Cricket Australia on Wednesday saluted the Indian team's "resilience, courage and skill" during its historic Test series win over the hosts and expressed gratitude to the BCCI for the "sacrifices" it made to ensure a smooth conduct of the epic contest. A second-string Indian team, led by Ajinkya Rahane, braved all odds to defeat a full-strength Australia by three wickets at the Gabba here to win the four-Test series 2-1 and retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Tuesday in Brisbane.

"On behalf of everyone at Cricket Australia, we congratulate Team India for their resilience, courage and skill demonstrated in retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in a series that will be talked about for generations to come," CA wrote in a Thank You note to the BCCI.

The note, written by CA interim CEO Nick Hockley and Chair Earl Eddings, was addressed to "friends in Indian cricket", the BCCI, acknowledging the role played by the Sourav Ganguly-led board in successfully completing the tour amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Australian cricket will forever be grateful to the BCCI for their friendship, trust and commitment in helping to deliver a series that has brought joy to many millions of people around the world at a time they needed it most," the letter read.

"The unique challenges of international touring during a global pandemic are considerable and we thank India's players, coaches and support staff for all they have given. "Over the past nine weeks, the Indian and Australian men's teams completed outstanding One-Day International and Twenty20 International series, followed by one of the greatest Border-Gavaskar Test series ever competed," it added.

The CA officials said that the BCCI's cooperation was crucial to making the tour a hit. The series gave the financially struggling CA a major boost with an expected revenue of 300 million Australian dollars.

The two teams brushed aside some unsavoury controversies like the racist chants against Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah by the crowd in the Sydney Test, to ensure that the focus remained firmly on cricket. "Despite the many public health and logistical challenges, the BCCI engaged with a spirit of cooperation befitting their status as one of international sport's greatest ambassadors."

"We will never forget the sacrifices made by our friends at the BCCI that made all this possible," they said.

The note also appreciated the contributions of all other stakeholders, saying the series witnessed many enthralling contests between players of the two sides.

"From the sublime fast bowling of Jasprit Bumrah and Pat Cummins, to the wonderful batting of Ajinkya Rahane and Steve Smith, to the exciting debuts of Shubman Gill and Cameroon Green - and much, much more - the past two months of cricket have been absolutely enthralling.

"May we also take this opportunity to thank everyone who played their part to deliver this memorable series -- governments, health officials, venues, broadcast and commercial partners, cricket associations, players, match officials, staff and their families."

India's tour of Australia started nearly two months back with three ODIs which the visitors lost 1-2 before pocketing the T20 series 2-0.

Cricket Australia on Wednesday saluted the Indian team's "resilience, courage and skill" during its historic Test series win over the hosts and expressed gratitude to the BCCI for the "sacrifices" it made to ensure a smooth conduct of the epic contest.

Cricket Australia on Wednesday saluted the Indian team's "resilience, courage and skill" during its historic Test series win over the hosts and expressed gratitude to the BCCI for the "sacrifices" it made to ensure a smooth conduct of the epic contest. A second-string Indian team, led by Ajinkya Rahane, braved all odds to defeat a full-strength Australia by three wickets at the Gabba here to win the four-Test series 2-1 and retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Tuesday in Brisbane. "On behalf of everyone at Cricket Australia, we congratulate Team India for their resilience, courage and skill demonstrated in retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in a series that will be talked about for generations to come," CA wrote in a Thank You note to the BCCI. The note, written by CA interim CEO Nick Hockley and Chair Earl Eddings, was addressed to "friends in Indian cricket", the BCCI, acknowledging the role played by the Sourav Ganguly-led board in successfully completing the tour amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "Australian cricket will forever be grateful to the BCCI for their friendship, trust and commitment in helping to deliver a series that has brought joy to many millions of people around the world at a time they needed it most," the letter read. "The unique challenges of international touring during a global pandemic are considerable and we thank India's players, coaches and support staff for all they have given. "Over the past nine weeks, the Indian and Australian men's teams completed outstanding One-Day International and Twenty20 International series, followed by one of the greatest Border-Gavaskar Test series ever competed," it added. The CA officials said that the BCCI's cooperation was crucial to making the tour a hit. The series gave the financially struggling CA a major boost with an expected revenue of 300 million Australian dollars. The two teams brushed aside some unsavoury controversies like the racist chants against Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah by the crowd in the Sydney Test, to ensure that the focus remained firmly on cricket. "Despite the many public health and logistical challenges, the BCCI engaged with a spirit of cooperation befitting their status as one of international sport's greatest ambassadors." "We will never forget the sacrifices made by our friends at the BCCI that made all this possible," they said. The note also appreciated the contributions of all other stakeholders, saying the series witnessed many enthralling contests between players of the two sides. "From the sublime fast bowling of Jasprit Bumrah and Pat Cummins, to the wonderful batting of Ajinkya Rahane and Steve Smith, to the exciting debuts of Shubman Gill and Cameroon Green - and much, much more - the past two months of cricket have been absolutely enthralling. "May we also take this opportunity to thank everyone who played their part to deliver this memorable series -- governments, health officials, venues, broadcast and commercial partners, cricket associations, players, match officials, staff and their families." India's tour of Australia started nearly two months back with three ODIs which the visitors lost 1-2 before pocketing the T20 series 2-0.

Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill'

JSW Sports, the sports arm of the $13 billion JSW Group conglomerate, on Thursday announced the addition of India’s star cricketer, Rishabh Pant, to its growing talent management roster. The&nbsp;multi-year association between the two parties will see JSW Sports manage all commercial interests&nbsp;and marketing rights&nbsp;of the 23-year-old cricketer, who most recently played a starring role in India’s magnificent Test series win in Australia.

As part of the association, JSW Sports will manage the athlete’s image positioning and all his commercial engagements, including brand endorsements and appearances, social media monetisation and business deals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-hailed-as-immortals-australia-under-fire-after-gabba-stunner-357893" hreflang="en">India hailed as 'Immortals', Australia under fire after Gabba stunner</a>

Ever since its inception in 2012, JSW Sports has worked towards maximizing India’s sporting potential by working with&nbsp;promising&nbsp;Indian talents&nbsp;across&nbsp;Olympic sports, football and kabaddi including Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik and wrestling star Bajrang Punia. Adding an established, yet young cricketer like Rishabh Pant to its Talent Representation Division, JSW Sports aims to kick-start a new part of their business which focuses solely on talent representation and management.

Welcoming Rishabh Pant to the organisation,&nbsp;Mr. Mustafa Ghouse, CEO of JSW Sports, said, “I think what the world has seen Rishabh do at 23 is just the tip of the iceberg. We have always adopted a holistic approach to all our business verticals and we will continue to do that for ‘Brand Rishabh’ through this relationship. He truly is a special talent and we are confident that he has all the ingredients to become a global sporting icon.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-hero-rishabh-pant-hails-dream-series-after-australia-upset-357726" hreflang="en">India hero Rishabh Pant hails 'dream series' after Australia upset</a>

Expressing his delight at signing on with JSW Sports, Rishabh Pant said, “I have had a close relationship with the JSW Group and am excited to embark on this new journey with JSW Sports. I have tremendous respect for the work they have been doing to promote sports in India and have seen their dedication towards helping create and sustain a sporting culture in India. After having had a detailed conversation with them, I felt this was the right choice for me at this stage of my career and I am excited to be represented by them.”

JSW Sports, the sports arm of the $13 billion JSW Group conglomerate, on Thursday announced the addition of India’s star cricketer, Rishabh Pant, to its growing talent management roster.

JSW Sports, the sports arm of the $13 billion JSW Group conglomerate, on Thursday announced the addition of India’s star cricketer, Rishabh Pant, to its growing talent management roster. The multi-year association between the two parties will see JSW Sports manage all commercial interests and marketing rights of the 23-year-old cricketer, who most recently played a starring role in India’s magnificent Test series win in Australia. As part of the association, JSW Sports will manage the athlete’s image positioning and all his commercial engagements, including brand endorsements and appearances, social media monetisation and business deals. ALSO READ: India hailed as 'Immortals', Australia under fire after Gabba stunner Ever since its inception in 2012, JSW Sports has worked towards maximizing India’s sporting potential by working with promising Indian talents across Olympic sports, football and kabaddi including Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik and wrestling star Bajrang Punia. Adding an established, yet young cricketer like Rishabh Pant to its Talent Representation Division, JSW Sports aims to kick-start a new part of their business which focuses solely on talent representation and management. Welcoming Rishabh Pant to the organisation, Mr. Mustafa Ghouse, CEO of JSW Sports, said, “I think what the world has seen Rishabh do at 23 is just the tip of the iceberg. We have always adopted a holistic approach to all our business verticals and we will continue to do that for ‘Brand Rishabh’ through this relationship. He truly is a special talent and we are confident that he has all the ingredients to become a global sporting icon.” ALSO READ: India hero Rishabh Pant hails 'dream series' after Australia upset Expressing his delight at signing on with JSW Sports, Rishabh Pant said, “I have had a close relationship with the JSW Group and am excited to embark on this new journey with JSW Sports. I have tremendous respect for the work they have been doing to promote sports in India and have seen their dedication towards helping create and sustain a sporting culture in India. After having had a detailed conversation with them, I felt this was the right choice for me at this stage of my career and I am excited to be represented by them.”

JSW Sports signs cricketer Rishabh Pant on Exclusive Talent Management Contract

India's cricketers were hailed as &nbsp;'Immortals' on Wednesday following their record-breaking win in Brisbane, but some former greats called for chastened Australia to make changes.

India thrillingly achieved their 328 target with just 18 balls left on the final day to win the four-Test series 2-1, the highest successful run chase at Australia's "Fortress Gabba", where the hosts had been unbeaten for 32 years.

"It was the day when The Irrepressibles became The Immortals," declared News Corp's veteran cricket writer Robert Craddock.

"The day when Fortress Gabba was stormed by a group of cavalier raiders who kicked down the draw bridge, stole the crown jewels and raced off into the late afternoon sunshine towards hysterical fans who will cherish the memory forever.

"Take it all India. You deserve it."

India's refusal to play for a draw, which would have been enough for them to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, was lauded.

"The outcome was a revelation: Australia pressed for victory because they had to, India because they wanted to, and the result was a fitting climax to one of the most extraordinary series of all time," wrote Gideon Haigh in The Australian newspaper.

<h2>- 'Huge fallout' -</h2>

Most were united in their praise of India, but there was also criticism of Australia.

"I think there'll be a huge fallout from this," said leg-spinning great Shane Warne, commentating on TV, noting that India had been without their entire frontline bowling attack through injury.

"There's not too many times that you lose to the second or third side," he said.

"Tactics will come into question. Bowlers will come into question. People's spots in the team will come into question."

Mitchell Starc, who bowled 16 wicketless overs for 75 on the final day, came in for particular criticism after taking just 11 wickets in the series, with some saying captain Tim Paine had lost faith in the left-arm paceman.

"I know that your impact bowlers are meant to come in and have a little burst, but there just doesn't seem to have been the trust that Mitchell Starc's going to do the job," said former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist.

Former Australian captain Mark Taylor said: "You can have Starc when he's bowling at his best, but I think we need some subtlety in our bowling.&nbsp;

"We need someone who can swing the ball a bit, someone who can ask questions around lbw or bowled, not always looking to bounce batsmen out or get them caught behind," Taylor said.

Australia should look to bowlers such as the South Australian fast-medium pair Chadd Sayers and Daniel Worrall, who would add something different to the current three-pronged pace attack, said Taylor.

"There's a lot of talk about Australia not being aggressive enough, but I don't agree with that," Taylor said. "I think we need to find some subtlety in our bowling attack."

Some said that Australia should be thanking India for their skill and courage in coming to play the series at all during a global coronavirus pandemic.

"We mightn't be thanking you in five years when you're still whisking away matches from under our noses, but thanks for now, and take a bow," said the Sydney Morning Herald's Greg Baum.

"By series end, few Australians would have begrudged you whatever spoils you took home."

India's cricketers were hailed as 'Immortals' on Wednesday following their record-breaking win in Brisbane, but some former greats called for chastened Australia to make changes.

India's cricketers were hailed as 'Immortals' on Wednesday following their record-breaking win in Brisbane, but some former greats called for chastened Australia to make changes. India thrillingly achieved their 328 target with just 18 balls left on the final day to win the four-Test series 2-1, the highest successful run chase at Australia's "Fortress Gabba", where the hosts had been unbeaten for 32 years. "It was the day when The Irrepressibles became The Immortals," declared News Corp's veteran cricket writer Robert Craddock. "The day when Fortress Gabba was stormed by a group of cavalier raiders who kicked down the draw bridge, stole the crown jewels and raced off into the late afternoon sunshine towards hysterical fans who will cherish the memory forever. "Take it all India. You deserve it." India's refusal to play for a draw, which would have been enough for them to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, was lauded. "The outcome was a revelation: Australia pressed for victory because they had to, India because they wanted to, and the result was a fitting climax to one of the most extraordinary series of all time," wrote Gideon Haigh in The Australian newspaper. - 'Huge fallout' - Most were united in their praise of India, but there was also criticism of Australia. "I think there'll be a huge fallout from this," said leg-spinning great Shane Warne, commentating on TV, noting that India had been without their entire frontline bowling attack through injury. "There's not too many times that you lose to the second or third side," he said. "Tactics will come into question. Bowlers will come into question. People's spots in the team will come into question." Mitchell Starc, who bowled 16 wicketless overs for 75 on the final day, came in for particular criticism after taking just 11 wickets in the series, with some saying captain Tim Paine had lost faith in the left-arm paceman. "I know that your impact bowlers are meant to come in and have a little burst, but there just doesn't seem to have been the trust that Mitchell Starc's going to do the job," said former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist. Former Australian captain Mark Taylor said: "You can have Starc when he's bowling at his best, but I think we need some subtlety in our bowling. "We need someone who can swing the ball a bit, someone who can ask questions around lbw or bowled, not always looking to bounce batsmen out or get them caught behind," Taylor said. Australia should look to bowlers such as the South Australian fast-medium pair Chadd Sayers and Daniel Worrall, who would add something different to the current three-pronged pace attack, said Taylor. "There's a lot of talk about Australia not being aggressive enough, but I don't agree with that," Taylor said. "I think we need to find some subtlety in our bowling attack." Some said that Australia should be thanking India for their skill and courage in coming to play the series at all during a global coronavirus pandemic. "We mightn't be thanking you in five years when you're still whisking away matches from under our noses, but thanks for now, and take a bow," said the Sydney Morning Herald's Greg Baum. "By series end, few Australians would have begrudged you whatever spoils you took home."

India hailed as 'Immortals', Australia under fire after Gabba stunner

While India scripted history by winning the Test series against Australia following the historic victory at the Gabba in Brisbane, there was an Australian fan whose video while chanting "Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and "Vande Mataram" is going viral on social media.&nbsp;

In the viral video, the Aussie fan is seen facing the Indian supporters at the Gabba in Brisbane and chanting for Team India. The video caught the attention of social media users quickly as fans and netizens&nbsp;expressed their delight.&nbsp;

The video of the Aussie fans is from Day 4 of the Gabba Test which was hampered a bit by rain. During the rain break, the fan was seen chanting "Bharat Mata Ki Jay" and "Vande Mataram" as section of Indian supporters enjoyed his passion.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kevin-pietersen-warns-team-india-ahead-of-england-series-357913" hreflang="en">Kevin Pietersen warns Team India ahead of England series</a>

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An Australian fan😎<a href="https://t.co/ZCM6J9n28X">pic.twitter.com/ZCM6J9n28X</a>
— Namrata Wakhloo (@NamrataWakhloo) <a href="https://twitter.com/NamrataWakhloo/status/1351439485922209796?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Fortress Gabba breached by Indians</h2>

India went on to script one of the greatest Test series win on Australian soil as the Ajinkya Rahane-led outfit, despite injuries to many key players, defeated Australia by three wickets at the Gabba to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1. Not only the inexperienced Indian side won the Test series, they also ended Australia's 32-year-old unbeaten streak at the 'fortress' Gabba.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-rishabh-pant-joe-root-touch-new-high-after-epic-shows-357905" hreflang="en">ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows</a>

Even Australian coach Justin Langer tipped his hat off to the Indian team as the former Aussie opener said that India&nbsp;deserve&nbsp;full credit for defeating Australia in the series.&nbsp;

"It was an incredible Test series and in the&nbsp;end&nbsp;there is always a winner or a loser. Today Test cricket is the winner. It's&nbsp;gonna&nbsp;hurt us big time. India deserved full credit. They have been outstanding but we have learnt lessons from it," Langer told Channel 7.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"First, you can never take anything for granted, second never ever, ever underestimate the Indians. There are 1.5&nbsp;billion&nbsp;Indians and if you play in that first eleven you got to be really tough, don't you?"&nbsp;

India's next&nbsp;assignment&nbsp;will be a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5.&nbsp;

While India scripted history by winning the Test series against Australia following the historic victory at the Gabba in Brisbane, there was an Australian fan whose video while chanting "Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and "Vande Mataram" is going viral on social media.

While India scripted history by winning the Test series against Australia following the historic victory at the Gabba in Brisbane, there was an Australian fan whose video while chanting "Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and "Vande Mataram" is going viral on social media. In the viral video, the Aussie fan is seen facing the Indian supporters at the Gabba in Brisbane and chanting for Team India. The video caught the attention of social media users quickly as fans and netizens expressed their delight. The video of the Aussie fans is from Day 4 of the Gabba Test which was hampered a bit by rain. During the rain break, the fan was seen chanting "Bharat Mata Ki Jay" and "Vande Mataram" as section of Indian supporters enjoyed his passion. ALSO READ: Kevin Pietersen warns Team India ahead of England series An Australian fan😎pic.twitter.com/ZCM6J9n28X — Namrata Wakhloo (@NamrataWakhloo) January 19, 2021 × Fortress Gabba breached by Indians India went on to script one of the greatest Test series win on Australian soil as the Ajinkya Rahane-led outfit, despite injuries to many key players, defeated Australia by three wickets at the Gabba to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1. Not only the inexperienced Indian side won the Test series, they also ended Australia's 32-year-old unbeaten streak at the 'fortress' Gabba. ALSO READ: ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows Even Australian coach Justin Langer tipped his hat off to the Indian team as the former Aussie opener said that India deserve full credit for defeating Australia in the series. "It was an incredible Test series and in the end there is always a winner or a loser. Today Test cricket is the winner. It's gonna hurt us big time. India deserved full credit. They have been outstanding but we have learnt lessons from it," Langer told Channel 7. "First, you can never take anything for granted, second never ever, ever underestimate the Indians. There are 1.5 billion Indians and if you play in that first eleven you got to be really tough, don't you?" India's next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5.

Watch: Australian fan chants 'Vande Mataram' during Gabba Test, video goes viral

Replying to a congratulatory message by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Indian PM Narendra Modi on Wednesday said India and Australia are formidable competitors on the field while being solid partners off it as the duo exchanged messages on social media&nbsp;platform&nbsp;Twitter after India's historic Test series triumph against the Baggy Greens.&nbsp;

Defying all the odds, Team India led by Ajinkya Rahane, defeated a full-strength Australia by three wickets at the Gabba in Brisbane to win Border-Gavaskar Trophy while ending Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the iconic&nbsp;venue.&nbsp;

"Congratulations&nbsp;@narendramodi and the Indian Cricket Team on a great win in the test series here in Australia. It was a&nbsp;hard fought&nbsp;contest between the game's best teams and players," Prime Minister Morrison tweeted.&nbsp;

Commiserations to Tim Paine and the Australian Men's Test Team, he said, adding, "They'll be back."&nbsp;

Replying to Prime Minister Morrison, PM Modi tweeted, "Thanks, @ScottMorrisonMP. It was a thrilling series with the best from both the teams on full display."&nbsp;

"India and Australia make for formidable competitors on the field, and solid partners off it," he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-thanks-bcci-on-successful-tour-salutes-team-indias-courage-and-skill-357897" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill'</a>

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Thanks, <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottMorrisonMP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ScottMorrisonMP</a>. 
It was a thrilling series with the best from both the teams on full display. 
 
India and Australia make for formidable competitors on the field, and solid partners off it. <a href="https://t.co/6lndFvRP0U">https://t.co/6lndFvRP0U</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1351796975126118401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Showing grit and resilience, Indian team made comeback in a sensational fashion. After going down in Adelaide, the visitors fought back in Melbourne. While the Rahane-led side drew the Sydney Test, they exceeded all the expectations after defeating Australia at their&nbsp;'fortress' Gabba.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Even Cricket Australia thanked the BCCI through an open letter as the hosts lauded Team India's 'courage and skill' in what will be remembered as one of the best Test series of all-time.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-hailed-as-immortals-australia-under-fire-after-gabba-stunner-357893" hreflang="en">India hailed as 'Immortals', Australia under fire after Gabba stunner</a>

Congratulatory messages flooded social media platforms with fans, former players, current players, pundits wishing Team India after its historic triumph Down Under.&nbsp;

India's next immediate assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5.&nbsp;

Replying to a congratulatory message by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Indian PM Narendra Modi on Wednesday said India and Australia are formidable competitors on the field while being solid partners off it as the duo exchanged messages on social media platform Twitter after India's historic Test series triumph against the Baggy Greens.

Replying to a congratulatory message by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, Indian PM Narendra Modi on Wednesday said India and Australia are formidable competitors on the field while being solid partners off it as the duo exchanged messages on social media platform Twitter after India's historic Test series triumph against the Baggy Greens. Defying all the odds, Team India led by Ajinkya Rahane, defeated a full-strength Australia by three wickets at the Gabba in Brisbane to win Border-Gavaskar Trophy while ending Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the iconic venue. "Congratulations @narendramodi and the Indian Cricket Team on a great win in the test series here in Australia. It was a hard fought contest between the game's best teams and players," Prime Minister Morrison tweeted. Commiserations to Tim Paine and the Australian Men's Test Team, he said, adding, "They'll be back." Replying to Prime Minister Morrison, PM Modi tweeted, "Thanks, @ScottMorrisonMP. It was a thrilling series with the best from both the teams on full display." "India and Australia make for formidable competitors on the field, and solid partners off it," he said. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill' Thanks, @ScottMorrisonMP. It was a thrilling series with the best from both the teams on full display. India and Australia make for formidable competitors on the field, and solid partners off it. https://t.co/6lndFvRP0U — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 20, 2021 × Showing grit and resilience, Indian team made comeback in a sensational fashion. After going down in Adelaide, the visitors fought back in Melbourne. While the Rahane-led side drew the Sydney Test, they exceeded all the expectations after defeating Australia at their 'fortress' Gabba. Even Cricket Australia thanked the BCCI through an open letter as the hosts lauded Team India's 'courage and skill' in what will be remembered as one of the best Test series of all-time. ALSO READ: India hailed as 'Immortals', Australia under fire after Gabba stunner Congratulatory messages flooded social media platforms with fans, former players, current players, pundits wishing Team India after its historic triumph Down Under. India's next immediate assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5.

Formidable competitors on field, solid partners off it: PM Narendra Modi to Australian PM after Test series triumph

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has fired a friendly warning to the Indian cricket team as the Men in Blue gear up for a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. Pietersen took to social media platform Twitter to&nbsp;post in Hindi language as he said that India must celebrate after historic series win against Australia but warned the Virat Kohli-led side that the real challenge will start when England lands in India for the series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The former England player tweeted: “India – yeh&nbsp;aitihaasik&nbsp;jeet ka&nbsp;jashn&nbsp;manaye&nbsp;kyuki&nbsp;yeh&nbsp;sabhi&nbsp;baadhao&nbsp;ke&nbsp;khilaap&nbsp;hasil&nbsp;hui&nbsp;hai&nbsp;. LEKIN, ASLI TEAM&nbsp;toh&nbsp;kuch&nbsp;hafto&nbsp;baad&nbsp;a&nbsp;rahi&nbsp;hai&nbsp;jisse&nbsp;aapko&nbsp;harana&nbsp;hoga&nbsp;apne&nbsp;ghar&nbsp;mein&nbsp;.&nbsp;Satark&nbsp;rahe, 2&nbsp;saptaah&nbsp;mein&nbsp;bahut&nbsp;adhik&nbsp;jashn&nbsp;manaane&nbsp;se&nbsp;saavadhaan&nbsp;rahen&nbsp;(This is a historic win and you must celebrate as it has been achieved despite all obstacles. However, the real challenge comes your way in a few weeks as England are touring, and you have to beat them at home. Be careful, refrain from celebrating too much in the coming two weeks.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-rishabh-pant-joe-root-touch-new-high-after-epic-shows-357905" hreflang="en">ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows</a>

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India 🇮🇳 - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai 
 
LEKIN , ASLI TEAM 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 😉 toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . 
 
Satark rahe , 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen 😉
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1351501549013504001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India, despite injuries to key players, defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series while also ending Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba after splendid show by&nbsp;Shubman&nbsp;Gill,&nbsp;Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara and Rishabh Pant in the second innings of the match.&nbsp;

While Indian fans are in a celebratory mood, England pose a threat in what will be their&nbsp;full-fledged tour of India starting from February.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England will play four Test, five T20Is and three ODI starting from February 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-thanks-bcci-on-successful-tour-salutes-team-indias-courage-and-skill-357897" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill'</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a76e159a-5fce-4c16-8799-e80ec05df82e}{198}" paraid="346901802" >England tour of India – Full Schedule:&nbsp;</h2>

India vs England, 1st&nbsp;Test:&nbsp;February&nbsp;5-9 in Chennai&nbsp;

India vs England, 2nd&nbsp;Test: February 13-17 in Chennai&nbsp;

India vs England, 3rd&nbsp;Test: February 24-28 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 4th&nbsp;Test: March 4-8 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 1st&nbsp;T20I: March 12 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 2nd&nbsp;T20I: March 14 in&nbsp;Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 3rd&nbsp;T20I: March 16 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 4th&nbsp;T20I: March 18 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 5th&nbsp;T20I: March 20 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 1st&nbsp;ODI: March 2 in Pune&nbsp;

India vs England, 2nd&nbsp;ODI: March 26 in Pune&nbsp;

India vs England, 3rd&nbsp;ODI: March 28 in Pune&nbsp;

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has fired a friendly warning to the Indian cricket team as the Men in Blue gear up for a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5.

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has fired a friendly warning to the Indian cricket team as the Men in Blue gear up for a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. Pietersen took to social media platform Twitter to post in Hindi language as he said that India must celebrate after historic series win against Australia but warned the Virat Kohli-led side that the real challenge will start when England lands in India for the series. The former England player tweeted: “India – yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai . LEKIN, ASLI TEAM toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . Satark rahe, 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen (This is a historic win and you must celebrate as it has been achieved despite all obstacles. However, the real challenge comes your way in a few weeks as England are touring, and you have to beat them at home. Be careful, refrain from celebrating too much in the coming two weeks.” ALSO READ: ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows India 🇮🇳 - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai LEKIN , ASLI TEAM 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 😉 toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . Satark rahe , 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen 😉 — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) January 19, 2021 × India, despite injuries to key players, defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series while also ending Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba after splendid show by Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara and Rishabh Pant in the second innings of the match. While Indian fans are in a celebratory mood, England pose a threat in what will be their full-fledged tour of India starting from February. England will play four Test, five T20Is and three ODI starting from February 5. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill' England tour of India – Full Schedule: India vs England, 1st Test: February 5-9 in Chennai India vs England, 2nd Test: February 13-17 in Chennai India vs England, 3rd Test: February 24-28 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 4th Test: March 4-8 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 1st T20I: March 12 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 2nd T20I: March 14 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 3rd T20I: March 16 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 4th T20I: March 18 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 5th T20I: March 20 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 1st ODI: March 2 in Pune India vs England, 2nd ODI: March 26 in Pune India vs England, 3rd ODI: March 28 in Pune

Kevin Pietersen warns Team India ahead of England series

England captain Joe Root and India wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant have made considerable gains in the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings&nbsp;after their match-winning performances in the Galle and Brisbane Tests respectively.

Root, a formerly top-ranked batsman, has returned to the top five with his highest rating points tally (738) in two years after scoring a first-innings 228 to help win the first Test against Sri Lanka by seven wickets. Root has advanced six places, overtaking the likes of Pakistan’s Babar Azam and India’s Cheteshwar Pujara in the process.

Left-hander Pant’s unbeaten 89 on the last day in Brisbane that guided India to a sensational three-wicket victory over Australia, sees him attain a career-best 13th&nbsp;position to become the top-ranked wicketkeeper in the batting rankings. South Africa’s Quinton de Kock is the next wicketkeeper in the list in 15th&nbsp;position.

Performances in the classic Test in Brisbane resulted in quite a few other interesting changes as well.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-thanks-bcci-on-successful-tour-salutes-team-indias-courage-and-skill-357897" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill'</a>

Australia batsman Marnus Labuschagne’s first-innings century took him past Virat Kohli to third position with a career-best 878 rating points, captain Tim Paine moved up three spots to 42nd&nbsp;after scores of 50 and 27 while fast bowler Josh Hazlewood leapfrogged New Zealander Tim Southee to the fourth spot after grabbing six wickets in the match, including a haul of five for 57 in the first innings.

For India, Shubman Gill continued his upward trajectory, moving from 68th&nbsp;to 47th&nbsp;after a crucial 91 in the second innings, Pujara progressed one place to seventh position after his dogged effort and Mohammad Siraj jumped 32 places to 45th&nbsp;position after taking six wickets in the match, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings.

Debutant Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur too had something to cheer about after useful efforts with both bat and ball. Sundar entered the rankings in 82nd&nbsp;(batting) and 97th&nbsp;(bowling) positions, while Thakur reentered the batting list in 113th&nbsp;position and the bowling list in 65th&nbsp;position.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chennai-super-kings-release-harbhajan-singh-ahead-of-ipl-2021-mini-auction-357900" hreflang="en">Chennai Super Kings release Harbhajan Singh ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction</a>

England spinners Jack Leach and Dominic Bess made notable progress after their five-wicket hauls in Galle. Leach’s second innings return of five for 122 lifted him three places to 40th&nbsp;while Bess’s first innings analysis of five for 30 took him from 67th&nbsp;to 50th. Jonny Bairstow (up five places to 58th&nbsp;in batting) and Sam Curran (up two places to 39th&nbsp;in bowling) also gained.

For Sri Lanka, Lahiru Thirimanne’s second innings century helped him progress 12 places to 87th&nbsp;position while left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya (up six places to 47th) and medium-pace bowler Asitha Fernando (up 11 places to 96th) were the main gainers.

England captain Joe Root and India wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant have made considerable gains in the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings after their match-winning performances in the Galle and Brisbane Tests respectively.

England captain Joe Root and India wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant have made considerable gains in the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings after their match-winning performances in the Galle and Brisbane Tests respectively. Root, a formerly top-ranked batsman, has returned to the top five with his highest rating points tally (738) in two years after scoring a first-innings 228 to help win the first Test against Sri Lanka by seven wickets. Root has advanced six places, overtaking the likes of Pakistan’s Babar Azam and India’s Cheteshwar Pujara in the process. Left-hander Pant’s unbeaten 89 on the last day in Brisbane that guided India to a sensational three-wicket victory over Australia, sees him attain a career-best 13th position to become the top-ranked wicketkeeper in the batting rankings. South Africa’s Quinton de Kock is the next wicketkeeper in the list in 15th position. Performances in the classic Test in Brisbane resulted in quite a few other interesting changes as well. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill' Australia batsman Marnus Labuschagne’s first-innings century took him past Virat Kohli to third position with a career-best 878 rating points, captain Tim Paine moved up three spots to 42nd after scores of 50 and 27 while fast bowler Josh Hazlewood leapfrogged New Zealander Tim Southee to the fourth spot after grabbing six wickets in the match, including a haul of five for 57 in the first innings. For India, Shubman Gill continued his upward trajectory, moving from 68th to 47th after a crucial 91 in the second innings, Pujara progressed one place to seventh position after his dogged effort and Mohammad Siraj jumped 32 places to 45th position after taking six wickets in the match, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings. Debutant Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur too had something to cheer about after useful efforts with both bat and ball. Sundar entered the rankings in 82nd (batting) and 97th (bowling) positions, while Thakur reentered the batting list in 113th position and the bowling list in 65th position. ALSO READ: Chennai Super Kings release Harbhajan Singh ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction England spinners Jack Leach and Dominic Bess made notable progress after their five-wicket hauls in Galle. Leach’s second innings return of five for 122 lifted him three places to 40th while Bess’s first innings analysis of five for 30 took him from 67th to 50th. Jonny Bairstow (up five places to 58th in batting) and Sam Curran (up two places to 39th in bowling) also gained. For Sri Lanka, Lahiru Thirimanne’s second innings century helped him progress 12 places to 87th position while left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya (up six places to 47th) and medium-pace bowler Asitha Fernando (up 11 places to 96th) were the main gainers.

ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows

Chennai Super Kings on Wednesday released veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh from the squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mini-auction. With the deadline to submit the list of retained players set for January 20, IPL franchises are set to release the list of retained and released players ahead of the mini-auction for IPL 2021.&nbsp;

Harbhajan Singh, who missed IPL 2020 in the United Arab Emirates, due to personal reasons, took to social media platform Twitter to announce the development as he thanked CSK for beautiful memories in the last couple of years. The 40-year-old went on to thank the staff, management and CSK fans for supporting him during his stay with the Yellow Army.&nbsp;

"As my contract comes to an end with @ChennaiIPL, playing for this team was great experience..beautiful memories made &amp;some great friends which I will remember fondly for years to&nbsp;come..Thank&nbsp;you @ChennaiIPL&nbsp;,&nbsp;management, staff and fans for a wonderful 2years..&nbsp;All the best..," tweeted Harbajan on Wednesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-thanks-bcci-on-successful-tour-salutes-team-indias-courage-and-skill-357897" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill'</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
As my contract comes to an end with <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a>, playing for this team was a great experience..beautiful memories made &amp;some great friends which I will remember fondly for years to come..Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a>, management, staff and fans for a wonderful 2years.. All the best..🙏
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1351778962708389889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Harbhajan, in IPL 2019, featured in 11 matches for Chennai Super Kings where the veteran off-spinner picked 16 wickets with an economy rate of 7.09. While he could have been a potent option with the ball at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the IPL franchise thought it would be of best interest to look&nbsp;towards the&nbsp;future.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-hailed-as-immortals-australia-under-fire-after-gabba-stunner-357893" hreflang="en">India hailed as 'Immortals', Australia under fire after Gabba stunner</a>

Moreover, the likes of Murali Vijay and Piyush Chawla are also likely to be released while the fate of Suresh Raina and Kedar Jadhav lies in MS Dhoni's hands with the CSK skipper expected to take a final call on the&nbsp;duo.&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings are eyeing an overhaul ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction after failing to reach the playoffs for the first time in their history in IPL 2019.

&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings on Wednesday released veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh from the squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mini-auction. With the deadline to submit the list of retained players set for January 20, IPL franchises are set to release the list of retained and released players ahead of the mini-auction for IPL 2021.

Chennai Super Kings on Wednesday released veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh from the squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mini-auction. With the deadline to submit the list of retained players set for January 20, IPL franchises are set to release the list of retained and released players ahead of the mini-auction for IPL 2021. Harbhajan Singh, who missed IPL 2020 in the United Arab Emirates, due to personal reasons, took to social media platform Twitter to announce the development as he thanked CSK for beautiful memories in the last couple of years. The 40-year-old went on to thank the staff, management and CSK fans for supporting him during his stay with the Yellow Army. "As my contract comes to an end with @ChennaiIPL, playing for this team was great experience..beautiful memories made &some great friends which I will remember fondly for years to come..Thank you @ChennaiIPL , management, staff and fans for a wonderful 2years.. All the best..," tweeted Harbajan on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill' As my contract comes to an end with @ChennaiIPL, playing for this team was a great experience..beautiful memories made &some great friends which I will remember fondly for years to come..Thank you @ChennaiIPL, management, staff and fans for a wonderful 2years.. All the best..🙏 — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) January 20, 2021 × Harbhajan, in IPL 2019, featured in 11 matches for Chennai Super Kings where the veteran off-spinner picked 16 wickets with an economy rate of 7.09. While he could have been a potent option with the ball at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the IPL franchise thought it would be of best interest to look towards the future. ALSO READ: India hailed as 'Immortals', Australia under fire after Gabba stunner Moreover, the likes of Murali Vijay and Piyush Chawla are also likely to be released while the fate of Suresh Raina and Kedar Jadhav lies in MS Dhoni's hands with the CSK skipper expected to take a final call on the duo. Chennai Super Kings are eyeing an overhaul ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction after failing to reach the playoffs for the first time in their history in IPL 2019.

Chennai Super Kings release Harbhajan Singh ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction

Rishabh Pant on Tuesday surpassed the likes of MS Dhoni, Farokh Engineer, Wriddhiman Saha among others to register a new record during the fourth and final Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane. Pant smashed a cracking half-century to raise the hopes of India clinching the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and in the process became the fastest Indian wicket-keeper to register 1000 Test runs.&nbsp;

Pant touched the landmark as soon as he scored his first run in the second innings of the Brisbane Test to become the fastest among Indian wicket-keeper to score 1000 Test runs.

While Pant took just 27 Test innings to register the feat, the likes of Dhoni, Engineer and Saha took 32, 36 and 37 innings respectively.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-style-of-play-allows-the-bowler-tom-moody-on-cheteshwar-pujara-357528" hreflang="en">'His style of play allows the bowler..': Tom Moody on Cheteshwar Pujara</a>

Fastest Indian WK to 1000 Test runs (by innings):

<ul>
	<li>27 Rishabh Pant*</li>
	<li>32 MS Dhoni</li>
	<li>36 Farokh Engineer</li>
	<li>37 Wriddhiman Saha</li>
	<li>39 Nayan Mongia</li>
</ul>

Since Dhoni’s retirement, Pant has been touted as the next Indian wicket-keeper to take the charge across formats and the youngster has returned with some impressive numbers and knocks for the Men in Blue.

On Day 5 of the Brisbane Test, Pant has been central to India’s hopes of winning the Test and end Australia’s record of being unbeaten at the Gabba since 1988. While Pant holds an impressive record against Australia on their home soil, the last hour of the play could still bring lot of surprises on the table.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tactics-havent-been-good-enough-shane-warne-questions-tim-paine-357500" hreflang="en">'Tactics haven’t been good enough': Shane Warne questions Tim Paine</a>

Meanwhile, India still need 50 runs to win the Test whereas Australia require five wickets to seal the series. Pant and Washington Sundar were batting for India at the time this report was published.

Rishabh Pant on Tuesday surpassed the likes of MS Dhoni, Farokh Engineer, Wriddhiman Saha among others to register a new record during the fourth and final Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane.

Rishabh Pant on Tuesday surpassed the likes of MS Dhoni, Farokh Engineer, Wriddhiman Saha among others to register a new record during the fourth and final Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane. Pant smashed a cracking half-century to raise the hopes of India clinching the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and in the process became the fastest Indian wicket-keeper to register 1000 Test runs. Pant touched the landmark as soon as he scored his first run in the second innings of the Brisbane Test to become the fastest among Indian wicket-keeper to score 1000 Test runs. While Pant took just 27 Test innings to register the feat, the likes of Dhoni, Engineer and Saha took 32, 36 and 37 innings respectively. ALSO READ: 'His style of play allows the bowler..': Tom Moody on Cheteshwar Pujara Fastest Indian WK to 1000 Test runs (by innings): 27 Rishabh Pant* 32 MS Dhoni 36 Farokh Engineer 37 Wriddhiman Saha 39 Nayan Mongia Since Dhoni’s retirement, Pant has been touted as the next Indian wicket-keeper to take the charge across formats and the youngster has returned with some impressive numbers and knocks for the Men in Blue. On Day 5 of the Brisbane Test, Pant has been central to India’s hopes of winning the Test and end Australia’s record of being unbeaten at the Gabba since 1988. While Pant holds an impressive record against Australia on their home soil, the last hour of the play could still bring lot of surprises on the table. ALSO READ: 'Tactics haven’t been good enough': Shane Warne questions Tim Paine Meanwhile, India still need 50 runs to win the Test whereas Australia require five wickets to seal the series. Pant and Washington Sundar were batting for India at the time this report was published.

Rishabh Pant surpasses MS Dhoni to become fastest Indian wicket-keeper to register 1000 Test runs

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting on Tuesday heaped praise on India’s resilient squad after the Ajinkya Rahane-led side scripted history to beat Australia at the Gabba by three wickets to win the four-Test series 2-1.<o:p></o:p>

Ponting said that he was “shocked” to see Australia go down in the Test series as he lauded the Indian team for showing grit and determination to come out with a win, against all odds.<o:p></o:p>

"I'm quite shocked that Australia weren't quite good enough to win this series," Ponting told cricket.com.au.<o:p></o:p>

"Considering everything the Indian cricket team has been through in the last five or six weeks, with the captain leaving, all the injuries they've had – they've been through 20 players – (Australia) have been at full-strength all bar Davey (Warner) missing early on, so it's really hard to comprehend.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/never-ever-underestimate-team-india-justin-langer-reflects-on-2-1-series-defeat-357764" hreflang="en">Never ever underestimate Team India: Justin Langer reflects on 2-1 series defeat</a>

"But having been there you can see how it's happened, because (of) how resilient they've been. They've played really good, tough, hard Test match cricket day-in and day-out and won all the big key moments through the series.<o:p></o:p>

Ponting further hailed India’s ability of winning big moments in every Test barring the Adelaide horror, where the visitors were skittled out for a paltry 36. Since then, it has been a show of remarkable resilience by the Indians.<o:p></o:p>

"That's been the difference between the two teams; India have won all the big moments in every Test match and Australia have fallen short."<o:p></o:p>

"Washington Sundar looked like he had played 50 Test matches through the course of this game and never looked out of place," Ponting said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-hardik-pandya-return-as-india-announce-squad-for-first-two-tests-vs-england-357751" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya return as India announce squad for first two Tests vs England</a>

"Shardul Thakur was the same in his second Test match, picked up seven wickets and scored 60-odd handy runs in the first innings.<o:p></o:p>

"I've been around the IPL a long time so I know the talent that they do have in India, but when you've got to step up on a big stage in a Test match against Australia it's a different story.<o:p></o:p>

"But they've done it, they've done it really well and they thoroughly deserve to win the series."<o:p></o:p>

Australia, across four innings of the Sydney and Brisbane Test, managed to scalp just 12 wickets which has left Ponting infuriated. The former Aussie captain said that Australia lost to “India A” side while adding that is the real concern for the Tim Paine-led outfit.<o:p></o:p>

"The cold hard facts of it are pretty much that was the India A team that played this Test match and (India) still won," he said.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-swashbuckling-rishabh-pant-decimated-australia-at-the-gabba-357703" hreflang="en">How swashbuckling Rishabh Pant decimated Australia at the Gabba</a>

"That's a real concern for Australia. I think we gave Australia the benefit of the doubt the last time India were out here because Warner and (Steve) Smith weren't there.<o:p></o:p>

India’s next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England, starting from February 5. <o:p></o:p>

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting on Tuesday heaped praise on India’s resilient squad after the Ajinkya Rahane-led side scripted history to beat Australia at the Gabba by three wickets to win the four-Test series 2-1.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting on Tuesday heaped praise on India’s resilient squad after the Ajinkya Rahane-led side scripted history to beat Australia at the Gabba by three wickets to win the four-Test series 2-1. Ponting said that he was “shocked” to see Australia go down in the Test series as he lauded the Indian team for showing grit and determination to come out with a win, against all odds. "I'm quite shocked that Australia weren't quite good enough to win this series," Ponting told cricket.com.au. "Considering everything the Indian cricket team has been through in the last five or six weeks, with the captain leaving, all the injuries they've had – they've been through 20 players – (Australia) have been at full-strength all bar Davey (Warner) missing early on, so it's really hard to comprehend. ALSO READ: Never ever underestimate Team India: Justin Langer reflects on 2-1 series defeat "But having been there you can see how it's happened, because (of) how resilient they've been. They've played really good, tough, hard Test match cricket day-in and day-out and won all the big key moments through the series. Ponting further hailed India’s ability of winning big moments in every Test barring the Adelaide horror, where the visitors were skittled out for a paltry 36. Since then, it has been a show of remarkable resilience by the Indians. "That's been the difference between the two teams; India have won all the big moments in every Test match and Australia have fallen short." "Washington Sundar looked like he had played 50 Test matches through the course of this game and never looked out of place," Ponting said. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya return as India announce squad for first two Tests vs England "Shardul Thakur was the same in his second Test match, picked up seven wickets and scored 60-odd handy runs in the first innings. "I've been around the IPL a long time so I know the talent that they do have in India, but when you've got to step up on a big stage in a Test match against Australia it's a different story. "But they've done it, they've done it really well and they thoroughly deserve to win the series." Australia, across four innings of the Sydney and Brisbane Test, managed to scalp just 12 wickets which has left Ponting infuriated. The former Aussie captain said that Australia lost to “India A” side while adding that is the real concern for the Tim Paine-led outfit. "The cold hard facts of it are pretty much that was the India A team that played this Test match and (India) still won," he said. IN PICS | How swashbuckling Rishabh Pant decimated Australia at the Gabba "That's a real concern for Australia. I think we gave Australia the benefit of the doubt the last time India were out here because Warner and (Steve) Smith weren't there. India’s next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England, starting from February 5.

Australia lost against India 'A': Ricky Ponting left shocked by crushing 2-1 series defeat

Australia head coach Justin Langer was all praise for the Indian cricket team after the Ajinkya Rahane-led outfit won the fourth and final Test at the Gabba in Brisbane by three wickets to clinch the Test series 2-1 in historic fashion. India not only became the first Asian side to win back-to-back Test series on Australian soil, but the visitors also broke Australia’s 32-year-old unbeaten streak at the Gabba.

Langer, after India’s historic win in Brisbane, said that one can “never underestimate the Indians” while adding if you are picked from 1.5 billion Indians, you have to be “really tough”.

"It was an incredible Test series and in the end there is always a winner or a loser. Today Test cricket is the winner. It's gonna hurt us big time. India deserved full credit. They have been outstanding but we have learnt lessons from it," Langer told Channel 7.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-hardik-pandya-return-as-india-announce-squad-for-first-two-tests-vs-england-357751" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya return as India announce squad for first two Tests vs England</a>

"First, you can never take anything for granted, second never ever, ever underestimate the Indians. There are 1.5 billions Indians and if you play in that first eleven you got to be really tough, don't you?"&nbsp;

India were without several of their key players due to injury as the visitors fielded an inexperienced playing XI against Australia in Brisbane. However, as has been the case in the series, Indian players stepped up to the occasion to leave Australia red-faced at their fortress Gabba as youngsters Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill played whirlwind knocks to help India win the match by three wickets.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/give-credit-to-virat-for-teams-self-belief-character-ravi-shastri-357730" hreflang="en">Give credit to Virat for team's self-belief, character: Ravi Shastri</a>

"I can't compliment India enough. They haven't gone away after that first Test match which we won in three days, bowled them out for 30 odd. For them to fight back like they did is amazing, credit to them. The big lesson for us is that you can't take anything for granted. India never got away," he said.

"It was an amazing effort. (Rishabh) Pant's innings somewhat reminded me of Ben Stokes' innings in Headingley actually. He came in, he was almost fearless and he will be lauded because of it. It was an unbelievable innings," Langer said in his praise of the Indian wicket-keeper batsman.&nbsp;

"I thought young (Shubman) Gill (91) batted very well. Their young bowling attack kept us under pressure throughout the match and as I said India deserve full credit."

India’s next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. 
&nbsp;

Australia head coach Justin Langer was all praise for the Indian cricket team after the Ajinkya Rahane-led outfit won the fourth and final Test at the Gabba in Brisbane by three wickets to clinch the Test series 2-1 in historic fashion.

Australia head coach Justin Langer was all praise for the Indian cricket team after the Ajinkya Rahane-led outfit won the fourth and final Test at the Gabba in Brisbane by three wickets to clinch the Test series 2-1 in historic fashion. India not only became the first Asian side to win back-to-back Test series on Australian soil, but the visitors also broke Australia’s 32-year-old unbeaten streak at the Gabba. Langer, after India’s historic win in Brisbane, said that one can “never underestimate the Indians” while adding if you are picked from 1.5 billion Indians, you have to be “really tough”. "It was an incredible Test series and in the end there is always a winner or a loser. Today Test cricket is the winner. It's gonna hurt us big time. India deserved full credit. They have been outstanding but we have learnt lessons from it," Langer told Channel 7. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya return as India announce squad for first two Tests vs England "First, you can never take anything for granted, second never ever, ever underestimate the Indians. There are 1.5 billions Indians and if you play in that first eleven you got to be really tough, don't you?" India were without several of their key players due to injury as the visitors fielded an inexperienced playing XI against Australia in Brisbane. However, as has been the case in the series, Indian players stepped up to the occasion to leave Australia red-faced at their fortress Gabba as youngsters Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill played whirlwind knocks to help India win the match by three wickets. ALSO READ: Give credit to Virat for team's self-belief, character: Ravi Shastri "I can't compliment India enough. They haven't gone away after that first Test match which we won in three days, bowled them out for 30 odd. For them to fight back like they did is amazing, credit to them. The big lesson for us is that you can't take anything for granted. India never got away," he said. "It was an amazing effort. (Rishabh) Pant's innings somewhat reminded me of Ben Stokes' innings in Headingley actually. He came in, he was almost fearless and he will be lauded because of it. It was an unbelievable innings," Langer said in his praise of the Indian wicket-keeper batsman. "I thought young (Shubman) Gill (91) batted very well. Their young bowling attack kept us under pressure throughout the match and as I said India deserve full credit." India’s next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5.

Never ever underestimate Team India: Justin Langer reflects on 2-1 series defeat

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the squad for the first two Test against England starting from February 5. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Ishant Sharma returned to the Test squad, the likes of Washington Sundar and Mohammed Siraj were rewarded for their splendid performance against Australia in the just-concluded series.<o:p></o:p>

Notably, the BCCI has named nine standbys for the England series with five batsmen and four&nbsp;bowlers waiting in the ranks. <o:p></o:p>

The Indian squad for the first two Tests was finalised by the newly assembled Indian selection committee led by the former Indian pacer Chetan Sharma.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/history-at-the-gabba-india-defeat-australia-by-3-wickets-seal-series-2-1-357669" hreflang="en">History at the Gabba! India defeat Australia by 3 wickets, seal series 2-1</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">India squad for first two Tests vs England:<o:p></o:p></h2>

Openers: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal<o:p></o:p>

Middle-order: Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (captain), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul (subject to fitness after first Test)<o:p></o:p>

Fast bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur<o:p></o:p>

Spinners: R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel<o:p></o:p>

Standbys: Priyank Panchal, KS Bharat (wicketkeeper), Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shahbaz Nadeem, Rahul Chahar<o:p></o:p>

Net bowlers: Ankit Rajpoot, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Warrier, K Gowtham, Saurabh Kumar

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the squad for the first two Test against England starting from February 5. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Ishant Sharma returned to the Test squad, the likes of Washington Sundar and Mohammed Siraj were rewarded for their splendid performance against Australia in the just-concluded series.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the squad for the first two Test against England starting from February 5. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Ishant Sharma returned to the Test squad, the likes of Washington Sundar and Mohammed Siraj were rewarded for their splendid performance against Australia in the just-concluded series. Notably, the BCCI has named nine standbys for the England series with five batsmen and four bowlers waiting in the ranks. The Indian squad for the first two Tests was finalised by the newly assembled Indian selection committee led by the former Indian pacer Chetan Sharma. ALSO READ: History at the Gabba! India defeat Australia by 3 wickets, seal series 2-1 India squad for first two Tests vs England: Openers: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal Middle-order: Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (captain), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul (subject to fitness after first Test) Fast bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur Spinners: R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel Standbys: Priyank Panchal, KS Bharat (wicketkeeper), Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shahbaz Nadeem, Rahul Chahar Net bowlers: Ankit Rajpoot, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Warrier, K Gowtham, Saurabh Kumar

Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya return as India announce squad for first two Tests vs England

India coach Ravi Shastri on Tuesday claimed this was the toughest ever tour an Indian team had undertaken and credited regular skipper Virat Kohli for the self-belief and character that saw the Indians win their second successive series in Australia. 
 
Kohli had returned home after India suffered a humiliating loss in the first Test at Adelaide to attend the birth of his first child. He had led India to their first-ever series win in Australia, back in 2018-19. 
 
"This is the toughest tour ever. We are playing in Covid and quarantine times with multiple injuries. So nothing comes close to this or surpasses this," said the coach after India defeated Australia in the fourth and final Test by three wickets at the Gabba. 
 
"You must give credit to Virat Kohli. He may not be here. He has gone back home. But his character, his personality is there for everyone to see in this team. For Ajinkya to take over the way he did was simply unreal. We were left with no choices, had no one left in the squad when the final Test started. India beat Australia in Australia last time but there was not a single bowler from that tour playing in this last game. It was important to keep the self-belief going," he said. 
 
Shastri lauded Rahane`s captaincy. 
 
"I think Ajinkya did a great job by being calm, composed. It is not easy to go out with a bowling attack that is just three Test matches old? I think it is the self-belief. You people believe it has come overnight. It hasn`t come overnight. It is a process that has taken 5-6 years. These boys have been playing with each other for five-six years. They have had tough tours, they have had losses. What they have learnt now is never give up. Feeling defeated is one thing. But not giving up is not in our game. And that this team has shown. And you have to give credit to Kohli," said Shastri. 
 
Shastri said that he had tears in his eyes after the series win. 
 
"I got emotional. I am not someone who has tears in my eyes but I really had absolutely real tears in my eyes. This is unreal. What these guys have pulled off will go down in history as one of the greatest series ever played. And when you look at the Covid situation and spate of injuries and to take everything into account and to show the stomach for fight after being bowled out for 36 is unimaginable." 
 
Shastri described the difficult circumstances the team had to go through ahead of the series. 
 
"When you look at the circumstances when this team came to Australia -- being in lockdown for four months where a lot of people living in metros couldn`t even get out of their flats, leave alone get an opportunity to practice and train. Then to go to IPL?. None of the guys had a proper hit in the middle. Then to come here and take on Australia in their own backyard, the world knows how tough it is. Then to go through these quarantine periods, have multiple injuries right through the tour," he stressed. 
 
"To be here bowled out for 36, India`s lowest score and then to come back from there and play like absolute champions is unreal. The penny has still not dropped. It will take some time. Unreal. Unimaginable. Simply superb. Especially the resolve and character the boys have shown." 
 
&nbsp;

India coach Ravi Shastri on Tuesday claimed this was the toughest ever tour an Indian team had undertaken and credited regular skipper Virat Kohli for the self-belief and character that saw the Indians win their second successive series in Australia.

India coach Ravi Shastri on Tuesday claimed this was the toughest ever tour an Indian team had undertaken and credited regular skipper Virat Kohli for the self-belief and character that saw the Indians win their second successive series in Australia. Kohli had returned home after India suffered a humiliating loss in the first Test at Adelaide to attend the birth of his first child. He had led India to their first-ever series win in Australia, back in 2018-19. "This is the toughest tour ever. We are playing in Covid and quarantine times with multiple injuries. So nothing comes close to this or surpasses this," said the coach after India defeated Australia in the fourth and final Test by three wickets at the Gabba. "You must give credit to Virat Kohli. He may not be here. He has gone back home. But his character, his personality is there for everyone to see in this team. For Ajinkya to take over the way he did was simply unreal. We were left with no choices, had no one left in the squad when the final Test started. India beat Australia in Australia last time but there was not a single bowler from that tour playing in this last game. It was important to keep the self-belief going," he said. Shastri lauded Rahane`s captaincy. "I think Ajinkya did a great job by being calm, composed. It is not easy to go out with a bowling attack that is just three Test matches old? I think it is the self-belief. You people believe it has come overnight. It hasn`t come overnight. It is a process that has taken 5-6 years. These boys have been playing with each other for five-six years. They have had tough tours, they have had losses. What they have learnt now is never give up. Feeling defeated is one thing. But not giving up is not in our game. And that this team has shown. And you have to give credit to Kohli," said Shastri. Shastri said that he had tears in his eyes after the series win. "I got emotional. I am not someone who has tears in my eyes but I really had absolutely real tears in my eyes. This is unreal. What these guys have pulled off will go down in history as one of the greatest series ever played. And when you look at the Covid situation and spate of injuries and to take everything into account and to show the stomach for fight after being bowled out for 36 is unimaginable." Shastri described the difficult circumstances the team had to go through ahead of the series. "When you look at the circumstances when this team came to Australia -- being in lockdown for four months where a lot of people living in metros couldn`t even get out of their flats, leave alone get an opportunity to practice and train. Then to go to IPL?. None of the guys had a proper hit in the middle. Then to come here and take on Australia in their own backyard, the world knows how tough it is. Then to go through these quarantine periods, have multiple injuries right through the tour," he stressed. "To be here bowled out for 36, India`s lowest score and then to come back from there and play like absolute champions is unreal. The penny has still not dropped. It will take some time. Unreal. Unimaginable. Simply superb. Especially the resolve and character the boys have shown."

Give credit to Virat for team's self-belief, character: Ravi Shastri

Australian captain Tim Paine insists he is the right man to lead his team to South Africa and to the possible Test championship final at Lords despite a sub-par performance in the Test series against India.

India beat Australia by three wickets at the Gabba on Tuesday, the first time since 1988 the Australians have lost a Test in Brisbane.

The win ensured the tourists claimed the series 2-1 and retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy they won in Australia in 2018-19.

Paine conceded he was below par in the last two Tests.

He dropped a number of chances on the final day in Sydney, when India batted all day to salvage a draw, and missed a stumping on the last day in Brisbane as Rishabh Pant led India to a stunning victory.

Paine also came under heavy criticism from a number of former players over his bowling changes, field placings and his decisions on when to declare.

But he said that he had no intention of stepping down and would take Australia to South Africa in February.

"I'm still looking forward to going to South Africa to try and win a series there," Paine said.

"We had a goal to make the Test championship final -- that's still achievable and it's a goal for me and the group."

India are now top of the Test championship table, with New Zealand second and Australia third.

The series against South Africa is the last chance Australia have of reaching the top two and making the August final at Lords.

Paine was also forced to fend off criticism from former Australian great Adam Gilchrist that he couldn't captain effectively and keep wicket as well.

"I think I had an ordinary day in Sydney, I'll cop that on the chin," Paine said.

"It doesn't always go your way in cricket or in life so for me it's about soldiering on.

"I said a few times I have improvement in me, I still feel like I want to get better and I certainly want to keep leading this team."

Paine was appointed captain and wicketkeeper after the ball tampering scandal in South Africa, which led to Steve Smith being stood down as captain and suspended for 12 months.

"I'm loving the job. I'm going to cop heaps of flak I know that," he said.

"I've been absolutely belted by the Indians over the last seven days -- that's been interesting.

"But that's par for the course for this job."

Australian captain Tim Paine insists he is the right man to lead his team to South Africa and to the possible Test championship final at Lords despite a sub-par performance in the Test series against India.

Australian captain Tim Paine insists he is the right man to lead his team to South Africa and to the possible Test championship final at Lords despite a sub-par performance in the Test series against India. India beat Australia by three wickets at the Gabba on Tuesday, the first time since 1988 the Australians have lost a Test in Brisbane. The win ensured the tourists claimed the series 2-1 and retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy they won in Australia in 2018-19. Paine conceded he was below par in the last two Tests. He dropped a number of chances on the final day in Sydney, when India batted all day to salvage a draw, and missed a stumping on the last day in Brisbane as Rishabh Pant led India to a stunning victory. Paine also came under heavy criticism from a number of former players over his bowling changes, field placings and his decisions on when to declare. But he said that he had no intention of stepping down and would take Australia to South Africa in February. "I'm still looking forward to going to South Africa to try and win a series there," Paine said. "We had a goal to make the Test championship final -- that's still achievable and it's a goal for me and the group." India are now top of the Test championship table, with New Zealand second and Australia third. The series against South Africa is the last chance Australia have of reaching the top two and making the August final at Lords. Paine was also forced to fend off criticism from former Australian great Adam Gilchrist that he couldn't captain effectively and keep wicket as well. "I think I had an ordinary day in Sydney, I'll cop that on the chin," Paine said. "It doesn't always go your way in cricket or in life so for me it's about soldiering on. "I said a few times I have improvement in me, I still feel like I want to get better and I certainly want to keep leading this team." Paine was appointed captain and wicketkeeper after the ball tampering scandal in South Africa, which led to Steve Smith being stood down as captain and suspended for 12 months. "I'm loving the job. I'm going to cop heaps of flak I know that," he said. "I've been absolutely belted by the Indians over the last seven days -- that's been interesting. "But that's par for the course for this job."

Defiant Paine wants to lead Australia to South Africa

Wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant said he was enjoying one of the "biggest moments" of his life after guiding India to a historic win over Australia with a fearless innings on Tuesday.

The 23-year-old hit an attacking 89, including the winning four, to clinch the four-Test series and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1.

Against all odds, injury-weakened India ended Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba with a record run-chase of 328 runs.

"This is one of the biggest moments of my life now," said Pant.

"It's been a dream series. The team management always backs me and tells me, you are a match-winner and you have to go win the match for the team."

Pant had also threatened to inspire an unlikely win in the third Test in Sydney, where he slammed 97 before the tail-enders blocked their way to a vital draw.

"I keep thinking every day that I want to win matches for India, and I did it today," said Pant.

"It was a fifth-day pitch and the ball was turning a bit. I thought I have to be disciplined with my shot selection."

Wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant said he was enjoying one of the "biggest moments" of his life after guiding India to a historic win over Australia with a fearless innings on Tuesday.

Wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant said he was enjoying one of the "biggest moments" of his life after guiding India to a historic win over Australia with a fearless innings on Tuesday. The 23-year-old hit an attacking 89, including the winning four, to clinch the four-Test series and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1. Against all odds, injury-weakened India ended Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba with a record run-chase of 328 runs. "This is one of the biggest moments of my life now," said Pant. "It's been a dream series. The team management always backs me and tells me, you are a match-winner and you have to go win the match for the team." Pant had also threatened to inspire an unlikely win in the third Test in Sydney, where he slammed 97 before the tail-enders blocked their way to a vital draw. "I keep thinking every day that I want to win matches for India, and I did it today," said Pant. "It was a fifth-day pitch and the ball was turning a bit. I thought I have to be disciplined with my shot selection."

India hero Rishabh Pant hails 'dream series' after Australia upset

The head coach of the Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri on Tuesday termed his side's historic Test series win against Australia as "unreal as the former Indian all-rounder recollected the memories of starting the four-Test series with the humiliation in Adelaide before turning it around against all odds. Shastri, after India's historic triumph at the Gabba in Brisbane, said that this was the "toughest tour ever" while adding "nothing surpasses this".&nbsp;

India defeated Australia by three wickets to win the Brisbane Test and seal the series 2-1 in their favour as the visitors became the first side to win back to back Test series on Australian soil.&nbsp;

"It is the toughest tour ever. Nothing surpasses this. After 36 all out, this is unreal," Shastri said after the three-wicket win in the fourth and final Test here which sealed the series 2-1 in favour of the tourists.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-whopping-bonus-for-team-india-after-historic-feat-against-australia-357705" hreflang="en">BCCI announces whopping bonus for Team India after historic feat against Australia</a>

"Feeling defeated is one thing but giving up is not in our vocabulary," Shastri said India's performance will not be forgotten by the cricket world for a long time to come.

India, who were marred by injuries to their key players, won the Test by fielding an inexperienced side, consisting of players who were initially drafted into the squad as net bowlers before becoming talismanic to team's historic achievement against Australia.&nbsp;

Successfully chasing a 328-run target. Rishabh Pant (89 not out off 138 balls) intimidated the Australians with his breathtaking strokeplay, ending the home team's 32-year-old unbeaten run at the 'Fortress Gabba' on Tuesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/remarkable-from-pm-modi-to-ganguly-team-india-lauded-for-scripting-history-against-australia-357682" hreflang="en">'Remarkable': From PM Modi to Ganguly - Team India lauded for scripting history against Australia</a>

Shastri was effusive in his praise for the young wicketkeeper-batsman, who has copped heavy criticism for erratic performances behind the stumps but earned renewed respect for his efforts with the bat.

"In his mind Pant was always chasing. You could see he was looking at the scoreboard," Shastri said.

"He is a good listener. As coach, you don't want to change anyone's natural ability but you need to strike the right balance between caution and aggression. You can't be reckless. Rishabh has learnt that," he added.

Shastri said Pant, who scored a 97 in the drawn Sydney Test, could have won that match for India, had he stayed. "He could have finished the game in Sydney had he been there for some more time. This time he made sure he was there till the end," he said. "When he doesn't keep well, people criticise him But he can help you win matches like these."

India's next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England. India will welcome some of their key players back to the squad.

The head coach of the Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri on Tuesday termed his side's historic Test series win against Australia as "unreal as the former Indian all-rounder recollected the memories of starting the four-Test series with the humiliation in Adelaide before turning it around against all odds.

The head coach of the Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri on Tuesday termed his side's historic Test series win against Australia as "unreal as the former Indian all-rounder recollected the memories of starting the four-Test series with the humiliation in Adelaide before turning it around against all odds. Shastri, after India's historic triumph at the Gabba in Brisbane, said that this was the "toughest tour ever" while adding "nothing surpasses this". India defeated Australia by three wickets to win the Brisbane Test and seal the series 2-1 in their favour as the visitors became the first side to win back to back Test series on Australian soil. "It is the toughest tour ever. Nothing surpasses this. After 36 all out, this is unreal," Shastri said after the three-wicket win in the fourth and final Test here which sealed the series 2-1 in favour of the tourists. ALSO READ: BCCI announces whopping bonus for Team India after historic feat against Australia "Feeling defeated is one thing but giving up is not in our vocabulary," Shastri said India's performance will not be forgotten by the cricket world for a long time to come. India, who were marred by injuries to their key players, won the Test by fielding an inexperienced side, consisting of players who were initially drafted into the squad as net bowlers before becoming talismanic to team's historic achievement against Australia. Successfully chasing a 328-run target. Rishabh Pant (89 not out off 138 balls) intimidated the Australians with his breathtaking strokeplay, ending the home team's 32-year-old unbeaten run at the 'Fortress Gabba' on Tuesday. ALSO READ: 'Remarkable': From PM Modi to Ganguly - Team India lauded for scripting history against Australia Shastri was effusive in his praise for the young wicketkeeper-batsman, who has copped heavy criticism for erratic performances behind the stumps but earned renewed respect for his efforts with the bat. "In his mind Pant was always chasing. You could see he was looking at the scoreboard," Shastri said. "He is a good listener. As coach, you don't want to change anyone's natural ability but you need to strike the right balance between caution and aggression. You can't be reckless. Rishabh has learnt that," he added. Shastri said Pant, who scored a 97 in the drawn Sydney Test, could have won that match for India, had he stayed. "He could have finished the game in Sydney had he been there for some more time. This time he made sure he was there till the end," he said. "When he doesn't keep well, people criticise him But he can help you win matches like these." India's next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England. India will welcome some of their key players back to the squad.

'Toughest tour ever, nothing surpasses this': Ravi Shastri hails Team India's incredible feat against Australia

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Tuesday announced a whopping INR 5 crore bonus for Team India after its historic achievement against Australia as the Ajinkya Rahane-led side won the four-Test Border Gavaskar Trophy 2-1.&nbsp;

India, powered by Rishabh Pant’s unbeaten 89 and Shubman Gill’s smashing 91, chased down 329 runs in the fourth and final Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane as the visitors ended Australia’s incredible 32-year-old unbeaten streak at the venue.

With the win, India also clinched the series 2-1 to win back-to-back Test series on Australian soil.&nbsp;

As fans erupted in joy after Team India’s monumental achievement, the BCCI president Sourav Ganguly announced INR 5 crore bonus for the Indian team to reward the Rahane-led side for their incredible achievement.

Ganguly heaped praise on the Indian team and summarized the achievement by saying that the value of this win is beyond any number while congratulating every member of the touring party.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/remarkable-from-pm-modi-to-ganguly-team-india-lauded-for-scripting-history-against-australia-357682" hreflang="en">'Remarkable': From PM Modi to Ganguly - Team India lauded for scripting history against Australia</a>

"Just a remarkable win...To go to Australia and win a test series in this way ..will be remembered in the history of indian cricket forever ..Bcci announces a 5 cr bonus for the team ..The value of this win is beyond any number ..well done to every member of the touring party..," Ganguly tweeted.

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Just a remarkable win...To go to Australia and win a test series in this way ..will be remembered in the history of indian cricket forever ..Bcci announces a 5 cr bonus for the team ..The value of this win is beyond any number ..well done to every member of the touring party..
— Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99/status/1351439593917173760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Indian team defied all the odds by winning the Test series despite missing some of their biggest stars. Moreover, they ended Australia’s 32-year-old unbeaten streak at the Gabba in Brisbane to cap off the fantastic Test series that has been a spectacle in every sense.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-swashbuckling-rishabh-pant-decimated-australia-at-the-gabba-357703" hreflang="en">How swashbuckling Rishabh Pant decimated Australia at the Gabba</a>

"It means a lot to us. I don't know how to describe this, but our boys showed a lot of character and determination after the Adelaide Test. I'm really proud of each individual. The conversation between Pujara and me was that he would bat normal, and I would take it on. It was all about intent. Credit to Pujara, the way he handled the pressure was magnificent,” said Indian skipper Ajinkya Rahane after the end of Brisbane Test.

“Rishabh and Washington were very good at the end. Taking 20 wickets was the key, so we opted for 5 bowlers. Sundar brought the balance in place of Jadeja. The intention was clear to play five bowlers. Siraj played two Tests, Saini just one, so it was inexperienced but the character shown by the bowlers and everyone else was incredible. We didn't discuss anything about Adelaide. Just played wanted to play the remaining games with good attitude and character without worrying about the result,” he added. 
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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Tuesday announced a whopping INR 5 crore bonus for Team India after its historic achievement against Australia as the Ajinkya Rahane-led side won the four-Test Border Gavaskar Trophy 2-1.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Tuesday announced a whopping INR 5 crore bonus for Team India after its historic achievement against Australia as the Ajinkya Rahane-led side won the four-Test Border Gavaskar Trophy 2-1. India, powered by Rishabh Pant’s unbeaten 89 and Shubman Gill’s smashing 91, chased down 329 runs in the fourth and final Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane as the visitors ended Australia’s incredible 32-year-old unbeaten streak at the venue. With the win, India also clinched the series 2-1 to win back-to-back Test series on Australian soil. As fans erupted in joy after Team India’s monumental achievement, the BCCI president Sourav Ganguly announced INR 5 crore bonus for the Indian team to reward the Rahane-led side for their incredible achievement. Ganguly heaped praise on the Indian team and summarized the achievement by saying that the value of this win is beyond any number while congratulating every member of the touring party. ALSO READ: 'Remarkable': From PM Modi to Ganguly - Team India lauded for scripting history against Australia "Just a remarkable win...To go to Australia and win a test series in this way ..will be remembered in the history of indian cricket forever ..Bcci announces a 5 cr bonus for the team ..The value of this win is beyond any number ..well done to every member of the touring party..," Ganguly tweeted. Just a remarkable win...To go to Australia and win a test series in this way ..will be remembered in the history of indian cricket forever ..Bcci announces a 5 cr bonus for the team ..The value of this win is beyond any number ..well done to every member of the touring party.. — Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) January 19, 2021 × Indian team defied all the odds by winning the Test series despite missing some of their biggest stars. Moreover, they ended Australia’s 32-year-old unbeaten streak at the Gabba in Brisbane to cap off the fantastic Test series that has been a spectacle in every sense. IN PICS | How swashbuckling Rishabh Pant decimated Australia at the Gabba "It means a lot to us. I don't know how to describe this, but our boys showed a lot of character and determination after the Adelaide Test. I'm really proud of each individual. The conversation between Pujara and me was that he would bat normal, and I would take it on. It was all about intent. Credit to Pujara, the way he handled the pressure was magnificent,” said Indian skipper Ajinkya Rahane after the end of Brisbane Test. “Rishabh and Washington were very good at the end. Taking 20 wickets was the key, so we opted for 5 bowlers. Sundar brought the balance in place of Jadeja. The intention was clear to play five bowlers. Siraj played two Tests, Saini just one, so it was inexperienced but the character shown by the bowlers and everyone else was incredible. We didn't discuss anything about Adelaide. Just played wanted to play the remaining games with good attitude and character without worrying about the result,” he added.

BCCI announces whopping bonus for Team India after historic feat against Australia

India on Tuesday scripted history as they defeated Australia by three wickets at the Gabba in Brisbane to seal the four-Test Border Gavaskar Trophy 2-1. This was Australia’s first defeat at their fortress Gabba in 32 years as the Indian cricket team, missing many of their key players, completed the historic feat on Australian soil.&nbsp;

India have now won back-to-back Test series on Australian soil which itself is a historic achievement. From Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to BCCI president Sourav Ganguly to former cricketers, everyone rejoiced India’s unforgettable achievement. BCCI secretary Jay Shah even announced an INR 5 crore as team bonus to reward the splendid achievement.

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Victory scenes at the Gabba.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z5nB9MyPwh">pic.twitter.com/Z5nB9MyPwh</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1351436922405617664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“We are all overjoyed at the success of the Indian Cricket Team in Australia. Their remarkable energy and passion was visible throughout. So was their stellar intent, remarkable grit and determination. Congratulations to the team! Best wishes for your future endeavours,” PM Modi tweeted as he congratulated the Indian team for creating history.

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We are all overjoyed at the success of the Indian Cricket Team in Australia. Their remarkable energy and passion was visible throughout. So was their stellar intent, remarkable grit and determination. Congratulations to the team! Best wishes for your future endeavours.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1351436475414548480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“Just a remarkable win...To go to Australia and win a test series in this way ..will be remembered in the history of indian cricket forever ..Bcci announces a 5 cr bonus for the team ..The value of this win is beyond any number ..well done to every member of the touring party..,” congratulated BCCI president Ganguly via his tweet.

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Just a remarkable win...To go to Australia and win a test series in this way ..will be remembered in the history of indian cricket forever ..Bcci announces a 5 cr bonus for the team ..The value of this win is beyond any number ..well done to every member of the touring party..
— Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99/status/1351439593917173760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“The @BCCI has announced INR 5 Crore as team bonus. These are special moments for India Cricket. An outstanding display of character and skill #TeamIndia #AUSvIND #Gabba,” Jay Shah tweeted announcing a whopping INR 5 crore as bonus.

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> has announced INR 5 Crore as team bonus. These are special moments for India Cricket. An outstanding display of character and skill <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://twitter.com/hashtag/Gabba?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gabba</a>
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah/status/1351437371611426817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Even Indian captain Virat Kohli tweeted to congratulate the Indian team for the remarkable win: "WHAT A WIN!!! Yessssss. To everyone who doubted us after Adelaide, stand up and take notice. Exemplary performance but the grit and determination was the standout for us the whole way. Well done to all the boys and the management. Enjoy this historic feat lads. Cheers"

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WHAT A WIN!!! Yessssss. To everyone who doubted us after Adelaide, stand up and take notice. Exemplary performance but the grit and determination was the standout for us the whole way. Well done to all the boys and the management. Enjoy this historic feat lads. Cheers 👏🏼🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/CgWElgOOO1">pic.twitter.com/CgWElgOOO1</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1351444900269629441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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EVERY SESSION WE DISCOVERED A NEW HERO. 
Every time we got hit, we stayed put &amp; stood taller. We pushed boundaries of belief to play fearless but not careless cricket. Injuries &amp; uncertainties were countered with poise &amp; confidence. One of the greatest series wins! 
Congrats India. <a href="https://t.co/ZtCChUURLV">pic.twitter.com/ZtCChUURLV</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1351434901791379457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The champions &amp; the greatest chase!🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> has proved it again by team efforts, great character, courage &amp; max determination! Despite the bruises, the team made it possible for our country. That’s why we play for the country’s flag to go high every time we perfom🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a>
— Ishant Sharma (@ImIshant) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImIshant/status/1351436989749485568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 🇮🇳 Absolute superstars all of you 👏👏 A proud and historic moment for Indian cricket! Battered, bruised, but champions as well 🏆
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25/status/1351433806750703618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Historic series win for Team India! Youngsters delivered when it mattered, with Gilll and Pant in the forefront. Hats off to Ravi Shastri and the support staff for their part in this turnaround! So so proud of this bunch, this is one for the ages👏👏👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsIND</a>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1351434175895638016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Another great milestone by my brother <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> achieving 1000 Test Runs at Gabba, what a beautiful sight it has been watching you play today for our country, keep going!👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> ❤️❤️👌✅☝️<a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/2OVbCKvJlH">pic.twitter.com/2OVbCKvJlH</a>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1351435483050606592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India chased down 329 runs with ease as Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant played cracking knocks to take India home on a tricky Gabba pitch on Day 5 of the Test. While Gill departed on 91, Pujara played a defining knock of 56 runs to take India closer to the win.&nbsp;

, it was Rishabh Pant who took the charge and played some fantastic strokes to stun the Aussie bowlers. It was Pant who took India over the winning line with a straight drive as he remained unbeaten on 89 in what will go down as one of the finest knocks on Aussie soil. 
&nbsp;

India on Tuesday scripted history as they defeated Australia by three wickets at the Gabba in Brisbane to seal the four-Test Border Gavaskar Trophy 2-1. This was Australia’s first defeat at their fortress Gabba in 32 years as the Indian cricket team, missing many of their key players, completed the historic feat on Australian soil.

India on Tuesday scripted history as they defeated Australia by three wickets at the Gabba in Brisbane to seal the four-Test Border Gavaskar Trophy 2-1. This was Australia’s first defeat at their fortress Gabba in 32 years as the Indian cricket team, missing many of their key players, completed the historic feat on Australian soil. India have now won back-to-back Test series on Australian soil which itself is a historic achievement. From Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to BCCI president Sourav Ganguly to former cricketers, everyone rejoiced India’s unforgettable achievement. BCCI secretary Jay Shah even announced an INR 5 crore as team bonus to reward the splendid achievement. Victory scenes at the Gabba.#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/Z5nB9MyPwh — BCCI (@BCCI) January 19, 2021 × “We are all overjoyed at the success of the Indian Cricket Team in Australia. Their remarkable energy and passion was visible throughout. So was their stellar intent, remarkable grit and determination. Congratulations to the team! Best wishes for your future endeavours,” PM Modi tweeted as he congratulated the Indian team for creating history. We are all overjoyed at the success of the Indian Cricket Team in Australia. Their remarkable energy and passion was visible throughout. So was their stellar intent, remarkable grit and determination. Congratulations to the team! Best wishes for your future endeavours. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 19, 2021 × “Just a remarkable win...To go to Australia and win a test series in this way ..will be remembered in the history of indian cricket forever ..Bcci announces a 5 cr bonus for the team ..The value of this win is beyond any number ..well done to every member of the touring party..,” congratulated BCCI president Ganguly via his tweet. Just a remarkable win...To go to Australia and win a test series in this way ..will be remembered in the history of indian cricket forever ..Bcci announces a 5 cr bonus for the team ..The value of this win is beyond any number ..well done to every member of the touring party.. — Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) January 19, 2021 × “The @BCCI has announced INR 5 Crore as team bonus. These are special moments for India Cricket. An outstanding display of character and skill #TeamIndia #AUSvIND #Gabba,” Jay Shah tweeted announcing a whopping INR 5 crore as bonus. The @BCCI has announced INR 5 Crore as team bonus. These are special moments for India Cricket. An outstanding display of character and skill #TeamIndia #AUSvIND #Gabba — Jay Shah (@JayShah) January 19, 2021 × Even Indian captain Virat Kohli tweeted to congratulate the Indian team for the remarkable win: "WHAT A WIN!!! Yessssss. To everyone who doubted us after Adelaide, stand up and take notice. Exemplary performance but the grit and determination was the standout for us the whole way. Well done to all the boys and the management. Enjoy this historic feat lads. Cheers" WHAT A WIN!!! Yessssss. To everyone who doubted us after Adelaide, stand up and take notice. Exemplary performance but the grit and determination was the standout for us the whole way. Well done to all the boys and the management. Enjoy this historic feat lads. Cheers 👏🏼🇮🇳 @BCCI pic.twitter.com/CgWElgOOO1 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 19, 2021 × EVERY SESSION WE DISCOVERED A NEW HERO. Every time we got hit, we stayed put & stood taller. We pushed boundaries of belief to play fearless but not careless cricket. Injuries & uncertainties were countered with poise & confidence. One of the greatest series wins! Congrats India. pic.twitter.com/ZtCChUURLV — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) January 19, 2021 × The champions & the greatest chase!🙌#TeamIndia has proved it again by team efforts, great character, courage & max determination! Despite the bruises, the team made it possible for our country. That’s why we play for the country’s flag to go high every time we perfom🇮🇳#INDvAUS — Ishant Sharma (@ImIshant) January 19, 2021 × Congratulations #TeamIndia 🇮🇳 Absolute superstars all of you 👏👏 A proud and historic moment for Indian cricket! Battered, bruised, but champions as well 🏆 — Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) January 19, 2021 × Historic series win for Team India! Youngsters delivered when it mattered, with Gilll and Pant in the forefront. Hats off to Ravi Shastri and the support staff for their part in this turnaround! So so proud of this bunch, this is one for the ages👏👏👏 #AUSvsIND — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) January 19, 2021 × Another great milestone by my brother @RishabhPant17 achieving 1000 Test Runs at Gabba, what a beautiful sight it has been watching you play today for our country, keep going!👏 #AUSvIND ❤️❤️👌✅☝️@BCCI pic.twitter.com/2OVbCKvJlH — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) January 19, 2021 × India chased down 329 runs with ease as Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant played cracking knocks to take India home on a tricky Gabba pitch on Day 5 of the Test. While Gill departed on 91, Pujara played a defining knock of 56 runs to take India closer to the win. , it was Rishabh Pant who took the charge and played some fantastic strokes to stun the Aussie bowlers. It was Pant who took India over the winning line with a straight drive as he remained unbeaten on 89 in what will go down as one of the finest knocks on Aussie soil.

'Remarkable': From PM Modi to Ganguly - Team India lauded for scripting history against Australia

Marnus Labuschagne put Australia firmly in control of the fourth Test against India with his fifth century in his 18th Test match at the Gabba in Brisbane on Friday.

Labuschagne came to the crease in the second over with Australia in trouble at four for one.

He started slowly but picked up the pace after tea and reached his century with a drive through cover and mid-on for an all-run four.

His century took 195 balls and included nine boundaries.

Marnus Labuschagne put Australia firmly in control of the fourth Test against India with his fifth century in his 18th Test match at the Gabba in Brisbane on Friday.

Marnus Labuschagne put Australia firmly in control of the fourth Test against India with his fifth century in his 18th Test match at the Gabba in Brisbane on Friday. Labuschagne came to the crease in the second over with Australia in trouble at four for one. He started slowly but picked up the pace after tea and reached his century with a drive through cover and mid-on for an all-run four. His century took 195 balls and included nine boundaries.

Labuschagne rescues Australia with fifth Test century

Captain Joe Root Friday said he wants England to be "ruthless" after his unbeaten 168 took the team's lead to 185 over Sri Lanka on a rain-hit second day of the opening Test.

England were 320 for four when rain halted play in Galle. Root and Dan Lawrence, who scored 73 on his Test debut, built a 173-run partnership after the tourists resumed the day on 127-2.

Root, who is batting with Jos Buttler (7), hit his 18th Test ton and kept up the pressure on the home bowlers despite losing overnight partner Jonny Bairstow for 47 early in the day.

"I think the things could happen very quickly as the game moves forward, generally does here. It is really important that we make the most of this first innings lead that we have got now," Root told reporters.

"We will be really ruthless. I have spoken about this ahead of the series and make it count and put them under pressure. That way try and bat just once."

After a full opening day in the empty stadium in Galle, rain started falling just before the start of the second day and wiped out the final session.

Root started the day on 66 and passed 100 soon after lunch with a single off Dilruwan Perera. He raised his bat and hugged Lawrence.

It was the star batsman's highest Test score in more than a year after going through 2020 without a century and said he felt "good" to make it count.

"Generally when I get a hundred I make it really count," Root, who has a Test best of 254 in 98 Tests, said. "I have got a good record past 100. Tomorrow I will try to make another really big one and drive the game forward from there."

He added, "I felt I really got in a good mindset throughout this game so far. Will try and take that forward into the rest of this winter tour and beyond."

England will tour India for a full series including four Tests after the two matches in Sri Lanka as part of a hectic cricket calender in 2021.

<h2>- Debut special -</h2>

Lawrence, 23, stood firm with his captain, displaying confidence against the spinners as he brought up his fifty in 95 balls with five fours and one six.

Lawrence, who plays for English county Essex, survived two dropped catches on 60 and 68 and finally fell to Perera.

"Very impressed, I thought he played magnificently well," Root said of the Essex batsman.

"Showed exactly why he deserves an opportunity to play and it's the start of something very special for him."

Earlier Bairstow became left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya's third victim, caught at gully. The wicket ended a 114-run third-wicket stand for the tourists.

Off-spinner Dom Bess returned career-best figures of 5-30 to help skittle Sri Lanka out for 135 -- the lowest first-innings score at the venue -- in two sessions on Thursday after the hosts elected to bat.

"Obviously it's been a tough couple of days for us and probably we are a long way behind the game," Sri Lankan fast bowling coach David Saker said.

"The best way we can start tomorrow is get these six wickets as quickly as we can. I think the opposition put us in a lot of pressure. I think Joe Root batted very well and the young kid on debut was very good as well."

The two-match series has resumed after being aborted last March due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Captain Joe Root Friday said he wants England to be "ruthless" after his unbeaten 168 took the team's lead to 185 over Sri Lanka on a rain-hit second day of the opening Test.

Captain Joe Root Friday said he wants England to be "ruthless" after his unbeaten 168 took the team's lead to 185 over Sri Lanka on a rain-hit second day of the opening Test. England were 320 for four when rain halted play in Galle. Root and Dan Lawrence, who scored 73 on his Test debut, built a 173-run partnership after the tourists resumed the day on 127-2. Root, who is batting with Jos Buttler (7), hit his 18th Test ton and kept up the pressure on the home bowlers despite losing overnight partner Jonny Bairstow for 47 early in the day. "I think the things could happen very quickly as the game moves forward, generally does here. It is really important that we make the most of this first innings lead that we have got now," Root told reporters. "We will be really ruthless. I have spoken about this ahead of the series and make it count and put them under pressure. That way try and bat just once." After a full opening day in the empty stadium in Galle, rain started falling just before the start of the second day and wiped out the final session. Root started the day on 66 and passed 100 soon after lunch with a single off Dilruwan Perera. He raised his bat and hugged Lawrence. It was the star batsman's highest Test score in more than a year after going through 2020 without a century and said he felt "good" to make it count. "Generally when I get a hundred I make it really count," Root, who has a Test best of 254 in 98 Tests, said. "I have got a good record past 100. Tomorrow I will try to make another really big one and drive the game forward from there." He added, "I felt I really got in a good mindset throughout this game so far. Will try and take that forward into the rest of this winter tour and beyond." England will tour India for a full series including four Tests after the two matches in Sri Lanka as part of a hectic cricket calender in 2021. - Debut special - Lawrence, 23, stood firm with his captain, displaying confidence against the spinners as he brought up his fifty in 95 balls with five fours and one six. Lawrence, who plays for English county Essex, survived two dropped catches on 60 and 68 and finally fell to Perera. "Very impressed, I thought he played magnificently well," Root said of the Essex batsman. "Showed exactly why he deserves an opportunity to play and it's the start of something very special for him." Earlier Bairstow became left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya's third victim, caught at gully. The wicket ended a 114-run third-wicket stand for the tourists. Off-spinner Dom Bess returned career-best figures of 5-30 to help skittle Sri Lanka out for 135 -- the lowest first-innings score at the venue -- in two sessions on Thursday after the hosts elected to bat. "Obviously it's been a tough couple of days for us and probably we are a long way behind the game," Sri Lankan fast bowling coach David Saker said. "The best way we can start tomorrow is get these six wickets as quickly as we can. I think the opposition put us in a lot of pressure. I think Joe Root batted very well and the young kid on debut was very good as well." The two-match series has resumed after being aborted last March due to the coronavirus pandemic.

'Ruthless' Root hits first ton in over a year

As the mini-auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 approaching thick and fast,&nbsp;the process of franchises retaining players must be completed by January 20. Indian players who wish to be part of the auction also need to complete the player auction agreement and submit it online on February 5 with the deadline being 5pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a mail sent to the state associations,&nbsp;accessed by ANI,&nbsp;IPL COO and interim BCCI CEO Hemang Amin has explained the entire process through&nbsp;which an Indian player can register to play in IPL 2021.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Amin said the process wasn't applicable for players with an ongoing contract in IPL.&nbsp;“Please note that this procedure does not apply to any Indian player who has an ongoing IPL Player Contract that may be extended prior to IPL 2021 Player Auction (the deadline for franchises to complete this process is 20th January 2021),” he wrote.&nbsp;

After explaining the process, Amin elaborated on how a player can complete the process.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-good-selection-ajit-agarkar-not-impressed-with-kuldeep-yadavs-omission-356968" hreflang="en">'Not good selection': Ajit Agarkar not impressed with Kuldeep Yadav's omission</a>

“When the above registration is initiated by the state association, it will generate an email to the player with their login details so they can complete the registration process. Once registered, in order to express their interest in playing in the IPL 2021, the player should login to the online registration system.&nbsp;

“They will be required to complete all the fields and download and complete the IPL 2021 Player Auction Agreement. Once completed, the agreement must be uploaded back to the online registration system and the original sent or delivered to their respective state association. Please note physical signature of player is required on original auction agreement,” he pointed.&nbsp;

While the deadline for IPL 2020 Player Auction Agreements is locked at 5pm of February 2, originals sent by post will be accepted until February 12. To make the entire process fluid, IPL COO has asked the state associations to send the list in batches.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t-natarajan-becomes-first-indian-cricketer-to-debut-across-formats-in-a-tour-356944" hreflang="en">T Natarajan becomes first Indian cricketer to debut across formats in a tour</a>

Amin made it clear that the BCCI will not be dealing with any player agent or manager and all dealings will be done with the state bodies. “Please note that, at this stage of the process, BCCI will only deal directly with the state associations and at no time will have any communication with player agents or managers. Any failure by a player to abide by this will (unless BCCI in its sole discretion decides otherwise) result in the player’s name being withdrawn with immediate effect from the IPL 2021 Auction Register and/or IPL 2021 Auction List (as appropriate),” he explained.&nbsp;

Under-19 cricketers are also allowed to register for IPL 2021 auction given he is a part of the state team and has played at least one match in first-class or List&nbsp;A.“An&nbsp;Indian U19 player may only register for the IPL 2021 Player Auction if the player is registered as a player with a State Association and has played in at least one match in either First Class cricket or List A cricket. For the 2021 Season, a U19 player is one who was born on or after 1 April 2002,” the mail said.&nbsp;

“Any uncapped player who has retired from domestic cricket, can only submit his auction agreement for player registration after getting written approval from BCCI.”&nbsp;

(With ANI inputs)&nbsp;

As the mini-auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 approaching thick and fast, the process of franchises retaining players must be completed by January 20.

As the mini-auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 approaching thick and fast, the process of franchises retaining players must be completed by January 20. Indian players who wish to be part of the auction also need to complete the player auction agreement and submit it online on February 5 with the deadline being 5pm. In a mail sent to the state associations, accessed by ANI, IPL COO and interim BCCI CEO Hemang Amin has explained the entire process through which an Indian player can register to play in IPL 2021. Amin said the process wasn't applicable for players with an ongoing contract in IPL. “Please note that this procedure does not apply to any Indian player who has an ongoing IPL Player Contract that may be extended prior to IPL 2021 Player Auction (the deadline for franchises to complete this process is 20th January 2021),” he wrote. After explaining the process, Amin elaborated on how a player can complete the process. ALSO READ: 'Not good selection': Ajit Agarkar not impressed with Kuldeep Yadav's omission “When the above registration is initiated by the state association, it will generate an email to the player with their login details so they can complete the registration process. Once registered, in order to express their interest in playing in the IPL 2021, the player should login to the online registration system. “They will be required to complete all the fields and download and complete the IPL 2021 Player Auction Agreement. Once completed, the agreement must be uploaded back to the online registration system and the original sent or delivered to their respective state association. Please note physical signature of player is required on original auction agreement,” he pointed. While the deadline for IPL 2020 Player Auction Agreements is locked at 5pm of February 2, originals sent by post will be accepted until February 12. To make the entire process fluid, IPL COO has asked the state associations to send the list in batches. ALSO READ: T Natarajan becomes first Indian cricketer to debut across formats in a tour Amin made it clear that the BCCI will not be dealing with any player agent or manager and all dealings will be done with the state bodies. “Please note that, at this stage of the process, BCCI will only deal directly with the state associations and at no time will have any communication with player agents or managers. Any failure by a player to abide by this will (unless BCCI in its sole discretion decides otherwise) result in the player’s name being withdrawn with immediate effect from the IPL 2021 Auction Register and/or IPL 2021 Auction List (as appropriate),” he explained. Under-19 cricketers are also allowed to register for IPL 2021 auction given he is a part of the state team and has played at least one match in first-class or List A.“An Indian U19 player may only register for the IPL 2021 Player Auction if the player is registered as a player with a State Association and has played in at least one match in either First Class cricket or List A cricket. For the 2021 Season, a U19 player is one who was born on or after 1 April 2002,” the mail said. “Any uncapped player who has retired from domestic cricket, can only submit his auction agreement for player registration after getting written approval from BCCI.” (With ANI inputs)

IPL 2021 Auction: January 20 deadline for player retention process

Pacer Thangarasu Natarajan on Friday became the first Indian cricketer to make international debut across all three formats during the same tour. Natarajan was initially named in the Indian squad as a net bowler but with injuries hampering the visitors, the 29-year-old went on to feature in all three formats of the game in the series. &nbsp;

Natarajan was one of the debutants in the Indian side with Washington Sundar being the other player. Natarajan's story has been one for the ages. He was playing tennis-ball cricket a few years back but excellent performances in Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) helped him gain public interest. His impressive performances helped him getting picked in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Sunrisers Hyderabad. His performances, especially his ability to bowl yorkers at will, in IPL 2020 were lauded by all.

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The stuff dreams are made of. A perfect treble for <a href="https://twitter.com/Natarajan_91?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Natarajan_91</a> as he is presented with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s Test 🧢 No. 300. It can't get any better! Natu is now an all-format player. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/cLYVBMGfFM">pic.twitter.com/cLYVBMGfFM</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1349857847983525890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The 29-year-old Tamil Nadu player was then picked by the Indian squad as a net bowler but with injuries plaguing the Indian team, Natarajan played all three formats in India's ongoing tour of Australia. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammed-siraj-and-washington-sundar-abused-labelled-grub-by-fans-at-gabba-356916" hreflang="en">Mohammed Siraj and Washington Sundar abused, labelled 'grub' by fans at Gabba</a>

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Welcome to Test cricket, <a href="https://twitter.com/Natarajan_91?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Natarajan_91</a> 🤩 
 
Thangarasu Natarajan becomes the first Indian player to make his International debut across all three formats during the same tour 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/CKltP2uT5w">pic.twitter.com/CKltP2uT5w</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1349863334938513409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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He made his international debut in the third ODI against Australia on December 2, which India won by 13 runs. He ended up with two wickets. He was then played in the three-match T20I series where he scalped six wickets.&nbsp;

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You never know when &amp; how opportunity knocks on your door but when it appears you should be ready. I am sure both <a href="https://twitter.com/Natarajan_91?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Natarajan_91</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/Sundarwashi5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sundarwashi5</a> are well prepared for their 1st test match. Congrats and Good luck. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1349880792348983296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Natarajan was handed his Test cap – no. 300 – by India's bowling coach Bharat Arun as the debutant went on to pick two crucial wickets on Day 1 of the Brisbane Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/happening-since-1932-sunil-gavaskar-points-out-main-issue-with-indias-bowling-unit-356928" hreflang="en">'Happening since 1932': Sunil Gavaskar points out main issue with India's bowling unit</a>

“Nattu (Natarajan) bowled well. He brought us back in the game. (Matthew) Wade and Marnus (Labuschagne) had a 120 odd-run partnership and, he took both of them out. It feels good to make my debut alongside him,” Washington Sundar, the debutant in Brisbane Test, said about the pacer after end of day's play.&nbsp;

Australia finished Day 1 on 274/5 and India will look to scalp quick wickets on Day 2 to put pressure on the hosts.&nbsp;

Pacer Thangarasu Natarajan on Friday became the first Indian cricketer to make international debut across all three formats during the same tour. Natarajan was initially named in the Indian squad as a net bowler but with injuries hampering the visitors, the 29-year-old went on to feature in all three formats of the game in the series.

Pacer Thangarasu Natarajan on Friday became the first Indian cricketer to make international debut across all three formats during the same tour. Natarajan was initially named in the Indian squad as a net bowler but with injuries hampering the visitors, the 29-year-old went on to feature in all three formats of the game in the series. Natarajan was one of the debutants in the Indian side with Washington Sundar being the other player. Natarajan's story has been one for the ages. He was playing tennis-ball cricket a few years back but excellent performances in Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) helped him gain public interest. His impressive performances helped him getting picked in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Sunrisers Hyderabad. His performances, especially his ability to bowl yorkers at will, in IPL 2020 were lauded by all. The stuff dreams are made of. A perfect treble for @Natarajan_91 as he is presented with #TeamIndia's Test 🧢 No. 300. It can't get any better! Natu is now an all-format player. #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/cLYVBMGfFM — BCCI (@BCCI) January 14, 2021 × The 29-year-old Tamil Nadu player was then picked by the Indian squad as a net bowler but with injuries plaguing the Indian team, Natarajan played all three formats in India's ongoing tour of Australia. ALSO READ: Mohammed Siraj and Washington Sundar abused, labelled 'grub' by fans at Gabba Welcome to Test cricket, @Natarajan_91 🤩 Thangarasu Natarajan becomes the first Indian player to make his International debut across all three formats during the same tour 👏#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/CKltP2uT5w — ICC (@ICC) January 14, 2021 × He made his international debut in the third ODI against Australia on December 2, which India won by 13 runs. He ended up with two wickets. He was then played in the three-match T20I series where he scalped six wickets. You never know when & how opportunity knocks on your door but when it appears you should be ready. I am sure both @Natarajan_91 and @Sundarwashi5 are well prepared for their 1st test match. Congrats and Good luck. #AUSvIND — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) January 15, 2021 × Natarajan was handed his Test cap – no. 300 – by India's bowling coach Bharat Arun as the debutant went on to pick two crucial wickets on Day 1 of the Brisbane Test. ALSO READ: 'Happening since 1932': Sunil Gavaskar points out main issue with India's bowling unit “Nattu (Natarajan) bowled well. He brought us back in the game. (Matthew) Wade and Marnus (Labuschagne) had a 120 odd-run partnership and, he took both of them out. It feels good to make my debut alongside him,” Washington Sundar, the debutant in Brisbane Test, said about the pacer after end of day's play. Australia finished Day 1 on 274/5 and India will look to scalp quick wickets on Day 2 to put pressure on the hosts.

T Natarajan becomes first Indian cricketer to debut across formats in a tour

Australia on Friday ended Day 1 of the fourth and final Test against India at the Gabba in Brisbane on 274/5 after a fine century from Marnus Labuschagne. Despite fielding an inexperienced bowling attack, Indian&nbsp;bowlers fared well with debutant&nbsp;Thangarasu&nbsp;Natarajan&nbsp;being the pick of the bowlers with two scalps to his name.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Australia took advantage of the inexperienced Indian bowling unit with Labuschagne registering his fifth Test century. While India&nbsp;were&nbsp;off to a brilliant start after dismissing both the openers – David Warner and Marcus Harris – for cheap, Steve Smith was also dismissed by debutant Washington Sundar before Australia could cross 100-run mark.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, Labuschagne and Wade stitched a century-stand to steady the ship for Australia. While Labuschagne scored 18, Wade was&nbsp;dismissed&nbsp;for&nbsp;45 as the duo departed in quick succession.&nbsp;Notably, Labuschagne was dropped by skipper Ajinkya Rahane at gully early in his innings.&nbsp;Cameron Green and skipper Tim Paine remained unbeaten at the end of Day 1 with Australia finishing with 274/5 on the board.&nbsp;

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"You know you don't need to be playing at anything around 4th stump line or even 3 and half stumps. I tell myself to be cool, when you get to a hundred just carry on. It's about how that moment is, I don't plan my hundred celebrations. A little bit disappointed that I got out. For Tim and Green to play like that against the new ball was good. Maybe we have a slight edge but they hung in there throughout," said Labuschagne after the end of day's play.&nbsp;

Shardul Thakur, who was coming back to&nbsp;the&nbsp; Test&nbsp;side after a couple of years, dismissed Marcus Harris in his first delivery of the match whereas Mohammed Siraj got the better of David Warner as Australia found themselves reeling at 17/2 early in the innings. Smith and Labuschagne restored the Aussie innings before the former departed.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brisbane-test-bcci-provides-update-on-navdeep-saini-as-pacer-suffers-groin-injury-356870" hreflang="en">Brisbane Test: BCCI provides update on Navdeep Saini as pacer suffers groin injury</a>

India would be looking to use the new ball to their advantage when they take the field for Day 2 of the Brisbane Test.&nbsp;

Brief Scores: Australia 274/5 (Marnus Labuschagne 108, Matthew Wade 45; T Natarajan 2-63)&nbsp;

Australia on Friday ended Day 1 of the fourth and final Test against India at the Gabba in Brisbane on 274/5 after a fine century from Marnus Labuschagne. Despite fielding an inexperienced bowling attack, Indian bowlers fared well with debutant Thangarasu Natarajan being the pick of the bowlers with two scalps to his name.

Australia on Friday ended Day 1 of the fourth and final Test against India at the Gabba in Brisbane on 274/5 after a fine century from Marnus Labuschagne. Despite fielding an inexperienced bowling attack, Indian bowlers fared well with debutant Thangarasu Natarajan being the pick of the bowlers with two scalps to his name. Australia took advantage of the inexperienced Indian bowling unit with Labuschagne registering his fifth Test century. While India were off to a brilliant start after dismissing both the openers – David Warner and Marcus Harris – for cheap, Steve Smith was also dismissed by debutant Washington Sundar before Australia could cross 100-run mark. However, Labuschagne and Wade stitched a century-stand to steady the ship for Australia. While Labuschagne scored 18, Wade was dismissed for 45 as the duo departed in quick succession. Notably, Labuschagne was dropped by skipper Ajinkya Rahane at gully early in his innings. Cameron Green and skipper Tim Paine remained unbeaten at the end of Day 1 with Australia finishing with 274/5 on the board. ALSO READ: Sexual harassment case against Pakistan captain Babar Azam withdrawn "You know you don't need to be playing at anything around 4th stump line or even 3 and half stumps. I tell myself to be cool, when you get to a hundred just carry on. It's about how that moment is, I don't plan my hundred celebrations. A little bit disappointed that I got out. For Tim and Green to play like that against the new ball was good. Maybe we have a slight edge but they hung in there throughout," said Labuschagne after the end of day's play. Shardul Thakur, who was coming back to the Test side after a couple of years, dismissed Marcus Harris in his first delivery of the match whereas Mohammed Siraj got the better of David Warner as Australia found themselves reeling at 17/2 early in the innings. Smith and Labuschagne restored the Aussie innings before the former departed. ALSO READ: Brisbane Test: BCCI provides update on Navdeep Saini as pacer suffers groin injury India would be looking to use the new ball to their advantage when they take the field for Day 2 of the Brisbane Test. Brief Scores: Australia 274/5 (Marnus Labuschagne 108, Matthew Wade 45; T Natarajan 2-63)

Brisbane Test, Day 1: Labuschagne steals show with century as Australia post 274/5

Injury worries for the Indian cricket team continued to grow on Friday as pacer Navdeep Saini was taken for scans after complaining of groin pain on Day 1 of the fourth and final Test at the Gabba in Brisbane.&nbsp;Saini walked off the field after bowling 7.5 overs due to pain in his groin with Rohit Sharma bowling the remaining delivery of the over.&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) then provided an update on Navdeep Saini's fitness as the Indian board said the youngster had gone for scans.&nbsp;

"UPDATE - Navdeep Saini has now gone for scans," BCCI tweeted.&nbsp;

"Navdeep Saini has complained of pain in his groin. He is currently being monitored by the BCCI medical team," BCCI tweeted earlier.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/labuschagne-rescues-australia-with-fifth-test-century-356852" hreflang="en">Labuschagne rescues Australia with fifth Test century</a>

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UPDATE - Navdeep Saini has now gone for scans.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/pN01PVnFfx">https://t.co/pN01PVnFfx</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1349962396316536832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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After debutant Washington Sundar sent Steve Smith packing in the 35th&nbsp;over of the first innings, the visitors got a big chance to put Australia under pressure. While Marnus Labuschagne, in the 36th&nbsp;over, edged the ball to Ajinkya Rahane, the&nbsp;Indian skipper dropped a sitter. However, Saini was seen in pain after the dropped catch as physio Nitin Patel rushed in to give him some treatment. The pacer eventually walked off the field.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-anyone-reach-to-800-test-wickets-sri-lankan-legend-muttiah-muralitharan-opines-356699" hreflang="en">Will anyone reach to 800 Test wickets? Sri Lankan legend Muttiah Muralitharan opines</a>

Labuschagne went on to hit a fantastic century to bring Australia back into the game before his partner Matthew Wade departed after a lousy shot. Labuschagne, too, fell soon after to debutant&nbsp;Thangarasu&nbsp;Natarajan.&nbsp;

Despite fielding an inexperienced bowling line-up, and with the injury of Navdeep Saini, the Indian bowlers have bowled well and kept their&nbsp;lenghts&nbsp;in check. After 86 overs, Australia&nbsp;were&nbsp;271/5 with Cameron Green and Tim Paine at the crease.&nbsp;

Injury worries for the Indian cricket team continued to grow on Friday as pacer Navdeep Saini was taken for scans after complaining of groin pain on Day 1 of the fourth and final Test at the Gabba in Brisbane.

Injury worries for the Indian cricket team continued to grow on Friday as pacer Navdeep Saini was taken for scans after complaining of groin pain on Day 1 of the fourth and final Test at the Gabba in Brisbane. Saini walked off the field after bowling 7.5 overs due to pain in his groin with Rohit Sharma bowling the remaining delivery of the over. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) then provided an update on Navdeep Saini's fitness as the Indian board said the youngster had gone for scans. "UPDATE - Navdeep Saini has now gone for scans," BCCI tweeted. "Navdeep Saini has complained of pain in his groin. He is currently being monitored by the BCCI medical team," BCCI tweeted earlier. ALSO READ: Labuschagne rescues Australia with fifth Test century UPDATE - Navdeep Saini has now gone for scans.#AUSvIND https://t.co/pN01PVnFfx — BCCI (@BCCI) January 15, 2021 × After debutant Washington Sundar sent Steve Smith packing in the 35th over of the first innings, the visitors got a big chance to put Australia under pressure. While Marnus Labuschagne, in the 36th over, edged the ball to Ajinkya Rahane, the Indian skipper dropped a sitter. However, Saini was seen in pain after the dropped catch as physio Nitin Patel rushed in to give him some treatment. The pacer eventually walked off the field. ALSO READ: Will anyone reach to 800 Test wickets? Sri Lankan legend Muttiah Muralitharan opines Labuschagne went on to hit a fantastic century to bring Australia back into the game before his partner Matthew Wade departed after a lousy shot. Labuschagne, too, fell soon after to debutant Thangarasu Natarajan. Despite fielding an inexperienced bowling line-up, and with the injury of Navdeep Saini, the Indian bowlers have bowled well and kept their lenghts in check. After 86 overs, Australia were 271/5 with Cameron Green and Tim Paine at the crease.

Brisbane Test: BCCI provides update on Navdeep Saini as pacer suffers groin injury

Team India batting coach Vikram Rathour on Thursday said that the medical team is working closely with ace speedster Jasprit Bumrah and a call on whether he can take the field for the series decider, against Australia at The Gabba, will be taken on Friday morning.&nbsp;

The Indian cricket team has been gripped by injuries even before the gruelling tour of Australia started. The injury list has since grown with the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Hanuma Vihari, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravichandran Ashwin being the latest names after the completion of Sydney Test. While Jadeja and Vihari are out, there are still chances that Bumrah and Ashwin may feature in the fourth and final Test in Brisbane. &nbsp;

"The medical team is working with Bumrah, we have to see tomorrow morning whether he is fit to play the fourth Test or not. If he can play, he will play, if he cannot, then he won't.&nbsp;

"The injuries are still being monitored. Our medical staff is looking into it, I would not be in a position to comment on this right now. We would like to give them as much time as possible. It will be tomorrow morning that you will know which eleven takes the field," Rathour said in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the final Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/smith-feeds-off-criticism-warns-paine-ahead-of-gabba-showdown-356615" hreflang="en">Smith 'feeds off' criticism warns Paine ahead of Gabba showdown</a>

There have been reports that Bumrah may play at The Gabba even if he is 50 per cent fit. Lauding the toughness of the players, who defied all the odds to draw the Sydney Test despite being plagued by injuries, Rathour said that the team has shown a lot of character while adding the Indian team has all the ability to do well against Australia in Brisbane.&nbsp;

"Basically, I think the toughness comes from the preparation, we believe in our players, every member of our team believes in their ability. One innings cannot let the doubts creep in, the team has shown a lot of character and the reason for that is the hard work they have been putting in for a long time," Rathour said. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brisbane-record-gives-australia-edge-over-india-josh-hazlewood-356494" hreflang="en">Brisbane record gives Australia edge over India: Josh Hazlewood</a>

"As far as I am concerned, we have the ability, with or without injuries, the eleven that will play would be the best eleven that India could put on the ground, all of them deserve to be there, if they play to their potential, I cannot see any reason, why we cannot do well," he added.&nbsp;

The Indian team has lost the likes of Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav as well and if Bumrah is unable to play then the pace attack will be led by two-Test old Mohammed Siraj. &nbsp;

Notably, Australia haven't lost a single Test at The Gabba since 1988 and would be looking to continue their incredible record at the venue.&nbsp;

With series firmly locked at 1-1, India and Australia will lock horns in the fourth and final Test of the series on January 15.&nbsp;

Team India batting coach Vikram Rathour on Thursday said that the medical team is working closely with ace speedster Jasprit Bumrah and a call on whether he can take the field for the series decider, against Australia at The Gabba, will be taken on Friday morning.

Team India batting coach Vikram Rathour on Thursday said that the medical team is working closely with ace speedster Jasprit Bumrah and a call on whether he can take the field for the series decider, against Australia at The Gabba, will be taken on Friday morning. The Indian cricket team has been gripped by injuries even before the gruelling tour of Australia started. The injury list has since grown with the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Hanuma Vihari, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravichandran Ashwin being the latest names after the completion of Sydney Test. While Jadeja and Vihari are out, there are still chances that Bumrah and Ashwin may feature in the fourth and final Test in Brisbane. "The medical team is working with Bumrah, we have to see tomorrow morning whether he is fit to play the fourth Test or not. If he can play, he will play, if he cannot, then he won't. "The injuries are still being monitored. Our medical staff is looking into it, I would not be in a position to comment on this right now. We would like to give them as much time as possible. It will be tomorrow morning that you will know which eleven takes the field," Rathour said in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the final Test. ALSO READ: Smith 'feeds off' criticism warns Paine ahead of Gabba showdown There have been reports that Bumrah may play at The Gabba even if he is 50 per cent fit. Lauding the toughness of the players, who defied all the odds to draw the Sydney Test despite being plagued by injuries, Rathour said that the team has shown a lot of character while adding the Indian team has all the ability to do well against Australia in Brisbane. "Basically, I think the toughness comes from the preparation, we believe in our players, every member of our team believes in their ability. One innings cannot let the doubts creep in, the team has shown a lot of character and the reason for that is the hard work they have been putting in for a long time," Rathour said. ALSO READ: Brisbane record gives Australia edge over India: Josh Hazlewood "As far as I am concerned, we have the ability, with or without injuries, the eleven that will play would be the best eleven that India could put on the ground, all of them deserve to be there, if they play to their potential, I cannot see any reason, why we cannot do well," he added. The Indian team has lost the likes of Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav as well and if Bumrah is unable to play then the pace attack will be led by two-Test old Mohammed Siraj. Notably, Australia haven't lost a single Test at The Gabba since 1988 and would be looking to continue their incredible record at the venue. With series firmly locked at 1-1, India and Australia will lock horns in the fourth and final Test of the series on January 15.

Call on Jasprit Bumrah's availability to be taken on Friday, says Vikram Rathour ahead of Brisbane Test

Skipper Tim Paine warned Thursday that Steve Smith "feeds off" criticism and was fired up for the high-stakes fourth Test against India, which Australia will start without injured opener Will Pucovski.

Smith has faced accusations he had been trying to cheat by scuffing up batsman Rishabh Pant's guard at the crease during the tense drawn third Test at Sydney, which left the series locked at 1-1.

He strongly denied it and said he was shocked by the reaction, claiming he was simply shadow batting.

Paine, himself slammed for an ugly sledging incident during the match, said his teammate was mentally strong and determined to build on his man-of-the-match performance in Sydney, where he made 131 and 81.

"Steve is in a good frame of mind," Paine said ahead of the clash at the Gabba starting Friday, a ground where Australia are unbeaten since 1988.

"I think we've seen through what he's been through in the last three years... he's mentally very strong, very tough. He knows sometimes he's going to be criticised and he's handled that supremely well.

"If anything, I think he feeds off it. His statistics speak for themselves and we'll see the best of Steve Smith again this week."

Australia will go into the series-deciding clash without Pucovski, who dislocated his shoulder while fielding in Sydney, where he made an impressive first innings' 62 on debut.

It was another cruel setback for the highly-rated 22-year-old, who missed the first two Tests with concussion.&nbsp;

Marcus Harris, who has played nine Tests, but not since Australia retained the Ashes in England last year, will open instead alongside David Warner.

"He'll come in and open the batting and looking forward to seeing what he can do," said Paine. "He's a no fuss, very good player."

Barring late mishaps, it will likely be the only change to the team that played the third Test.

Earlier this week, wicketkeeper Paine apologised for his own behaviour in Sydney, where he launched a verbal tirade at India's Ravi Ashwin, was fined for dissent and dropped three catches on the final day as Australia failed to bowl India out.

"I let it get under the skin, no doubt about that, I've admitted that, so for me it's about rising above it and concentrating on what I'm doing and concentrating on leading my team," he said.

"We've spoken a lot this game about controlling what we can control and focusing more inwardly on ourselves. If we do that, then we'll be in a good position."

Australia (probable): David Warner, Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Matthew Wade, Cameron Green, Tim Paine (capt), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

Skipper Tim Paine warned Thursday that Steve Smith "feeds off" criticism and was fired up for the high-stakes fourth Test against India, which Australia will start without injured opener Will Pucovski.

Skipper Tim Paine warned Thursday that Steve Smith "feeds off" criticism and was fired up for the high-stakes fourth Test against India, which Australia will start without injured opener Will Pucovski. Smith has faced accusations he had been trying to cheat by scuffing up batsman Rishabh Pant's guard at the crease during the tense drawn third Test at Sydney, which left the series locked at 1-1. He strongly denied it and said he was shocked by the reaction, claiming he was simply shadow batting. Paine, himself slammed for an ugly sledging incident during the match, said his teammate was mentally strong and determined to build on his man-of-the-match performance in Sydney, where he made 131 and 81. "Steve is in a good frame of mind," Paine said ahead of the clash at the Gabba starting Friday, a ground where Australia are unbeaten since 1988. "I think we've seen through what he's been through in the last three years... he's mentally very strong, very tough. He knows sometimes he's going to be criticised and he's handled that supremely well. "If anything, I think he feeds off it. His statistics speak for themselves and we'll see the best of Steve Smith again this week." Australia will go into the series-deciding clash without Pucovski, who dislocated his shoulder while fielding in Sydney, where he made an impressive first innings' 62 on debut. It was another cruel setback for the highly-rated 22-year-old, who missed the first two Tests with concussion. Marcus Harris, who has played nine Tests, but not since Australia retained the Ashes in England last year, will open instead alongside David Warner. "He'll come in and open the batting and looking forward to seeing what he can do," said Paine. "He's a no fuss, very good player." Barring late mishaps, it will likely be the only change to the team that played the third Test. Earlier this week, wicketkeeper Paine apologised for his own behaviour in Sydney, where he launched a verbal tirade at India's Ravi Ashwin, was fined for dissent and dropped three catches on the final day as Australia failed to bowl India out. "I let it get under the skin, no doubt about that, I've admitted that, so for me it's about rising above it and concentrating on what I'm doing and concentrating on leading my team," he said. "We've spoken a lot this game about controlling what we can control and focusing more inwardly on ourselves. If we do that, then we'll be in a good position." Australia (probable): David Warner, Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Matthew Wade, Cameron Green, Tim Paine (capt), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

Smith 'feeds off' criticism warns Paine ahead of Gabba showdown

England paceman Stuart Broad led an inspirational bowling attack to rattle Sri Lanka's top-order after the hosts elected to bat in the opening Test on Thursday.

The hosts suffered an early jolt when skipper Dimuth Karunaratne was ruled out of the first of the two Tests in Galle with a fractured thumb and Dinesh Chandimal took charge.

Angelo Mathews, on 17, and stand-in-captain Chandimal, on 22, put on an unbroken 40 after the early wickets to steer Sri Lanka to lunch at 65 for three.

Board struck twice in an over to send back opener Lahiru Thirimanne, who had scored four, and Kusal Mendis for nought.

The left-handed Thirimanne fell into a trap after he was caught at leg slip while Mendis edged behind to record his fourth successive duck.

Spin was introduced in the 11th over and Dom Bess with his second ball accounted for the wicket of Kusal Perera for 20 when the batsman top edged a reverse sweep to England captain Joe Root at first slip.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka had slumped to 25 for three but Mathews and Chandimal then stood firm as England persisted with spinners Bess and Jack Leach bowling in tandem in the final phase of the morning session.

Chandimal survived a dropped catch on 22 by Dan Lawrence, who was making his debut, in the covers off Leach's left-arm spin.

The series resumed behind closed doors after being aborted in the early phase of the coronavirus pandemic in March.

England paceman Stuart Broad led an inspirational bowling attack to rattle Sri Lanka's top-order after the hosts elected to bat in the opening Test on Thursday. The hosts suffered an early jolt when skipper Dimuth Karunaratne was ruled out of the first of the two Tests in Galle with a fractured thumb and Dinesh Chandimal took charge.

England paceman Stuart Broad led an inspirational bowling attack to rattle Sri Lanka's top-order after the hosts elected to bat in the opening Test on Thursday. The hosts suffered an early jolt when skipper Dimuth Karunaratne was ruled out of the first of the two Tests in Galle with a fractured thumb and Dinesh Chandimal took charge. Angelo Mathews, on 17, and stand-in-captain Chandimal, on 22, put on an unbroken 40 after the early wickets to steer Sri Lanka to lunch at 65 for three. Board struck twice in an over to send back opener Lahiru Thirimanne, who had scored four, and Kusal Mendis for nought. The left-handed Thirimanne fell into a trap after he was caught at leg slip while Mendis edged behind to record his fourth successive duck. Spin was introduced in the 11th over and Dom Bess with his second ball accounted for the wicket of Kusal Perera for 20 when the batsman top edged a reverse sweep to England captain Joe Root at first slip. Sri Lanka had slumped to 25 for three but Mathews and Chandimal then stood firm as England persisted with spinners Bess and Jack Leach bowling in tandem in the final phase of the morning session. Chandimal survived a dropped catch on 22 by Dan Lawrence, who was making his debut, in the covers off Leach's left-arm spin. The series resumed behind closed doors after being aborted in the early phase of the coronavirus pandemic in March.

Broad strikes twice as Sri Lanka reach to 62-3 at lunch

India and Australia are set to lock horns at The Gabba in Brisbane in what will be the series decider of the four-Test series. With the series firmly locked at 1-1, the match promises to be a thrilling contest. However, the weather forecast in Brisbane isn't the best for cricket and could result in delay. But will rain force the match to be washed out completely?&nbsp;

There are major chances that the fourth Test between India and Australia in Brisbane could be halted by rain gods. Brisbane is expected to witness intermittent rainfall on the first three days of the fourth Test – Friday, Saturday and Sunday – with 50 per cent chance of rain disrupting the match on the last two days of the fourth Test.&nbsp;

Notably, if the Brisbane Test ends up in a draw then India will retain the coveted Border-Gavaskar Trophy.&nbsp;

<img alt="Brisbane Weather" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a2d9630b-8fca-47c9-b9ab-77322e1282a9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Accu.JPG" />

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bumrah-out-sundar-in-team-indias-likely-playing-xi-for-brisbane-test-vs-australia-356700" hreflang="en">Bumrah out, Sundar in? Team India's likely playing XI for Brisbane Test vs Australia</a>

Australia are yet to lose a Test at The Gabba in Brisbane since 1988. The hosts made one change to their playing XI with Marcus Harris replacing the injured Will Pucovski. But India will confirm their playing XI before the match due to their injury concerns.&nbsp;

While the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Hanuma Vihari are out of Brisbane Test due to injuries, Ravichandran Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah are also a doubt which may force the visitors to field an inexperience bowling attack.&nbsp;

"The medical team is working with Bumrah, we have to see tomorrow morning whether he is fit to play the fourth Test or not. If he can play, he will play, if he cannot, then he won't. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/should-jasprit-bumrah-play-brisbane-test-gautam-gambhir-gives-his-take-356737" hreflang="en">Should Jasprit Bumrah play Brisbane Test? Gautam Gambhir gives his take</a>

"The injuries are still being monitored. Our medical staff is looking into it, I would not be in a position to comment on this right now. We would like to give them as much time as possible. It will be tomorrow morning that you will know which eleven takes the field," India's batting coach Vikram Rathour said in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the final Test.&nbsp;

The four-match Test series is tied at 1-1 with Australia winning the first Test in Adelaide while India winning the second in Melbourne. The Sydney Test ended in a draw.&nbsp;

India and Australia are set to lock horns at The Gabba in Brisbane in what will be the series decider of the four-Test series. With the series firmly locked at 1-1, the match promises to be a thrilling contest.

India and Australia are set to lock horns at The Gabba in Brisbane in what will be the series decider of the four-Test series. With the series firmly locked at 1-1, the match promises to be a thrilling contest. However, the weather forecast in Brisbane isn't the best for cricket and could result in delay. But will rain force the match to be washed out completely? There are major chances that the fourth Test between India and Australia in Brisbane could be halted by rain gods. Brisbane is expected to witness intermittent rainfall on the first three days of the fourth Test – Friday, Saturday and Sunday – with 50 per cent chance of rain disrupting the match on the last two days of the fourth Test. Notably, if the Brisbane Test ends up in a draw then India will retain the coveted Border-Gavaskar Trophy. ALSO READ: Bumrah out, Sundar in? Team India's likely playing XI for Brisbane Test vs Australia Australia are yet to lose a Test at The Gabba in Brisbane since 1988. The hosts made one change to their playing XI with Marcus Harris replacing the injured Will Pucovski. But India will confirm their playing XI before the match due to their injury concerns. While the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Hanuma Vihari are out of Brisbane Test due to injuries, Ravichandran Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah are also a doubt which may force the visitors to field an inexperience bowling attack. "The medical team is working with Bumrah, we have to see tomorrow morning whether he is fit to play the fourth Test or not. If he can play, he will play, if he cannot, then he won't. ALSO READ: Should Jasprit Bumrah play Brisbane Test? Gautam Gambhir gives his take "The injuries are still being monitored. Our medical staff is looking into it, I would not be in a position to comment on this right now. We would like to give them as much time as possible. It will be tomorrow morning that you will know which eleven takes the field," India's batting coach Vikram Rathour said in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the final Test. The four-match Test series is tied at 1-1 with Australia winning the first Test in Adelaide while India winning the second in Melbourne. The Sydney Test ended in a draw.

Brisbane weather forecast, IND vs AUS 4th Test: Rain gods to play spoil sport in series showdown?

Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has opined that Jasprit Bumrah should be rested in the fourth and final Test against Australia at The Gabba in Brisbane as he said it is important to save the ace Indian pacer from burning out.&nbsp;

Bumrah has suffered an abdominal strain and is a major doubt for the series decider against Australia in Brisbane. However, the Indian team management has still kept the doors open for Bumrah to feature in the Brisbane Test given he is fit enough to bowl.&nbsp;

"See again, he hasn’t played a Test match in India till now, Has he? He hasn’t. So, I’m sure the Indian team management has looked after Jasprit Bumrah reasonably well. They have actually used him in places like England, South Africa, and Australia, where he has got to be even more threatening," Gautam Gambhir said on the Cricket Connected Show on Star Sports.&nbsp;

Bumrah is yet to feature in a Test match on home soil and Gambhir reckons that the pacer will be more lethal in Indian pitches.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bumrah-out-sundar-in-team-indias-likely-playing-xi-for-brisbane-test-vs-australia-356700" hreflang="en">Bumrah out, Sundar in? Team India's likely playing XI for Brisbane Test vs Australia</a>

"I’m not saying he is not going to be threatening in India. He is going to be even more threatening in India, where wickets can get low and slow and he can reverse the ball really well. His quality. It’s just his quality and the lengths he bowls, and the amount of pressure he puts the batsman under.&nbsp;

"Whether he is bowling with an old ball or a new ball. From the time he started, the ball which goes away from the right hand and he is able to bring the ball back in, has made it even more dangerous,” said Gambhir. &nbsp;

With a jam-packed calendar awaiting the Indian team in the year 2021, Gambhir said that the management needs to save Bumrah for other series as well.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-cricket-fan-waits-10-months-for-sri-lanka-test-and-gets-kicked-out-356640" hreflang="en">England cricket fan waits 10 months for Sri Lanka Test - and gets kicked out</a>

“But then again, you got to look after him as well, because he is going to be the leader of the attack for a very long time, so him being fit is very important, so when India plays England for the 4th Test match. &nbsp;

"I know, yes, Mohd Shami is unfit, Ishant Sharma is unfit, Umesh Yadav is unfit but you can’t afford to play Jasprit Bumrah all the 4 Test matches, it will be very unfair on him,” he said.&nbsp;

Notably, Bumrah has bowled the most number overs – 117.4 - in the ongoing Test series against Australia from both the teams.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has opined that Jasprit Bumrah should be rested in the fourth and final Test against Australia at The Gabba in Brisbane as he said it is important to save the ace Indian pacer from burning out.

Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has opined that Jasprit Bumrah should be rested in the fourth and final Test against Australia at The Gabba in Brisbane as he said it is important to save the ace Indian pacer from burning out. Bumrah has suffered an abdominal strain and is a major doubt for the series decider against Australia in Brisbane. However, the Indian team management has still kept the doors open for Bumrah to feature in the Brisbane Test given he is fit enough to bowl. "See again, he hasn’t played a Test match in India till now, Has he? He hasn’t. So, I’m sure the Indian team management has looked after Jasprit Bumrah reasonably well. They have actually used him in places like England, South Africa, and Australia, where he has got to be even more threatening," Gautam Gambhir said on the Cricket Connected Show on Star Sports. Bumrah is yet to feature in a Test match on home soil and Gambhir reckons that the pacer will be more lethal in Indian pitches. ALSO READ: Bumrah out, Sundar in? Team India's likely playing XI for Brisbane Test vs Australia "I’m not saying he is not going to be threatening in India. He is going to be even more threatening in India, where wickets can get low and slow and he can reverse the ball really well. His quality. It’s just his quality and the lengths he bowls, and the amount of pressure he puts the batsman under. "Whether he is bowling with an old ball or a new ball. From the time he started, the ball which goes away from the right hand and he is able to bring the ball back in, has made it even more dangerous,” said Gambhir. With a jam-packed calendar awaiting the Indian team in the year 2021, Gambhir said that the management needs to save Bumrah for other series as well. ALSO READ: England cricket fan waits 10 months for Sri Lanka Test - and gets kicked out “But then again, you got to look after him as well, because he is going to be the leader of the attack for a very long time, so him being fit is very important, so when India plays England for the 4th Test match. "I know, yes, Mohd Shami is unfit, Ishant Sharma is unfit, Umesh Yadav is unfit but you can’t afford to play Jasprit Bumrah all the 4 Test matches, it will be very unfair on him,” he said. Notably, Bumrah has bowled the most number overs – 117.4 - in the ongoing Test series against Australia from both the teams.

Should Jasprit Bumrah play Brisbane Test? Gautam Gambhir gives his take

The Indian cricket team is set to lock horns with Australia in the fourth and final Test of the series at The Gabba in Brisbane on January 15. The visitors have shown immense grit and determination to keep the series level at 1-1 despite having an injury-plagued squad at their helm. With so many injuries in the Indian team,&nbsp;fans have been guessing the playing XI of the visitors led by Ajinkya Rahane. Ahead of the Brisbane Test, let us take a look at the probable playing XI of the Indian team against Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While the likes of Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav were ruled out earlier in the series, India will miss the services of Ravindra Jadeja and&nbsp;Hanuma Vihari. Even the likes of&nbsp;Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;and Ravichandran Ashwin are doubtful due to abdominal strain and back strain respectively. Even Mayank Agarwal was hit during a net session&nbsp;ahead of the series decider.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While Team India's batting coach Vikram&nbsp;Rathour&nbsp;said that the visitors will take a call on&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;on Friday morning, it is highly unlikely that the ace Indian pacer will feature in the match, which will force the Indian team to field an inexperienced bowling attack.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/call-on-jasprit-bumrahs-availability-to-be-taken-on-friday-says-vikram-rathour-ahead-of-brisbane-test-356626" hreflang="en">Call on Jasprit Bumrah's availability to be taken on Friday, says Vikram Rathour ahead of Brisbane Test</a>

"The injuries are still being monitored. Our medical staff is looking into it, I would not be in a position to comment on this right now. We would like to give them as much time as possible. It will be tomorrow morning that you will know which eleven takes the field," India's batting coach Vikram&nbsp;Rathour&nbsp;said in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the final Test.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"As far as I am concerned, we have the ability, with or without injuries, the eleven that will play would be the best eleven that India could put on the ground, all of them deserve to be there, if they play to their potential, I cannot see any reason, why we cannot do well," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-cricket-fan-waits-10-months-for-sri-lanka-test-and-gets-kicked-out-356640" hreflang="en">England cricket fan waits 10 months for Sri Lanka Test - and gets kicked out</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{d03bfd4d-d0c5-41ca-84e0-9e5be7c6671d}{191}" paraid="165930402" >Indian cricket team likely playing XI against Australia in the fourth Test in Brisbane:</h2>

Rohit Sharma,&nbsp;Shubman&nbsp;Gill,&nbsp;Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (C), Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant (WK),&nbsp;Washington Sundar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Indian cricket team is set to lock horns with Australia in the fourth and final Test of the series at The Gabba in Brisbane on January 15. The visitors have shown immense grit and determination to keep the series level at 1-1 despite having an injury-plagued squad at their helm.

The Indian cricket team is set to lock horns with Australia in the fourth and final Test of the series at The Gabba in Brisbane on January 15. The visitors have shown immense grit and determination to keep the series level at 1-1 despite having an injury-plagued squad at their helm. With so many injuries in the Indian team, fans have been guessing the playing XI of the visitors led by Ajinkya Rahane. Ahead of the Brisbane Test, let us take a look at the probable playing XI of the Indian team against Australia. While the likes of Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav were ruled out earlier in the series, India will miss the services of Ravindra Jadeja and Hanuma Vihari. Even the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravichandran Ashwin are doubtful due to abdominal strain and back strain respectively. Even Mayank Agarwal was hit during a net session ahead of the series decider. While Team India's batting coach Vikram Rathour said that the visitors will take a call on Bumrah on Friday morning, it is highly unlikely that the ace Indian pacer will feature in the match, which will force the Indian team to field an inexperienced bowling attack. ALSO READ: Call on Jasprit Bumrah's availability to be taken on Friday, says Vikram Rathour ahead of Brisbane Test "The injuries are still being monitored. Our medical staff is looking into it, I would not be in a position to comment on this right now. We would like to give them as much time as possible. It will be tomorrow morning that you will know which eleven takes the field," India's batting coach Vikram Rathour said in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the final Test. "As far as I am concerned, we have the ability, with or without injuries, the eleven that will play would be the best eleven that India could put on the ground, all of them deserve to be there, if they play to their potential, I cannot see any reason, why we cannot do well," he added. ALSO READ: England cricket fan waits 10 months for Sri Lanka Test - and gets kicked out Indian cricket team likely playing XI against Australia in the fourth Test in Brisbane: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (C), Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant (WK), Washington Sundar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur

Bumrah out, Sundar in? Team India's likely playing XI for Brisbane Test vs Australia

An England cricket fan who waited 10 months in Sri Lanka to watch his team play was ushered away by police before a ball had been bowled in the first Test on Thursday.

Rob Lewis, who flew out last March before the original tour was aborted over the coronavirus, and decided to stay until England returned, said he was "very frustrated" by the turn of events.

Lewis was ordered off the historic ramparts of Galle Fort, a vantage point which overlooks the city's cricket ground, just after the national anthems. No spectators are allowed inside the stadium.

"I am very frustrated. I waited 10 months to watch this match and the police have kicked me out," Lewis told AFP.

"At least I managed to sing 'Jerusalem'," he added.

During his stay in Sri Lanka, Lewis has worked remotely as a web designer and done stints as a nightclub DJ.

He visited Galle Fort on Saturday to map out his fallback as it became clear that no spectators will be allowed at the ground.

Lewis said he was warned in advance that he would only get restricted access to the ramparts. Three banners that he put up were also removed.

"I am going to see the police (chief)," he said. "All I want to do is watch the match."

"They gave me half-an-hour to put up three banners and go. That's all," Lewis added.&nbsp;

"There will be another nine days of play and I hope I will be able to get permission to go up there again."

Sri Lankan police banned all visitors from the 16th-century ramparts, a favourite venue for locals who want to avoid paying for tickets, officially for security reasons.

But a few journalists were allowed to cover the match from the fort.

Fans and media were barred from the stadium because of the coronavirus, which has infected more than 50,000 people and killed nearly 250 in the South Asian nation.

Sri Lankan journalist Rex Clementine scaled the ramparts to keep up his record of covering every Test in Sri Lanka since 2000.&nbsp;

"I want to maintain my record even if they don't allow reporters to the grounds," he said.

Soldiers and security personnel in hazmat suits were posted around the stadium and checked the few people allowed in.

An England cricket fan who waited 10 months in Sri Lanka to watch his team play was ushered away by police before a ball had been bowled in the first Test on Thursday.

An England cricket fan who waited 10 months in Sri Lanka to watch his team play was ushered away by police before a ball had been bowled in the first Test on Thursday. Rob Lewis, who flew out last March before the original tour was aborted over the coronavirus, and decided to stay until England returned, said he was "very frustrated" by the turn of events. Lewis was ordered off the historic ramparts of Galle Fort, a vantage point which overlooks the city's cricket ground, just after the national anthems. No spectators are allowed inside the stadium. "I am very frustrated. I waited 10 months to watch this match and the police have kicked me out," Lewis told AFP. "At least I managed to sing 'Jerusalem'," he added. During his stay in Sri Lanka, Lewis has worked remotely as a web designer and done stints as a nightclub DJ. He visited Galle Fort on Saturday to map out his fallback as it became clear that no spectators will be allowed at the ground. Lewis said he was warned in advance that he would only get restricted access to the ramparts. Three banners that he put up were also removed. "I am going to see the police (chief)," he said. "All I want to do is watch the match." "They gave me half-an-hour to put up three banners and go. That's all," Lewis added. "There will be another nine days of play and I hope I will be able to get permission to go up there again." Sri Lankan police banned all visitors from the 16th-century ramparts, a favourite venue for locals who want to avoid paying for tickets, officially for security reasons. But a few journalists were allowed to cover the match from the fort. Fans and media were barred from the stadium because of the coronavirus, which has infected more than 50,000 people and killed nearly 250 in the South Asian nation. Sri Lankan journalist Rex Clementine scaled the ramparts to keep up his record of covering every Test in Sri Lanka since 2000. "I want to maintain my record even if they don't allow reporters to the grounds," he said. Soldiers and security personnel in hazmat suits were posted around the stadium and checked the few people allowed in.

England cricket fan waits 10 months for Sri Lanka Test - and gets kicked out

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