India captain Virat Kohli won the toss and elected to bat in the fourth and final Test against Australia in Sydney on Thursday.

The visitors lead the series 2-1 after winning the opening clash in Adelaide and the third one in Melbourne. Australia claimed victory in Perth.

If India, the world's top-ranked nation, win or draw in Sydney they will clinch a first-ever series victory in Australia.

Mayank Agarwal opens the batting with KL Rahul, with Hanuma Vihari dropping down to number six to cover for Rohit Sharma, who is unavailable after his wife gave birth.

First-choice spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was declared not fit, with wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the side to play alongside finger-spinner Ravindra Jadeja.

"It will be tougher to bat as the game goes on, so ideal for us to bat," said Kohli. "We haven't discussed the series win, we're focused on this game, and this is just an opportunity to win a Test."

Australia axed underperforming opener Aaron Finch with Usman Khawaja moved up from number three and middle-order batsman Peter Handscomb recalled to counter what is expected to be a turning Sydney Cricket Ground wicket.

In a surprise, leg-spinning all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne has been called into the side and will bat at three. Mitch Marsh was also dropped.

"We need to improve on all areas, need to do the basics better. Ball-by-ball, bit of an old-school cliche," said Australia skipper Tim Paine.

Australia: Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh, Travis Head, Peter Handscomb, Tim Paine (capt), Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc

India: Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (capt), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

Umpires: Richard Kettleborough (ENG), Ian Gould (ENG)

TV umpire: Marais Erasmus (RSA)

Match referee: Andy Pycroft (ZIM)

If India, the world's top-ranked nation, win or draw in Sydney they will clinch a first-ever series victory in Australia.

India captain Virat Kohli won the toss and elected to bat in the fourth and final Test against Australia in Sydney on Thursday. The visitors lead the series 2-1 after winning the opening clash in Adelaide and the third one in Melbourne. Australia claimed victory in Perth. If India, the world's top-ranked nation, win or draw in Sydney they will clinch a first-ever series victory in Australia. Mayank Agarwal opens the batting with KL Rahul, with Hanuma Vihari dropping down to number six to cover for Rohit Sharma, who is unavailable after his wife gave birth. First-choice spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was declared not fit, with wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the side to play alongside finger-spinner Ravindra Jadeja. "It will be tougher to bat as the game goes on, so ideal for us to bat," said Kohli. "We haven't discussed the series win, we're focused on this game, and this is just an opportunity to win a Test." Australia axed underperforming opener Aaron Finch with Usman Khawaja moved up from number three and middle-order batsman Peter Handscomb recalled to counter what is expected to be a turning Sydney Cricket Ground wicket. In a surprise, leg-spinning all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne has been called into the side and will bat at three. Mitch Marsh was also dropped. "We need to improve on all areas, need to do the basics better. Ball-by-ball, bit of an old-school cliche," said Australia skipper Tim Paine. Australia: Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh, Travis Head, Peter Handscomb, Tim Paine (capt), Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc India: Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (capt), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah Umpires: Richard Kettleborough (ENG), Ian Gould (ENG) TV umpire: Marais Erasmus (RSA) Match referee: Andy Pycroft (ZIM)

Ind vs Aus, 4th Test: India win toss, bat in fourth Australia Test

It turned out to be a glorious 2018 for India captain Virat Kohli and South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada as both maintained their respective pole positions in the year-end ICC Test Player Rankings.&nbsp;

Kohli dropped three points despite a first innings score of 82 in the third Test against Australia in Melbourne, but still enjoys a 34-point lead over nearest rival Kane Williamson of New Zealand.&nbsp;

Kohli, who attained a career-high 937 points during the year, which is the highest ever by an India batsman, scored 1322 runs in all. He overtook Steven Smith in August and has now held the top position for 135 days.

Rabada, who split the top ranking with England's seasoned fast bowler James Anderson during the year, is just six points ahead of his adversary.

Rabada, who became the youngest to take top position among bowlers during the year and held the spot for 178 days during the year, grabbed six wickets in the opening match at Centurion that South Africa won by six wickets to finish with 52 wickets in 10 Tests in 2018.

Kohli's compatriot Cheteshwar Pujara has also maintained his fourth position after a first-innings century in Melbourne, wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant has gained 10 slots to reach a career-best 38th position.

Debutant opener Mayank Agarwal has also entered the batsmen's list at an impressive 67th place after scores of 76 and 42 helped his side win by 137 runs for a 2-1 lead in the four-match series.

Jasprit Bumrah has moved from 28th to 12th after his match haul of nine for 86, the best-ever by an India seam bowler in Australia. He is now the highest-ranked India fast bowler in the format with Mohammed Shami is next in 23rd position.

For Australia, Pat Cummins has been the pick, gaining five slots to reach a career-best third position after finishing with nine wickets in the match. He has also gained 13 slots to reach 91st place among batsmen with some useful runs down the order.&nbsp;

Travis Head (up seven places to 56th) has also benefitted in the latest rankings update.&nbsp;

New Zealand fast bowlers have a lot to cheer about following their record 423-run win over Sri Lanka in Christchurch.&nbsp;

Trent Boult's nine wickets in the match have helped him gain seven slots to reach the seventh position while Tim Southee (up two places to ninth) and Neil Wagner (up one place to 15th) have also moved up.

Century-makers at Christchurch, Henry Nicholls (up two places to seventh) and Tom Latham (up eight places to 14th), and Jeet Raval (up two places to 35th) have also gained in the latest rankings update.

Nicholls scored an unbeaten 162 to move up to the seventh place.&nbsp;

For South Africa, former captain Hashim Amla (up three places to 11th place) and Temba Bavuma (up four places to 31st) have gained among batsmen while fast bowler Duanne Olivier has gained 17 places to reach 36th position after his player of the match effort of 11 wickets.

Pakistan's Babar Azam has gained nine slots to reach 27th position after innings of 71 and six while left-arm fast bowlers Mohammad Amir (up two places to 34th) and Shaheen Afridi (up 38 places to 73rd) have advanced after taking four and five wickets in Centurion.

Meanwhile, New Zealand have leapfrogged South Africa to take third place in the ICC Test Team Rankings after starting the series against Sri Lanka with a chance of going up to the second position with a 2-0 win.

It turned out to be a glorious 2018 for India captain Virat Kohli and South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada as both maintained their respective pole positions in the year-end ICC Test Player Rankings.

It turned out to be a glorious 2018 for India captain Virat Kohli and South Africa fast bowler Kagiso Rabada as both maintained their respective pole positions in the year-end ICC Test Player Rankings. Kohli dropped three points despite a first innings score of 82 in the third Test against Australia in Melbourne, but still enjoys a 34-point lead over nearest rival Kane Williamson of New Zealand. Kohli, who attained a career-high 937 points during the year, which is the highest ever by an India batsman, scored 1322 runs in all. He overtook Steven Smith in August and has now held the top position for 135 days. Rabada, who split the top ranking with England's seasoned fast bowler James Anderson during the year, is just six points ahead of his adversary. Rabada, who became the youngest to take top position among bowlers during the year and held the spot for 178 days during the year, grabbed six wickets in the opening match at Centurion that South Africa won by six wickets to finish with 52 wickets in 10 Tests in 2018. Kohli's compatriot Cheteshwar Pujara has also maintained his fourth position after a first-innings century in Melbourne, wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant has gained 10 slots to reach a career-best 38th position. Debutant opener Mayank Agarwal has also entered the batsmen's list at an impressive 67th place after scores of 76 and 42 helped his side win by 137 runs for a 2-1 lead in the four-match series. Jasprit Bumrah has moved from 28th to 12th after his match haul of nine for 86, the best-ever by an India seam bowler in Australia. He is now the highest-ranked India fast bowler in the format with Mohammed Shami is next in 23rd position. For Australia, Pat Cummins has been the pick, gaining five slots to reach a career-best third position after finishing with nine wickets in the match. He has also gained 13 slots to reach 91st place among batsmen with some useful runs down the order. Travis Head (up seven places to 56th) has also benefitted in the latest rankings update. New Zealand fast bowlers have a lot to cheer about following their record 423-run win over Sri Lanka in Christchurch. Trent Boult's nine wickets in the match have helped him gain seven slots to reach the seventh position while Tim Southee (up two places to ninth) and Neil Wagner (up one place to 15th) have also moved up. Century-makers at Christchurch, Henry Nicholls (up two places to seventh) and Tom Latham (up eight places to 14th), and Jeet Raval (up two places to 35th) have also gained in the latest rankings update. Nicholls scored an unbeaten 162 to move up to the seventh place. For South Africa, former captain Hashim Amla (up three places to 11th place) and Temba Bavuma (up four places to 31st) have gained among batsmen while fast bowler Duanne Olivier has gained 17 places to reach 36th position after his player of the match effort of 11 wickets. Pakistan's Babar Azam has gained nine slots to reach 27th position after innings of 71 and six while left-arm fast bowlers Mohammad Amir (up two places to 34th) and Shaheen Afridi (up 38 places to 73rd) have advanced after taking four and five wickets in Centurion. Meanwhile, New Zealand have leapfrogged South Africa to take third place in the ICC Test Team Rankings after starting the series against Sri Lanka with a chance of going up to the second position with a 2-0 win.

ICC Test Player Rankings: Virat Kohli, Kagiso Rabada end 2018 on top spots

Virat Kohli continued to dominate the cricket chatter with his batting and brashness, the indomitable MC Mary Kom rolled back the years like very few can and, month after month, Indian sports also found new and younger heroes to raise a toast to.&nbsp;

PV Sindhu's perseverance on the badminton court, Neeraj Chopra's obsessive pursuit of perfection every time he hurled the javelin, and the teenage shooting stars who refused to take their eyes off the target, made 2018 a year in which highs easily outnumbered the lows for Indian sports.&nbsp;

There was a plethora of big-ticket sporting events this year and the country had lots to celebrate throughout. Whether it was the Commonwealth and the Asian Games or Youth Olympics, athletes pushed the boundaries and produced path-breaking performances.&nbsp;

There were the usual administrative mess-ups occasionally and odd cases of dope shame as well, but they couldn't make a dent to the overall sense of accomplishment.&nbsp;

On the cricket field, the results weren't encouraging in South Africa and England but Kohli the batsman again ruled the roost, making his craft look ridiculously easy even on the most challenging tracks. It was only fitting that he was bestowed the nation's highest sporting honour - the Khel Ratna.&nbsp;

For 'Captain Kohli', however, it was far more challenging as he grappled to get the combinations right. But the team did find a degree of redemption against Australia by retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to close the year on a high.&nbsp;

Of course, it came against an Australian team weakened by the absence of banned batting mainstays Steve Smith and David Warner. The duo, along with Cameron Bancroft, combined for this year's biggest cricket scandal -&nbsp;the ball-tampering saga that forced a review of Australia's "win at all cost" culture.&nbsp;

The same Australia which had the world mesmerised by its near-perfect hosting of the Commonwealth Games within weeks of the drama.&nbsp;

The Games were memorable for India too as the country logged its third-best ever medal haul, highlighted by a record-shattering weightlifting show. Spearheading it was the diminutive world champion&nbsp;

Mirabai Chanu, who later shared the Khel Ratna with Kohli.

Weightlifting also found another prospective star in Jeremy Lalrinnunga after the 16-year-old claimed an unprecedented gold at Youth Olympics.&nbsp;

It was a comeback of sorts for shooting, after their flop-show at the 2016 Olympics.&nbsp;

India's gold medal-winners at the CWG shooting range included a 16-year-old Manu Bhaker and a 15-year-old Anish Bhanwala. The shooters hit the bull's eye in the Asiad too and though Bhaker felt the pain of failure for the first time, new gold-winning stars emerged in 16-year-old Saurabh Choudhary and a 15-something Shardul Vihan.&nbsp;

Bhaker and Chaudhary also won gold medals at Youth Olympics.&nbsp;

If shooting was about youngsters, boxing became all about an ageing but incomparable superstar in Mary Kom. The 36-year-old mother-of-three, who is also a Parliamentarian, picked up four gold medals - including a record sixth world title and the CWG top honours.&nbsp;

"There won't be another Mary Kom," she declared and one look at her predominantly golden cabinet of medals would be enough to silence anyone who thinks otherwise.&nbsp;

Then there was Sindhu. She lost five big finals, quietly took the criticism that labelled her a 'choker', but had the last laugh with a season-ending World Tour Finals title, beating world No.1 and familiar foe Tai Tzu Ying on her way to the summit clash.&nbsp;

Not to be left behind was Saina Nehwal. The trailblazer started with a gold at CWG, picked up a bronze in Asian Games and began a new chapter in her personal life by marrying fellow shuttler P Kashyap.&nbsp;

On the wrestling mat, Vinesh Phogat became more than just a famous Phogat sister with gold medals at both the CWG and Asian Games and Bajrang Punia stepped out of the shadow of his mentor and London Olympics bronze-medallist Yogeshwar Dutt.&nbsp;

Punia won gold at CWG and Asiad before a silver at World Championships positioned him as the biggest star. However, double Olympic-medallist Sushil Kumar's stock fell due to a string of sub-par performances.&nbsp;

The big takeaway in table tennis was the rise of Manika Batra. The Delhiite claimed four medals, including two gold, in the CWG before combining with veteran Sharath Kamal for a historic mixed doubles bronze at the Asiad, where India delivered its best-ever medal haul.&nbsp;

Another star to make the year his own was Neeraj. The 21-year-old won both the CWG and Asian Games with records to boot and is giving Indian athletics audacious Olympic medal hopes for Tokyo 2020.&nbsp;

A sprint sensation also emerged in 18-year-old Hima Das, India's first ever woman track-and-field world champion at any level after her under-20 400m gold.&nbsp;

Away from the spotlight, it was business as usual for ace cueist Pankaj Advani as he added a 21st world title to his trophy cabinet.&nbsp;

A star rose on the golf course as well in Shubhankar Sharma, who won the Maybank Malaysia Open. He also bagged Asian Tour Order of Merit title and European Tour Rookie of the Year award.&nbsp;

There were disappointments too -&nbsp;the men's hockey team being the most prominent with no medal at CWG and an underwhelming third-place finish at Asiad.

CWG champion weightlifter Sanjita Chanu flunked a dope test.&nbsp;And there was no end to the administrative mess that the BCCI has become.&nbsp;

However, none of the negatives was big enough to come in the way of a stronger India emerging on the competitive field.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli continued to dominate the cricket chatter with his batting and brashness, the indomitable MC Mary Kom rolled back the years like very few can and, month after month, Indian sports also found new and younger heroes to raise a toast to.

Virat Kohli continued to dominate the cricket chatter with his batting and brashness, the indomitable MC Mary Kom rolled back the years like very few can and, month after month, Indian sports also found new and younger heroes to raise a toast to. PV Sindhu's perseverance on the badminton court, Neeraj Chopra's obsessive pursuit of perfection every time he hurled the javelin, and the teenage shooting stars who refused to take their eyes off the target, made 2018 a year in which highs easily outnumbered the lows for Indian sports. There was a plethora of big-ticket sporting events this year and the country had lots to celebrate throughout. Whether it was the Commonwealth and the Asian Games or Youth Olympics, athletes pushed the boundaries and produced path-breaking performances. There were the usual administrative mess-ups occasionally and odd cases of dope shame as well, but they couldn't make a dent to the overall sense of accomplishment. On the cricket field, the results weren't encouraging in South Africa and England but Kohli the batsman again ruled the roost, making his craft look ridiculously easy even on the most challenging tracks. It was only fitting that he was bestowed the nation's highest sporting honour - the Khel Ratna. For 'Captain Kohli', however, it was far more challenging as he grappled to get the combinations right. But the team did find a degree of redemption against Australia by retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to close the year on a high. Of course, it came against an Australian team weakened by the absence of banned batting mainstays Steve Smith and David Warner. The duo, along with Cameron Bancroft, combined for this year's biggest cricket scandal - the ball-tampering saga that forced a review of Australia's "win at all cost" culture. The same Australia which had the world mesmerised by its near-perfect hosting of the Commonwealth Games within weeks of the drama. The Games were memorable for India too as the country logged its third-best ever medal haul, highlighted by a record-shattering weightlifting show. Spearheading it was the diminutive world champion Mirabai Chanu, who later shared the Khel Ratna with Kohli. Weightlifting also found another prospective star in Jeremy Lalrinnunga after the 16-year-old claimed an unprecedented gold at Youth Olympics. It was a comeback of sorts for shooting, after their flop-show at the 2016 Olympics. India's gold medal-winners at the CWG shooting range included a 16-year-old Manu Bhaker and a 15-year-old Anish Bhanwala. The shooters hit the bull's eye in the Asiad too and though Bhaker felt the pain of failure for the first time, new gold-winning stars emerged in 16-year-old Saurabh Choudhary and a 15-something Shardul Vihan. Bhaker and Chaudhary also won gold medals at Youth Olympics. If shooting was about youngsters, boxing became all about an ageing but incomparable superstar in Mary Kom. The 36-year-old mother-of-three, who is also a Parliamentarian, picked up four gold medals - including a record sixth world title and the CWG top honours. "There won't be another Mary Kom," she declared and one look at her predominantly golden cabinet of medals would be enough to silence anyone who thinks otherwise. Then there was Sindhu. She lost five big finals, quietly took the criticism that labelled her a 'choker', but had the last laugh with a season-ending World Tour Finals title, beating world No.1 and familiar foe Tai Tzu Ying on her way to the summit clash. Not to be left behind was Saina Nehwal. The trailblazer started with a gold at CWG, picked up a bronze in Asian Games and began a new chapter in her personal life by marrying fellow shuttler P Kashyap. On the wrestling mat, Vinesh Phogat became more than just a famous Phogat sister with gold medals at both the CWG and Asian Games and Bajrang Punia stepped out of the shadow of his mentor and London Olympics bronze-medallist Yogeshwar Dutt. Punia won gold at CWG and Asiad before a silver at World Championships positioned him as the biggest star. However, double Olympic-medallist Sushil Kumar's stock fell due to a string of sub-par performances. The big takeaway in table tennis was the rise of Manika Batra. The Delhiite claimed four medals, including two gold, in the CWG before combining with veteran Sharath Kamal for a historic mixed doubles bronze at the Asiad, where India delivered its best-ever medal haul. Another star to make the year his own was Neeraj. The 21-year-old won both the CWG and Asian Games with records to boot and is giving Indian athletics audacious Olympic medal hopes for Tokyo 2020. A sprint sensation also emerged in 18-year-old Hima Das, India's first ever woman track-and-field world champion at any level after her under-20 400m gold. Away from the spotlight, it was business as usual for ace cueist Pankaj Advani as he added a 21st world title to his trophy cabinet. A star rose on the golf course as well in Shubhankar Sharma, who won the Maybank Malaysia Open. He also bagged Asian Tour Order of Merit title and European Tour Rookie of the Year award. There were disappointments too - the men's hockey team being the most prominent with no medal at CWG and an underwhelming third-place finish at Asiad. CWG champion weightlifter Sanjita Chanu flunked a dope test. And there was no end to the administrative mess that the BCCI has become. However, none of the negatives was big enough to come in the way of a stronger India emerging on the competitive field.

Virat Kohli, Mary Kom make 2018 their own; India discovers new stars too

Former England cricket and rugby captains Alastair Cook and Bill Beaumont headlined sporting personalities in the New Years Honours List with both men receiving knighthoods from Queen Elizabeth II.

Cook -- who has more Test centuries (33) and runs (12,472) than any other England player accrued during a record 161 Test matches -- is the first cricketer to be knighted since legendary all-rounder Ian Botham in 2007.

The 34-year-old opening batsman finished his Test career in the best possible manner with a century against India at The Oval despite having declared there "was nothing left in the tank".

"It's a fitting tribute to a man who has led with distinction on and off the pitch every since he made his England debut," England and Wales Cricket Board chairman Colin Graves said in a statement to Press Association Sport. &nbsp;

Beaumont -- chairman of the sport's governing body, World Rugby, -- skippered England to the 1980 Five Nations Grand Slam as well as captaining the British and Irish Lions.

Following his retirement as a player the 66-year-old became a much loved face on BBC television, his avuncular style adapting well to captaining a team in Question of Sport.

"I am honoured and humbled to receive this accolade from Her Majesty the Queen for services to rugby," Beaumont told World Rugby.

"I have always viewed my work in the sport as an administrator as that of a guardian, driven by a passion to do the very best I can for rugby."

Football did not miss out, with England manager Gareth Southgate and captain Harry Kane rewarded for the national side's run to this year's World Cup semi-finals.

'Thought something was wrong!'

Southgate, whose sartorial elegance in Russia saw sales of waistcoats rocket, received the middle-ranking Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) whilst Tottenham Hotpsur sharpshooter Kane garnered the lesser Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).

Kane, who won the World Cup Golden Boot for finishing top scorer with six goals, said he learnt of his award from his fiancee Kate just prior to a Premier League game with Southampton in early December.

"We got a letter to the house, Kate opened the letter." he told Spurs TV.

"Normally we'd talk a little but she would never call me just before the match. I had a missed call and she texted me 'could you answer?'.

"I thought something was wrong! But Kate was excited and told me that we'd had a letter from the Queen saying we'd get an MBE."

Another British sporting success story of the year Welshman Geraint Thomas received an OBE after winning road cycling's showpiece event, the Tour de France.

Beaumont was not the only rugby personality to be honoured with former Scotland lock Doddie Weir, whose courageous battle with motor neurone disease has helped to raise its profile through his 'My Name'5 Doddie Foundation' (attn eds: correct), being awarded an OBE.

Irish rugby legend Willie John McBride -- like Beaumont a Lions captain having skippered the combined outfit's most successful side of all time on the brutal 1974 tour of South Africa, which saw them win the four-Test series 3-0 with one draw -- adds a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) to his MBE.

McBride's fellow Northern Irishman former Manchester United goalkeeper Harry Gregg, who survived the Munich air crash that killed several of the Busy Babes in 1958, received an OBE.

Horseracing, was acknowledged as well with Richard Johnson, who has been British jumps champion jockey the past three years after being runner-up on 16 occasions to legend AP McCoy, receiving an OBE.

But, as ever Johnson, has to give second best to his old rival as McCoy was knighted in 2016.&nbsp;

Former England cricket and rugby captains Alastair Cook and Bill Beaumont headlined sporting personalities in the New Years Honours List with both men receiving knighthoods from Queen Elizabeth II.

Former England cricket and rugby captains Alastair Cook and Bill Beaumont headlined sporting personalities in the New Years Honours List with both men receiving knighthoods from Queen Elizabeth II. Cook -- who has more Test centuries (33) and runs (12,472) than any other England player accrued during a record 161 Test matches -- is the first cricketer to be knighted since legendary all-rounder Ian Botham in 2007. The 34-year-old opening batsman finished his Test career in the best possible manner with a century against India at The Oval despite having declared there "was nothing left in the tank". "It's a fitting tribute to a man who has led with distinction on and off the pitch every since he made his England debut," England and Wales Cricket Board chairman Colin Graves said in a statement to Press Association Sport. Beaumont -- chairman of the sport's governing body, World Rugby, -- skippered England to the 1980 Five Nations Grand Slam as well as captaining the British and Irish Lions. Following his retirement as a player the 66-year-old became a much loved face on BBC television, his avuncular style adapting well to captaining a team in Question of Sport. "I am honoured and humbled to receive this accolade from Her Majesty the Queen for services to rugby," Beaumont told World Rugby. "I have always viewed my work in the sport as an administrator as that of a guardian, driven by a passion to do the very best I can for rugby." Football did not miss out, with England manager Gareth Southgate and captain Harry Kane rewarded for the national side's run to this year's World Cup semi-finals. 'Thought something was wrong!' Southgate, whose sartorial elegance in Russia saw sales of waistcoats rocket, received the middle-ranking Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) whilst Tottenham Hotpsur sharpshooter Kane garnered the lesser Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). Kane, who won the World Cup Golden Boot for finishing top scorer with six goals, said he learnt of his award from his fiancee Kate just prior to a Premier League game with Southampton in early December. "We got a letter to the house, Kate opened the letter." he told Spurs TV. "Normally we'd talk a little but she would never call me just before the match. I had a missed call and she texted me 'could you answer?'. "I thought something was wrong! But Kate was excited and told me that we'd had a letter from the Queen saying we'd get an MBE." Another British sporting success story of the year Welshman Geraint Thomas received an OBE after winning road cycling's showpiece event, the Tour de France. Beaumont was not the only rugby personality to be honoured with former Scotland lock Doddie Weir, whose courageous battle with motor neurone disease has helped to raise its profile through his 'My Name'5 Doddie Foundation' (attn eds: correct), being awarded an OBE. Irish rugby legend Willie John McBride -- like Beaumont a Lions captain having skippered the combined outfit's most successful side of all time on the brutal 1974 tour of South Africa, which saw them win the four-Test series 3-0 with one draw -- adds a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) to his MBE. McBride's fellow Northern Irishman former Manchester United goalkeeper Harry Gregg, who survived the Munich air crash that killed several of the Busy Babes in 1958, received an OBE. Horseracing, was acknowledged as well with Richard Johnson, who has been British jumps champion jockey the past three years after being runner-up on 16 occasions to legend AP McCoy, receiving an OBE. But, as ever Johnson, has to give second best to his old rival as McCoy was knighted in 2016.

Former England captains Alastair Cook and Bill Beaumont knighted

India captain <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> praised his side after they defeated Australia by 137 runs in Melbourne on Sunday to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-australia-by-137-runs-to-win-melbourne-test-187279">win the third Test</a> of their four-match series. With the win, India have taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.&nbsp;

While addressing the media, Virat said, "We are very happy. Leading the series for the first time in Australia. We will take the trophy back home regardless of what happens in the last Test."&nbsp;

Virat added, "Although our aim is to win the series here, which is what we came here thinking and that hasn't changed regardless of whatever happened."

"But it is important to realise this moment and it is important to understand how much hard work we have put in to reach this scoreline. We have to appreciate that as a whole team."&nbsp;

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Thank you to all the fans for the Love and support! A special win at The MCG. Next stop - SCG 🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/HR4FnnGEbA">pic.twitter.com/HR4FnnGEbA</a>
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Kohli singled out bowler Jasprit Bumrah and Test debutante batsman Mayank Aggarwal for their contributions to the victory as India retained the Border-Gavaskar trophy.&nbsp;

Kohli told reporters, "Mayank's composure, his intent and belief, it was a huge boost for us. Because the way he batted at top of the order on first day, it has to be praised because it is not easy to come to Australia and start like that, and starting against such a bowling attack. He should also get a lot of credit for the win."&nbsp;

Virat gave a special mention to Bumrah, who was awarded player of the match for his brilliant bowling.&nbsp;

"Jasprit obviously is the best bowler in the world, as per me. He is a match winner, without doubt."

Bumrah took a total of nine wickets in the third match and so far in the series, he has taken 20 wickets.&nbsp;

The final Test match of the series starts 3rd January in Sydney.

India captain Virat Kohli praised his side after they defeated Australia by 137 runs in Melbourne on Sunday to win the third Test of their four-match series. With the win, India have taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.

India captain Virat Kohli praised his side after they defeated Australia by 137 runs in Melbourne on Sunday to win the third Test of their four-match series. With the win, India have taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series. While addressing the media, Virat said, "We are very happy. Leading the series for the first time in Australia. We will take the trophy back home regardless of what happens in the last Test." Virat added, "Although our aim is to win the series here, which is what we came here thinking and that hasn't changed regardless of whatever happened." "But it is important to realise this moment and it is important to understand how much hard work we have put in to reach this scoreline. We have to appreciate that as a whole team." Thank you to all the fans for the Love and support! A special win at The MCG. Next stop - SCG 🇮🇳 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/HR4FnnGEbA — BCCI (@BCCI) December 30, 2018 × Thank you, Melbourne for all the support. Onto the next one at the SCG #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/6iCBgNaLcu — BCCI (@BCCI) December 30, 2018 × Kohli singled out bowler Jasprit Bumrah and Test debutante batsman Mayank Aggarwal for their contributions to the victory as India retained the Border-Gavaskar trophy. Kohli told reporters, "Mayank's composure, his intent and belief, it was a huge boost for us. Because the way he batted at top of the order on first day, it has to be praised because it is not easy to come to Australia and start like that, and starting against such a bowling attack. He should also get a lot of credit for the win." Virat gave a special mention to Bumrah, who was awarded player of the match for his brilliant bowling. "Jasprit obviously is the best bowler in the world, as per me. He is a match winner, without doubt." Bumrah took a total of nine wickets in the third match and so far in the series, he has taken 20 wickets. The final Test match of the series starts 3rd January in Sydney.

Delighted Virat Kohli praises Jasprit Bumrah, Mayank Agarwal after 3rd Test victory over Australia

A clinical India had Australia on the ropes Friday and staring at defeat in the third Test after skittling them for 151 before a devastating spell by Pat Cummins sparked the game back into life.

At stumps, the visitors had a formidable 346 cushion with five wickets left and two days to play as they inch closer to a first ever series win Down Under. The series is currently tied at 1-1 with just the Sydney Test next week to go.

Once again the home team's batting frailties were exposed as they struggled not only with a deteriorating Melbourne pitch but outstanding bowling from young pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah.

He ended with a career-best 6-33, collecting his third five-wicket Test haul having also achieved the feat against South Africa and England.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Stumps on Day 3 of the 3rd Test. 
 
A total of 15 wickets have fallen today. After bowling Australia out for 151, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> are 54/5 in the second innings, lead by 346 runs. 
 
Updates - <a href="https://t.co/xZXZnUvzvk">https://t.co/xZXZnUvzvk</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/p74NK3LUKb">pic.twitter.com/p74NK3LUKb</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1078545690257584128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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With a 292-run first innings advantage, Indian skipper Virat Kohli could have enforced the follow-on but instead opted to turn the screws and add to the imposing total.

But his batsmen also found it tough going and they slumped to 54 for five, with first innings century-maker Cheteshwar Pujara and Kohli himself sensationally out for ducks.

Cummins was Australia's best bowler in India's first innings 443-7 declared and was chief destroyer on Friday, claiming an amazing 4-3 off his first four overs.&nbsp;

His scalps also included opener Hanuma Vihari (13) and vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane (1).

Josh Hazlewood chipped in with the wicket of Rohit Sharma (5) with debutant Mayank Agarwal watching the carnage from the other end. He was not out 28 with Rishabh Pant on six.

None of Australia's batsmen could muster more than 22, again demonstrating how much they miss the banned Steve Smith and David Warner.

Talk surrounding the pair's reintegration into the team reached a crescendo this week after Smith and Cameron Bancroft gave tell-all interviews about the South Africa ball-tampering scandal, effectively blaming Warner.

Their bans run out in late March.

In overcast conditions, Australia began the day with eight runs on the scoreboard after surviving six nervy overs on Thursday.&nbsp;

But with the pitch showing wear and tear, it wasn't long before the bowlers took advantage.

Aaron Finch smashed a four off Bumrah in a positive start but once again Australia's limited overs captain failed as a Test opener.

He was on eight when he feebly chipped an Ishant Sharma delivery to Agarwal at short midwicket, who took a difficult diving catch.

That brought Usman Khawaja to the crease, just hours after his brother was re-arrested for allegedly breaching bail and charged with trying to influence a witness.

Arsalan Khawaja had been detained earlier this month, then bailed, after being accused of framing a love rival as the author of a terrorist hit list.

Khawaja was only at the wicket for a short time before Australia's other opener Marcus Harris also fell, plunging the home team into strife at 36 for two.

Khawaja didn't last much longer, despondently trudging off for 21 after Agarwal took another catch close in off spinner Ravindra Jadeja, who was finding the rough and causing problems.

Shaun Marsh was then deceived on the last ball of the morning by some late swing from Bumrah to be plum lbw.

The afternoon didn't get any better with Travis Head's stumps knocked over by a quick Bumrah delivery and then Mitchell Marsh tickled a Jadeja ball to Rahane at slip, with the last four wickets falling for just 13 runs.

A clinical India had Australia on the ropes Friday and staring at defeat in the third Test after skittling them for 151 before a devastating spell by Pat Cummins sparked the game back into life.

A clinical India had Australia on the ropes Friday and staring at defeat in the third Test after skittling them for 151 before a devastating spell by Pat Cummins sparked the game back into life. At stumps, the visitors had a formidable 346 cushion with five wickets left and two days to play as they inch closer to a first ever series win Down Under. The series is currently tied at 1-1 with just the Sydney Test next week to go. Once again the home team's batting frailties were exposed as they struggled not only with a deteriorating Melbourne pitch but outstanding bowling from young pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. He ended with a career-best 6-33, collecting his third five-wicket Test haul having also achieved the feat against South Africa and England. Stumps on Day 3 of the 3rd Test. A total of 15 wickets have fallen today. After bowling Australia out for 151, #TeamIndia are 54/5 in the second innings, lead by 346 runs. Updates - https://t.co/xZXZnUvzvk #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/p74NK3LUKb — BCCI (@BCCI) December 28, 2018 × With a 292-run first innings advantage, Indian skipper Virat Kohli could have enforced the follow-on but instead opted to turn the screws and add to the imposing total. But his batsmen also found it tough going and they slumped to 54 for five, with first innings century-maker Cheteshwar Pujara and Kohli himself sensationally out for ducks. Cummins was Australia's best bowler in India's first innings 443-7 declared and was chief destroyer on Friday, claiming an amazing 4-3 off his first four overs. His scalps also included opener Hanuma Vihari (13) and vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane (1). Josh Hazlewood chipped in with the wicket of Rohit Sharma (5) with debutant Mayank Agarwal watching the carnage from the other end. He was not out 28 with Rishabh Pant on six. None of Australia's batsmen could muster more than 22, again demonstrating how much they miss the banned Steve Smith and David Warner. Talk surrounding the pair's reintegration into the team reached a crescendo this week after Smith and Cameron Bancroft gave tell-all interviews about the South Africa ball-tampering scandal, effectively blaming Warner. Their bans run out in late March. In overcast conditions, Australia began the day with eight runs on the scoreboard after surviving six nervy overs on Thursday. But with the pitch showing wear and tear, it wasn't long before the bowlers took advantage. Aaron Finch smashed a four off Bumrah in a positive start but once again Australia's limited overs captain failed as a Test opener. He was on eight when he feebly chipped an Ishant Sharma delivery to Agarwal at short midwicket, who took a difficult diving catch. That brought Usman Khawaja to the crease, just hours after his brother was re-arrested for allegedly breaching bail and charged with trying to influence a witness. Arsalan Khawaja had been detained earlier this month, then bailed, after being accused of framing a love rival as the author of a terrorist hit list. Khawaja was only at the wicket for a short time before Australia's other opener Marcus Harris also fell, plunging the home team into strife at 36 for two. Khawaja didn't last much longer, despondently trudging off for 21 after Agarwal took another catch close in off spinner Ravindra Jadeja, who was finding the rough and causing problems. Shaun Marsh was then deceived on the last ball of the morning by some late swing from Bumrah to be plum lbw. The afternoon didn't get any better with Travis Head's stumps knocked over by a quick Bumrah delivery and then Mitchell Marsh tickled a Jadeja ball to Rahane at slip, with the last four wickets falling for just 13 runs.

INDvsAUS, 3rd Test, Day 3: India in charge but devastating Pat Cummins gives Australia hope

David Warner's isolation by Steve Smith and Camron Bancroft in their recent interviews will not impact the opening batsman's re-integration, Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts promised Thursday.&nbsp;

Both Smith and Bancroft held Warner responsible for the ball tampering scandal, which led to imposition of bans on all three cricketers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While both Smith and Bancroft accepted their own responsibility in committing the mistake during the Test against South Africa at Centurion in March, they sought to put more blame on Warner.&nbsp;

Smith was quoted as saying, "I don't want to know about it" when Warner indicated the need to do something with the ball and Bancroft said he was encouraged by Warner to tamper with the ball.&nbsp;

"I don't know that it does," Roberts told SEN Radio, according to Cricinfo, when asked whether comments made by Smith and Bancroft and Smith would impact his chances of returning to the national side.&nbsp;

"Our focus is to work with Dave, who I spoke to about three days ago on his integration plan. I think what is really important is that Dave, Steve and Cameron will really need sign to up to the players' mantra that everything they do is really seeking to make Australians proud. Our non-negotiable expectation is that we compete with honour."

Roberts said they are now looking forward instead of dwelling on past.

"The Cape Town incident happened nine months ago, the investigation was conducted, the sanctions were handed down, and our focus now is working towards the reintegration of the players. Our focus is on that reintegration and moving forward as to how we can support all of the players through that period.&nbsp;

"Our focus is on how we proactively look forward and work with the players, rather than be concerned with what has happened in the past."

The timing of Smith and Bancroft's interviews during the Boxing Day Test and the content aired has perhaps not gone well with CA and even former captain Ricky Ponting was critical of the interviews.&nbsp;

"I just don't think he (Bancroft) had to say some of the things he had to say to be honest," Ponting said on Seven.&nbsp;

"I am not too sure how happy the players will be about it, or how happy Cricket Australia will be about it. I was very disappointed about the timing of it."&nbsp;

Ponting said Smith may have hurt his brand by it but is still capable of leading the side again.&nbsp;

"Even the way he presented himself in that interview, he's trying to rebuild his brand and that sort of thing, and I think some of the things he's had to say have actually done more damage to his brand than what had happened before."&nbsp;

"I think he (Smith) will come back into the captaincy. At the end of the day he has owned up to what his leadership failures are. Hopefully, I am like most, I am willing to forgive after he serves his penalty. I think he will come back a much better person and a much better leader after what's happened."

David Warner's isolation by Steve Smith and Camron Bancroft in their recent interviews will not impact the opening batsman's re-integration, Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts promised Thursday.

David Warner's isolation by Steve Smith and Camron Bancroft in their recent interviews will not impact the opening batsman's re-integration, Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts promised Thursday. Both Smith and Bancroft held Warner responsible for the ball tampering scandal, which led to imposition of bans on all three cricketers. While both Smith and Bancroft accepted their own responsibility in committing the mistake during the Test against South Africa at Centurion in March, they sought to put more blame on Warner. Smith was quoted as saying, "I don't want to know about it" when Warner indicated the need to do something with the ball and Bancroft said he was encouraged by Warner to tamper with the ball. "I don't know that it does," Roberts told SEN Radio, according to Cricinfo, when asked whether comments made by Smith and Bancroft and Smith would impact his chances of returning to the national side. "Our focus is to work with Dave, who I spoke to about three days ago on his integration plan. I think what is really important is that Dave, Steve and Cameron will really need sign to up to the players' mantra that everything they do is really seeking to make Australians proud. Our non-negotiable expectation is that we compete with honour." Roberts said they are now looking forward instead of dwelling on past. "The Cape Town incident happened nine months ago, the investigation was conducted, the sanctions were handed down, and our focus now is working towards the reintegration of the players. Our focus is on that reintegration and moving forward as to how we can support all of the players through that period. "Our focus is on how we proactively look forward and work with the players, rather than be concerned with what has happened in the past." The timing of Smith and Bancroft's interviews during the Boxing Day Test and the content aired has perhaps not gone well with CA and even former captain Ricky Ponting was critical of the interviews. "I just don't think he (Bancroft) had to say some of the things he had to say to be honest," Ponting said on Seven. "I am not too sure how happy the players will be about it, or how happy Cricket Australia will be about it. I was very disappointed about the timing of it." Ponting said Smith may have hurt his brand by it but is still capable of leading the side again. "Even the way he presented himself in that interview, he's trying to rebuild his brand and that sort of thing, and I think some of the things he's had to say have actually done more damage to his brand than what had happened before." "I think he (Smith) will come back into the captaincy. At the end of the day he has owned up to what his leadership failures are. Hopefully, I am like most, I am willing to forgive after he serves his penalty. I think he will come back a much better person and a much better leader after what's happened."

David Warner's integration very much on: CA Chief Executive Roberts

A PIL has been filed in the Madras High Court seeking a direction to authorities for initiating legal action against the BCCI for allegedly representing the country without any proper official approval from the government.&nbsp;

A division bench of Justices M Sathyanarayanan and P Rajamanickam issued notice to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and other authorities concerned, returnable by February 7, 2019 and posted further hearing to that date.&nbsp;

The petitioner, Geeta Rani, from Delhi said, "The BCCI is registered as a society in Tamil Nadu under the Societies Registration Act and always denied its status of being a State under Article 12 of the Constitution.&nbsp;

It is worth noting that even at the time of registration, no recognition or affiliation was asked from the government to represent India by BCCI and presuming it to be sole authority to govern cricket, without any sanction, the BCCI started to act as (the) governing body of cricket as well as representative of India."&nbsp;

BCCI has no legal sanctity to use the word 'India' in its name, nor does it have the right to represent a team called 'India', as the name implies patronage from the Indian government, the petitioner contended.&nbsp;

According to the petitioner, the BCCI has continuously refused to identify itself as a public authority and is also not officially recognised as a national sports federation.&nbsp;

The petitioner alleged that the players' selection process carried out by the organisation was never transparent and has always been discriminatory.&nbsp;

Like any other sport, cricket should also be governed by the union ministry of sports, the petitioner contended.

A PIL has been filed in the Madras High Court seeking a direction to authorities for initiating legal action against the BCCI for allegedly representing the country without any proper official approval from the government.

A PIL has been filed in the Madras High Court seeking a direction to authorities for initiating legal action against the BCCI for allegedly representing the country without any proper official approval from the government. A division bench of Justices M Sathyanarayanan and P Rajamanickam issued notice to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and other authorities concerned, returnable by February 7, 2019 and posted further hearing to that date. The petitioner, Geeta Rani, from Delhi said, "The BCCI is registered as a society in Tamil Nadu under the Societies Registration Act and always denied its status of being a State under Article 12 of the Constitution. It is worth noting that even at the time of registration, no recognition or affiliation was asked from the government to represent India by BCCI and presuming it to be sole authority to govern cricket, without any sanction, the BCCI started to act as (the) governing body of cricket as well as representative of India." BCCI has no legal sanctity to use the word 'India' in its name, nor does it have the right to represent a team called 'India', as the name implies patronage from the Indian government, the petitioner contended. According to the petitioner, the BCCI has continuously refused to identify itself as a public authority and is also not officially recognised as a national sports federation. The petitioner alleged that the players' selection process carried out by the organisation was never transparent and has always been discriminatory. Like any other sport, cricket should also be governed by the union ministry of sports, the petitioner contended.

Plea in Chennai HC seeks legal action against BCCI

Gearing up for the New Zealand tour, Indian women's ODI captain <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Mithali+Raj">Mithali Raj</a> Saturday stressed on the need to bring the focus back on cricket after hogging the limelight for the wrong reasons following a controversial ending to their World T20 campaign.&nbsp;

Mithali was in the news after falling out with Ramesh Powar, who was the coach of the team at the recently held women's World T20 in the Caribbean where she was dropped for the semi-final against England.&nbsp;

Their spat became public after both wrote to the BCCI and their respective letters got leaked.&nbsp;

But the selectors have reposed their faith on Mithali who retained her place in the T20 squad and captaincy for next month's tour to New Zealand.&nbsp;

"The way things panned out was obviously not in a very good taste. It affected everybody in a different level, in a different way," Mithali said during a promotional event here.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Now I am sure things are settled and we should give more spotlight on the sport, on the players and in the team."&nbsp;

Mithali said she and her family had to endure a lot of stress after her controversial ouster from the team.&nbsp;

"I can only say that the last few days were very stressful for me and my parents. And also for people around me, especially the way it panned out," she said.&nbsp;

"It definitely did put women's cricket in the spotlight which was not needed. When you talk about non cricketing issues and not the team the focus goes away from the sport.&nbsp;

"Now that we have a tour (vs New Zealand), it's time that we move forward. Look forward and be more positive going forward."&nbsp;

The rift between T20 captain Harmanpreet Kaur and ODI captain Mithali was out in the open and the team was sharply divided into camps.&nbsp;

Asked if she would go along well with Harmanpreet, Mithali said: "We will see. When the 15 individual players come together with the support staff, it's a huge and big family.&nbsp;

"And usually in a family there will always be a difference of opinion. Everybody will not have the same kind of perspective. There will be issues and it does happen."&nbsp;

"These issues are secondary to us... Not even secondary these things do not even come in the list of priority. But when we take on the field, we are ambassadors of the sport. On the field, we are one unit, we come as a team. We are there to give our best and perform as a unit," she said.&nbsp;

Mithali said she is also looking forward to working with newly-appointed coach W V Raman.&nbsp;

"It's very early to comment on him. I had met him briefly at the National Cricket Academy. We have to support him and look forward to build a team."&nbsp;

India are scheduled to play five ODIs and three T20Is in the tour beginning on January 24.&nbsp;

"We last toured there in 2007. Only Jhulan and I from the current team were part of the last tour. For many in the team it will be a first tour. It will be challenging. We should give more importance on the preparation. The priority will be to getting the team together," she said.&nbsp;

"The upcoming tour will be important. It's part of the ICC Championship one-dayers and there's a point system in place. It's important for India to garner as many points as it will help us in 2021 World Cup," Mithali said.

Gearing up for the New Zealand tour, Indian women's ODI captain Mithali Raj Saturday stressed on the need to bring the focus back on cricket after hogging the limelight for the wrong reasons following a controversial ending to their World T20 campaign.

Gearing up for the New Zealand tour, Indian women's ODI captain Mithali Raj Saturday stressed on the need to bring the focus back on cricket after hogging the limelight for the wrong reasons following a controversial ending to their World T20 campaign. Mithali was in the news after falling out with Ramesh Powar, who was the coach of the team at the recently held women's World T20 in the Caribbean where she was dropped for the semi-final against England. Their spat became public after both wrote to the BCCI and their respective letters got leaked. But the selectors have reposed their faith on Mithali who retained her place in the T20 squad and captaincy for next month's tour to New Zealand. "The way things panned out was obviously not in a very good taste. It affected everybody in a different level, in a different way," Mithali said during a promotional event here. "Now I am sure things are settled and we should give more spotlight on the sport, on the players and in the team." Mithali said she and her family had to endure a lot of stress after her controversial ouster from the team. "I can only say that the last few days were very stressful for me and my parents. And also for people around me, especially the way it panned out," she said. "It definitely did put women's cricket in the spotlight which was not needed. When you talk about non cricketing issues and not the team the focus goes away from the sport. "Now that we have a tour (vs New Zealand), it's time that we move forward. Look forward and be more positive going forward." The rift between T20 captain Harmanpreet Kaur and ODI captain Mithali was out in the open and the team was sharply divided into camps. Asked if she would go along well with Harmanpreet, Mithali said: "We will see. When the 15 individual players come together with the support staff, it's a huge and big family. "And usually in a family there will always be a difference of opinion. Everybody will not have the same kind of perspective. There will be issues and it does happen." "These issues are secondary to us... Not even secondary these things do not even come in the list of priority. But when we take on the field, we are ambassadors of the sport. On the field, we are one unit, we come as a team. We are there to give our best and perform as a unit," she said. Mithali said she is also looking forward to working with newly-appointed coach W V Raman. "It's very early to comment on him. I had met him briefly at the National Cricket Academy. We have to support him and look forward to build a team." India are scheduled to play five ODIs and three T20Is in the tour beginning on January 24. "We last toured there in 2007. Only Jhulan and I from the current team were part of the last tour. For many in the team it will be a first tour. It will be challenging. We should give more importance on the preparation. The priority will be to getting the team together," she said. "The upcoming tour will be important. It's part of the ICC Championship one-dayers and there's a point system in place. It's important for India to garner as many points as it will help us in 2021 World Cup," Mithali said.

Time to bring focus back on cricket, says Mithali Raj ahead of New Zealand tour

Viv Richards is happy that the current Indian team has come a long way in terms of aggressive attitude from the teams that he played against and credit should go to skipper Virat Kohli for infusing positive attitude.&nbsp;

"India were not like this years back (70's, 80's and 90's). But it's nice to have someone like Virat. I love it (aggression), why not? They now love to give it back. That's what cricket is all about. I love Virat's captaincy," Richards said during a promotional event.&nbsp;

While there has been criticism for Kohli's aggressive brand of captaincy, Richards finds nothing wrong.&nbsp;

"He competes hard. He expects results. A lot of people have said he's too aggressive... I don't think so. When you have a guy who can lead from the front, it can only rub off on the individuals who are following him. As you can see, the Indian team today is the team to beat in world cricket."&nbsp;

Shifting focus to the ongoing India's Test series Down Under, Richards agreed to the euphoria that Kohli's men have the best chance to beat Australia for the first time.&nbsp;

"It's going to be a great series in Australia. Aussies have fought back well after India won the opening Test in Adelaide. Even though this Indian team are the number one, you should never underestimate Australia. They are fighters.&nbsp;

"With the series one-all now, it would be a very good one. But I would say India have the perfect chance to win a series in Australia under the aggressive captaincy of Kohli."&nbsp;

Asked about the plus point of India team, he said: "I remember the days when we came here for the first time in 1970s, they had the best spinners in the world. And now they have a great pace attack as well. I think that's the plus point."&nbsp;

For Richards, Sunil Gavaskar is the 'Godfather' of Indian batting. The bulk of Gavaskar's 34 Test hundreds have come against the fearsome West Indies pace attack of 70's and early 80's.&nbsp;

"I would say this for sure that he's the godfather of Indian batsmanship. He is not playing anymore. He's still in my opinion what he would have achieved in the past would have passed down the mantle to Sachin and now we see Virat. India should be very proud to have so many talented people, who are up there in world cricket."&nbsp;

Delving on the plight of West Indies cricket, Richards hoped they were half as good as Indians.&nbsp;

"We have gone through a bad phase, but in sport you should say never say never. So long we believe that we are going to turn it around at some phase, it's just a matter of time. It may be taking longer than normal. But at some point, we will be back at our best again," he concluded.

Viv Richards is happy that the current Indian team has come a long way in terms of aggressive attitude from the teams that he played against and credit should go to skipper Virat Kohli for infusing positive attitude.

Viv Richards is happy that the current Indian team has come a long way in terms of aggressive attitude from the teams that he played against and credit should go to skipper Virat Kohli for infusing positive attitude. "India were not like this years back (70's, 80's and 90's). But it's nice to have someone like Virat. I love it (aggression), why not? They now love to give it back. That's what cricket is all about. I love Virat's captaincy," Richards said during a promotional event. While there has been criticism for Kohli's aggressive brand of captaincy, Richards finds nothing wrong. "He competes hard. He expects results. A lot of people have said he's too aggressive... I don't think so. When you have a guy who can lead from the front, it can only rub off on the individuals who are following him. As you can see, the Indian team today is the team to beat in world cricket." Shifting focus to the ongoing India's Test series Down Under, Richards agreed to the euphoria that Kohli's men have the best chance to beat Australia for the first time. "It's going to be a great series in Australia. Aussies have fought back well after India won the opening Test in Adelaide. Even though this Indian team are the number one, you should never underestimate Australia. They are fighters. "With the series one-all now, it would be a very good one. But I would say India have the perfect chance to win a series in Australia under the aggressive captaincy of Kohli." Asked about the plus point of India team, he said: "I remember the days when we came here for the first time in 1970s, they had the best spinners in the world. And now they have a great pace attack as well. I think that's the plus point." For Richards, Sunil Gavaskar is the 'Godfather' of Indian batting. The bulk of Gavaskar's 34 Test hundreds have come against the fearsome West Indies pace attack of 70's and early 80's. "I would say this for sure that he's the godfather of Indian batsmanship. He is not playing anymore. He's still in my opinion what he would have achieved in the past would have passed down the mantle to Sachin and now we see Virat. India should be very proud to have so many talented people, who are up there in world cricket." Delving on the plight of West Indies cricket, Richards hoped they were half as good as Indians. "We have gone through a bad phase, but in sport you should say never say never. So long we believe that we are going to turn it around at some phase, it's just a matter of time. It may be taking longer than normal. But at some point, we will be back at our best again," he concluded.

India under Virat has learnt to give it back: Viv Richards

Former Australia captain Allan Border defended Virat Kohli's aggression, saying cricket needs characters like the Indian skipper who exude passion on the field.

"There's not many characters in our game at the moment. The professional era has sort of beaten that out to a certain degree," Border said on Fox Cricket's podcast -- The Follow-on.

Kohli has received severe criticism from the likes of Mike Hussey, Mitchell Johnson and Sanjay Manjrekar for his aggressive celebrations in the ongoing Test series in Australia.

The Indian skipper was also involved in a series of heated exchanges with his Australian counterpart Tim Paine, which prompted umpire Chris Gafaney to intervene during the second Test here.

"I haven't seen anyone sort of carry on so much as a captain when his side takes a wicket. It's really over the top but it's good in a way. You can see some passion about what he's trying to do," Border said.

Border added that perhaps Kohli's aggression stems from the desire to cement his legacy with an away series victory.

"He's so keen to win away from home and really deserve that number one ranking that's your KPIs (key performance indicators) as a captain I suppose," he said.

Under Kohli, India suffered two back-to-back away series defeats against South Africa and England this year.

"To drive the team to be number one, which he has achieved, but to win away from home is one of those important things you notice as a captain."

Border also opined that as the leader, Kohli feels the need to manifest the passion and drive.&nbsp;

"I think he's feeling that pinch. If you look at this Indian side he's probably the only one that has the character to get really animated," he said.

"The rest of the Indian boys are very good cricketers but seem to me a quiet bunch and maybe Kohli feels as skipper he needs to lead from the front and really show some passion and drive. I think it just comes naturally to him," he added.&nbsp;

Former Australia captain Allan Border defended Virat Kohli's aggression, saying cricket needs characters like the Indian skipper who exude passion on the field. "There's not many characters in our game at the moment.

Former Australia captain Allan Border defended Virat Kohli's aggression, saying cricket needs characters like the Indian skipper who exude passion on the field. "There's not many characters in our game at the moment. The professional era has sort of beaten that out to a certain degree," Border said on Fox Cricket's podcast -- The Follow-on. Kohli has received severe criticism from the likes of Mike Hussey, Mitchell Johnson and Sanjay Manjrekar for his aggressive celebrations in the ongoing Test series in Australia. The Indian skipper was also involved in a series of heated exchanges with his Australian counterpart Tim Paine, which prompted umpire Chris Gafaney to intervene during the second Test here. "I haven't seen anyone sort of carry on so much as a captain when his side takes a wicket. It's really over the top but it's good in a way. You can see some passion about what he's trying to do," Border said. Border added that perhaps Kohli's aggression stems from the desire to cement his legacy with an away series victory. "He's so keen to win away from home and really deserve that number one ranking that's your KPIs (key performance indicators) as a captain I suppose," he said. Under Kohli, India suffered two back-to-back away series defeats against South Africa and England this year. "To drive the team to be number one, which he has achieved, but to win away from home is one of those important things you notice as a captain." Border also opined that as the leader, Kohli feels the need to manifest the passion and drive. "I think he's feeling that pinch. If you look at this Indian side he's probably the only one that has the character to get really animated," he said. "The rest of the Indian boys are very good cricketers but seem to me a quiet bunch and maybe Kohli feels as skipper he needs to lead from the front and really show some passion and drive. I think it just comes naturally to him," he added.

Former Australia captain Border defends Kohli's aggression, says cricket needs such characters

West Indies captain Rovman Powell won the toss and elected to bowl in their second one-day international against Bangladesh in Dhaka on Tuesday.

Bangladesh lead the three-match series 1-0 after taking a five-wicket win in the opener Sunday also at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium.

Bangladesh fielded an unchanged squad for the second match, while West Indies dropped Kieran Powell and brought in Chandrapaul Hemraj.

Bangladesh: Tamim Iqbal, Imrul Kayes, Soumya Sarker, Liton Das, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah Riyad, Mashrafe Mortaza (Capt), Mehidy Hasan, Rubel Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman.

West Indies: Chandrapaul Hemraj, Shai Hope, Darren Bravo, Marlon Samuels, Shimron Hetmyer, Roston Chase, Rovman Powell (Capt), Devendra Bishoo, Keemo Paul, Kemar Roach, Oshane Thomas.

West Indies captain Rovman Powell won the toss and elected to bowl in their second one-day international against Bangladesh in Dhaka on Tuesday. Bangladesh lead the three-match series 1-0 after taking a five-wicket win in the opener Sunday also at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium.

West Indies captain Rovman Powell won the toss and elected to bowl in their second one-day international against Bangladesh in Dhaka on Tuesday. Bangladesh lead the three-match series 1-0 after taking a five-wicket win in the opener Sunday also at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. Bangladesh fielded an unchanged squad for the second match, while West Indies dropped Kieran Powell and brought in Chandrapaul Hemraj. Bangladesh: Tamim Iqbal, Imrul Kayes, Soumya Sarker, Liton Das, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah Riyad, Mashrafe Mortaza (Capt), Mehidy Hasan, Rubel Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman. West Indies: Chandrapaul Hemraj, Shai Hope, Darren Bravo, Marlon Samuels, Shimron Hetmyer, Roston Chase, Rovman Powell (Capt), Devendra Bishoo, Keemo Paul, Kemar Roach, Oshane Thomas.

West Indies opt to bowl in second Bangladesh ODI

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-growth-very-solid-government-should-heed-rbis-message-imf-182761">India's growth very solid, </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-growth-very-solid-government-should-heed-rbis-message-imf-182761">government</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-growth-very-solid-government-should-heed-rbis-message-imf-182761"> should heed RBI's message: IMF</a>

It is important for the Indian government to heed the RBI's message on financial stability, IMF's Chief Economist Maurice Obstfeld said, amid reports of friction between the central bank and the finance ministry.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-bumrah-strikes-again-to-dismiss-skipper-paine-australia-1887-after-86-overs-182780">IND vs AUS: Bumrah strikes again to dismiss skipper Paine, Australia 188/7 after 86 overs</a>

Jasprit Bumrah struck again to dismiss settled Australian skipper Tim Paine at 41, with India now being just three wickets away from winning the first Test match.&nbsp;

Paine was sent back minutes after the teams resumed after lunch.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/i-cant-breathe-were-khashoggis-final-words-report-182759">'I can't breathe' were Khashoggi's final words: Report</a>

Jamal Khashoggi's final words were "I can't breathe," CNN said Sunday, citing a source who has read the transcript of an audio tape of the final moments before the journalist's murder.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/armenia-acting-pm-nikol-pashinyan-wins-in-snap-parliamentary-elections-182767">Armenia acting PM Nikol Pashinyan wins in snap parliamentary elections</a>

The electoral bloc of Armenia's acting prime minister Nikol Pashinyan won a landslide victory in Sunday's snap parliamentary elections, which were triggered by the reformist leader seeking to cement his political authority in the post-Soviet country.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-protest-through-london-in-support-of-brexit-ahead-of-crucial-vote-182758">Thousands protest through London in support of Brexit ahead of crucial</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-protest-through-london-in-support-of-brexit-ahead-of-crucial-vote-182758"> vote</a>

Ahead of a crucial vote on Britain's divorce deal with the European Union (EU), thousands of protesters marched through London in support of Brexit on Sunday amid tight security measures in place by Scotland Yard.

India's growth very solid, government should heed RBI's message: IMF It is important for the Indian government to heed the RBI's message on financial stability, IMF's Chief Economist Maurice Obstfeld said, amid reports of friction between the central bank and the finance ministry.

India's growth very solid, government should heed RBI's message: IMF It is important for the Indian government to heed the RBI's message on financial stability, IMF's Chief Economist Maurice Obstfeld said, amid reports of friction between the central bank and the finance ministry. IND vs AUS: Bumrah strikes again to dismiss skipper Paine, Australia 188/7 after 86 overs Jasprit Bumrah struck again to dismiss settled Australian skipper Tim Paine at 41, with India now being just three wickets away from winning the first Test match. Paine was sent back minutes after the teams resumed after lunch. 'I can't breathe' were Khashoggi's final words: Report Jamal Khashoggi's final words were "I can't breathe," CNN said Sunday, citing a source who has read the transcript of an audio tape of the final moments before the journalist's murder. Armenia acting PM Nikol Pashinyan wins in snap parliamentary elections The electoral bloc of Armenia's acting prime minister Nikol Pashinyan won a landslide victory in Sunday's snap parliamentary elections, which were triggered by the reformist leader seeking to cement his political authority in the post-Soviet country. Thousands protest through London in support of Brexit ahead of crucial vote Ahead of a crucial vote on Britain's divorce deal with the European Union (EU), thousands of protesters marched through London in support of Brexit on Sunday amid tight security measures in place by Scotland Yard.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Gautam Gambhir has always been a non-conformist but he has had no regrets even if it meant an "unfulfilled career", "lot of enemies" because he could "sleep peacefully at night".&nbsp;

One of the gutsiest cricketers that the country has ever produced, Gambhir feels that the Indian society in general does not warm up to people who are forthright in their views.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's not only about cricketing system, in general our society doesn't like to be shown the mirror. We like to maintain the status quo and not look at the reality. I get suffocated by all this," Gambhir, who is set to retire from competitive cricket after Sunday told PTI in an exclusive interview.&nbsp;

Whether it's selectors or DDCA administration, Gambhir stood for whatever he felt right especially if those were cricketing issues.&nbsp;

"I can't tolerate wrong things and artificiality. A lot of people around me say that I could have been diplomatic but that is simply not me. Yes, I made many enemies but I slept in peace," said Gambhir on the penultimate day of his competitive career.&nbsp;

He had an ugly altercation with KP Bhaskar in 2017 when he alleged that the former coach was trying to destroy career of junior players, had arguments with Chetan Chauhan over a rookie bowler called Navdeep Saini, who he thought was cut out for higher level.&nbsp;

Not to forget when he was mad at a state selector, who wanted to get a below par club cricketer in the Delhi Ranji side after the team had won three straight Ranji games.&nbsp;

Did he never get scared that taking on establishment at every step could have affected his career?&nbsp;&nbsp;

For someone, who has always been high on emotional quotient, Gambhir did let his guard down for once.&nbsp;

"It did affect me. I am human after all but then like I said, I could not have let the unfair (practices) prevail.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Look, I am not being holier than thou but some of the things that go on in our system are absolutely ridiculous. I was vocal about them and I paid the price by having an unfulfilled career," Gambhir said with a tinge of emotion in his voice.&nbsp;

So is Gautam Gambhir a misunderstood man? He replied: "Misunderstood a lot of times. For example, if I said, a captain is as good as his team, media and critics thought I was taking a dig at MS Dhoni.&nbsp;

"These critics would conveniently ignore when I repeated the statement when I was leading KKR or Delhi Ranji team. All these misunderstandings played a negative part in my career," he admitted.&nbsp;

Son of a wealthy businessman, Gambhir said that the hunger to carve his own identity always urged him to push the limits.&nbsp;

"A lot of people would say that I didn't need to play the game as I came from an affluent background. But I wanted to have an identity of my own, I wanted my dad should be known through me rather than the other way round.&nbsp;

"Besides, I didn't get anything on a platter, as I had to fight at each and every step. Therefore I am up for a scrap each time someone throws a challenge at me," the fighter in him comes out.&nbsp;

With 8.63 million followers on Twitter, Gambhir's strong and opinionated views on many political issues have got him mixed reactions.&nbsp;

He has recently criticised the Delhi government for not being able to curb the menace of air pollution in the national capital.&nbsp;

Ask him what made him take on prominent politicians or a political party on social media, the highest scorer in two World Cup finals would tell you that he does nothing with any prior "planning".&nbsp;

"I am not taking anyone (on) or I am not doing it with any planning. It just comes naturally to me. I want to raise issues rather than get personal. I think it is my right to question if things are not falling in place. I would urge each Indian to do it, otherwise we will be steamrolled by the system," Gambhir replied.&nbsp;

There are talks that Gambhir will make for a tough no-nonsense BCCI administrator but the left-hander doesn't want to entertain those thoughts at the moment.&nbsp;

"It is too early to say. I want to bring about a change but at what platform it is still undecided. Lets see what happens."&nbsp;

He is retiring in the midst of the season despite scoring a hundred in his final appearance.&nbsp;

"Well, there is never a right time or a wrong time for decisions such as retirement. I have been thinking about it for sometime but enthusiasm and eagerness to win got the better of retirement thoughts."&nbsp;

His shoulder niggle also hastened the retirement.&nbsp;

"I wanted to captain and play for the entire season but due to my shoulder niggles I thought I should re-look at that plan. I discussed with my family and they were also of the opinion that I should move on.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"In fact, it is good as so many youngsters are also coming through. At least they will get a look in now to play for Delhi," said the 37-year-old.&nbsp;

By his own admission, he was never destiny's favourite child and could have played lot more (for India).&nbsp;

"Well, destiny has been mixed to me. I think I was good enough to play a lot more but variables were not in favour. But then I also had the honour of winning not one but two World Cup titles. So, the hundred in my last game is one more day when destiny has been kind to me."

Gautam Gambhir has always been a non-conformist but he has had no regrets even if it meant an "unfulfilled career", "lot of enemies" because he could "sleep peacefully at night".

Gautam Gambhir has always been a non-conformist but he has had no regrets even if it meant an "unfulfilled career", "lot of enemies" because he could "sleep peacefully at night". One of the gutsiest cricketers that the country has ever produced, Gambhir feels that the Indian society in general does not warm up to people who are forthright in their views. "It's not only about cricketing system, in general our society doesn't like to be shown the mirror. We like to maintain the status quo and not look at the reality. I get suffocated by all this," Gambhir, who is set to retire from competitive cricket after Sunday told PTI in an exclusive interview. Whether it's selectors or DDCA administration, Gambhir stood for whatever he felt right especially if those were cricketing issues. "I can't tolerate wrong things and artificiality. A lot of people around me say that I could have been diplomatic but that is simply not me. Yes, I made many enemies but I slept in peace," said Gambhir on the penultimate day of his competitive career. He had an ugly altercation with KP Bhaskar in 2017 when he alleged that the former coach was trying to destroy career of junior players, had arguments with Chetan Chauhan over a rookie bowler called Navdeep Saini, who he thought was cut out for higher level. Not to forget when he was mad at a state selector, who wanted to get a below par club cricketer in the Delhi Ranji side after the team had won three straight Ranji games. Did he never get scared that taking on establishment at every step could have affected his career? For someone, who has always been high on emotional quotient, Gambhir did let his guard down for once. "It did affect me. I am human after all but then like I said, I could not have let the unfair (practices) prevail. "Look, I am not being holier than thou but some of the things that go on in our system are absolutely ridiculous. I was vocal about them and I paid the price by having an unfulfilled career," Gambhir said with a tinge of emotion in his voice. So is Gautam Gambhir a misunderstood man? He replied: "Misunderstood a lot of times. For example, if I said, a captain is as good as his team, media and critics thought I was taking a dig at MS Dhoni. "These critics would conveniently ignore when I repeated the statement when I was leading KKR or Delhi Ranji team. All these misunderstandings played a negative part in my career," he admitted. Son of a wealthy businessman, Gambhir said that the hunger to carve his own identity always urged him to push the limits. "A lot of people would say that I didn't need to play the game as I came from an affluent background. But I wanted to have an identity of my own, I wanted my dad should be known through me rather than the other way round. "Besides, I didn't get anything on a platter, as I had to fight at each and every step. Therefore I am up for a scrap each time someone throws a challenge at me," the fighter in him comes out. With 8.63 million followers on Twitter, Gambhir's strong and opinionated views on many political issues have got him mixed reactions. He has recently criticised the Delhi government for not being able to curb the menace of air pollution in the national capital. Ask him what made him take on prominent politicians or a political party on social media, the highest scorer in two World Cup finals would tell you that he does nothing with any prior "planning". "I am not taking anyone (on) or I am not doing it with any planning. It just comes naturally to me. I want to raise issues rather than get personal. I think it is my right to question if things are not falling in place. I would urge each Indian to do it, otherwise we will be steamrolled by the system," Gambhir replied. There are talks that Gambhir will make for a tough no-nonsense BCCI administrator but the left-hander doesn't want to entertain those thoughts at the moment. "It is too early to say. I want to bring about a change but at what platform it is still undecided. Lets see what happens." He is retiring in the midst of the season despite scoring a hundred in his final appearance. "Well, there is never a right time or a wrong time for decisions such as retirement. I have been thinking about it for sometime but enthusiasm and eagerness to win got the better of retirement thoughts." His shoulder niggle also hastened the retirement. "I wanted to captain and play for the entire season but due to my shoulder niggles I thought I should re-look at that plan. I discussed with my family and they were also of the opinion that I should move on. "In fact, it is good as so many youngsters are also coming through. At least they will get a look in now to play for Delhi," said the 37-year-old. By his own admission, he was never destiny's favourite child and could have played lot more (for India). "Well, destiny has been mixed to me. I think I was good enough to play a lot more but variables were not in favour. But then I also had the honour of winning not one but two World Cup titles. So, the hundred in my last game is one more day when destiny has been kind to me."

Yes I made enemies but I slept in peace: Gautam Gambhir

VVS Laxman is a name that needs no introduction. In his 15-year-long career, the man has played some breathtaking knocks for India, saved the team in some tricky situations, and set umpteen records.&nbsp;

However, only a few know that the man might not even have become a cricketer in the first place.

Hailing from a family of doctors, everyone thought the former Indian cricketer would go into medicine.&nbsp; But at the age of 17, and on the verge of getting a medical seat, he made the decision that would change his life completely.

"I was born to eminent doctors in Hyderabad, who were and still continue to be my role models. And also I enjoyed science. In my 10th class, I was first in the state in science and in my 11th and 12th class also I chose science only. I even cracked the common entrance exam for engineering and medicine and through sports quota I almost got enrolled in one of the famous medical colleges in Hyderabad, and simultaneously my cricketing career was also progressing, so that was one of the toughest decisions for me and my family because in early 1990's, cricket was not a professional but an amateur sport."

The former right-handed batsman added that although his parents did not stand in the way of his dream, they did give him a deadline.&nbsp;

"The opportunity came with a deadline of five years. Within those five years, if I don’t achieve my dream of playing for my country, I had to leave the game, come and again pursue my goal of becoming a doctor.

Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-captain-steve-waughs-side-was-best-i-played-against-says-vvs-laxman-182319">Steve Waugh's side was best I played against, says VVS Laxman</a>

Since his cricketing days, Laxman has been an admirer of former Indian captain Anil Kumble. He was one of the few cricketers who openly spoke about the strained relation between Kumble and current Indian captain Virat Kohli, which saw Kumble's exit as the Indian coach.

Watch the full interview here:

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When asked to share the historical moment when Kumble bowled with a broken jaw, Laxman said if anyone could do that was only Anil.&nbsp;

"How can you imagine someone who has got a fractured jaw to come and bowl for his country. He was in immense pain but he knew that we (Indian team) were not able to take wickets.&nbsp;

Laxman also added that nobody was aware of Kumble's decision.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-created-legacy-with-his-batting-says-vvs-laxman-to-wion-182132">Virat Kohli created 'legacy' with his batting, VVS Laxman tells WION</a>

"None of us knew that he would come and suddenly when we saw him walking down, with a bandaged jaw we were all surprised. But if anyone who could do that was Anil as he always had that fighting spirit."

Laxman had an illustrious career where he has played 134 Tests and 86 ODIs but the former batsman had many on and off the scuffles with former Indian coach Greg Chappell.

On being asked what do you think was the reason behind such altercations, Laxman said that Chappell lacked man management skills.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Currently coached by Ravi Shastri, the Men in Blue are on a tour of Australia where they will play four Tests, three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and three Twenty20 International (T20I) matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;

VVS Laxman is a name that needs no introduction. In his 15-year-long career, the man has played some breathtaking knocks for India, saved the team in some tricky situations, and set umpteen records.

VVS Laxman is a name that needs no introduction. In his 15-year-long career, the man has played some breathtaking knocks for India, saved the team in some tricky situations, and set umpteen records. However, only a few know that the man might not even have become a cricketer in the first place. Hailing from a family of doctors, everyone thought the former Indian cricketer would go into medicine. But at the age of 17, and on the verge of getting a medical seat, he made the decision that would change his life completely. "I was born to eminent doctors in Hyderabad, who were and still continue to be my role models. And also I enjoyed science. In my 10th class, I was first in the state in science and in my 11th and 12th class also I chose science only. I even cracked the common entrance exam for engineering and medicine and through sports quota I almost got enrolled in one of the famous medical colleges in Hyderabad, and simultaneously my cricketing career was also progressing, so that was one of the toughest decisions for me and my family because in early 1990's, cricket was not a professional but an amateur sport." The former right-handed batsman added that although his parents did not stand in the way of his dream, they did give him a deadline. "The opportunity came with a deadline of five years. Within those five years, if I don’t achieve my dream of playing for my country, I had to leave the game, come and again pursue my goal of becoming a doctor. Also read | Steve Waugh's side was best I played against, says VVS Laxman Since his cricketing days, Laxman has been an admirer of former Indian captain Anil Kumble. He was one of the few cricketers who openly spoke about the strained relation between Kumble and current Indian captain Virat Kohli, which saw Kumble's exit as the Indian coach. Watch the full interview here: × When asked to share the historical moment when Kumble bowled with a broken jaw, Laxman said if anyone could do that was only Anil. "How can you imagine someone who has got a fractured jaw to come and bowl for his country. He was in immense pain but he knew that we (Indian team) were not able to take wickets. Laxman also added that nobody was aware of Kumble's decision. Also read | Virat Kohli created 'legacy' with his batting, VVS Laxman tells WION "None of us knew that he would come and suddenly when we saw him walking down, with a bandaged jaw we were all surprised. But if anyone who could do that was Anil as he always had that fighting spirit." Laxman had an illustrious career where he has played 134 Tests and 86 ODIs but the former batsman had many on and off the scuffles with former Indian coach Greg Chappell. On being asked what do you think was the reason behind such altercations, Laxman said that Chappell lacked man management skills. Currently coached by Ravi Shastri, the Men in Blue are on a tour of Australia where they will play four Tests, three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and three Twenty20 International (T20I) matches.

Decided to take up cricket when it was amateur sport, VVS Laxman tells WION

Spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and paceman Mohammed Shami combined to tear through <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2018-19-schedule-teams-time-and-venue-177740">Australia</a>'s top order and bring India within six wickets of victory in the series-opening Test on Sunday.

Shaun Marsh was 31 not out and Travis Head on 11, the pair fighting a desperate rearguard action to nudge Australia to 104 for four at stumps on day four, still 219 runs short of their victory target of 323.

Australia will need to defy history to chase down the total and survive the wiles of Ashwin on a fifth-day pitch.

The highest successful run chase was in 1902, when the hosts scored 315 for six to beat England.

Also Read | <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-here-is-why-australian-players-are-wearing-black-armbands-182613">Why Australian players are wearing black armbands</a>

Since the second World War, no team has bettered West Indies' 239 for five to defeat Australia by five wickets in 1982.

Having bowled India out for 307 after lunch, with spinner Nathan Lyon taking six wickets, Australia's openers proceeded to 28 without loss before Ashwin broke through.

The spinner dismissed Aaron Finch in bizarre circumstances, the opener given out caught for 11 after a fuller delivery pitched, pinged off his pad and whistled by his glove.

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Fifties from Pujara and Rahane, followed by disciplined bowling help India finish the day on top in Adelaide.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> DAY 4 REPORT ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/iC3EFznfsn">https://t.co/iC3EFznfsn</a> <a href="https://t.co/ad351Vp6Fz">pic.twitter.com/ad351Vp6Fz</a>
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Finch conferred with fellow opener Marcus Harris then declined to review the decision, trudging off as the technology showed no clear evidence that he had gloved the ball.

Opener Harris and number three Usman Khawaja were soon living dangerously.

Harris, on 14, flashed his bat at Shami's fifth ball after tea and nicked behind to the slips where a diving Cheteshwar Pujara put a difficult chance down.

The debutant was eventually out for a second successive 26, edging through to wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant with another aggressive swipe at Shami.

Pinned down by Ashwin, Khawaja tried to break the shackles with aggression but skied a catch to Rohit Sharma in the deep to fall for a scratchy eight from 42 balls.

Handscomb was given a life on 13, a half-chance put down by Lokesh Rahul in close after he smashed Ashwin hard into the fielder's hands.

He squandered the reprieve, adding only one run before lobbing a miscued pull to Pujara at midwicket, with Shami making the breakthrough.

India's celebrations were tempered moments later when fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah hurt his left shoulder while fielding and promptly exited the ground with the team physio.

Marsh rode his luck, all but chopping Shami onto his stumps with 10 overs to play.

Australia will hope the number four can bring his Sheffield Shield form on day five, having scored an unbeaten 163 as Western Australia chased down 313 in the fourth innings to beat South Australia in the most recent match at the venue.

India had earlier blown a chance to bat Australia out of the match with a quick and shambolic collapse after lunch.

Having resumed on 260 for five in complete control, the tourists lost their last four wickets for four runs in a panicky bout of tail-end slogging.

Hard-hitting wicketkeeper Pant was out for 28 blasting Lyon into the deep, before Ashwin pulled Mitchell Starc straight to Harris at deep backward point to fall for five.

Having compiled a patient 70, Ajinkya Rahane caught his teammates' disease and reverse-swept Lyon straight to Starc.

The offspinner claimed tailender Shami for a duck the next ball to finish with 6-122, having dismissed Pujara for 71 before lunch and Kohli (34) late on day three.

Starc (3-40) wrapped up India's innings with a short ball removing Ishant for a duck.

Spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and paceman Mohammed Shami combined to tear through Australia's top order and bring India within six wickets of victory in the series-opening Test on Sunday.

Spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and paceman Mohammed Shami combined to tear through Australia's top order and bring India within six wickets of victory in the series-opening Test on Sunday. Shaun Marsh was 31 not out and Travis Head on 11, the pair fighting a desperate rearguard action to nudge Australia to 104 for four at stumps on day four, still 219 runs short of their victory target of 323. Australia will need to defy history to chase down the total and survive the wiles of Ashwin on a fifth-day pitch. The highest successful run chase was in 1902, when the hosts scored 315 for six to beat England. Also Read | Why Australian players are wearing black armbands Since the second World War, no team has bettered West Indies' 239 for five to defeat Australia by five wickets in 1982. Having bowled India out for 307 after lunch, with spinner Nathan Lyon taking six wickets, Australia's openers proceeded to 28 without loss before Ashwin broke through. The spinner dismissed Aaron Finch in bizarre circumstances, the opener given out caught for 11 after a fuller delivery pitched, pinged off his pad and whistled by his glove. Fifties from Pujara and Rahane, followed by disciplined bowling help India finish the day on top in Adelaide.#AUSvIND DAY 4 REPORT ⬇️ https://t.co/iC3EFznfsn pic.twitter.com/ad351Vp6Fz — ICC (@ICC) December 9, 2018 × Finch conferred with fellow opener Marcus Harris then declined to review the decision, trudging off as the technology showed no clear evidence that he had gloved the ball. Opener Harris and number three Usman Khawaja were soon living dangerously. Harris, on 14, flashed his bat at Shami's fifth ball after tea and nicked behind to the slips where a diving Cheteshwar Pujara put a difficult chance down. The debutant was eventually out for a second successive 26, edging through to wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant with another aggressive swipe at Shami. Pinned down by Ashwin, Khawaja tried to break the shackles with aggression but skied a catch to Rohit Sharma in the deep to fall for a scratchy eight from 42 balls. Handscomb was given a life on 13, a half-chance put down by Lokesh Rahul in close after he smashed Ashwin hard into the fielder's hands. He squandered the reprieve, adding only one run before lobbing a miscued pull to Pujara at midwicket, with Shami making the breakthrough. India's celebrations were tempered moments later when fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah hurt his left shoulder while fielding and promptly exited the ground with the team physio. Marsh rode his luck, all but chopping Shami onto his stumps with 10 overs to play. Australia will hope the number four can bring his Sheffield Shield form on day five, having scored an unbeaten 163 as Western Australia chased down 313 in the fourth innings to beat South Australia in the most recent match at the venue. India had earlier blown a chance to bat Australia out of the match with a quick and shambolic collapse after lunch. Having resumed on 260 for five in complete control, the tourists lost their last four wickets for four runs in a panicky bout of tail-end slogging. Hard-hitting wicketkeeper Pant was out for 28 blasting Lyon into the deep, before Ashwin pulled Mitchell Starc straight to Harris at deep backward point to fall for five. Having compiled a patient 70, Ajinkya Rahane caught his teammates' disease and reverse-swept Lyon straight to Starc. The offspinner claimed tailender Shami for a duck the next ball to finish with 6-122, having dismissed Pujara for 71 before lunch and Kohli (34) late on day three. Starc (3-40) wrapped up India's innings with a short ball removing Ishant for a duck.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 4: India sniff victory after Australia collapse in Adelaide

Cricketers Ben Stokes and Alex Hales were fined on Friday for their involvement in a nightclub altercation but were cleared to play for England after match bans were either suspended or declared served.

All-rounder Stokes and batsman Hales had appeared before a two-day disciplinary hearing after the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) charged the pair with bringing the game into disrepute following the September 2017 incident in Bristol.

Stokes was handed an eight-match ban by the disciplinary panel, which accepted that he had already missed that number of games and therefore remained eligible for immediate selection.

The player, who was cleared of affray at Bristol crown court last August, was also fined a total of 30,000 pounds ($38,193.00) with half to be paid to charity.

Hales, who faced no criminal charges, was given a six-match ban from England white ball (one day) matches, of which two had been missed already and the rest were suspended for 12 months -- leaving him also available for selection.

He was fined a total of 17,500 pounds, with 10,000 of that sum also suspended.

The pair, who have both resumed their international careers, had risked anything from a warning to the termination of contract.

Each was charged with two counts of breaching an ECB directive concerning acts "which may be prejudicial to the interests of cricket or which may bring the ECB, the game of cricket or any cricketer or group of cricketers into disrepute."

England take on West Indies in three tests, five one-day internationals and three Twenty20 internationals from January to March.

Stokes had been accused of knocking out Ryan Ali and Ryan Hale in a brawl in Bristol, southwest England, just hours after he had played in a one-day international against the West Indies in September last year.

His lawyer had said in a statement after he was cleared of affray that the case had cost the player the England vice-captaincy as well as his place on an Ashes tour to Australia and other England matches.

"Cricket and family are my life," the 27-year-old Stokes said in a statement on the ECB's website on Friday.

"This incident has been a huge burden for the last 15 months. I am relieved to get back to playing the game that I love without this hanging over me.

"Although the disciplinary process is now over, I have learned lessons that will stay with me for much longer."

Cricketers Ben Stokes and Alex Hales were fined on Friday for their involvement in a nightclub altercation but were cleared to play for England after match bans were either suspended or declared served.

Cricketers Ben Stokes and Alex Hales were fined on Friday for their involvement in a nightclub altercation but were cleared to play for England after match bans were either suspended or declared served. All-rounder Stokes and batsman Hales had appeared before a two-day disciplinary hearing after the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) charged the pair with bringing the game into disrepute following the September 2017 incident in Bristol. Stokes was handed an eight-match ban by the disciplinary panel, which accepted that he had already missed that number of games and therefore remained eligible for immediate selection. The player, who was cleared of affray at Bristol crown court last August, was also fined a total of 30,000 pounds ($38,193.00) with half to be paid to charity. Hales, who faced no criminal charges, was given a six-match ban from England white ball (one day) matches, of which two had been missed already and the rest were suspended for 12 months -- leaving him also available for selection. He was fined a total of 17,500 pounds, with 10,000 of that sum also suspended. The pair, who have both resumed their international careers, had risked anything from a warning to the termination of contract. Each was charged with two counts of breaching an ECB directive concerning acts "which may be prejudicial to the interests of cricket or which may bring the ECB, the game of cricket or any cricketer or group of cricketers into disrepute." England take on West Indies in three tests, five one-day internationals and three Twenty20 internationals from January to March. Stokes had been accused of knocking out Ryan Ali and Ryan Hale in a brawl in Bristol, southwest England, just hours after he had played in a one-day international against the West Indies in September last year. His lawyer had said in a statement after he was cleared of affray that the case had cost the player the England vice-captaincy as well as his place on an Ashes tour to Australia and other England matches. "Cricket and family are my life," the 27-year-old Stokes said in a statement on the ECB's website on Friday. "This incident has been a huge burden for the last 15 months. I am relieved to get back to playing the game that I love without this hanging over me. "Although the disciplinary process is now over, I have learned lessons that will stay with me for much longer."

Ben Stokes and Alex Hales fined but free to play for England

Australia were 170-6&nbsp;after 75&nbsp;overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide.

Travis Head scored a half-century to salvage Australian innings, he is currently batting with&nbsp;Pat Cummins.

Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced.

A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive.

His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show.

In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done.

He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot.

Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26.

Australia were&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-2-australia-lose-quick-wickets-57-2-at-lunch-182054">57-2 at lunch</a>&nbsp;with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs.

Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin.

Peter Handscomb, who was batting at 34, lost his wicket to Jasprit Bumrah.

Skipper and wicketkeeper-batsman Tim Paine was sent back by Ishant Sharma at a score of five.

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Half-century for Travis Head! 
 
Brings up the mark with a single to loud applause in Adelaide. It's a much-needed knock for Australia. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE 
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Earlier,&nbsp;India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total.

When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0.

Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

Australia were 170-6 after 75 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide. Travis Head scored a half-century to salvage Australian innings, he is currently batting with Pat Cummins.

Australia were 170-6 after 75 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide. Travis Head scored a half-century to salvage Australian innings, he is currently batting with Pat Cummins. Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced. A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive. His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show. In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done. He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot. Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26. Australia were 57-2 at lunch with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs. Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin. Peter Handscomb, who was batting at 34, lost his wicket to Jasprit Bumrah. Skipper and wicketkeeper-batsman Tim Paine was sent back by Ishant Sharma at a score of five. Half-century for Travis Head! Brings up the mark with a single to loud applause in Adelaide. It's a much-needed knock for Australia. #AUSvIND LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/PIvQwf7zOJ — ICC (@ICC) December 7, 2018 × Earlier, India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total. When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0. Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 2: Australia at 170-6 after 75 overs

Australia were 121-5 after 60 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide.

Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced.

A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive.

His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show.

In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done.

He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot.

Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26.

Australia were&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-2-australia-lose-quick-wickets-57-2-at-lunch-182054">57-2 at lunch</a>&nbsp;with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs.

Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin.

Peter Handscomb, who was batting at 34, lost his wicket to Jasprit Bumrah.

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India in control! 
 
Bumrah draws the edge from Handscomb, and Australia are five down for 120. 
 
Captain Paine is in. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE 
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Earlier,&nbsp;India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total.

When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0.

Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

Australia were 121-5 after 60 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide. Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced.

Australia were 121-5 after 60 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide. Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced. A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive. His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show. In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done. He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot. Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26. Australia were 57-2 at lunch with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs. Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin. Peter Handscomb, who was batting at 34, lost his wicket to Jasprit Bumrah. India in control! Bumrah draws the edge from Handscomb, and Australia are five down for 120. Captain Paine is in. #AUSvIND LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/KVR0W7w5te — ICC (@ICC) December 7, 2018 × Earlier, India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total. When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0. Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 2: Australia at 121-5 after 60

India's spinner <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=ashwin">Ravichandran Ashwin</a> struck thrice as Australia were 99-4 after 47 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of opnening Test on Friday in Adelaide.

Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced.

A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive.

His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show.

In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done.

He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot.

Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26.

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Khawaja falls, huge wicket for India. 
 
It's Ashwin again. He has the left-hand bat caught behind, and he's on a roll. 
 
Australia are 87/4, and need to rebuild. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE 
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Australia were <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-2-australia-lose-quick-wickets-57-2-at-lunch-182054">57-2 at lunch</a> with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs.

Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin.

Earlier,&nbsp;India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total.

When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0.

Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

India's spinner Ravichandran Ashwin struck thrice as Australia were 99-4 after 47 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of opnening Test on Friday in Adelaide.

India's spinner Ravichandran Ashwin struck thrice as Australia were 99-4 after 47 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of opnening Test on Friday in Adelaide. Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced. A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive. His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show. In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done. He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot. Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26. Khawaja falls, huge wicket for India. It's Ashwin again. He has the left-hand bat caught behind, and he's on a roll. Australia are 87/4, and need to rebuild. #AUSvIND LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/TsIacZW0TG — ICC (@ICC) December 7, 2018 × Australia were 57-2 at lunch with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs. Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin. Earlier, India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total. When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0. Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 2: Ashwin strikes thrice as Australia at 104-4 after 50 overs

Australia lost two wickets in the morning session Friday in reply to India's 250, leaving the first Test evenly poised with the experienced Usman Khawaja and Shaun Marsh at the crease.

Just after coming from lunch,&nbsp;Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-1-cheteshwar-pujara-rescues-india-in-adelaide-oval-181878">India finished the opening day at 250-9</a>, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total.

When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0.

Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

In reply, Australia were 57-2 at lunch with Khawaja not out 21 and Marsh unbeaten on one.

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🍴 
 
Patience has been key in the morning session of day two in Adelaide. India have sent back the openers, but Usman Khawaja is holding steady. Australia go to lunch on 57/2. 
 
FOLLOW <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE 
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The home team got off to a horror start with Aaron Finch's credentials as an opener again called into question after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced.

A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive.

In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done.

He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot.

Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26.

But he was undone by a drifting ball from spinner Ravi Ashwin, getting an edge to Murali Vijay at silly mid-off, ending a 45-run partnership with Khawaja.

Paceman Shami went off the field in the run-up to lunch, apparently due to a shoulder niggle, but soon returned, although he did not bowl again.

Australia lost two wickets in the morning session Friday in reply to India's 250, leaving the first Test evenly poised with the experienced Usman Khawaja and Shaun Marsh at the crease.

Australia lost two wickets in the morning session Friday in reply to India's 250, leaving the first Test evenly poised with the experienced Usman Khawaja and Shaun Marsh at the crease. Just after coming from lunch, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs. India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total. When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0. Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each. In reply, Australia were 57-2 at lunch with Khawaja not out 21 and Marsh unbeaten on one. 🍴 Patience has been key in the morning session of day two in Adelaide. India have sent back the openers, but Usman Khawaja is holding steady. Australia go to lunch on 57/2. FOLLOW #AUSvIND LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/b42Ms9a5te — ICC (@ICC) December 7, 2018 × The home team got off to a horror start with Aaron Finch's credentials as an opener again called into question after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced. A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive. In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done. He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot. Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26. But he was undone by a drifting ball from spinner Ravi Ashwin, getting an edge to Murali Vijay at silly mid-off, ending a 45-run partnership with Khawaja. Paceman Shami went off the field in the run-up to lunch, apparently due to a shoulder niggle, but soon returned, although he did not bowl again.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 2: Australia lose quick wickets, 65-3 after 32 overs

Cheteshwar Pujara scored a half-century to salvage Indian innings in the opening Test on Thursday in Adelaide as the visitors were at stumbled at 214-8 after 83 overs.

Pujara played a responsible innings and was unbeaten at 73 after facing 194 balls.

He found a determined&nbsp;ally in&nbsp;R Ashwin, who lost his wicket after scoring a crucial 25 runs for his team.

After playing several defensive shots, Ishant Sharma returned to the pavilion&nbsp;as India's last wicket after scoring four runs.

For Australia, spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail as the Virat-led staggered to 143 for six at tea.

Having won the toss and elected to bat, India resumed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-1-india-129-6-after-50-overs-181803">after lunch on 56</a> for four after a disastrous morning of batsmen falling to Australia's pacemen with a slew of poor shots.

Pujara and Rohit Sharma, recalled at the expense of Hanuma Vihari, were pinned down after the break by disciplined bowling and the latter tried to break the shackles by attacking Lyon.

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Cummins snares Ashwin! 
 
He walks back for a 76-ball 25, and Australia have the breakthrough. Ashwin's 62-run stand with Pujara is by far India's best on the day. 
 
Can they rebuild? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/QxBVyIYP3G">pic.twitter.com/QxBVyIYP3G</a>
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He slog-swept the spinner for six but it was a risky play as debutant Marcus Harris leaped to catch the ball just behind the rope before tossing it back inside in a failed bid to save runs.

Rohit was out next ball with another ham-fisted attempt to clear the short square boundary, skying a simple catch to the same fielder after Lyon had pitched the ball shorter.

Rishabh Pant was greeted with fierce pace from Mitchell Starc, who beat the young wicketkeeper's bat twice in succession and followed up the deliveries with verbal assaults.

He responded in turn by smashing Starc for six behind square to bring up India's 100th run and then sent an edge flying past the slips for four.

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Half-century for Pujara! 👏 
 
He's been the lone positive for India so far on the first day of the Adelaide Test. 
 
Can he push the total to respectability? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/ByXKTHbt9P">pic.twitter.com/ByXKTHbt9P</a>
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Before that, Australia grabbed early wickets, including the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli</a>, to have India on the ropes.

On a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

India have never won a Test series in Australia.

Cheteshwar Pujara scored a half-century to salvage Indian innings in the opening Test on Thursday in Adelaide as the visitors were at stumbled at 214-8 after 83 overs.

Cheteshwar Pujara scored a half-century to salvage Indian innings in the opening Test on Thursday in Adelaide as the visitors were at stumbled at 214-8 after 83 overs. Pujara played a responsible innings and was unbeaten at 73 after facing 194 balls. He found a determined ally in R Ashwin, who lost his wicket after scoring a crucial 25 runs for his team. After playing several defensive shots, Ishant Sharma returned to the pavilion as India's last wicket after scoring four runs. For Australia, spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail as the Virat-led staggered to 143 for six at tea. Having won the toss and elected to bat, India resumed after lunch on 56 for four after a disastrous morning of batsmen falling to Australia's pacemen with a slew of poor shots. Pujara and Rohit Sharma, recalled at the expense of Hanuma Vihari, were pinned down after the break by disciplined bowling and the latter tried to break the shackles by attacking Lyon. Cummins snares Ashwin! He walks back for a 76-ball 25, and Australia have the breakthrough. Ashwin's 62-run stand with Pujara is by far India's best on the day. Can they rebuild? #AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/QxBVyIYP3G — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × He slog-swept the spinner for six but it was a risky play as debutant Marcus Harris leaped to catch the ball just behind the rope before tossing it back inside in a failed bid to save runs. Rohit was out next ball with another ham-fisted attempt to clear the short square boundary, skying a simple catch to the same fielder after Lyon had pitched the ball shorter. Rishabh Pant was greeted with fierce pace from Mitchell Starc, who beat the young wicketkeeper's bat twice in succession and followed up the deliveries with verbal assaults. He responded in turn by smashing Starc for six behind square to bring up India's 100th run and then sent an edge flying past the slips for four. Half-century for Pujara! 👏 He's been the lone positive for India so far on the first day of the Adelaide Test. Can he push the total to respectability? #AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/ByXKTHbt9P — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × Before that, Australia grabbed early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes. On a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. India have never won a Test series in Australia.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: India at 214-8 after 83 overs

Pakistan's leg-spinner <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/yasir-shah-one-of-the-best-spinners-in-modern-cricket-179618">Yasir Shah</a> Thursday became the fastest cricketer to take 200 Test wickets, breaking an 82-year-old record on the fourth day of the third Test against New Zealand.&nbsp;

The 32-year-old trapped nightwatchman Will Somerville leg before for four -- his second wicket of the New Zealand second innings -- to reach the milestone in his 33rd Test, beating Australian leg-spinner Clarrie Grimmett's record of 36 Tests achieved against South Africa in Johannesburg in 1936.&nbsp;

Yasir, whose 14 wickets helped Pakistan level the series 1-1 in Dubai, now has 27 wickets in the three Tests against New Zealand.

His 14 for 184 were the second best match figures in a Test for Pakistan, behind former captain and current prime minister of Pakistan Imran Khan, who bagged 14 for 116 against Sri Lanka in Lahore in 1982.&nbsp;

New Zealand, resuming at 26 for 2 on Thursday, fell to 37 for 3 after Yasir removed Somerville and were still needing 37 runs to make Pakistan bat again.&nbsp;

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Yasir Shah becomes the fastest to 200 Test wickets. 👏 
 
He traps nightwatchman Somerville in front and reaches the landmark in just his 33rd Test! 
 
Congratulations!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvNZ</a> LIVE ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/cS8PI6iRJl">https://t.co/cS8PI6iRJl</a> <a href="https://t.co/mdtFVLaqOZ">pic.twitter.com/mdtFVLaqOZ</a>
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Yasir began the Abu Dhabi Test with 195 wickets in 32 Tests and on the opening day grabbed three early wickets but BJ Watling resisted with 77 not out, leaving him having to complete his landmark in the second innings.

Since taking seven wickets on debut against Australia in 2014, Yasir has been a key figure in Pakistan's Test team.

He took 12 wickets in that 2-0 series win over Australia in United Arab Emirates in 2014 and followed that with 15 against New Zealand in a 1-1 draw the same year.

That was followed by 24 wickets against Sri Lanka in 2015 and 10 in a match to beat England at Lord's a year later. He took 21 and 25 wickets respectively in series wins over the West Indies.

Yasir was also the fastest Pakistani to 50 wickets (nine Tests), reached 100 wickets in 17 Tests -- second only to Englishman George Lohmann who took 16 matches during a Test in Johannesburg in 1896.

Pakistan's leg-spinner Yasir Shah Thursday became the fastest cricketer to take 200 Test wickets, breaking an 82-year-old record on the fourth day of the third Test against New Zealand.

Pakistan's leg-spinner Yasir Shah Thursday became the fastest cricketer to take 200 Test wickets, breaking an 82-year-old record on the fourth day of the third Test against New Zealand. The 32-year-old trapped nightwatchman Will Somerville leg before for four -- his second wicket of the New Zealand second innings -- to reach the milestone in his 33rd Test, beating Australian leg-spinner Clarrie Grimmett's record of 36 Tests achieved against South Africa in Johannesburg in 1936. Yasir, whose 14 wickets helped Pakistan level the series 1-1 in Dubai, now has 27 wickets in the three Tests against New Zealand. His 14 for 184 were the second best match figures in a Test for Pakistan, behind former captain and current prime minister of Pakistan Imran Khan, who bagged 14 for 116 against Sri Lanka in Lahore in 1982. New Zealand, resuming at 26 for 2 on Thursday, fell to 37 for 3 after Yasir removed Somerville and were still needing 37 runs to make Pakistan bat again. Yasir Shah becomes the fastest to 200 Test wickets. 👏 He traps nightwatchman Somerville in front and reaches the landmark in just his 33rd Test! Congratulations!#PAKvNZ LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/cS8PI6iRJl pic.twitter.com/mdtFVLaqOZ — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × Yasir began the Abu Dhabi Test with 195 wickets in 32 Tests and on the opening day grabbed three early wickets but BJ Watling resisted with 77 not out, leaving him having to complete his landmark in the second innings. Since taking seven wickets on debut against Australia in 2014, Yasir has been a key figure in Pakistan's Test team. He took 12 wickets in that 2-0 series win over Australia in United Arab Emirates in 2014 and followed that with 15 against New Zealand in a 1-1 draw the same year. That was followed by 24 wickets against Sri Lanka in 2015 and 10 in a match to beat England at Lord's a year later. He took 21 and 25 wickets respectively in series wins over the West Indies. Yasir was also the fastest Pakistani to 50 wickets (nine Tests), reached 100 wickets in 17 Tests -- second only to Englishman George Lohmann who took 16 matches during a Test in Johannesburg in 1896.

Yasir Shah fastest to take 200 Test wickets

More misery have been added to Virat Kohli-led team India in the&nbsp;opening day of the first Test as the visitors were at&nbsp;129 for the loss of six wickets after 50 overs.

The Australian bowling department, especially the pacers, have dominated the game so far.

Australia grabbed early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">Virat Kohli</a>, to have India on the ropes.

After thrashing the top batting order, the Aussies continued the attack as they dismissed Rohit Sharma and&nbsp;Rishabh Pant.

Now, all eyes are on&nbsp;Cheteshwar Pujara as he is playing at a score of 376 runs after&nbsp;facing 120 balls.

Spinner Nathon Lyon, who came into the attack in the 13th over, has stunned the Indian batsmen with his splendid bowling including taking two crucial wickets.

Batting after Kohli <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-test-day-1-virat-kohli-opts-to-bat-in-adelaide-test-181755">won the toss</a> on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

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Lyon gets another! 
 
Pant is out caught behind, and another Indian mini-partnership is broken. 
 
They are 127/6, with Pujara on a 119-ball 35*.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/3vJlQWyU5v">pic.twitter.com/3vJlQWyU5v</a>
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Tim Paine said, "We expect the batsmen to stand-up, we have good players who have done well domestically over the past five-six years"

India have never won a Test series in Australia.

More misery have been added to Virat Kohli-led team India in the opening day of the first Test as the visitors were at 129 for the loss of six wickets after 50 overs.

More misery have been added to Virat Kohli-led team India in the opening day of the first Test as the visitors were at 129 for the loss of six wickets after 50 overs. The Australian bowling department, especially the pacers, have dominated the game so far. Australia grabbed early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes. After thrashing the top batting order, the Aussies continued the attack as they dismissed Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant. Now, all eyes are on Cheteshwar Pujara as he is playing at a score of 376 runs after facing 120 balls. Spinner Nathon Lyon, who came into the attack in the 13th over, has stunned the Indian batsmen with his splendid bowling including taking two crucial wickets. Batting after Kohli won the toss on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. Lyon gets another! Pant is out caught behind, and another Indian mini-partnership is broken. They are 127/6, with Pujara on a 119-ball 35*.#AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/3vJlQWyU5v — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × Tim Paine said, "We expect the batsmen to stand-up, we have good players who have done well domestically over the past five-six years" India have never won a Test series in Australia.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: India 129-6 after 50 overs

The Australian bowling department, especially the pacers, have dominated the opening day of first Test so far as India were 92 for the loss of five in Adelaide after 40 overs.

Australia grabbed early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">Virat Kohli</a>, to have India on the ropes.

Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara resumed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-test-day-1-india-at-56-4-at-lunch-181774">the game after lunch</a> but&nbsp;tried to salvage the innings but fell cheaply to spinner Nathon Lyon.

After drinks break, spinner Nathon Lyon came into the attack in the 13th over.

Rohit playing at number six spot vacated by the injured fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya, with spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari missing out.

Rohit Sharma scored 37 from 61 balls.

Rishabh Pant and Pujara were playing.

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India lose their fifth! 
 
Rohit gifts his wicket away attempting to attack, and the 45-run fifth-wicket stand is broken by Lyon. 
 
India are 86/5, and have plenty to do to save the day.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/sC1LEKhd7s">pic.twitter.com/sC1LEKhd7s</a>
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Earlier, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-test-day-1-virat-kohli-opts-to-bat-in-adelaide-test-181755">after winning the toss</a> on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two.

Veteran Murali Vijay, in the side after young gun Prithvi Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in a warm-up game, didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11.

After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs.

The Australian bowling department, especially the pacers, have dominated the opening day of first Test so far as India were 92 for the loss of five in Adelaide after 40 overs.

The Australian bowling department, especially the pacers, have dominated the opening day of first Test so far as India were 92 for the loss of five in Adelaide after 40 overs. Australia grabbed early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes. Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara resumed the game after lunch but tried to salvage the innings but fell cheaply to spinner Nathon Lyon. After drinks break, spinner Nathon Lyon came into the attack in the 13th over. Rohit playing at number six spot vacated by the injured fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya, with spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari missing out. Rohit Sharma scored 37 from 61 balls. Rishabh Pant and Pujara were playing. India lose their fifth! Rohit gifts his wicket away attempting to attack, and the 45-run fifth-wicket stand is broken by Lyon. India are 86/5, and have plenty to do to save the day.#AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/sC1LEKhd7s — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × Earlier, after winning the toss on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two. Veteran Murali Vijay, in the side after young gun Prithvi Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in a warm-up game, didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11. After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: India 92-5 after 40 overs

India were at a score of 56 runs for the loss of four wickets at lunch on the opening day of the first Test in Adelaide.

Australia grabbed three early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">Virat Kohli</a>, to have India on the ropes.

After <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-test-day-1-virat-kohli-opts-to-bat-in-adelaide-test-181755">winning the toss</a> on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two.

Veteran Murali Vijay, in the side after young gun Prithvi Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in a warm-up game, didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11.

After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs.

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Lunch in Adelaide! 🍴 
 
It was an excellent session for Australia. India head in to the break at 56/4, with Josh Hazlewood taking 2/17. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/0JKYwSoRja">pic.twitter.com/0JKYwSoRja</a>
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In marched superstar Kohli to a huge roar from the crowd, but a stunning <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">catch by Usman Khawaja</a> at gully off a Pat Cummins delivery saw him back in the pavilion for only three off 16 balls, with India in trouble.

At lunch, Cheteshwar Pujara and Rohit Sharma were on 11 and 15 respectively.

Rohit is playing at number six spot vacated by the injured fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya, with spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari missing out.

India have never won a Test series in Australia.

India were at a score of 56 runs for the loss of four wickets at lunch on the opening day of the first Test in Adelaide. Australia grabbed three early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes.

India were at a score of 56 runs for the loss of four wickets at lunch on the opening day of the first Test in Adelaide. Australia grabbed three early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes. After winning the toss on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two. Veteran Murali Vijay, in the side after young gun Prithvi Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in a warm-up game, didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11. After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs. Lunch in Adelaide! 🍴 It was an excellent session for Australia. India head in to the break at 56/4, with Josh Hazlewood taking 2/17. #AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/0JKYwSoRja — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × In marched superstar Kohli to a huge roar from the crowd, but a stunning catch by Usman Khawaja at gully off a Pat Cummins delivery saw him back in the pavilion for only three off 16 balls, with India in trouble. At lunch, Cheteshwar Pujara and Rohit Sharma were on 11 and 15 respectively. Rohit is playing at number six spot vacated by the injured fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya, with spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari missing out. India have never won a Test series in Australia.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: India at 56-4 at lunch

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-1-cheteshwar-pujara-slams-his-16th-test-century-181857">Cheteshwar Pujara</a> struck a defiant century in an Adelaide Oval furnace to rescue India after Australia's pacemen threatened to dominate day one of the series-opening Test on Thursday.

The India number three was a rock as his partners crumbled around him, pushing India to 250 for nine at the close with a brutal assault on the second new ball.

Unbroken by fierce pace bowling, Pujara was dismissed by a piece of brilliant fielding, with Pat Cummins throwing down the stumps to leave the batsman well short of his ground.

Tail-ender Mohammed Shami survived to stumps on six, with Jasprit Bumrah the last batsman to resume on day two.

It was nonetheless a positive finish for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">Virat Kohli</a>'s side who had slumped to 86 for five after lunch, falling to a combination of dreadful shot-making and fierce Australian pace after winning the toss.

Pujara anchored vital partnerships with young wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and Ravichandran Ashwin before completing his 16th Test century with a flick off his pads after scoring his 5,000th run in Tests.

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Stumps on Day 1 in Adelaide! 
 
Pujara is dismissed just before the end of play, but his century has helped India get to 250/9. 
 
Australia will still be delighted, having been asked to field. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> SCORECARD ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/zskoCJrfN7">pic.twitter.com/zskoCJrfN7</a>
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India resumed on 143 for six after lunch with seamer Cummins having Ashwin edge to the slips and Mitchell Starc bowling Ishant Sharma for four.

Spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail after lunch, having Rohit Sharma slog-sweep to a fielder for 37 before Pant fell for 25 feathering an edge behind.

India had lost 41 for four in the morning to Australia's fired-up seamers, with Usman Khawaja taking a brilliant one-handed catch to remove Kohli for three after both the openers fell cheaply.

"Stuck my hand out and it stuck. It's nice when they do stick," said Khawaja.

"It was a good little momentum-goer too, because we got a couple of early ones ... and we got a few more so it was nice."

Seamer Josh Hazlewood grabbed two wickets in the morning session, removing Ajinkya Rahane (13) and the out-of-form Lokesh Rahul (two).

Starc removed Murali Vijay for a streaky 11, the recalled batsman edging another rash shot behind to Tim Paine.

Cheteshwar Pujara struck a defiant century in an Adelaide Oval furnace to rescue India after Australia's pacemen threatened to dominate day one of the series-opening Test on Thursday.

Cheteshwar Pujara struck a defiant century in an Adelaide Oval furnace to rescue India after Australia's pacemen threatened to dominate day one of the series-opening Test on Thursday. The India number three was a rock as his partners crumbled around him, pushing India to 250 for nine at the close with a brutal assault on the second new ball. Unbroken by fierce pace bowling, Pujara was dismissed by a piece of brilliant fielding, with Pat Cummins throwing down the stumps to leave the batsman well short of his ground. Tail-ender Mohammed Shami survived to stumps on six, with Jasprit Bumrah the last batsman to resume on day two. It was nonetheless a positive finish for Virat Kohli's side who had slumped to 86 for five after lunch, falling to a combination of dreadful shot-making and fierce Australian pace after winning the toss. Pujara anchored vital partnerships with young wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and Ravichandran Ashwin before completing his 16th Test century with a flick off his pads after scoring his 5,000th run in Tests. Stumps on Day 1 in Adelaide! Pujara is dismissed just before the end of play, but his century has helped India get to 250/9. Australia will still be delighted, having been asked to field. #AUSvIND SCORECARD ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/zskoCJrfN7 — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × India resumed on 143 for six after lunch with seamer Cummins having Ashwin edge to the slips and Mitchell Starc bowling Ishant Sharma for four. Spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail after lunch, having Rohit Sharma slog-sweep to a fielder for 37 before Pant fell for 25 feathering an edge behind. India had lost 41 for four in the morning to Australia's fired-up seamers, with Usman Khawaja taking a brilliant one-handed catch to remove Kohli for three after both the openers fell cheaply. "Stuck my hand out and it stuck. It's nice when they do stick," said Khawaja. "It was a good little momentum-goer too, because we got a couple of early ones ... and we got a few more so it was nice." Seamer Josh Hazlewood grabbed two wickets in the morning session, removing Ajinkya Rahane (13) and the out-of-form Lokesh Rahul (two). Starc removed Murali Vijay for a streaky 11, the recalled batsman edging another rash shot behind to Tim Paine.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: Cheteshwar Pujara rescues India in Adelaide Oval

Cheteshwar Pujara slammed his 16th Test century in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-1-cheteshwar-pujara-scores-50-india-at-154-6-after-60-overs-181827">opening Test</a> against Australia on Thursday, also his first century on&nbsp;Australian soil.

In a pressure situation when other players stumbled in front of the Australian brutal bowling, Pujara was at the helm of salvaging India's innings in Adelaide.

Pujara also completed his 5000 Test runs.

Earlier,&nbsp;Australia grabbed quick wickets in the first session, including the prized scalp of star batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">Virat Kohli</a>, to have India on the ropes.

After winning the toss on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

Australian spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail.

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Pujara scores his 16th Test century! He also completes 5000 runs in Test cricket! 👏 
 
A supreme, defiant knock, even as the rest of the Indian batsmen struggled, and he has kept the team's hopes alive here. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/T29wQax7Hk">pic.twitter.com/T29wQax7Hk</a>
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KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two.

Veteran Murali Vijay didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11.

After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs.

Rohit slog-swept the spinner for six but it was a risky play as debutant Marcus Harris leaped to catch the ball just behind the rope before tossing it back inside in a failed bid to save runs.

Rohit was out next ball with another ham-fisted attempt to clear the short square boundary, skying a simple catch to the same fielder after Lyon had pitched the ball shorter.

Rishabh Pant was greeted with fierce pace from Mitchell Starc, who beat the young wicketkeeper's bat twice in succession and followed up the deliveries with verbal assaults.

He responded in turn by smashing Starc for six behind square to bring up India's 100th run and then sent an edge flying past the slips for four.

Cheteshwar Pujara slammed his 16th Test century in the opening Test against Australia on Thursday, also his first century on Australian soil. In a pressure situation when other players stumbled in front of the Australian brutal bowling, Pujara was at the helm of salvaging India's innings in Adelaide.

Cheteshwar Pujara slammed his 16th Test century in the opening Test against Australia on Thursday, also his first century on Australian soil. In a pressure situation when other players stumbled in front of the Australian brutal bowling, Pujara was at the helm of salvaging India's innings in Adelaide. Pujara also completed his 5000 Test runs. Earlier, Australia grabbed quick wickets in the first session, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes. After winning the toss on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. Australian spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail. Pujara scores his 16th Test century! He also completes 5000 runs in Test cricket! 👏 A supreme, defiant knock, even as the rest of the Indian batsmen struggled, and he has kept the team's hopes alive here. #AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/T29wQax7Hk — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two. Veteran Murali Vijay didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11. After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs. Rohit slog-swept the spinner for six but it was a risky play as debutant Marcus Harris leaped to catch the ball just behind the rope before tossing it back inside in a failed bid to save runs. Rohit was out next ball with another ham-fisted attempt to clear the short square boundary, skying a simple catch to the same fielder after Lyon had pitched the ball shorter. Rishabh Pant was greeted with fierce pace from Mitchell Starc, who beat the young wicketkeeper's bat twice in succession and followed up the deliveries with verbal assaults. He responded in turn by smashing Starc for six behind square to bring up India's 100th run and then sent an edge flying past the slips for four.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: Cheteshwar Pujara completes his 16th Test ton

India's Tour of Australia: Virat Kohli & co. set for quest to breach final frontier

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chris Gayle wins Australia masseuse defamation payout

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