506">'Just accept it,' Ravi Ashwin on India pacer Jasprit Bumrah calling himself fitter than Virat Kohli</a>

The Indian team will play a five-match Test series Down Under with Perth being the first destination. The Indian team has been victorious in the last two visits to Australia and also won the Boxing Day Test in 2020. Rohit’s men will look to repeat the heroics as they look to take a giant step towards the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s.

<h2>Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule</h2>

1st Test: 22nd Nov to 26th Nov, Perth

2nd Test: 6th Dec to 10th Dec, Adelaide

3rd Test: 14th Dec to 18th Dec, Brisbane

4th Test: 26th Dec to 30th Dec, Melbourne

5th Test: 3rd Jan to 7th Jan, Sydney&nbsp;

While ticket sale of the Coldplay concert in India’s Navi Mumbai is the talk of the town, cricket has not distanced itself from making the headlines. On Tuesday (Sep 24), Cricket Australia Executive General Manager, Events & Operations, Joel Morrison, confirmed the unprecedented demand for tickets for the upcoming India tour of Australia, which kickstarts on November 22.

While ticket sale of the Coldplay concert in India’s Navi Mumbai is the talk of the town, cricket has not distanced itself from making the headlines. On Tuesday (Sep 24), Cricket Australia Executive General Manager, Events & Operations, Joel Morrison, confirmed the unprecedented demand for tickets for the upcoming India tour of Australia, which kickstarts on November 22. According to CA officials, there is a 5.5 times rise in ticket demand compared to the 2019-20 pre-Covid season. Record ticket demand "The Border Gavaskar series is a highly anticipated event and current ticket sales demonstrate there is enormous interest in the upcoming contest between Australia and India,” Morrison, Executive General Manager, Events & Operations CA, was quoted as saying. "Tickets are selling fast for all five Tests as excitement continues to build for the summer ahead, so we’re encouraging fans to buy tickets now to ensure they don’t miss out on any of the action." "We also continue to see strong sales from Indian fans as well as Australian fans, presenting a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the enduring connection between our two countries both on and off the field, with a large contingent of travelling fans expected to attend Tests across the summer." ALSO READ | 'Just accept it,' Ravi Ashwin on India pacer Jasprit Bumrah calling himself fitter than Virat Kohli The Indian team will play a five-match Test series Down Under with Perth being the first destination. The Indian team has been victorious in the last two visits to Australia and also won the Boxing Day Test in 2020. Rohit’s men will look to repeat the heroics as they look to take a giant step towards the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s. Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule 1st Test: 22nd Nov to 26th Nov, Perth 2nd Test: 6th Dec to 10th Dec, Adelaide 3rd Test: 14th Dec to 18th Dec, Brisbane 4th Test: 26th Dec to 30th Dec, Melbourne 5th Test: 3rd Jan to 7th Jan, Sydney

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Boxing Day Test likely to set new record as unprecedented ticket sales expected

Australia coach Andrew McDonald thinks the top six batsmen who finished the last test season are likely to start the much-anticipated five-match series against India later this year, but not necessarily in the same order. Steve Smith moved up from number four to open the batting after the retirement of David Warner midway through last season and McDonald said it was by no means certain he would stay there.

"While we've got an eye to it, we haven't made any firm decisions around that one," McDonald told SEN radio from England on Wednesday. "We've already had some chats in Sydney initially around what we're thinking for the summer, and that goes right down to depth bowling and all those hypotheticals and 'what-ifs' that we always go through.

"Clearly, if we make a shift with Steve Smith, then someone else will have to go to the top. We've seen Cameron Green be really successful at number four as well. So that adds layers to the decision-making. "But nothing is firm and fixed at the moment."

While Smith hardly set the world on fire in his outings as an opener, Green scored 174 not out against New Zealand at number four in the last series of last season.

Regardless of what the selectors decide about whether Smith opens, his place in the side alongside Green, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh looks assured.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-test-rankings-rohit-sharma-in-top-5-virat-kohli-and-yashasvi-jaiswal-move-up-before-bangladesh-series-757786">ICC Test Rankings: Rohit Sharma in top 5, Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal move up before Bangladesh series</a>

"We've spoken about that, and we're still a big believer in the best six batters," he added. "We feel as though that the team that finished in New Zealand, should they get a clean run at it and be well prepared, then they would be the best-placed players to fill that, there's no doubt about that."

McDonald said Australia would prioritise the series against India in the home summer and might rest Test players from the white-ball series against Pakistan that precedes it to allow them to play red-ball cricket in the Sheffield Shield.

The India series opens in Perth on Nov. 22, with the followingTests in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Australia coach Andrew McDonald thinks the top six batsmen who finished the last test season are likely to start the much-anticipated five-match series against India later this year, but not necessarily in the same order.

Australia coach Andrew McDonald thinks the top six batsmen who finished the last test season are likely to start the much-anticipated five-match series against India later this year, but not necessarily in the same order. Steve Smith moved up from number four to open the batting after the retirement of David Warner midway through last season and McDonald said it was by no means certain he would stay there. "While we've got an eye to it, we haven't made any firm decisions around that one," McDonald told SEN radio from England on Wednesday. "We've already had some chats in Sydney initially around what we're thinking for the summer, and that goes right down to depth bowling and all those hypotheticals and 'what-ifs' that we always go through. "Clearly, if we make a shift with Steve Smith, then someone else will have to go to the top. We've seen Cameron Green be really successful at number four as well. So that adds layers to the decision-making. "But nothing is firm and fixed at the moment." While Smith hardly set the world on fire in his outings as an opener, Green scored 174 not out against New Zealand at number four in the last series of last season. Regardless of what the selectors decide about whether Smith opens, his place in the side alongside Green, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh looks assured. Also read: ICC Test Rankings: Rohit Sharma in top 5, Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal move up before Bangladesh series "We've spoken about that, and we're still a big believer in the best six batters," he added. "We feel as though that the team that finished in New Zealand, should they get a clean run at it and be well prepared, then they would be the best-placed players to fill that, there's no doubt about that." McDonald said Australia would prioritise the series against India in the home summer and might rest Test players from the white-ball series against Pakistan that precedes it to allow them to play red-ball cricket in the Sheffield Shield. The India series opens in Perth on Nov. 22, with the followingTests in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Australia coach says top six likely to remain the same for India series

India and Australia's forthcoming Test series is keenly awaited. While the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is still few months away, all eyes are on the next edition. Australia have not won the BGT&nbsp;since the 2014-15 series, held on Australian soil. Since then, they have lost two home and two away series to India. Ahead of the upcoming India-Australia Tests, which will be a five-match series this time around, former BCCI chief selector Chetan Sharma has made a bold claim, saying 'India will make the hosts run in their own backyard'.&nbsp;

<h2>'Australia used to take us lightly but now&nbsp;they have to play out of their skins to beat India'</h2>

Talking on Rev Sportz, Sharma said, "There was a time when we used to think about what would happen when we went to Australia. How will we perform? And for the last two tours, we went to Australia and beat them. Previously, Australia used to take us lightly but now they know they have to play out of their skins to beat India. We have built that reputation."

"We are currently the No. 1-ranked team in the world. We will not only give them a tough fight but we will make them run in their own backyard (hum unko bhagaynge unke hi ghar mein). I have a lot of confidence in the players," he further opined.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-test-rankings-pakistan-fall-to-9th-spot-achieve-59-year-low-after-series-loss-to-bangladesh-755776">ICC Test Rankings: Pakistan fall to ninth spot, achieve 59-year low after series loss to Bangladesh</a>

<h2>'Our bowlers are our trump card'</h2>

Sharma, a veteran of 23 Tests and 65 ODIs, further added, "I have said multiple times that bowlers will win you Test matches. Right now, Team India has the best bowling attack in the world. We have always had good batters. At times, in foreign conditions, you get pitches when teams get bowled out for 250-260. Do you have the bowling attack to get them out? We have seen it in recent times that we have bowlers to bowl the opposition out for even 150. Our bowlers are our trump card."

India have not lost the BGT since the 2016/17 edition at home. Moreover, they became the first Asian side to beat Australia in a Test series on Australian soil in 2018/19 and replicated the feat in the 2020/21 tour before winning the last series in India in early 2023. Thus, it will be interesting to see if they can once again beat the Aussies, the current World Test champions, on their home soil.

The five-match Test series commences on Nov 22 in Perth.&nbsp;

India and Australia's forthcoming Test series is keenly awaited. While the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is still few months away, all eyes are on the next edition.

India and Australia's forthcoming Test series is keenly awaited. While the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is still few months away, all eyes are on the next edition. Australia have not won the BGT since the 2014-15 series, held on Australian soil. Since then, they have lost two home and two away series to India. Ahead of the upcoming India-Australia Tests, which will be a five-match series this time around, former BCCI chief selector Chetan Sharma has made a bold claim, saying 'India will make the hosts run in their own backyard'. 'Australia used to take us lightly but now they have to play out of their skins to beat India' Talking on Rev Sportz, Sharma said, "There was a time when we used to think about what would happen when we went to Australia. How will we perform? And for the last two tours, we went to Australia and beat them. Previously, Australia used to take us lightly but now they know they have to play out of their skins to beat India. We have built that reputation." "We are currently the No. 1-ranked team in the world. We will not only give them a tough fight but we will make them run in their own backyard (hum unko bhagaynge unke hi ghar mein). I have a lot of confidence in the players," he further opined. Also read: ICC Test Rankings: Pakistan fall to ninth spot, achieve 59-year low after series loss to Bangladesh 'Our bowlers are our trump card' Sharma, a veteran of 23 Tests and 65 ODIs, further added, "I have said multiple times that bowlers will win you Test matches. Right now, Team India has the best bowling attack in the world. We have always had good batters. At times, in foreign conditions, you get pitches when teams get bowled out for 250-260. Do you have the bowling attack to get them out? We have seen it in recent times that we have bowlers to bowl the opposition out for even 150. Our bowlers are our trump card." India have not lost the BGT since the 2016/17 edition at home. Moreover, they became the first Asian side to beat Australia in a Test series on Australian soil in 2018/19 and replicated the feat in the 2020/21 tour before winning the last series in India in early 2023. Thus, it will be interesting to see if they can once again beat the Aussies, the current World Test champions, on their home soil. The five-match Test series commences on Nov 22 in Perth.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: India will make Australia run in their own backyard, claims former BCCI chief selector

Australia last won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in 2014-15, when they hosted India in a four-match Test series. Ahead of the 2024/25 BG Trophy at home, Test captain Pat Cummins feels 'it will be 50-50' between arch-rivals India and Australia. The pacer is, however, desperate for Australia to 'make amends' this time around after the past mistakes in the last few BG series.&nbsp;

Cummins told Star Sports, "The most recent Test match was, of course, the World Test Championship in neutral conditions, and we came out on top in that match. It's always fiercely competitive, and it always feels like it's 50-50. I'm 10 out of 10 excited for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy."

<section>
<h2>'We've played them plenty of times where they've beaten us, but we've also...'</h2>
</section>

<section>
The onus is on Australia as they have lost their last two Test home series versus India, and also lost an equal number of series on Indian soil since their last won the trophy in 2014-15.

In this regard, Cummins said, "The last two series here in Australia, we haven't been successful, so it's been a long time. Hopefully, it's time to make amends. You know, we've played them plenty of times where they've beaten us, but we've also had plenty of wins against them as well, which we'll draw confidence from."

<section>
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wtc-202325-final-to-be-held-at-lords-from-june-11-15-confirms-icc-755507">WTC 2023/25 final to be held at Lord's from June 11-15, confirms ICC</a>
</section>

<section>The upcoming BG Trophy is keenly awaited as both India and Australia are also favourites to lock horns in the 2025 WTC final. India are at the top spot in the WTC 2023-25 standings, with a win percentage of 68.52 whereas defending champions Australia are a close second, with a win percentage of 62.50.</section>

The 2024/25 BG Trophy commences on November 22 in Perth. This time around, it will be a five-match series between the two heavyweights, including a day-night affair in Adelaide.
</section>

Australia last won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in 2014-15, when they hosted India in a four-match Test series. Ahead of the 2024/25 BG Trophy at home, Test captain Pat Cummins feels 'it will be 50-50' between arch-rivals India and Australia.

Australia last won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in 2014-15, when they hosted India in a four-match Test series. Ahead of the 2024/25 BG Trophy at home, Test captain Pat Cummins feels 'it will be 50-50' between arch-rivals India and Australia. The pacer is, however, desperate for Australia to 'make amends' this time around after the past mistakes in the last few BG series. Cummins told Star Sports, "The most recent Test match was, of course, the World Test Championship in neutral conditions, and we came out on top in that match. It's always fiercely competitive, and it always feels like it's 50-50. I'm 10 out of 10 excited for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy." 'We've played them plenty of times where they've beaten us, but we've also...' The onus is on Australia as they have lost their last two Test home series versus India, and also lost an equal number of series on Indian soil since their last won the trophy in 2014-15. In this regard, Cummins said, "The last two series here in Australia, we haven't been successful, so it's been a long time. Hopefully, it's time to make amends. You know, we've played them plenty of times where they've beaten us, but we've also had plenty of wins against them as well, which we'll draw confidence from." Also read: WTC 2023/25 final to be held at Lord's from June 11-15, confirms ICC The upcoming BG Trophy is keenly awaited as both India and Australia are also favourites to lock horns in the 2025 WTC final. India are at the top spot in the WTC 2023-25 standings, with a win percentage of 68.52 whereas defending champions Australia are a close second, with a win percentage of 62.50. The 2024/25 BG Trophy commences on November 22 in Perth. This time around, it will be a five-match series between the two heavyweights, including a day-night affair in Adelaide.

It will be 50-50 in Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Australia captain Pat Cummins, hopeful to 'make amends'

Former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik has backed the pairing of Shubman Gill and Sarfaraz Khan to succeed middle-order batters Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. India will face the Aussies Down Under with the five-match series starting on November 22 in Perth. According to Karthik, India can bank on the services of Sarfaraz and Gill while the duo of Rahane and Pujara are expected to be dropped.

<h2>Karthik backs Gill-Sarfaraz</h2>

“Shubman Gill and Sarfaraz Khan. Both of those batters have done really well against England in the home series that recently happened at the start of the year. I have a feeling both of them will definitely be on that flight to Australia and will be trying to do their best. We will know if they’re able to replace both Ajinkya and Pujji (Pujara). Big shoes to fill, but they have the quality and calibre in them,” Karthik said on HeyCB with DK show on Cricbuzz.

Gill has been one of the consistent performers in the Indian side while Sarfaraz broke into the Indian team recently during the home series against England. Gill was also promoted to the vice-captain’s role recently while Sarfaraz has been in good nick of form in domestic cricket before exploding onto the international scene.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/i-am-not-harry-potter-erik-ten-hag-underlines-errors-ugarte-injury-as-key-reasons-for-man-utd-defeat-755135">'I am not Harry Potter': Erik ten Hag underlines errors, Ugarte injury as key reasons for Man Utd defeat</a>

While Gill is guaranteed to be a feature in the Playing XI same can’t be said for Sarfaraz with stern competition for places in the middle order. Both Pujara and Rahane are playing in the English county but are still expected to be left out of the final squad which will travel Down Under in November.

<h2>Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule</h2>

1st Test: 22nd Nov to 26th Nov, Perth

2nd Test: 6th Dec to 10th Dec, Adelaide

3rd Test: 14th Dec to 18th Dec, Brisbane

4th Test: 26th Dec to 30th Dec, Melbourne

5th Test: 3rd Jan to 7th Jan, Sydney

Former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik has backed the pairing of Shubman Gill and Sarfaraz Khan to succeed middle-order batters Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.

Former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik has backed the pairing of Shubman Gill and Sarfaraz Khan to succeed middle-order batters Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. India will face the Aussies Down Under with the five-match series starting on November 22 in Perth. According to Karthik, India can bank on the services of Sarfaraz and Gill while the duo of Rahane and Pujara are expected to be dropped. Karthik backs Gill-Sarfaraz “Shubman Gill and Sarfaraz Khan. Both of those batters have done really well against England in the home series that recently happened at the start of the year. I have a feeling both of them will definitely be on that flight to Australia and will be trying to do their best. We will know if they’re able to replace both Ajinkya and Pujji (Pujara). Big shoes to fill, but they have the quality and calibre in them,” Karthik said on HeyCB with DK show on Cricbuzz. Gill has been one of the consistent performers in the Indian side while Sarfaraz broke into the Indian team recently during the home series against England. Gill was also promoted to the vice-captain’s role recently while Sarfaraz has been in good nick of form in domestic cricket before exploding onto the international scene. ALSO READ | 'I am not Harry Potter': Erik ten Hag underlines errors, Ugarte injury as key reasons for Man Utd defeat While Gill is guaranteed to be a feature in the Playing XI same can’t be said for Sarfaraz with stern competition for places in the middle order. Both Pujara and Rahane are playing in the English county but are still expected to be left out of the final squad which will travel Down Under in November. Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule 1st Test: 22nd Nov to 26th Nov, Perth 2nd Test: 6th Dec to 10th Dec, Adelaide 3rd Test: 14th Dec to 18th Dec, Brisbane 4th Test: 26th Dec to 30th Dec, Melbourne 5th Test: 3rd Jan to 7th Jan, Sydney

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Dinesh Karthik backs Gill-Sarfaraz pairing to succeed Rahane-Pujara during Aussie tour

Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden refused to pick a favourite between India and Australia for the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024/25 edition, to be held later this year in Australia. Since the 2016/17 edition, India have not lost the BGT and Rohit Sharma-led side will be eager to make it three successive Test series win on Australian soil when they tour Down Under in the upcoming Aussie summer. Hayden, the former left-handed batter, didn't pick a favourite and stated that had Cheteshwar Pujara been a part of the Indian batting line-up, he would've given the edge to India.

On the sidelines of the CEAT Cricket Rating Awards, held in Mumbai on Wednesday (Aug 21), Hayden told PTI, ""You look at the lineups, and it's hard to really tell who has the edge. I sense that it's going to be runs that are going to be the point of difference. Guys that are sure bets have retired, like (Cheteshwar) Pujara was a sure bet in Australian conditions."

He further opined, "Was he exciting? No. Was he effective? Heck, yes. When you look back over the years, guys like Raul Dravid, VVS Laxman... they were really sure bets in our market. The best need to stand up in this series, runs are going to be at a premium."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/there-is-a-reason-i-won-five-ipl-trophies-rohit-sharma-eager-to-keep-winning-post-t20-wc-success-752129">There is a reason I won five IPL trophies: Rohit Sharma eager to keep 'winning' post T20 WC success</a>

Notably, Pujara was the difference between both sides when Virat Kohli-led India created history by becoming the first-ever Asian side to win a Test series in Australia in 2018/19. The right-hander, who last played for India during the WTC 2023 final, ended as the Player-of-the-Series with 521 runs in four Tests at 74.42, including three centuries and one fifty.

In the 2020/21 BGT in Australia, Pujara once again played a valuable hand by scoring 271 runs at an average of 33.87 with three half-centuries. He was also among runs in the home Tests in the 2016/17 edition, with a best of 202.

Pujara, a veteran of 103 Tests, has 7,195 runs in the purest format, at an average of 43.60. He, however, hasn't been in India's scheme of things in Tests since mid-2023 and also not been named for the upcoming Duleep Trophy tournament.&nbsp;

Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden refused to pick a favourite between India and Australia for the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024/25 edition, to be held later this year in Australia.

Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden refused to pick a favourite between India and Australia for the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024/25 edition, to be held later this year in Australia. Since the 2016/17 edition, India have not lost the BGT and Rohit Sharma-led side will be eager to make it three successive Test series win on Australian soil when they tour Down Under in the upcoming Aussie summer. Hayden, the former left-handed batter, didn't pick a favourite and stated that had Cheteshwar Pujara been a part of the Indian batting line-up, he would've given the edge to India. On the sidelines of the CEAT Cricket Rating Awards, held in Mumbai on Wednesday (Aug 21), Hayden told PTI, ""You look at the lineups, and it's hard to really tell who has the edge. I sense that it's going to be runs that are going to be the point of difference. Guys that are sure bets have retired, like (Cheteshwar) Pujara was a sure bet in Australian conditions." He further opined, "Was he exciting? No. Was he effective? Heck, yes. When you look back over the years, guys like Raul Dravid, VVS Laxman... they were really sure bets in our market. The best need to stand up in this series, runs are going to be at a premium." Also read: There is a reason I won five IPL trophies: Rohit Sharma eager to keep 'winning' post T20 WC success Notably, Pujara was the difference between both sides when Virat Kohli-led India created history by becoming the first-ever Asian side to win a Test series in Australia in 2018/19. The right-hander, who last played for India during the WTC 2023 final, ended as the Player-of-the-Series with 521 runs in four Tests at 74.42, including three centuries and one fifty. In the 2020/21 BGT in Australia, Pujara once again played a valuable hand by scoring 271 runs at an average of 33.87 with three half-centuries. He was also among runs in the home Tests in the 2016/17 edition, with a best of 202. Pujara, a veteran of 103 Tests, has 7,195 runs in the purest format, at an average of 43.60. He, however, hasn't been in India's scheme of things in Tests since mid-2023 and also not been named for the upcoming Duleep Trophy tournament.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Matthew Hayden refuses to pick India as favourite due to THIS batter's absence

While the Ashes&nbsp;is considered the best rivalry in cricketing history, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy *BGT) has also turned out to be one of the most-anticipated Test series in recent times due to India and Australia's fierce rivalry. Ahead of the 2024/25 BGT, Australia pacer Mitchell Starc feels Ashes and the India-Australia Tests are on par with each other, especially since the latter will now be a five-match series.

Speaking to the Wide World Sports website, Starc said, "Being five matches now it's probably right on par with an Ashes series. We always want to win every game at home and we know India are a very strong team."

Both India and Australia occupy the top two spots, respectively, in the current ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 points table, with high chances of meeting once again in the upcoming WTC final (to be held next year). In this regard, many believe the upcoming BGT will be a treat for ardent cricket fans.

Starc stated, "As we're placed at the minute we're the top two teams on the Test ladder... so a very exciting series coming up for the fans and certainly the players. "Hopefully when we're sitting there on the 8th of January we have that trophy back on our shores," he&nbsp;further added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/we-bowled-them-out-for-36-and-thought-hazlewood-claims-australia-desperate-to-end-losing-streak-vs-india-751246">We bowled them out for 36 and thought...: Hazlewood claims Australia desperate to end losing streak vs India</a>

Notably, Australia have not won the BGT since 2014/15 edition, at home. Since then, they lost two successive Test series to India at home, in 2018/19 and 2020/21, whereas also fell behind in Indian conditions in 2016/17 and 2022/23 (all by 2-1 margin). Thus, Pat Cummins-led Aussies will be desperate to settle scores this time around in home conditions.

Rohit Sharma-led India will kick off their away series versus Australia on Nov 22 with the five-match Test series opener at Perth. The five Tests will also comprise a day-night match, in Adelaide, as India will look to retain the BGT for the fifth time in a row.

While the Ashes is considered the best rivalry in cricketing history, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy *BGT) has also turned out to be one of the most-anticipated Test series in recent times due to India and Australia's fierce rivalry.

While the Ashes is considered the best rivalry in cricketing history, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy *BGT) has also turned out to be one of the most-anticipated Test series in recent times due to India and Australia's fierce rivalry. Ahead of the 2024/25 BGT, Australia pacer Mitchell Starc feels Ashes and the India-Australia Tests are on par with each other, especially since the latter will now be a five-match series. Speaking to the Wide World Sports website, Starc said, "Being five matches now it's probably right on par with an Ashes series. We always want to win every game at home and we know India are a very strong team." Both India and Australia occupy the top two spots, respectively, in the current ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 points table, with high chances of meeting once again in the upcoming WTC final (to be held next year). In this regard, many believe the upcoming BGT will be a treat for ardent cricket fans. Starc stated, "As we're placed at the minute we're the top two teams on the Test ladder... so a very exciting series coming up for the fans and certainly the players. "Hopefully when we're sitting there on the 8th of January we have that trophy back on our shores," he further added. Also read: We bowled them out for 36 and thought...: Hazlewood claims Australia desperate to end losing streak vs India Notably, Australia have not won the BGT since 2014/15 edition, at home. Since then, they lost two successive Test series to India at home, in 2018/19 and 2020/21, whereas also fell behind in Indian conditions in 2016/17 and 2022/23 (all by 2-1 margin). Thus, Pat Cummins-led Aussies will be desperate to settle scores this time around in home conditions. Rohit Sharma-led India will kick off their away series versus Australia on Nov 22 with the five-match Test series opener at Perth. The five Tests will also comprise a day-night match, in Adelaide, as India will look to retain the BGT for the fifth time in a row.

Border Gavaskar Trophy on par with Ashes, says Australia pacer Mitchell Starc

Legendary Australia player Adam Gilchrist has warned his side ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy as they face India in a five-match Test series. Gilchrist, who was the member of the last Australian side to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Indian soil in 2004 has stated that the onus will be on the hosts. Australia will come into the series as the defending champions in the World Test Championship (WTC) but will be wary of India who have beaten them in their last two visits down under.

<h2>Gilchrist warns Australia</h2>

"The onus is on Australia to prove they are the dominant force at home. India know how to go away and win overseas," said Gilchrist, speaking to The Times of India

"Naturally, I'm going to say Australia, hope they get there. But it's too close to call. It will be a close tussle," Gilchrist said.

India have won the BG Trophy on their last two visits to Australia and have a good track record against the Aussies. Not since the 2014-15 BG Trophy have Australia emerged victorious in the prestigious bilateral Test series. However, Gilchrist has backed his former side to win the series as they look in good shape.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-changes-2024-womens-t20-world-cup-venue-from-bangladesh-to-uae-751718">ICC changes 2024 Women's T20 World Cup venue from Bangladesh to UAE</a>

Australia had a good last summer having beaten Pakistan and then drawing against West Indies in two home series. They will rely heavily on the services of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood in the bowling department. The likes of Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne will have to come good with the bat if the Aussies are to register a win in the BG Trophy in almost a decade.

<h2>Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule</h2>

1st Test: 22nd Nov to 26th Nov, Perth

2nd Test: 6th Dec to 10th Dec, Adelaide

3rd Test: 14th Dec to 18th Dec, Brisbane

4th Test: 26th Dec to 30th Dec, Melbourne

5th Test: 3rd Jan to 7th Jan, Sydney

Legendary Australia player Adam Gilchrist has warned his side ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy as they face India in a five-match Test series. Gilchrist, who was the member of the last Australian side to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Indian soil in 2004 has stated that the onus will be on the hosts.

Legendary Australia player Adam Gilchrist has warned his side ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy as they face India in a five-match Test series. Gilchrist, who was the member of the last Australian side to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Indian soil in 2004 has stated that the onus will be on the hosts. Australia will come into the series as the defending champions in the World Test Championship (WTC) but will be wary of India who have beaten them in their last two visits down under. Gilchrist warns Australia "The onus is on Australia to prove they are the dominant force at home. India know how to go away and win overseas," said Gilchrist, speaking to The Times of India "Naturally, I'm going to say Australia, hope they get there. But it's too close to call. It will be a close tussle," Gilchrist said. India have won the BG Trophy on their last two visits to Australia and have a good track record against the Aussies. Not since the 2014-15 BG Trophy have Australia emerged victorious in the prestigious bilateral Test series. However, Gilchrist has backed his former side to win the series as they look in good shape. ALSO READ | ICC changes 2024 Women's T20 World Cup venue from Bangladesh to UAE Australia had a good last summer having beaten Pakistan and then drawing against West Indies in two home series. They will rely heavily on the services of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood in the bowling department. The likes of Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne will have to come good with the bat if the Aussies are to register a win in the BG Trophy in almost a decade. Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule 1st Test: 22nd Nov to 26th Nov, Perth 2nd Test: 6th Dec to 10th Dec, Adelaide 3rd Test: 14th Dec to 18th Dec, Brisbane 4th Test: 26th Dec to 30th Dec, Melbourne 5th Test: 3rd Jan to 7th Jan, Sydney

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Adam Gilchrist admits Australia 'under pressure' against India