Having lost the Border-Gavaskar series twice in a row now in 2018 and 2020, that too at home, Australia fear&nbsp;losing it for the third straight time as they prepare to take on India in the four-match Test series that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. Marcus Stoinis, one of Australia’s mainstays in white-ball cricket, said the Oz wouldn’t want to suffer the same fate this time, adding they are confident of breaking the ice of defeating India in India in a Test series with the squad they have. Speaking to ANI ahead of the start of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series, Stoinis said, "We don't want to lose our trophy this time even though our team never wants to lose it as it could be the third time but we don't want to give up this year.”

Agreeing to the fact that facing India in their home conditions is never easy given how well their ace spinners – Ravi Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja fare in those conditions, Stoinis opined the turners in their ranks are world class too and are capable of giving a tough time to the Indian batters.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-eng-sisanda-magalas-game-changing-spell-gave-us-momentum-says-bavuma-after-1st-odi-win-556723">SA vs ENG: Sisanda Magala's game-changing spell gave us momentum, says Bavuma after 1st ODI win</a>

“Our squad is too strong and facing India on their soil is a bit difficult as we have to play on spin tracks over there. India have some specialist bowlers like Ashwin and Jadeja. They can really bowl well but we are also coming with some specialist spinners, so you can expect a good competition this time,” Stoinis said.

Speaking highly of Virat Kohli, with whom he has played some cricket over the years, the all-rounder said he (Virat) will be the biggest threat to the Aussies as he thrives to do well against better oppositions. Considering Kohli’s pathbreaking record against the Aussies across formats, the right-handed batter could be a thorn in the flesh for the visitors.

However, one player whom Stoinis think would have really made a difference was former his Delhi Capitals teammate, Rishabh Pant - who is currently getting treated after suffering a road accident in December last year. Stoinis even wished the Indian keeper-batter a speedy recovery.

"Kohli is a world-class batsman and has returned to form and he is one of the best Test batters, so he could be the biggest threat once again for us. But one player who will be missed this season badly is Rishabh Pant. He is unfortunately not with the team. I wish he recovers soon and comes back to the field,” the all-rounder said.

The Australian team is expected to land in India a week before the start of the first Test.

Having lost the Border-Gavaskar series twice in a row now in 2018 and 2020, that too at home, Australia fear losing it for the third straight time as they prepare to take on India in the four-match Test series that begins on February 9th in Nagpur.

Having lost the Border-Gavaskar series twice in a row now in 2018 and 2020, that too at home, Australia fear losing it for the third straight time as they prepare to take on India in the four-match Test series that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. Marcus Stoinis, one of Australia’s mainstays in white-ball cricket, said the Oz wouldn’t want to suffer the same fate this time, adding they are confident of breaking the ice of defeating India in India in a Test series with the squad they have. Speaking to ANI ahead of the start of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series, Stoinis said, "We don't want to lose our trophy this time even though our team never wants to lose it as it could be the third time but we don't want to give up this year.” Agreeing to the fact that facing India in their home conditions is never easy given how well their ace spinners – Ravi Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja fare in those conditions, Stoinis opined the turners in their ranks are world class too and are capable of giving a tough time to the Indian batters. ALSO READ: SA vs ENG: Sisanda Magala's game-changing spell gave us momentum, says Bavuma after 1st ODI win “Our squad is too strong and facing India on their soil is a bit difficult as we have to play on spin tracks over there. India have some specialist bowlers like Ashwin and Jadeja. They can really bowl well but we are also coming with some specialist spinners, so you can expect a good competition this time,” Stoinis said. Speaking highly of Virat Kohli, with whom he has played some cricket over the years, the all-rounder said he (Virat) will be the biggest threat to the Aussies as he thrives to do well against better oppositions. Considering Kohli’s pathbreaking record against the Aussies across formats, the right-handed batter could be a thorn in the flesh for the visitors. However, one player whom Stoinis think would have really made a difference was former his Delhi Capitals teammate, Rishabh Pant - who is currently getting treated after suffering a road accident in December last year. Stoinis even wished the Indian keeper-batter a speedy recovery. "Kohli is a world-class batsman and has returned to form and he is one of the best Test batters, so he could be the biggest threat once again for us. But one player who will be missed this season badly is Rishabh Pant. He is unfortunately not with the team. I wish he recovers soon and comes back to the field,” the all-rounder said. The Australian team is expected to land in India a week before the start of the first Test.

IND vs AUS 2023: 'We don't want to lose the Border-Gavaskar series again..', says Marcus Stoinis

It’s not that every team has a luxury of having a left-arm finger spinner in their ranks for a sub-continent tour, but Australia is lucky to have one in Ashton Agar, feels former Australian coach Darren Lehman. India had trouble facing Steve O’Keefe during their last home series against the Oz, as he picked up 12 wickets in the Pune Test itself, handing India its first defeat at home in a long time. Keeping in mind about O’Keefe’s star performance, Lehmann, who himself was a left-arm orthodox, said he’s inclined a bit towards playing Ashton as the ‘second spinner’ alongside Nathan Lyon during the India series.

"Having been there, I'm probably more inclined to play finger spinners," former Aussie coach Lehmann said on Australian radio station SENQ.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-players-visit-mahakaleshwar-temple-pray-for-rishabh-pants-speedy-recovery-555027">Indian players visit Mahakaleshwar temple, pray for Rishabh Pant's speedy recovery</a>

While Australia also have leggie Mitchell Swepson and newcomer Todd Murphy in their squad for the marquee Border-Gavaskar series, Lehmann said going ahead with Ashton straight away gives Australia a better chance of repeating Pune heroics in Nagpur this time. Explaining as to why the finger spinners in general have an advantage over the leg-spinners on such tracks, Lehmann said,

"It just gets through the air quicker and some spin and some don't. The leg-spinners sometimes spin it too much, if that makes sense... (for finger spinners) some skid on and you get beaten on the inside and you get an LBW. That's probably why they're looking at a finger spinner. We certainly did that four years ago (2017) and Steve O'Keefe bowled India out basically on his own in one of the last Test matches to win there,” the 52-year-old said.

Agar, who last appeared for Australia during the Sydney Test against South Africa in January, went wicket-less in the match. Unbothered by this, Lehmann thinks Ashton, who can bat well also, is perfect to play second fiddle to Lyon.

"That's why I'd be looking at someone like an Agar, bat a little bit, bowl as that second spinner," Lehmann added.

The four-time match Test series begins on February 9th in Nagpur.

It’s not that every team has a luxury of having a left-arm finger spinner in their ranks for a sub-continent tour, but Australia is lucky to have one in Ashton Agar, feels former Australian coach Darren Lehman.

It’s not that every team has a luxury of having a left-arm finger spinner in their ranks for a sub-continent tour, but Australia is lucky to have one in Ashton Agar, feels former Australian coach Darren Lehman. India had trouble facing Steve O’Keefe during their last home series against the Oz, as he picked up 12 wickets in the Pune Test itself, handing India its first defeat at home in a long time. Keeping in mind about O’Keefe’s star performance, Lehmann, who himself was a left-arm orthodox, said he’s inclined a bit towards playing Ashton as the ‘second spinner’ alongside Nathan Lyon during the India series. "Having been there, I'm probably more inclined to play finger spinners," former Aussie coach Lehmann said on Australian radio station SENQ. ALSO READ: Indian players visit Mahakaleshwar temple, pray for Rishabh Pant's speedy recovery While Australia also have leggie Mitchell Swepson and newcomer Todd Murphy in their squad for the marquee Border-Gavaskar series, Lehmann said going ahead with Ashton straight away gives Australia a better chance of repeating Pune heroics in Nagpur this time. Explaining as to why the finger spinners in general have an advantage over the leg-spinners on such tracks, Lehmann said, "It just gets through the air quicker and some spin and some don't. The leg-spinners sometimes spin it too much, if that makes sense... (for finger spinners) some skid on and you get beaten on the inside and you get an LBW. That's probably why they're looking at a finger spinner. We certainly did that four years ago (2017) and Steve O'Keefe bowled India out basically on his own in one of the last Test matches to win there,” the 52-year-old said. Agar, who last appeared for Australia during the Sydney Test against South Africa in January, went wicket-less in the match. Unbothered by this, Lehmann thinks Ashton, who can bat well also, is perfect to play second fiddle to Lyon. "That's why I'd be looking at someone like an Agar, bat a little bit, bowl as that second spinner," Lehmann added. The four-time match Test series begins on February 9th in Nagpur.

IND vs AUS 2023: Darren Lehmann feels ‘second spinner’ Ashton Agar could be an x-factor on India tour

Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli are regarded as two of the greatest ever players to play this sport. While Sachin was known as the God of cricket, Virat is well-known as King Kohli. Not only both have scored enormous amount of runs across formats, Sachin and Virat have more than 170 international centuries between&nbsp;them. Above all, both these stalwarts of cricket piled up all of this against some of the best bowlers the game has seen. Reigniting a debate on who is better among the two, Usman Khawaja and Pat Cummins had a chat over with Pat naming his pick.

During a teaser episode of Amazon Prime’s ‘The Test’ series released on the YouTube, Usman Khawaja and Test captain Pat Cummins were seen have a discussion where Usman happened to ask Pat to pick between Virat and Sachin, and Cummins chose Kohli.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-always-preferred-playing-matches-over-practice-says-mohammed-shami-on-managing-workload-554858">'I have always preferred playing matches over practice', says Mohammed Shami on managing workload</a>

Explaining why he picked Kohli, Pat said only because he played against Sachin just once&nbsp;that too during a T20 game many years back, he just had to go for Kohli – against whom he has come across many a times in this career.

"I think I have played Sachin only once in a T20 years ago. So, I will say Virat," Cummins explained why he picked Virat over Sachin.

On the other hand, when he asked Khawaja to rank India’s original Fab Four in the order – which includes Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid, the left-handed batter went ahead with Sachin, then Dravid, Ganguly and in the end Laxman.

"I would go Tendulkar, one. Dravid, the wall, two. Three, Dada. Ganguly. Unfortunately, this hurts for me to say for Laxman too, I love watching Laxman bat, but lefties first," said Khawaja.

Meanwhile, both India and Australia will face off in the Border-Gavaskar series that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. India currently holds the trophy as they defeated the Aussies away 2-1 in 2021.

Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli are regarded as two of the greatest ever players to play this sport. While Sachin was known as the God of cricket, Virat is well-known as King Kohli.

Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli are regarded as two of the greatest ever players to play this sport. While Sachin was known as the God of cricket, Virat is well-known as King Kohli. Not only both have scored enormous amount of runs across formats, Sachin and Virat have more than 170 international centuries between them. Above all, both these stalwarts of cricket piled up all of this against some of the best bowlers the game has seen. Reigniting a debate on who is better among the two, Usman Khawaja and Pat Cummins had a chat over with Pat naming his pick. During a teaser episode of Amazon Prime’s ‘The Test’ series released on the YouTube, Usman Khawaja and Test captain Pat Cummins were seen have a discussion where Usman happened to ask Pat to pick between Virat and Sachin, and Cummins chose Kohli. ALSO READ: 'I have always preferred playing matches over practice', says Mohammed Shami on managing workload Explaining why he picked Kohli, Pat said only because he played against Sachin just once that too during a T20 game many years back, he just had to go for Kohli – against whom he has come across many a times in this career. "I think I have played Sachin only once in a T20 years ago. So, I will say Virat," Cummins explained why he picked Virat over Sachin. On the other hand, when he asked Khawaja to rank India’s original Fab Four in the order – which includes Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid, the left-handed batter went ahead with Sachin, then Dravid, Ganguly and in the end Laxman. "I would go Tendulkar, one. Dravid, the wall, two. Three, Dada. Ganguly. Unfortunately, this hurts for me to say for Laxman too, I love watching Laxman bat, but lefties first," said Khawaja. Meanwhile, both India and Australia will face off in the Border-Gavaskar series that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. India currently holds the trophy as they defeated the Aussies away 2-1 in 2021.

Virat Kohli or Sachin Tendulkar? Australian Test captain Pat Cummins gives his take

India is the hardest place to travel to for cricket, reckons the former Australian coach Justin Langer just before the start of the Border-Gavaskar series in Nagpur from February 9th. Having won a Test series on the Indian shores back in 2004, Justin knows what will it take to be in that position this time as well. Calling the selected Aussie squad for the India series as ‘balanced’, Langer said&nbsp;though he is not around with the team anymore, he still feels this side can upset the Indian team in their home conditions. The former opener added he can’t wait to watch history getting re-written in the series that begins in less than a month’s time.

Justin was the head coach of the Australian team when they last faced India at home a couple of years ago. Losing the second straight series to Virat Kohli and his men -&nbsp;that too at home, saw serious repercussions following as both Langer and ex-captain Tim Paine, for separate reasons though, were asked to let go of their respective positions.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/missing-odisha-woman-cricketer-rajashree-swain-found-dead-in-cuttack-forest-reason-of-death-unclear-552598">Missing Odisha woman cricketer Rajashree Swain found dead in Cuttack forest; reason of death unclear</a>

Speaking with The Age, Langer answered the question when asked if he’s sad about not travelling to India with this squad.

"It's not sadness, I've moved on. I won't be there, but I'll be looking forward to seeing the boys win there. It'd be great if they could. I can't wait to watch it. It's the hardest tour. I look back to 2004 when Australia won for the first time in 35 years, it has a similar feel about it," Langer told The Age.

Elaborating on Australia’s chances of doing an India against India this time, Langer said this Aussie team is balanced on paper, and with the top four in hot form, they can take on any challenge. He praised Travis Head also saying the left-handed batter is playing at a different level, and he (Justin) hopes that injured Cameron Green makes a return to the side as soon as possible.

Putting weight behind the bowlers, Justin added the Oz are travelling with the best bowlers in this format in the world, and of course not to forget ‘Gary’ Nathan Lyon.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/done-with-bcci-out-of-favour-opener-takes-a-dig-at-board-as-he-looks-out-for-opportunities-abroad-552586">'Done with BCCI', out-of-favour opener takes a dig at board as he looks out for opportunities abroad</a>

"It was a very balanced and confident team. The current team are winning and I think they're a huge chance to beat India. That was my Mt Everest tour. I always said I wanted to be able to do it again because it was so hard to do.

"Australia have two senior pros at the top. They've got No.3 and No.4, averaging 60 and they're best mates. They're hungry and they play spin well. Travis Head is batting at a different level. He's been inspired by that top four. Cameron Green will hopefully come back in, which gives really good balance. You've got the best fast bowling attack in the world and you've got the best spinner in the world. My gosh, they have an incredibly well-balanced team," Langer added.

India is the hardest place to travel to for cricket, reckons the former Australian coach Justin Langer just before the start of the Border-Gavaskar series in Nagpur from February 9th.

India is the hardest place to travel to for cricket, reckons the former Australian coach Justin Langer just before the start of the Border-Gavaskar series in Nagpur from February 9th. Having won a Test series on the Indian shores back in 2004, Justin knows what will it take to be in that position this time as well. Calling the selected Aussie squad for the India series as ‘balanced’, Langer said though he is not around with the team anymore, he still feels this side can upset the Indian team in their home conditions. The former opener added he can’t wait to watch history getting re-written in the series that begins in less than a month’s time. Justin was the head coach of the Australian team when they last faced India at home a couple of years ago. Losing the second straight series to Virat Kohli and his men - that too at home, saw serious repercussions following as both Langer and ex-captain Tim Paine, for separate reasons though, were asked to let go of their respective positions. ALSO READ: Missing Odisha woman cricketer Rajashree Swain found dead in Cuttack forest; reason of death unclear Speaking with The Age, Langer answered the question when asked if he’s sad about not travelling to India with this squad. "It's not sadness, I've moved on. I won't be there, but I'll be looking forward to seeing the boys win there. It'd be great if they could. I can't wait to watch it. It's the hardest tour. I look back to 2004 when Australia won for the first time in 35 years, it has a similar feel about it," Langer told The Age. Elaborating on Australia’s chances of doing an India against India this time, Langer said this Aussie team is balanced on paper, and with the top four in hot form, they can take on any challenge. He praised Travis Head also saying the left-handed batter is playing at a different level, and he (Justin) hopes that injured Cameron Green makes a return to the side as soon as possible. Putting weight behind the bowlers, Justin added the Oz are travelling with the best bowlers in this format in the world, and of course not to forget ‘Gary’ Nathan Lyon. ALSO READ: 'Done with BCCI', out-of-favour opener takes a dig at board as he looks out for opportunities abroad "It was a very balanced and confident team. The current team are winning and I think they're a huge chance to beat India. That was my Mt Everest tour. I always said I wanted to be able to do it again because it was so hard to do. "Australia have two senior pros at the top. They've got No.3 and No.4, averaging 60 and they're best mates. They're hungry and they play spin well. Travis Head is batting at a different level. He's been inspired by that top four. Cameron Green will hopefully come back in, which gives really good balance. You've got the best fast bowling attack in the world and you've got the best spinner in the world. My gosh, they have an incredibly well-balanced team," Langer added.

'Can't wait to watch Australia beat India this time', says Justin Langer ahead of Border-Gavaskar series

Currently leading the Test rankings for batters, Australia's Marnus Labuschagne is wary of a challenge from ace Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in the Border-Gavaskar series, that begins in less than a month's time in Nagpur. Marnus and Ashwin had crossed paths before during the India-Australia Test series Down Under two years back where Ashwin had his number twice - once in Adelaide and then in Melbourne. Though Marnus didn't get out to Ashwin after that, he still has made little tweaks to his technique to ensure he produces his best performance against the daunting Indian spin attack on the rank-turners in India. Since both are known to be using their mind-games in different forms while playing on the field, Marnus said he is ready for yet another challenge against Ashwin.

"Since then [the last series] I've already started thinking," Labuschagne said. "I've changed some of my game because of what I've heard about Ashwin and how he bowled to me. I've adapted my game to try and foil a few of his ideas and ways he goes about it, so it's going to be a lovely game of chess and I can't wait for it," Marnus said.

Having made his Test debut in late 2018, Marnus climbed to the top of the batter's chart in such a short period. Following a super impressive summer at home this time where he notched up centuries and double hundreds against West Indies and South Africa, Marnus will now be busy playing the ongoing Big Bash League with Brisbane Heats. After that he will start preparing for the India series.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/batting-at-number-5-helped-me-understand-my-game-better-kl-rahul-after-kolkata-heroics-against-sri-lanka-552248">Batting at number 5 helped me understand my game better - KL Rahul after Kolkata heroics against Sri Lanka</a>

Talking about what he has on his mind, Marnus said he has been thinking extensively about different scenarios like what he's going to do against different bowlers on the tour. Though he said he already has some plans in place against the Indian spinners, it's just about executing them now.

"The preparation starts so far back. People think, right now it's Big Bash then you start thinking - but the thinking happens way ahead. You start processing everything in your mind, you go through every scenario of what bowler you are going to come across. I've already thought about my plans, so now it's just about executing. Finding out, 'That works, that doesn't work. How can that part of my game fit in?', and just piece the puzzle together and make sure the puzzle is ready when it's game time. That's the key, and that's how all preparation happens," Labuschagne said.

Adding that the contest against India is something he's looking forward to, the right-handed batter said despite playing some good cricket lately the bigger challenge will be to win the Border-Gavaskar series, and tackling 'Bazball' in Ashes later this year.

"I can't wait, so excited for the next 10 Test matches. We've played really well, people know we are very good at home, very tough to beat...but the challenge we have going two away series in a row, that's going to be awesome. I can't wait for the challenge against spin in India and can't wait for the challenge of Bazball versus Ronball," Marnus concluded.

India and Australia will square off in first of the four-match Test series in Nagpur on February 9th.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Currently leading the Test rankings for batters, Australia's Marnus Labuschagne is wary of a challenge from ace Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in the Border-Gavaskar series, that begins in less than a month's time in Nagpur.

Currently leading the Test rankings for batters, Australia's Marnus Labuschagne is wary of a challenge from ace Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in the Border-Gavaskar series, that begins in less than a month's time in Nagpur. Marnus and Ashwin had crossed paths before during the India-Australia Test series Down Under two years back where Ashwin had his number twice - once in Adelaide and then in Melbourne. Though Marnus didn't get out to Ashwin after that, he still has made little tweaks to his technique to ensure he produces his best performance against the daunting Indian spin attack on the rank-turners in India. Since both are known to be using their mind-games in different forms while playing on the field, Marnus said he is ready for yet another challenge against Ashwin. "Since then [the last series] I've already started thinking," Labuschagne said. "I've changed some of my game because of what I've heard about Ashwin and how he bowled to me. I've adapted my game to try and foil a few of his ideas and ways he goes about it, so it's going to be a lovely game of chess and I can't wait for it," Marnus said. Having made his Test debut in late 2018, Marnus climbed to the top of the batter's chart in such a short period. Following a super impressive summer at home this time where he notched up centuries and double hundreds against West Indies and South Africa, Marnus will now be busy playing the ongoing Big Bash League with Brisbane Heats. After that he will start preparing for the India series. ALSO READ: Batting at number 5 helped me understand my game better - KL Rahul after Kolkata heroics against Sri Lanka Talking about what he has on his mind, Marnus said he has been thinking extensively about different scenarios like what he's going to do against different bowlers on the tour. Though he said he already has some plans in place against the Indian spinners, it's just about executing them now. "The preparation starts so far back. People think, right now it's Big Bash then you start thinking - but the thinking happens way ahead. You start processing everything in your mind, you go through every scenario of what bowler you are going to come across. I've already thought about my plans, so now it's just about executing. Finding out, 'That works, that doesn't work. How can that part of my game fit in?', and just piece the puzzle together and make sure the puzzle is ready when it's game time. That's the key, and that's how all preparation happens," Labuschagne said. Adding that the contest against India is something he's looking forward to, the right-handed batter said despite playing some good cricket lately the bigger challenge will be to win the Border-Gavaskar series, and tackling 'Bazball' in Ashes later this year. "I can't wait, so excited for the next 10 Test matches. We've played really well, people know we are very good at home, very tough to beat...but the challenge we have going two away series in a row, that's going to be awesome. I can't wait for the challenge against spin in India and can't wait for the challenge of Bazball versus Ronball," Marnus concluded. India and Australia will square off in first of the four-match Test series in Nagpur on February 9th. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

IND vs AUS 2023: 'I've already thought about my plans against Ravichandran Ashwin' - Marnus Labuschagne

After Australia’s 2-0 series win over South Africa on Sunday in Sydney, they have more or less ensured their chances of playing the WTC final in June this year. Given India is placed second on the WTC points table&nbsp;and will be facing the Aussies at home in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series, they could also seal the deal to qualify for the final without depending on results of others. Since only three series are left in the current WTC cycle – India vs Australia, New Zealand vs Sri Lanka and South Africa vs West Indies, all three of India, Australia and Sri Lanka have a chance to end up in the top two.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-credits-ashish-nehra-for-captaincy-success-says-we-have-similar-cricketing-thoughts-550449">Hardik Pandya credits Ashish Nehra for captaincy success, says 'we have similar cricketing thoughts'</a>

Here's how ranked-number 1 Australia can qualify for the WTC finals –

Sitting in the top spot with a PCT of 75.56%, Australia has one leg in the finals. The only scenario in which they will fail to play the summit clash is if they lose to India 0-4 and Sri Lanka win their two matches in New Zealand. If Australia surrender in the Border-Gavaskar series, their PCT will drop down to 59.65 while Sri Lanka’s 2-0 win in New Zealand will take their PCT to 61.11.

In a case where Australia manages to play a draw against India, losing the series 0-3, and don’t concede any penalty points, their PCT would still be 61.40%, which would be marginally enough for them to qualify for the finals. They just have to ensure they are not conceding any penalty points, else they would be relying on other team’s results for their qualification.

Here's how India can qualify for the finals of WTC –

India is currently placed second on the WTC points table with a PCT of 58.93 and if they beat Australia 3-1 or better, they will qualify for the finals regardless of the results from other series. Beating Australia 4-0 will take their PCT to 68.06%, in a 3-1-win scenario it will be 62.5% while if the series is drawn 2-2, India’s PCT will be 56.94%.

So in a case where India and Australia play a 2-2 draw, and Sri Lanka manages to beat New Zealand 2-0, India will be out of top two – meaning Australia and Sri Lanka could be the WTC finalists.

While the Border-Gavaskar series will begin on February 9th in Nagpur, New Zealand and Sri Lanka will commence their Test series on March 9th in Christchurch.

After Australia’s 2-0 series win over South Africa on Sunday in Sydney, they have more or less ensured their chances of playing the WTC final in June this year. Given India is placed second on the WTC points table and will be facing the Aussies at home in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series, they could also seal the deal to qualify for the final without depending on results of others.

After Australia’s 2-0 series win over South Africa on Sunday in Sydney, they have more or less ensured their chances of playing the WTC final in June this year. Given India is placed second on the WTC points table and will be facing the Aussies at home in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series, they could also seal the deal to qualify for the final without depending on results of others. Since only three series are left in the current WTC cycle – India vs Australia, New Zealand vs Sri Lanka and South Africa vs West Indies, all three of India, Australia and Sri Lanka have a chance to end up in the top two. ALSO READ: Hardik Pandya credits Ashish Nehra for captaincy success, says 'we have similar cricketing thoughts' Here's how ranked-number 1 Australia can qualify for the WTC finals – Sitting in the top spot with a PCT of 75.56%, Australia has one leg in the finals. The only scenario in which they will fail to play the summit clash is if they lose to India 0-4 and Sri Lanka win their two matches in New Zealand. If Australia surrender in the Border-Gavaskar series, their PCT will drop down to 59.65 while Sri Lanka’s 2-0 win in New Zealand will take their PCT to 61.11. In a case where Australia manages to play a draw against India, losing the series 0-3, and don’t concede any penalty points, their PCT would still be 61.40%, which would be marginally enough for them to qualify for the finals. They just have to ensure they are not conceding any penalty points, else they would be relying on other team’s results for their qualification. Here's how India can qualify for the finals of WTC – India is currently placed second on the WTC points table with a PCT of 58.93 and if they beat Australia 3-1 or better, they will qualify for the finals regardless of the results from other series. Beating Australia 4-0 will take their PCT to 68.06%, in a 3-1-win scenario it will be 62.5% while if the series is drawn 2-2, India’s PCT will be 56.94%. So in a case where India and Australia play a 2-2 draw, and Sri Lanka manages to beat New Zealand 2-0, India will be out of top two – meaning Australia and Sri Lanka could be the WTC finalists. While the Border-Gavaskar series will begin on February 9th in Nagpur, New Zealand and Sri Lanka will commence their Test series on March 9th in Christchurch.

How can India qualify for the finals of WTC following Australia's 2-0 win over South Africa

Cricket Australia (CA) has locked in the hosts for the four-match Border-Gavaskar Test series against India later in the year with Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney gearing up to host the Virat Kohli-led outfit.&nbsp;

The four-match Test series between India and Australia will commence at the Gabba, on December 3, where the Baggy Greens haven’t lost a Test since 1988.

Following the series opener, India will head to Adelaide in a bid to end Australia’s unbeaten record in day-night Tests at the iconic venue, as per a report.&nbsp;Interestingly, Perth has been omitted from the list of venues and the series will consist of just one day-night match.

The monumental Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will then host India for the traditional boxing Day Test before both the teams move to Sydney for the New year Test.

As the situation surrounding COVID-19 is improving in Australia, it is possible that the tour could go without the quarantine hub. However, it is yet unclear whether fans will be allowed to witness the much-awaited series.&nbsp;

India have agreed to play the pink-ball Test with Kohli looking to prove that his side can win in Australian conditions.&nbsp;

The last time India toured Australia for a Test series, the Kohli-led side came victorious with a 2-1 series triumph against the Baggy Greens, who were missing Steve Smith and David Warner due to their ban for involvement in sandpaper-gate in South Africa.

Cricket Australia (CA) has locked in the hosts for the four-match Border-Gavaskar Test series against India later in the year with Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney gearing up to host the Virat Kohli-led outfit.

Cricket Australia (CA) has locked in the hosts for the four-match Border-Gavaskar Test series against India later in the year with Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney gearing up to host the Virat Kohli-led outfit. The four-match Test series between India and Australia will commence at the Gabba, on December 3, where the Baggy Greens haven’t lost a Test since 1988. Following the series opener, India will head to Adelaide in a bid to end Australia’s unbeaten record in day-night Tests at the iconic venue, as per a report. Interestingly, Perth has been omitted from the list of venues and the series will consist of just one day-night match. The monumental Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will then host India for the traditional boxing Day Test before both the teams move to Sydney for the New year Test. As the situation surrounding COVID-19 is improving in Australia, it is possible that the tour could go without the quarantine hub. However, it is yet unclear whether fans will be allowed to witness the much-awaited series. India have agreed to play the pink-ball Test with Kohli looking to prove that his side can win in Australian conditions. The last time India toured Australia for a Test series, the Kohli-led side came victorious with a 2-1 series triumph against the Baggy Greens, who were missing Steve Smith and David Warner due to their ban for involvement in sandpaper-gate in South Africa.

India set for Border-Gavaskar trophy defense as Cricket Australia locks in Test venues; Tour to commence from December 3

Give Mitchell Starc 'space not pressure' to work things out, says Virat Kohli

Coach Ravi Shastri on Monday called India’s maiden Test series win in Australia a bigger achievement than the 1983 World Cup victory for him.

While addressing a press conference after India's win, Shastri said, “I will tell you how satisfying this is for me. World Cup 1983, World Championship 1985...this is as big or even bigger because this is in the truest format of the game, that is Test cricket.”

Virat Kohli-led side ended a 71-year wait for a Test series victory Down Under. Their 2-1 victory confirmed when the rain-affected fourth and final test ended in a draw at Sydney Cricket Ground early on Monday afternoon.

Wins in the first test in Adelaide and third in Melbourne ensured they could not lose the series and their batsmen, led by a 193 from Cheteshwar Pujara, batted Australia out of the fourth match with a daunting 622-7 declared total in the first innings.&nbsp;

That all but destroyed home hopes of a face-saving victory and India's spinners then got to work to drive home the advantage in the field against an Australia side that failed to muster a single century over the series.

The hosts were duly dismissed for 300 and Kohli did not hesitate to go for the jugular by enforcing the follow-on -- the first time in 30 years Australia had suffered such ignominy on home soil.

Ultimately, it was the Sydney weather that saved Australia from a 3-1 humiliation with no play possible after tea on day four, when they had mustered up six runs without loss in their second innings.

Coach Ravi Shastri on Monday called India’s maiden Test series win in Australia a bigger achievement than the 1983 World Cup victory for him. While addressing a press conference after India's win, Shastri said, “I will tell you how satisfying this is for me.

Coach Ravi Shastri on Monday called India’s maiden Test series win in Australia a bigger achievement than the 1983 World Cup victory for him. While addressing a press conference after India's win, Shastri said, “I will tell you how satisfying this is for me. World Cup 1983, World Championship 1985...this is as big or even bigger because this is in the truest format of the game, that is Test cricket.” Virat Kohli-led side ended a 71-year wait for a Test series victory Down Under. Their 2-1 victory confirmed when the rain-affected fourth and final test ended in a draw at Sydney Cricket Ground early on Monday afternoon. Wins in the first test in Adelaide and third in Melbourne ensured they could not lose the series and their batsmen, led by a 193 from Cheteshwar Pujara, batted Australia out of the fourth match with a daunting 622-7 declared total in the first innings. That all but destroyed home hopes of a face-saving victory and India's spinners then got to work to drive home the advantage in the field against an Australia side that failed to muster a single century over the series. The hosts were duly dismissed for 300 and Kohli did not hesitate to go for the jugular by enforcing the follow-on -- the first time in 30 years Australia had suffered such ignominy on home soil. Ultimately, it was the Sydney weather that saved Australia from a 3-1 humiliation with no play possible after tea on day four, when they had mustered up six runs without loss in their second innings.

Watch: India's victory in Australia 'bigger' than 1983 World Cup win, says Shastri

In pictures: Virat's India breaks 71-year Test series jinx in Australia

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

India underlined their status as the world&#39;s number one side as they demolished Australia by eight wickets to clinch a bitterly fought series 2-1 on day four of the fourth Test Tuesday. 
&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
India have won the series 2-1 and reclaimed the Border-Gavaskar trophy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsAUS?src=hash">#INDvsAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/KQ2qyPU03O">pic.twitter.com/KQ2qyPU03O</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI_news/status/846593889402159104">March 28, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

Chasing 106, opener Lokesh Rahul (51 not out) hit the winning runs in Dharamsala to take back the Border-Gavaskar trophy from Australia, who had triumphed at home in 2014-15.

India&#39;s stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane (38 not out) hit two sixes in a row off Pat Cummins on the way to the comprehensive victory, as the home crowd waved giant India flags and danced in the stands.

The hosts scored 332 in their first innings in reply to Australia&#39;s 300 before the tourists collapsed for just 137 on the third day.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
IMMEDIATE PLAYOUT : Virat Kohli addressing media as India clinch series 2-1 post Dharamsala Test <a href="https://t.co/c9QaJiDbDf">https://t.co/c9QaJiDbDf</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI_news/status/846618112392802304">March 28, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

&nbsp;

India lost Murali Vijay to fast bowler Cummins and Cheteshwar Pujara to a run-out, but they were the only hiccups the home side faced in the morning session.

The Indians owed their win to all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja who starred with both bat and ball, top-scoring with 63 runs in the first innings before taking three wickets with his left-arm spin during Australia&#39;s short-lived second knock.

Jadeja was named both man of the match and man of the series.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Ravindra Jadeja also named man of the series <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsAUS?src=hash">#INDvsAUS</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI_news/status/846602242933239808">March 28, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

Indian pace bowlers Umesh Yadav and Bhuvneshwar Kumar also contributed to give their side early breakthroughs.

Australia had themselves to blame for capitulating during their second innings after giving India a close fight throughout the series, marked by several flare-ups between the players.

The victory was India&#39;s 10th out of 13 Tests in a marathon home season that saw them get the better of New Zealand, England and Bangladesh.

(AFP)

Chasing 106 for victory, the hosts cantered home in the first session on day four to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

India underlined their status as the world's number one side as they demolished Australia by eight wickets to clinch a bitterly fought series 2-1 on day four of the fourth Test Tuesday. India have won the series 2-1 and reclaimed the Border-Gavaskar trophy #INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/KQ2qyPU03O — ANI (@ANI_news) March 28, 2017 × Chasing 106, opener Lokesh Rahul (51 not out) hit the winning runs in Dharamsala to take back the Border-Gavaskar trophy from Australia, who had triumphed at home in 2014-15. India's stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane (38 not out) hit two sixes in a row off Pat Cummins on the way to the comprehensive victory, as the home crowd waved giant India flags and danced in the stands. The hosts scored 332 in their first innings in reply to Australia's 300 before the tourists collapsed for just 137 on the third day. IMMEDIATE PLAYOUT : Virat Kohli addressing media as India clinch series 2-1 post Dharamsala Test https://t.co/c9QaJiDbDf — ANI (@ANI_news) March 28, 2017 × India lost Murali Vijay to fast bowler Cummins and Cheteshwar Pujara to a run-out, but they were the only hiccups the home side faced in the morning session. The Indians owed their win to all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja who starred with both bat and ball, top-scoring with 63 runs in the first innings before taking three wickets with his left-arm spin during Australia's short-lived second knock. Jadeja was named both man of the match and man of the series. Ravindra Jadeja also named man of the series #INDvsAUS — ANI (@ANI_news) March 28, 2017 × Indian pace bowlers Umesh Yadav and Bhuvneshwar Kumar also contributed to give their side early breakthroughs. Australia had themselves to blame for capitulating during their second innings after giving India a close fight throughout the series, marked by several flare-ups between the players. The victory was India's 10th out of 13 Tests in a marathon home season that saw them get the better of New Zealand, England and Bangladesh. (AFP)

India beat Australia by 8 wickets in fourth Test, clinch series 2-1