IND vs AUS 4th Test playing XI: The fourth Test match of the 4-match series between India and Australia is scheduled to start from March 9. And with India’s qualification for WTC final at stake, the men in blue are not taking chances with the preparations. Captain Rohit Sharma understands that the key to India’s success in the IND vs AUS 4th Test could be the choice of playing XI.

As per the latest media reports, team India is expected to keep KL Rahul on the bench and include Shubman Gill in the playing XI. As far as India’s bowling attack is concerned, Mohammed Siraj could be asked to take rest before the upcoming IND vs AUS ODI series. Instead, Mohammad Shami could be asked to join the playing XI for the final Test match between India and Australia.

<h2>Playing XI: Inside details before IND vs AUS 4th Test match</h2>

After a crushing defeat to Australia in the third Test, India is looking to change its strategy in order to keep the visitors at bay. Initially, the team was preparing for a lush green pitch to prepare for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, but now they are considering playing on a surface that favours spin.

However, India's batters have struggled against the Australian spinners, with only Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Axar Patel showing the necessary grit. Captain Virat Kohli has had a poor showing in the series so far, while both openers KL Rahul and Shubman Gill have failed to perform.

With a must-win situation, India may consider adding an extra batter to the lineup and sacrificing a pacer. In the previous Test, Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav bowled only 13 overs combined, with the trio of Siraj, Mohammed Shami, and Umesh Yadav bowling only 61.1 overs in the entire series.

India's best chance of success in the fourth Test lies in both departments firing in tandem. The team will need to regroup and come up with a new game plan in order to defeat a resurgent Australian team.

<h2>IND vs AUS 4th Test playing XI (tentative)</h2>

India playing XI: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Umesh Yadav, Mohammad Shami

Australia playing XI: Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Seve Smith (C), Peter Handscomb, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Todd Murphy, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Matthew Kuhnemann

<h2>IND vs AUS 4th Test full squad</h2>

India Squad 4th Test: Rohit Sharma(c), KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Srikar Bharat(w), Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, Kuldeep Yadav, Suryakumar Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Umesh Yadav

Australia squad 4th Test: Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (c), Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Peter Handscomb, Mitchell Starc/Lance Morris, Matt Kuhnemann, Nathan Lyon and Todd Murphy

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-loses-3rd-test-match-against-australia-heres-how-india-can-still-qualify-for-wtc-final-match-568035">India loses 3rd Test match against Australia, Here's how India can still qualify for WTC final match</a>

IND vs AUS 4th Test playing XI: The fourth Test match of the 4-match series between India and Australia is scheduled to start from March 9. And with India’s qualification for WTC final at stake, the men in blue are not taking chances with the preparations.

IND vs AUS 4th Test playing XI: The fourth Test match of the 4-match series between India and Australia is scheduled to start from March 9. And with India’s qualification for WTC final at stake, the men in blue are not taking chances with the preparations. Captain Rohit Sharma understands that the key to India’s success in the IND vs AUS 4th Test could be the choice of playing XI. As per the latest media reports, team India is expected to keep KL Rahul on the bench and include Shubman Gill in the playing XI. As far as India’s bowling attack is concerned, Mohammed Siraj could be asked to take rest before the upcoming IND vs AUS ODI series. Instead, Mohammad Shami could be asked to join the playing XI for the final Test match between India and Australia. Playing XI: Inside details before IND vs AUS 4th Test match After a crushing defeat to Australia in the third Test, India is looking to change its strategy in order to keep the visitors at bay. Initially, the team was preparing for a lush green pitch to prepare for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, but now they are considering playing on a surface that favours spin. However, India's batters have struggled against the Australian spinners, with only Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Axar Patel showing the necessary grit. Captain Virat Kohli has had a poor showing in the series so far, while both openers KL Rahul and Shubman Gill have failed to perform. With a must-win situation, India may consider adding an extra batter to the lineup and sacrificing a pacer. In the previous Test, Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav bowled only 13 overs combined, with the trio of Siraj, Mohammed Shami, and Umesh Yadav bowling only 61.1 overs in the entire series. India's best chance of success in the fourth Test lies in both departments firing in tandem. The team will need to regroup and come up with a new game plan in order to defeat a resurgent Australian team. IND vs AUS 4th Test playing XI (tentative) India playing XI: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Umesh Yadav, Mohammad Shami Australia playing XI: Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Seve Smith (C), Peter Handscomb, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Todd Murphy, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Matthew Kuhnemann IND vs AUS 4th Test full squad India Squad 4th Test: Rohit Sharma(c), KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Srikar Bharat(w), Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, Kuldeep Yadav, Suryakumar Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Umesh Yadav Australia squad 4th Test: Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (c), Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Peter Handscomb, Mitchell Starc/Lance Morris, Matt Kuhnemann, Nathan Lyon and Todd Murphy Also Read | India loses 3rd Test match against Australia, Here's how India can still qualify for WTC final match

IND vs AUS 4th Test playing XI: Rohit Sharma seals KL Rahul’s fate, check inside details

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

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

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

India on Tuesday scripted history as they became the first team to win back-to-back Test series on Australian soil while ending Australia’s record of being unbeaten at the Gabba, Brisbane since 1988. Rishabh Pant was the hero for the visitors as the southpaw smashed an unbeaten 89&nbsp;to take India home and clinch a historic series win against India. With the win, India won the four-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1.<o:p></o:p>

This was the first defeat for Australia at their fortress Gabba in 32 years as Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara played incredible knocks in the second innings to guide India to a memorable win and Test series win.

Against all odds, the Indian team defeated a full-strength Australian side. While India had several stars missing since the start of the gruelling tour, more players suffered injuries only for the youngsters to step up and create history.&nbsp;

Talking about the Brisbane Test, Australia posted&nbsp;369 runs in the first innings after a fantastic century by Marnus Labuschagne. Indian team, missing their key players, stepped up to the occasion as the inexperienced bowling attack wreaked havoc. The likes of T Natarajan, Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar ended up with three wickets each.&nbsp;

India, in reply, scored 226 after crucial half-centuries from Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur. While a big score was missing in the Indian camp, the visitors hunted together to pile pressure on the Aussies.

Australia, in the second innings, upped the ante and scored 294 runs courtesy a fine half-century by Steve Smith and crucial knocks by David Warner, Cameron Green among others.

However, India defied all the odds on Day 5, as Shubman Gill started the proceedings with a spellbinding 91-run knock before Pujara and Pant took the centre stage. While Pujara scored 56, Pant ended up with an unbeaten 89 as he helped India seal the Test series 2-1.

Rishabh Pant | Player of the Match: This one of my biggest days in life. The support the team has given me even when I was not playing has been incredible. It's a dream come true. We've been practising hard after the first Test. The team management always backs me and tells me you are match-winner and you have to go out there and win and I am happy I did it today. It was a fifth-day pitch and the ball was turning.

Pat Cummins | Player of the Series:&nbsp;Good hard day of Test cricket today. Rishabh and the rest of India took the game on and deserved to win. I wanted the cracks to do a bit more. If we bowled well I think we could have picked up wickets. In Sydney the game was there to win on Day 5, we just didn't go for it, so yes, overall, quite happy.

India on Tuesday scripted history as they became the first team to win back-to-back Test series on Australian soil while ending Australia’s record of being unbeaten at the Gabba, Brisbane since 1988.

India on Tuesday scripted history as they became the first team to win back-to-back Test series on Australian soil while ending Australia’s record of being unbeaten at the Gabba, Brisbane since 1988. Rishabh Pant was the hero for the visitors as the southpaw smashed an unbeaten 89 to take India home and clinch a historic series win against India. With the win, India won the four-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1. This was the first defeat for Australia at their fortress Gabba in 32 years as Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara played incredible knocks in the second innings to guide India to a memorable win and Test series win. Against all odds, the Indian team defeated a full-strength Australian side. While India had several stars missing since the start of the gruelling tour, more players suffered injuries only for the youngsters to step up and create history. Talking about the Brisbane Test, Australia posted 369 runs in the first innings after a fantastic century by Marnus Labuschagne. Indian team, missing their key players, stepped up to the occasion as the inexperienced bowling attack wreaked havoc. The likes of T Natarajan, Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar ended up with three wickets each. India, in reply, scored 226 after crucial half-centuries from Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur. While a big score was missing in the Indian camp, the visitors hunted together to pile pressure on the Aussies. Australia, in the second innings, upped the ante and scored 294 runs courtesy a fine half-century by Steve Smith and crucial knocks by David Warner, Cameron Green among others. However, India defied all the odds on Day 5, as Shubman Gill started the proceedings with a spellbinding 91-run knock before Pujara and Pant took the centre stage. While Pujara scored 56, Pant ended up with an unbeaten 89 as he helped India seal the Test series 2-1. Rishabh Pant | Player of the Match: This one of my biggest days in life. The support the team has given me even when I was not playing has been incredible. It's a dream come true. We've been practising hard after the first Test. The team management always backs me and tells me you are match-winner and you have to go out there and win and I am happy I did it today. It was a fifth-day pitch and the ball was turning. Pat Cummins | Player of the Series: Good hard day of Test cricket today. Rishabh and the rest of India took the game on and deserved to win. I wanted the cracks to do a bit more. If we bowled well I think we could have picked up wickets. In Sydney the game was there to win on Day 5, we just didn't go for it, so yes, overall, quite happy.

History at the Gabba! India defeat Australia by 3 wickets, seal series 2-1

India and Australia head to a grand finale of the fourth Test match at the Gabba, Brisbane as visitors need 324 runs to win the game and seal the series.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-is-he-doing-waugh-and-warne-amused-by-marnus-labuschagnes-outrageous-appeal-357339" hreflang="en">'What is he doing?': Waugh and Warne amused by Marnus Labuschagne's outrageous appeal</a>

Australian openers (David Warner and Marcus Harris) gave a strong start to the hosts. However, Shardul Thakur broke the 89-run opening stand after dismissing Marcus Harris on 38. David Warner followed his partner as he got out on very next over after an lbw by Washington Sundar. Labuschagne, who scored a century in the first innings, scored just 25 runs before being removed by Siraj. Steve Smith scored most runs for Australia (55 runs) in the second innings. Pat Cummins' power-hitting took Australia's lead past 300 against India.&nbsp;

India's rookie bowling unit had an impressive run after Mohammed Siraj got his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket. Shardul Thakur's dream run in the match continues as he scalped four wickets. Washington Sundar got one wicket and that too dangerman David Warner's.&nbsp;

The rain continued to interrupt on Day 4, due to which many overs were lost. India's innings on Day 4 was cut short as the hosts could play just 1.5 overs. Rohit Sharma's boundary in the first over helped India end their day with 4/0. They need 324 runs to win, whereas the Aussies need 10 wickets. Day 5 is predicted to marred by rain which worries the Aussies as they lose crucial WTC points.&nbsp;

India and Australia head to a grand finale of the fourth Test match at the Gabba, Brisbane as visitors need 324 runs to win the game and seal the series. ALSO READ: 'What is he doing?

India and Australia head to a grand finale of the fourth Test match at the Gabba, Brisbane as visitors need 324 runs to win the game and seal the series. ALSO READ: 'What is he doing?': Waugh and Warne amused by Marnus Labuschagne's outrageous appeal Australian openers (David Warner and Marcus Harris) gave a strong start to the hosts. However, Shardul Thakur broke the 89-run opening stand after dismissing Marcus Harris on 38. David Warner followed his partner as he got out on very next over after an lbw by Washington Sundar. Labuschagne, who scored a century in the first innings, scored just 25 runs before being removed by Siraj. Steve Smith scored most runs for Australia (55 runs) in the second innings. Pat Cummins' power-hitting took Australia's lead past 300 against India. India's rookie bowling unit had an impressive run after Mohammed Siraj got his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket. Shardul Thakur's dream run in the match continues as he scalped four wickets. Washington Sundar got one wicket and that too dangerman David Warner's. The rain continued to interrupt on Day 4, due to which many overs were lost. India's innings on Day 4 was cut short as the hosts could play just 1.5 overs. Rohit Sharma's boundary in the first over helped India end their day with 4/0. They need 324 runs to win, whereas the Aussies need 10 wickets. Day 5 is predicted to marred by rain which worries the Aussies as they lose crucial WTC points.

Ind vs Aus, 4th Test: Siraj's fiver, Steve Smith's half-century set stage for grand finale at the Gabba

Shardul Thakur, who is just playing his second Test match, impressed everyone with his all-round performance against Australia in the fourth Test. The India player scalped three crucial wickets and also scored a crucial maiden Test half-century to put visitors back in contention.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/washington-sundar-achieves-unique-feat-after-scoring-half-century-on-test-debut-357295" hreflang="en">Washington Sundar achieves unique feat after scoring a half-century on Test debut</a>

However, during the post-match virtual press conference, Thakur revealed that Australians were trying to have a conversation with the player. "Australian players were trying to have a conversation with me, but I was not replying. I just replied once or twice, there were a lot of normal questions, even if they were trying to sledge me, I did not hear it, I just played on," Thakur said during the post-match virtual press conference.

Thakur has surprised many oppositions with the bat on previous occasions also. In 2020, Thakur smashed 17 runs off 6 balls to help India win by four wickets.&nbsp;

"I have the talent for batting, whenever there are throwdowns taking place in nets, I practice my batting, these are the type of moments for which we practice our batting. An opportunity presented itself in this match, I knew that the team would benefit if I stay at the crease for a long haul. I haven't batted with Sundar much, I have just batted with him once or twice, once it was in a T20 match and once it was a practice game," Thakur added.

He went on to talk about the 123-run partnership with Sundar and how their minds were working while they were batting.&nbsp;

"Both of us have that temperament to succeed at this level, honestly we were not looking at the scoreboard, the idea was to spend some time in the middle. We knew their bowlers were tiring, it was a matter of one hour, if we hung in there for one more hour then probably, we would be on the top as the bowlers were already tiring. Both of us were communicating really well in the middle, if someone was losing control or trying a rash shot, we were immediately communicating that let's get back to normal," Thakur said.

"We were trying to defend a lot, as our partnership went on, we know there is some true bounce here at Gabba, we were just waiting for our chance, whenever there was a loose delivery, we were trying to put that away. It is a long tour, as a player, it is challenging to stay motivated and do well in the last game, the series is tied at 1-1, this game turns out to be the series decider so you do not need extra motivation, it is about giving 100 per cent for the team."

Shardul Thakur, who is just playing his second Test match, impressed everyone with his all-round performance against Australia in the fourth Test. The India player scalped three crucial wickets and also scored a crucial maiden Test half-century to put visitors back in contention.

Shardul Thakur, who is just playing his second Test match, impressed everyone with his all-round performance against Australia in the fourth Test. The India player scalped three crucial wickets and also scored a crucial maiden Test half-century to put visitors back in contention. ALSO READ: Washington Sundar achieves unique feat after scoring a half-century on Test debut However, during the post-match virtual press conference, Thakur revealed that Australians were trying to have a conversation with the player. "Australian players were trying to have a conversation with me, but I was not replying. I just replied once or twice, there were a lot of normal questions, even if they were trying to sledge me, I did not hear it, I just played on," Thakur said during the post-match virtual press conference. Thakur has surprised many oppositions with the bat on previous occasions also. In 2020, Thakur smashed 17 runs off 6 balls to help India win by four wickets. "I have the talent for batting, whenever there are throwdowns taking place in nets, I practice my batting, these are the type of moments for which we practice our batting. An opportunity presented itself in this match, I knew that the team would benefit if I stay at the crease for a long haul. I haven't batted with Sundar much, I have just batted with him once or twice, once it was in a T20 match and once it was a practice game," Thakur added. He went on to talk about the 123-run partnership with Sundar and how their minds were working while they were batting. "Both of us have that temperament to succeed at this level, honestly we were not looking at the scoreboard, the idea was to spend some time in the middle. We knew their bowlers were tiring, it was a matter of one hour, if we hung in there for one more hour then probably, we would be on the top as the bowlers were already tiring. Both of us were communicating really well in the middle, if someone was losing control or trying a rash shot, we were immediately communicating that let's get back to normal," Thakur said. "We were trying to defend a lot, as our partnership went on, we know there is some true bounce here at Gabba, we were just waiting for our chance, whenever there was a loose delivery, we were trying to put that away. It is a long tour, as a player, it is challenging to stay motivated and do well in the last game, the series is tied at 1-1, this game turns out to be the series decider so you do not need extra motivation, it is about giving 100 per cent for the team."

'Australian players were trying to have a conversation with me', reveals Shardul Thakur

The seventh-wicket partnership between Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar put India back in contention to draw the final Test match against mighty Australia to retain the Border-Gavaskar trophy.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-a-beautiful-partnership-cricketing-stalwarts-praise-record-7th-wicket-partnership-between-shardul-thakur-and-washington-sundar-357255" hreflang="en">'What a beautiful partnership': Cricketing stalwarts praise record 7th wicket partnership between Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar</a>

India began their day with 62 runs at the loss of the opening pair. However, the struggle continued as the visitors were down and 186 after losing six wickets. As it seemed that Australia were all over the match before&nbsp;Thakur and Sundar's 123-run partnership which turned the odds in India's favour. Shardul Thakur scored 67 runs off 115 balls and Washington Sundar scored 62 runs in 144 balls on his debut. Sundar became the 3rd Indian cricketer to hit a half-century and take a three-wicket haul on his Test debut. All three achieved the feat in their team's first innings.&nbsp;

Josh Hazlewood's fiver helped Aussies bowl India out on 336. Mohammed Siraj's cameo in the final moments helped visitors narrow their gap to 33 runs.&nbsp;

Australia came down to bat for just remaining six overs before concluding the day. Opener David Warner came down to bat with intent and smashed three consecutive boundaries off Siraj's over. Australia ended their day 21 runs on-board with loss of no wickets. Tim Paine and Co. are desperate for a win but are worried due to heavy rains predicted on Day 4. Both heavyweights will head to dramatic grand finale to the tour.&nbsp;

<h2>Playing XI:&nbsp;</h2>

India: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant (wk), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Siraj, T Natarajan

Australia: David Warner, Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Matthew Wade, Cameron Green, Tim Paine (c &amp; wk), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

The seventh-wicket partnership between Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar put India back in contention to draw the final Test match against mighty Australia to retain the Border-Gavaskar trophy.

The seventh-wicket partnership between Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar put India back in contention to draw the final Test match against mighty Australia to retain the Border-Gavaskar trophy. ALSO READ: 'What a beautiful partnership': Cricketing stalwarts praise record 7th wicket partnership between Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar India began their day with 62 runs at the loss of the opening pair. However, the struggle continued as the visitors were down and 186 after losing six wickets. As it seemed that Australia were all over the match before Thakur and Sundar's 123-run partnership which turned the odds in India's favour. Shardul Thakur scored 67 runs off 115 balls and Washington Sundar scored 62 runs in 144 balls on his debut. Sundar became the 3rd Indian cricketer to hit a half-century and take a three-wicket haul on his Test debut. All three achieved the feat in their team's first innings. Josh Hazlewood's fiver helped Aussies bowl India out on 336. Mohammed Siraj's cameo in the final moments helped visitors narrow their gap to 33 runs. Australia came down to bat for just remaining six overs before concluding the day. Opener David Warner came down to bat with intent and smashed three consecutive boundaries off Siraj's over. Australia ended their day 21 runs on-board with loss of no wickets. Tim Paine and Co. are desperate for a win but are worried due to heavy rains predicted on Day 4. Both heavyweights will head to dramatic grand finale to the tour. Playing XI: India: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant (wk), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Siraj, T Natarajan Australia: David Warner, Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Matthew Wade, Cameron Green, Tim Paine (c & wk), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

IND vs AUS, 4th Test: Thakur-Sundar's brave partnership puts Australia in pressure situation on Day 3

Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar's 123-run partnership for the seventh wicket brought India back into the game. The partnership is India’s third-highest ever 7th wicket stand in Australia and the highest 7th wicket stand&nbsp;at the Gabba.&nbsp;

Team India, who once were at 186/6, managed to score 336 with the help of the Thakur-Sundar partnership. Their performance earned a lot of appreciation from cricketing stalwarts, including Indian captain Virat Kohli.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli took to Twitter and said: "Outstanding application and belief by&nbsp;@Sundarwashi5 and @imShard. This is what test cricket is all about. Washy top composure on debut and tula parat maanla re Thakur! 👏👌"

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Outstanding application and belief by <a href="https://twitter.com/Sundarwashi5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sundarwashi5</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/imShard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imShard</a>. This is what test cricket is all about. Washy top composure on debut and tula parat maanla re Thakur! 👏👌
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1350698430931210241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Former India opener Virender Sehwag congratulated both the batsman and wrote: "Gabba the Dhaba for these two guys. Brilliant from Sundar and Thakur."

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Gabba the Dhaba for these two guys. 
 
Brilliant from Sundar and Thakur. <a href="https://t.co/NouAYYFyN4">pic.twitter.com/NouAYYFyN4</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1350678914859892736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"What a beautiful partnership displayed by the boys @imShard &amp; @Sundarwashi5 So proud of the passion shown by the Indian Team! #INDvAUS," Former India batsman Suresh Raina congratulated.&nbsp;

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What a beautiful partnership displayed by the boys <a href="https://twitter.com/imShard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imShard</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/Sundarwashi5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sundarwashi5</a> So proud of the passion shown by the Indian Team! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> 🏏
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1350678423908229122?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Indian wicket-keeper Dinesh Karthik congratulated both batsmen and recalled the transformation in their roles during the tour. He said: "From net bowlers who arrived for practice to the highest scorers in the innings. We have to stand up and appreciate one of the most resilient fightbacks! @Sundarwashi5 @imShard #AUSvIND"

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From net bowlers who arrived for practice to the highest scorers in the innings. 
We have to stand up and appreciate one of the most resilient fightbacks! <a href="https://twitter.com/Sundarwashi5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sundarwashi5</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/imShard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imShard</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/W3QlWd2HKC">pic.twitter.com/W3QlWd2HKC</a>
— DK (@DineshKarthik) <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik/status/1350687914850623488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Australia ended the day with a lead of 54 runs as both teams head on to the final day of the fourth Test. India managed to shorten the lead by 33 runs before being bowled out by Australia. However, David Warner's quickfire and unbeaten 20 runs (in 22 balls) ends the day with 21/0 in 6 overs giving the Aussies an upper hand.&nbsp;

Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar's 123-run partnership for the seventh wicket brought India back into the game. The partnership is India’s third-highest ever 7th wicket stand in Australia and the highest 7th wicket stand at the Gabba.

Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar's 123-run partnership for the seventh wicket brought India back into the game. The partnership is India’s third-highest ever 7th wicket stand in Australia and the highest 7th wicket stand at the Gabba. Team India, who once were at 186/6, managed to score 336 with the help of the Thakur-Sundar partnership. Their performance earned a lot of appreciation from cricketing stalwarts, including Indian captain Virat Kohli. Virat Kohli took to Twitter and said: "Outstanding application and belief by @Sundarwashi5 and @imShard. This is what test cricket is all about. Washy top composure on debut and tula parat maanla re Thakur! 👏👌" Outstanding application and belief by @Sundarwashi5 and @imShard. This is what test cricket is all about. Washy top composure on debut and tula parat maanla re Thakur! 👏👌 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 17, 2021 × Former India opener Virender Sehwag congratulated both the batsman and wrote: "Gabba the Dhaba for these two guys. Brilliant from Sundar and Thakur." Gabba the Dhaba for these two guys. Brilliant from Sundar and Thakur. pic.twitter.com/NouAYYFyN4 — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) January 17, 2021 × "What a beautiful partnership displayed by the boys @imShard & @Sundarwashi5 So proud of the passion shown by the Indian Team! #INDvAUS," Former India batsman Suresh Raina congratulated. What a beautiful partnership displayed by the boys @imShard & @Sundarwashi5 So proud of the passion shown by the Indian Team! #INDvAUS 🏏 — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) January 17, 2021 × Indian wicket-keeper Dinesh Karthik congratulated both batsmen and recalled the transformation in their roles during the tour. He said: "From net bowlers who arrived for practice to the highest scorers in the innings. We have to stand up and appreciate one of the most resilient fightbacks! @Sundarwashi5 @imShard #AUSvIND" From net bowlers who arrived for practice to the highest scorers in the innings. We have to stand up and appreciate one of the most resilient fightbacks! @Sundarwashi5 @imShard#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/W3QlWd2HKC — DK (@DineshKarthik) January 17, 2021 × Australia ended the day with a lead of 54 runs as both teams head on to the final day of the fourth Test. India managed to shorten the lead by 33 runs before being bowled out by Australia. However, David Warner's quickfire and unbeaten 20 runs (in 22 balls) ends the day with 21/0 in 6 overs giving the Aussies an upper hand.

'What a beautiful partnership': Cricketing stalwarts praise record 7th wicket partnership between Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar

Thunderstorm played a spoiled sport as the third session of Day 2 was abandoned due to wet outfield, with India 62 for two in reply to Australia's first innings 369 in the series-decider at the Gabba on Saturday.

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>

Australians began the day on high with skipper Tim Paine scoring a half-century and taking the team past 300-mark. However, Indian bowlers bounced back and reduced the host to 315/8. But, a quickfire 49-run partnership between Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Starc powered Australia to 369. T Natarajan, Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar got three wickets apiece, whereas, Mohammed Siraj got a sole wicket of dangerman David Warner.&nbsp;

In reply, Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma opened the innings for India. However, the hosts faced a quick setback as Gill lost his wicket to Pat Cummins. Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara stitched a 49-run partnership to stabilise the innings. Sharma then got out to Nathan Lyon, handing the spinner 397th Test wicket. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane and Pujara remained on the crease till tea was called. However, the session was delayed due to heavy thunderstorm resulting in the wet outfield which forced the umpires to conclude the day. India are 307 runs behind the Aussies and are need to long innings to be in the match.&nbsp;

India will begin the Day 3 with eight wickets in hand with the team's most set batsmen on the crease.&nbsp;

The series is currently levelled at 1-1 and the match will decide the fate of the Border-Gavaskar trophy.

Thunderstorm played a spoiled sport as the third session of Day 2 was abandoned due to wet outfield, with India 62 for two in reply to Australia's first innings 369 in the series-decider at the Gabba on Saturday.

Thunderstorm played a spoiled sport as the third session of Day 2 was abandoned due to wet outfield, with India 62 for two in reply to Australia's first innings 369 in the series-decider at the Gabba on Saturday. ALSO READ: 'Happening since 1932': Sunil Gavaskar points out main issue with India's bowling unit Australians began the day on high with skipper Tim Paine scoring a half-century and taking the team past 300-mark. However, Indian bowlers bounced back and reduced the host to 315/8. But, a quickfire 49-run partnership between Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Starc powered Australia to 369. T Natarajan, Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar got three wickets apiece, whereas, Mohammed Siraj got a sole wicket of dangerman David Warner. In reply, Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma opened the innings for India. However, the hosts faced a quick setback as Gill lost his wicket to Pat Cummins. Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara stitched a 49-run partnership to stabilise the innings. Sharma then got out to Nathan Lyon, handing the spinner 397th Test wicket. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane and Pujara remained on the crease till tea was called. However, the session was delayed due to heavy thunderstorm resulting in the wet outfield which forced the umpires to conclude the day. India are 307 runs behind the Aussies and are need to long innings to be in the match. India will begin the Day 3 with eight wickets in hand with the team's most set batsmen on the crease. The series is currently levelled at 1-1 and the match will decide the fate of the Border-Gavaskar trophy.

Ind vs Aus, 4th Test: Thunderstorm plays spoilsport as India end Day 2 at 62/2

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

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

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj and debutant Washington Sundar on Friday were subject to abuse by a section of fans at the Gabba in&nbsp;Brisbane&nbsp;during Day 1 of the ongoing fourth and final Test between India and Australia.&nbsp;

Cricket Australia officials kept a close eye on the action in the middle of the Gabba and&nbsp;behaviour&nbsp;of the fans after the Sydney Test was hit by two incidents where Indian players were allegedly&nbsp;subjected to racial abuse.&nbsp;

At the SCG, Siraj had called out six supporters on Day 4 with play stopping for almost 10 minutes. The police escorted the group out of the stadium.&nbsp;

According to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald, Siraj didn't spend much time in front of 215 and 216 section at the Gabba but a&nbsp;spectator&nbsp;told the publication that the Indian bowler was repeatedly called a "grub" by a section of vocal supporters.&nbsp;

Debutant Washington Sundar, who replaced Ravichandran Ashwin, in the line-up was subjected to the same chant of "grub" from the unruly section.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brisbane-test-day-1-labuschagne-steals-show-with-century-as-australia-post-2745-356899" hreflang="en">Brisbane Test, Day 1: Labuschagne steals show with century as Australia post 274/5</a>

"The guys behind me have been calling - shouting - both Washington and Siraj grubs," a spectator named Kate&nbsp;was quoted as saying in the report by the Sydney Morning Herald.

"It started targeted at Siraj and it was a chant similar to the SCG one (in which fans sang to the tune of Que Sera, Sera but substituted the lyrics with Que Shiraz, Shiraz).&nbsp;

"But this time it was Siraj. I suspect it's not a coincidence that it's Siraj being targeted post the SCG stuff."&nbsp;

During Day 1 of the Brisbane Test, a man was heard yelling, "Siraj, give us a wave, give us a wave, give us a wave. Siraj, you bloody grub."&nbsp;

Kate was watching the match from a section where several men dressed as lifeguards had a beer snake dismantled by the stewards and another man was escorted off the ground from starting an&nbsp;"Aussie, Aussie, Aussie" chant.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sexual-harassment-case-against-pakistan-captain-babar-azam-withdrawn-356882" hreflang="en">Sexual harassment case against Pakistan captain Babar Azam withdrawn</a>

However, none of the Indian players gave any reaction to the chants by the crowd. While Siraj and Washington were called "grubs" by a section of fans, the rest remained close to their best&nbsp;behaviour, as per reports.&nbsp;

Cricket Australia has encouraged fans to step forward in a bid to raise voice against poor&nbsp;behaviour.&nbsp;

Australia ended Day 1 on 274/5 with Tim Paine and Cameron Green unbeaten at the crease. Marnus Labuschagne was the star of the day as he registered his fifth Test century.&nbsp;

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj and debutant Washington Sundar on Friday were subject to abuse by a section of fans at the Gabba in Brisbane during Day 1 of the ongoing fourth and final Test between India and Australia.

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj and debutant Washington Sundar on Friday were subject to abuse by a section of fans at the Gabba in Brisbane during Day 1 of the ongoing fourth and final Test between India and Australia. Cricket Australia officials kept a close eye on the action in the middle of the Gabba and behaviour of the fans after the Sydney Test was hit by two incidents where Indian players were allegedly subjected to racial abuse. At the SCG, Siraj had called out six supporters on Day 4 with play stopping for almost 10 minutes. The police escorted the group out of the stadium. According to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald, Siraj didn't spend much time in front of 215 and 216 section at the Gabba but a spectator told the publication that the Indian bowler was repeatedly called a "grub" by a section of vocal supporters. Debutant Washington Sundar, who replaced Ravichandran Ashwin, in the line-up was subjected to the same chant of "grub" from the unruly section. ALSO READ: Brisbane Test, Day 1: Labuschagne steals show with century as Australia post 274/5 "The guys behind me have been calling - shouting - both Washington and Siraj grubs," a spectator named Kate was quoted as saying in the report by the Sydney Morning Herald. "It started targeted at Siraj and it was a chant similar to the SCG one (in which fans sang to the tune of Que Sera, Sera but substituted the lyrics with Que Shiraz, Shiraz). "But this time it was Siraj. I suspect it's not a coincidence that it's Siraj being targeted post the SCG stuff." During Day 1 of the Brisbane Test, a man was heard yelling, "Siraj, give us a wave, give us a wave, give us a wave. Siraj, you bloody grub." Kate was watching the match from a section where several men dressed as lifeguards had a beer snake dismantled by the stewards and another man was escorted off the ground from starting an "Aussie, Aussie, Aussie" chant. ALSO READ: Sexual harassment case against Pakistan captain Babar Azam withdrawn However, none of the Indian players gave any reaction to the chants by the crowd. While Siraj and Washington were called "grubs" by a section of fans, the rest remained close to their best behaviour, as per reports. Cricket Australia has encouraged fans to step forward in a bid to raise voice against poor behaviour. Australia ended Day 1 on 274/5 with Tim Paine and Cameron Green unbeaten at the crease. Marnus Labuschagne was the star of the day as he registered his fifth Test century.

Mohammed Siraj and Washington Sundar abused, labelled 'grub' by fans at Gabba

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;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sexual-harassment-case-against-pakistan-captain-babar-azam-withdrawn-356882" hreflang="en">Sexual harassment case against Pakistan captain Babar Azam withdrawn</a>

"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

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;

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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;

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"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

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;

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"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;

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"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.

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“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

Josh Hazlewood has said that Australia’s impeccable record in Brisbane gives a slight edge to the hosts in the fourth and final Test against India, scheduled to start from January 15 at The Gabba. Hazlewood, ahead of the series decider, said that Aussies grow an extra leg when playing in Brisbane while adding that all Australians love playing there.&nbsp;

India, after making sensational comebacks in Melbourne and Sydney, will look to break Australia’s unbeaten run in Brisbane with the hosts yet to lose a match in the venue since 1988. Australia have played 31 matches in Brisbane since 1988 and have won 24 while drawing seven. &nbsp;

"All Australians love playing up there. We probably grow a leg given the record we've got. We know touring sides don't like to play there, so that puts us a bit ahead before a ball is bowled. I guess we thrive on that. It's an awesome place to play. Very much an Australian venue, I've always enjoyed playing there," Hazlewood told AAP.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-opens-up-on-england-and-india-series-ipl-2020-injuries-and-more-316469" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more</a>

While Australia have almost their full-strength side, India, on the contrary, are a depleted, injury-plagued squad. While the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Hanuma Vihari are out with injuries, there are doubts over Jasprit Bumrah, Mayank Agarwal and Ravichandran Ashwin, which may force the visitors to field an inexperienced playing XI.&nbsp;

If Bumrah doesn’t start then India will have a pace attack, which will be led by two-Test old Mohammed Siraj. On Australia’s fatigue and workload, Hazlewood was confident that the pace troika can pull through the final Test.

"It's probably the freshest we have felt while turning up to Sydney at this time of year, for a very long time," Hazlewood said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Back to back is fine ... even if we bowl 40-plus overs here, we'll be OK for Brisbane."&nbsp;

Josh Hazlewood has said that Australia’s impeccable record in Brisbane gives a slight edge to the hosts in the fourth and final Test against India, scheduled to start from January 15 at The Gabba.

Josh Hazlewood has said that Australia’s impeccable record in Brisbane gives a slight edge to the hosts in the fourth and final Test against India, scheduled to start from January 15 at The Gabba. Hazlewood, ahead of the series decider, said that Aussies grow an extra leg when playing in Brisbane while adding that all Australians love playing there. India, after making sensational comebacks in Melbourne and Sydney, will look to break Australia’s unbeaten run in Brisbane with the hosts yet to lose a match in the venue since 1988. Australia have played 31 matches in Brisbane since 1988 and have won 24 while drawing seven. "All Australians love playing up there. We probably grow a leg given the record we've got. We know touring sides don't like to play there, so that puts us a bit ahead before a ball is bowled. I guess we thrive on that. It's an awesome place to play. Very much an Australian venue, I've always enjoyed playing there," Hazlewood told AAP. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Australia's Josh Hazlewood opens up on England and India series, IPL 2020, injuries and more While Australia have almost their full-strength side, India, on the contrary, are a depleted, injury-plagued squad. While the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Hanuma Vihari are out with injuries, there are doubts over Jasprit Bumrah, Mayank Agarwal and Ravichandran Ashwin, which may force the visitors to field an inexperienced playing XI. If Bumrah doesn’t start then India will have a pace attack, which will be led by two-Test old Mohammed Siraj. On Australia’s fatigue and workload, Hazlewood was confident that the pace troika can pull through the final Test. "It's probably the freshest we have felt while turning up to Sydney at this time of year, for a very long time," Hazlewood said. "Back to back is fine ... even if we bowl 40-plus overs here, we'll be OK for Brisbane."

Brisbane record gives Australia edge over India: Josh Hazlewood

It has been a&nbsp;gruelling&nbsp;tour of Australia for the Indian cricket team and it got worse when the visitors faced difficult quarantine hurdles upon their arrival in Brisbane as they were not given access to the gym, swimming pool and the lift.&nbsp;The development forced the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)&nbsp;to intervene. Now, the situation has been resolved as the Indian team has been provided access to the gym, swimming pool and the lift whereas room service is also expected to be available before the end of the day.&nbsp;

The Indian team was even not provided room service in the Brisbane hotel which forced them to clean their own toilets and make their own beds. After playing through pain in the Sydney Test, the Indian team needs to have proper rest and facilities available to recover as they are an already depleted squad due to&nbsp;injury and can’t afford any other.&nbsp;

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According to India Today, the BCCI president and secretary Jay Shah got it touch with the Cricket Australia officials in a bid to make the basic facilities available for the visitors. According to the report,&nbsp;the BCCI had a word with captain Ajinkya Rahane and head coach Ravi Shastri to get first-hand information.&nbsp;

With just a couple of days to go for the fourth and final Test in Brisbane, the Indian cricket team is looking to make as much recovery as possible after battling it out for five days in Brisbane. The visitors may field a few inexperienced players with most of the senior players injured.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the series while Hanuma Vihari it out as well. Ravichandran Ashwin is a doubt as is the case with&nbsp;Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;and Mayank Agarwal. Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar and T Natarajan are in the fray to play in the Brisbane Test against Australia,&nbsp;&nbsp;

The fourth Test between India and Australia starts from January 15 at the Gabba in Brisbane.&nbsp;

It has been a gruelling tour of Australia for the Indian cricket team and it got worse when the visitors faced difficult quarantine hurdles upon their arrival in Brisbane as they were not given access to the gym, swimming pool and the lift.

It has been a gruelling tour of Australia for the Indian cricket team and it got worse when the visitors faced difficult quarantine hurdles upon their arrival in Brisbane as they were not given access to the gym, swimming pool and the lift. The development forced the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to intervene. Now, the situation has been resolved as the Indian team has been provided access to the gym, swimming pool and the lift whereas room service is also expected to be available before the end of the day. The Indian team was even not provided room service in the Brisbane hotel which forced them to clean their own toilets and make their own beds. After playing through pain in the Sydney Test, the Indian team needs to have proper rest and facilities available to recover as they are an already depleted squad due to injury and can’t afford any other. ALSO READ: Varun Aaron hospitalised for laryngitis, pulls out of Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 According to India Today, the BCCI president and secretary Jay Shah got it touch with the Cricket Australia officials in a bid to make the basic facilities available for the visitors. According to the report, the BCCI had a word with captain Ajinkya Rahane and head coach Ravi Shastri to get first-hand information. With just a couple of days to go for the fourth and final Test in Brisbane, the Indian cricket team is looking to make as much recovery as possible after battling it out for five days in Brisbane. The visitors may field a few inexperienced players with most of the senior players injured. ALSO READ: 'Absolute rubbish' - Langer goes into bat for Paine, Smith Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the series while Hanuma Vihari it out as well. Ravichandran Ashwin is a doubt as is the case with Jasprit Bumrah and Mayank Agarwal. Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar and T Natarajan are in the fray to play in the Brisbane Test against Australia, The fourth Test between India and Australia starts from January 15 at the Gabba in Brisbane.

BCCI intervention helps Team India get swimming pool, gym, housekeeping staff access in Brisbane

In what comes as a huge blow to the injury-plagued Indian cricket team, ace speedster&nbsp;Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;is doubtful for the fourth Test against Australia, scheduled to start from January 15, due to an&nbsp;abdominal&nbsp;strain.&nbsp;

Even Mayank Agarwal, tipped to be Hanuma Vihari’s replacement in the playing XI for the Brisbane Test,&nbsp;was hit on the hands and there are chances that it could result in a hairline fracture. If confirmed, then Mayank will be ruled out of the Brisbane Test.&nbsp;

Ravichandran Ashwin, who battled back spasm, has aggravated the strain after battling for three hours on Day 5 to save the Sydney Test.&nbsp;

Bumrah&nbsp;sustained the abdominal strain during the third Test in Sydney but continued to bowl to keep India in the game. Reportedly,&nbsp;Bumrah’s&nbsp;scan reports have shown a strain and Indian team management doesn’t want him to aggravate the injury with home series against England&nbsp;lined up.&nbsp;

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The Indian team is relieved to know that&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;hasn’t suffered a tear but are in fear that the Indian pacer&nbsp;might break down in the middle of Brisbane Test if he is given the nod to play.&nbsp;

If&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;doesn’t start, then two-Test old Mohammed Siraj will lead the Indian bowling attack which is likely to feature Navdeep Saini, Shardul Thakur and T Natarajan in Brisbane Test.&nbsp;

With injured KL Rahul out and Hanuma Vihari suffering a grade 2 hamstring tear, there are no middle-order batsmen left in the reserves.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-captain-tim-paine-apologises-for-sledging-against-ashwin-in-sydney-test-356168" hreflang="en">Australian captain Tim Paine apologises for sledging against Ashwin in Sydney Test</a>

The two available batsmen are Prithvi Shaw and Mayank Agarwal. If Agarwal’s scans reveal that it is a bruise and not a fracture then&nbsp;it could well be Prithvi Shaw batting at number three followed by&nbsp;Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara,&nbsp;Ajhinkya&nbsp;Rahane and Agarwal himself at number six.&nbsp;

With series locked at 1-1, India and&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;will take the field at the Gabba in Brisbane for the decider on January 15.&nbsp;

In what comes as a huge blow to the injury-plagued Indian cricket team, ace speedster Jasprit Bumrah is doubtful for the fourth Test against Australia, scheduled to start from January 15, due to an abdominal strain.

In what comes as a huge blow to the injury-plagued Indian cricket team, ace speedster Jasprit Bumrah is doubtful for the fourth Test against Australia, scheduled to start from January 15, due to an abdominal strain. Even Mayank Agarwal, tipped to be Hanuma Vihari’s replacement in the playing XI for the Brisbane Test, was hit on the hands and there are chances that it could result in a hairline fracture. If confirmed, then Mayank will be ruled out of the Brisbane Test. Ravichandran Ashwin, who battled back spasm, has aggravated the strain after battling for three hours on Day 5 to save the Sydney Test. Bumrah sustained the abdominal strain during the third Test in Sydney but continued to bowl to keep India in the game. Reportedly, Bumrah’s scan reports have shown a strain and Indian team management doesn’t want him to aggravate the injury with home series against England lined up. ALSO READ: Bruised and broken but Sydney was 'conquered' The Indian team is relieved to know that Bumrah hasn’t suffered a tear but are in fear that the Indian pacer might break down in the middle of Brisbane Test if he is given the nod to play. If Bumrah doesn’t start, then two-Test old Mohammed Siraj will lead the Indian bowling attack which is likely to feature Navdeep Saini, Shardul Thakur and T Natarajan in Brisbane Test. With injured KL Rahul out and Hanuma Vihari suffering a grade 2 hamstring tear, there are no middle-order batsmen left in the reserves. ALSO READ: Australian captain Tim Paine apologises for sledging against Ashwin in Sydney Test The two available batsmen are Prithvi Shaw and Mayank Agarwal. If Agarwal’s scans reveal that it is a bruise and not a fracture then it could well be Prithvi Shaw batting at number three followed by Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajhinkya Rahane and Agarwal himself at number six. With series locked at 1-1, India and Australia will take the field at the Gabba in Brisbane for the decider on January 15.

Jasprit Bumrah doubtful for Brisbane Test as injury worries grow for Team India

The fourth and final Test will go ahead "as planned" in Brisbane this week, Cricket Australia chief Nick Hockley said Monday, after agreement from India who had been insisting they avoid quarantine in the city.

The location was thrown into doubt with India reportedly unhappy about having to undergo another round of isolation and a snap city-wide lockdown after a case of the infectious UK strain of Covid-19 was detected in Brisbane.

But with the stay-at-home orders lifted Monday, Hockley said it was all systems go.

"The fourth Test will be at the Gabba, as planned," he told commercial radio SEN, with play due to start on Friday.

"On the basis of yesterday's discussions we are full steam ahead to play the fourth Test at the Gabba and really looking forward to it."

Hockley said he had spoken to Queensland state health officials and India's cricketing governing body to receive the green light.

"I had a call last night from the BCCI secretary, very late last night, and he confirmed we are good to travel to Brisbane on Tuesday," Hockley said.

"We're extremely grateful for their support," he said of the India side.

Queensland health officials insisted Monday both teams would still be required to spend 14 days in quarantine.

Hockley said Cricket Australia had arranged a charter plane for the players, who will stay in a Brisbane hotel retained "exclusively" for their use.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk also confirmed the Test would go ahead, but with restrictions on crowd numbers.

"The Gabba will be filled to&nbsp;half the capacity and masks are&nbsp;mandatory for entering and for&nbsp;leaving and moving around the&nbsp;stadium," she said.

The tour has been hit by several virus-related problems, with spectator numbers severely limited in the current Sydney Test due to an outbreak in the city.

The second Test in Melbourne was named a possible Covid-19 spreading event, and five Indian players were caught apparently breaching the biosecurity bubble by eating at a restaurant in the city.

It has also been marred by allegations Indian players were subjected to racist abuse by some spectators in Sydney.

The series was level at 1-1 going into the final day of the third Test, after India bounced back from their opening loss to beat the hosts in the Boxing Day Test.

The fourth and final Test will go ahead "as planned" in Brisbane this week, Cricket Australia chief Nick Hockley said Monday, after agreement from India who had been insisting they avoid quarantine in the city.

The fourth and final Test will go ahead "as planned" in Brisbane this week, Cricket Australia chief Nick Hockley said Monday, after agreement from India who had been insisting they avoid quarantine in the city. The location was thrown into doubt with India reportedly unhappy about having to undergo another round of isolation and a snap city-wide lockdown after a case of the infectious UK strain of Covid-19 was detected in Brisbane. But with the stay-at-home orders lifted Monday, Hockley said it was all systems go. "The fourth Test will be at the Gabba, as planned," he told commercial radio SEN, with play due to start on Friday. "On the basis of yesterday's discussions we are full steam ahead to play the fourth Test at the Gabba and really looking forward to it." Hockley said he had spoken to Queensland state health officials and India's cricketing governing body to receive the green light. "I had a call last night from the BCCI secretary, very late last night, and he confirmed we are good to travel to Brisbane on Tuesday," Hockley said. "We're extremely grateful for their support," he said of the India side. Queensland health officials insisted Monday both teams would still be required to spend 14 days in quarantine. Hockley said Cricket Australia had arranged a charter plane for the players, who will stay in a Brisbane hotel retained "exclusively" for their use. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk also confirmed the Test would go ahead, but with restrictions on crowd numbers. "The Gabba will be filled to half the capacity and masks are mandatory for entering and for leaving and moving around the stadium," she said. The tour has been hit by several virus-related problems, with spectator numbers severely limited in the current Sydney Test due to an outbreak in the city. The second Test in Melbourne was named a possible Covid-19 spreading event, and five Indian players were caught apparently breaching the biosecurity bubble by eating at a restaurant in the city. It has also been marred by allegations Indian players were subjected to racist abuse by some spectators in Sydney. The series was level at 1-1 going into the final day of the third Test, after India bounced back from their opening loss to beat the hosts in the Boxing Day Test.

Final Australia-India Test gets go ahead at Brisbane's Gabba

The injury woes of the Indian cricket team continue as the hero of Sydney Test, Hanuma Vihari, is unlikely to feature in the fourth and final Test at The Gabba in Brisbane, starting January 15, due to a hamstring tear that could keep the 27-year-old out of action for a considerable time.&nbsp;

According to a report in PTI, Vihari was taken for scans after the end of the Sydney Test and reports are expected by Monday evening or Tuesday morning.&nbsp;

However, a BCCI source has said that Vihari is likely to be out of Brisbane Test with a hamstring tear. Vihari scored an unbeaten 23 off 161 to save the match for India along with Ravichandran Ashwin. &nbsp;

“The extent of Vihari’s tear can only be ascertained after the scan reports come through. But even if it’s a grade 1 tear, he is out for at least four weeks and then will need some rehabilitation time. So it’s not only Brisbane Test but also, he won’t be a part of England Tests at home,” a senior source told PTI.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bruised-and-broken-but-sydney-was-conquered-356068" hreflang="en">Bruised and broken but Sydney was 'conquered'</a>

The Indian team will not be missing Vihari in the home series against England with India preferring an extra bowler in home conditions.&nbsp;

Vihari will again be needed on seaming tracks on England soil where India generally go with an extra batsman.&nbsp;

Vihari is expected to be replaced by either Wriddhiman Saha or Mayank Agarwal. With Saha, Rishabh Pant will play as a pure batsman while Mayank can take on the second new ball in the middle order. However, out-of-form Prithvi Shaw remains out of contention in all likelihood.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-good-as-winning-a-test-match-ajinkya-rahane-lauds-team-india-for-sydney-heroics-356007" hreflang="en">'As good as winning a Test match': Ajinkya Rahane lauds Team India for Sydney heroics</a>

Both Pant and Vihari were on heavy dosage of pain-killers in a bid to carry on with their batting.&nbsp;

Shardul Thakur is likely to be part of the playing XI as a replacement for injured Ravindra jadeja with Thangasaru Natarajan also in the fray. Shardul was in contention to be part of Sydney Test but Navdeep Saini clinched the spot on a flat deck.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)&nbsp;

The injury woes of the Indian cricket team continue as the hero of Sydney Test, Hanuma Vihari, is unlikely to feature in the fourth and final Test at The Gabba in Brisbane, starting January 15, due to a hamstring tear that could keep the 27-year-old out of action for a considerable time.

The injury woes of the Indian cricket team continue as the hero of Sydney Test, Hanuma Vihari, is unlikely to feature in the fourth and final Test at The Gabba in Brisbane, starting January 15, due to a hamstring tear that could keep the 27-year-old out of action for a considerable time. According to a report in PTI, Vihari was taken for scans after the end of the Sydney Test and reports are expected by Monday evening or Tuesday morning. However, a BCCI source has said that Vihari is likely to be out of Brisbane Test with a hamstring tear. Vihari scored an unbeaten 23 off 161 to save the match for India along with Ravichandran Ashwin. “The extent of Vihari’s tear can only be ascertained after the scan reports come through. But even if it’s a grade 1 tear, he is out for at least four weeks and then will need some rehabilitation time. So it’s not only Brisbane Test but also, he won’t be a part of England Tests at home,” a senior source told PTI. ALSO READ: Bruised and broken but Sydney was 'conquered' The Indian team will not be missing Vihari in the home series against England with India preferring an extra bowler in home conditions. Vihari will again be needed on seaming tracks on England soil where India generally go with an extra batsman. Vihari is expected to be replaced by either Wriddhiman Saha or Mayank Agarwal. With Saha, Rishabh Pant will play as a pure batsman while Mayank can take on the second new ball in the middle order. However, out-of-form Prithvi Shaw remains out of contention in all likelihood. ALSO READ: 'As good as winning a Test match': Ajinkya Rahane lauds Team India for Sydney heroics Both Pant and Vihari were on heavy dosage of pain-killers in a bid to carry on with their batting. Shardul Thakur is likely to be part of the playing XI as a replacement for injured Ravindra jadeja with Thangasaru Natarajan also in the fray. Shardul was in contention to be part of Sydney Test but Navdeep Saini clinched the spot on a flat deck. (With PTI inputs)

Hanuma Vihari ruled out of Brisbane Test, Shardul Thakur favourite to replace Ravindra Jadeja

Brisbane's snap coronavirus lockdown raised fresh concerns over the final cricket Test on Friday as India insisted they should avoid quarantine in the Australian city.

The three-day lockdown, starting Friday, over a single case of the infectious UK strain follows days of reports that India are unhappy about having to undergo another round of isolation.

Australia and India are currently playing the third Test in Sydney and are due to travel north to Queensland for the final game starting on January 15.

"We have written to CA (Cricket Australia) asking them to relax the quarantine rule in Brisbane," a Board of Control for Cricket in India official told AFP.

"The team has already undergone isolation after landing in Australia from the UAE (after the Indian Premier League in November)."

Queensland state authorities said the Brisbane Test was "not impacted"&nbsp;by the new lockdown. Australia's different states set their own coronavirus restrictions.

"Queensland Cricket and Cricket Australia&nbsp;will continue to work with the Queensland government to ensure the Test is delivered safely," a statement said.

Batting great Sunil Gavaskar said India's players want to enjoy the same freedoms as other people in Australia.

"In Sydney, there are people coming to the ground and then going back and having dinner at a restaurant or having a gathering of 20, 30 people in a pub," Gavaskar said during commentary for Channel Seven on Friday.

"What they're saying is they should also be allowed to do something similar. You could have a situation where the ball goes into the crowd, somebody from the crowd touches the ball."

The former captain added: "The Queensland government is fully entitled to protect its people. Similarly, I believe the BCCI is fully entitled to protect its team."

The tour has been hit by several virus-related problems, with spectator numbers severely limited in the ongoing Sydney match due to an outbreak in the city.

The Melbourne Test was named a possible Covid-19 spreading event, and five Indian players were caught apparently breaching the biosecurity bubble by eating at a restaurant.

The series is level at 1-1 after India bounced back from their opening loss to beat the hosts in the Boxing Day Test.

Brisbane's snap coronavirus lockdown raised fresh concerns over the final cricket Test on Friday as India insisted they should avoid quarantine in the Australian city.

Brisbane's snap coronavirus lockdown raised fresh concerns over the final cricket Test on Friday as India insisted they should avoid quarantine in the Australian city. The three-day lockdown, starting Friday, over a single case of the infectious UK strain follows days of reports that India are unhappy about having to undergo another round of isolation. Australia and India are currently playing the third Test in Sydney and are due to travel north to Queensland for the final game starting on January 15. "We have written to CA (Cricket Australia) asking them to relax the quarantine rule in Brisbane," a Board of Control for Cricket in India official told AFP. "The team has already undergone isolation after landing in Australia from the UAE (after the Indian Premier League in November)." Queensland state authorities said the Brisbane Test was "not impacted" by the new lockdown. Australia's different states set their own coronavirus restrictions. "Queensland Cricket and Cricket Australia will continue to work with the Queensland government to ensure the Test is delivered safely," a statement said. Batting great Sunil Gavaskar said India's players want to enjoy the same freedoms as other people in Australia. "In Sydney, there are people coming to the ground and then going back and having dinner at a restaurant or having a gathering of 20, 30 people in a pub," Gavaskar said during commentary for Channel Seven on Friday. "What they're saying is they should also be allowed to do something similar. You could have a situation where the ball goes into the crowd, somebody from the crowd touches the ball." The former captain added: "The Queensland government is fully entitled to protect its people. Similarly, I believe the BCCI is fully entitled to protect its team." The tour has been hit by several virus-related problems, with spectator numbers severely limited in the ongoing Sydney match due to an outbreak in the city. The Melbourne Test was named a possible Covid-19 spreading event, and five Indian players were caught apparently breaching the biosecurity bubble by eating at a restaurant. The series is level at 1-1 after India bounced back from their opening loss to beat the hosts in the Boxing Day Test.

Brisbane virus lockdown raises concerns over cricket Test

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday wrote to Cricket Australia (CA) as the Indian cricket board look for relaxation in hard quarantine protocols of Brisbane for the fourth and final Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. &nbsp;

BCCI reminded the Australian board that they are done with strict isolation. According to a PTI report, a top BCCI executive has written to CA head Earl Eddings as the board reminded him of the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the two board on the modalities of the tour which never had a specification of two hard quarantine in separate cities.&nbsp;

The Brisbane Test is scheduled to start on January 15 and the strict quarantine rules, as of now, will restrict the players to just their hotel rooms after the end of day’s play.&nbsp;

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"The discussions are still on but today BCCI has formally sent a letter seeking relaxation of hard quarantine for its players if they are to have the match in Brisbane," a senior BCCI official told PTI.&nbsp;

"The MoU that was signed never mentioned about two hard quarantines. India have done one hard quarantine in Sydney (practice and back to hotel room)," he added.&nbsp;

The BCCI has made a simple demand that players want to be with each other inside the hotel bio-bubble as they did in the IPL.&nbsp;

"The BCCI's demand is simple. The players want to mingle with each other inside the hotel bio-bubble like they did in the IPL. They want to have their meals together inside the hotel and also have team meetings together. That's not a big demand," he informed.&nbsp;

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Cricket Australia’s communication has stated that players can be with each other but only those residing on the same floor. Hence, players from two different floors cannot come in contact with each other.&nbsp;

"The BCCI has told CA that the relaxation of the quarantine rules should be given in writing. During India's hard quarantine in Sydney after reaching from UAE, there used to be police personnel in each floor ensuring that there is no breach of bio-safety protocols.&nbsp;

"Hopefully, nothing of that sort will happen if the team travels to Brisbane. All we want is IPL style bio-bubble."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, if the Queensland authorities don’t ease down the quarantine rules, the fourth Test could be played in Sydney.&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday wrote to Cricket Australia (CA) as the Indian cricket board look for relaxation in hard quarantine protocols of Brisbane for the fourth and final Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday wrote to Cricket Australia (CA) as the Indian cricket board look for relaxation in hard quarantine protocols of Brisbane for the fourth and final Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. BCCI reminded the Australian board that they are done with strict isolation. According to a PTI report, a top BCCI executive has written to CA head Earl Eddings as the board reminded him of the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the two board on the modalities of the tour which never had a specification of two hard quarantine in separate cities. The Brisbane Test is scheduled to start on January 15 and the strict quarantine rules, as of now, will restrict the players to just their hotel rooms after the end of day’s play. ALSO READ: 'Was missing my dad': Mohammed Siraj on getting emotional during Indian national anthem "The discussions are still on but today BCCI has formally sent a letter seeking relaxation of hard quarantine for its players if they are to have the match in Brisbane," a senior BCCI official told PTI. "The MoU that was signed never mentioned about two hard quarantines. India have done one hard quarantine in Sydney (practice and back to hotel room)," he added. The BCCI has made a simple demand that players want to be with each other inside the hotel bio-bubble as they did in the IPL. "The BCCI's demand is simple. The players want to mingle with each other inside the hotel bio-bubble like they did in the IPL. They want to have their meals together inside the hotel and also have team meetings together. That's not a big demand," he informed. ALSO READ: 'I am absolutely fine': Sourav Ganguly discharged from hospital after treatment for cardiac arrest Cricket Australia’s communication has stated that players can be with each other but only those residing on the same floor. Hence, players from two different floors cannot come in contact with each other. "The BCCI has told CA that the relaxation of the quarantine rules should be given in writing. During India's hard quarantine in Sydney after reaching from UAE, there used to be police personnel in each floor ensuring that there is no breach of bio-safety protocols. "Hopefully, nothing of that sort will happen if the team travels to Brisbane. All we want is IPL style bio-bubble." Meanwhile, if the Queensland authorities don’t ease down the quarantine rules, the fourth Test could be played in Sydney.

AUS vs IND: BCCI formally writes to Cricket Australia about Brisbane's hard quarantine

With reports surfacing that India are discontent at the prospect of being forced into hard quarantine for the fourth Test against Australia in Brisbane, Australian captain Tim Paine reckoned that the controversial build-up could raise tensions on the field during the third Test match in Sydney.&nbsp;

Paine conceded that reports stating that India might not turn up to play at the Gabba has started to annoy some of the Aussie players and could result in a high-tension match when the third Test starts at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday.

"I think there`s a bit of tension starting to boil under the surface with a lot of unnamed sources coming out from their camp saying where they want to play the fourth test and where they don`t want to go," Paine said in his pre-match news conference.

"I think it`s starting to grind a few people, so we`ll see how it goes."

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India have officially made no statement about the issue and on Monday, Cricket Australia boss Nick Hockley said the fourth Test is scheduled to be played in Brisbane and he has heard nothing from the Indian camp about the quarantine protocols.

However, Indian captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday said that quarantine was "challenging" when life outside in Sydney was "normal". When asked about a potential Brisbane boycott, Rahane evaded the question and said that the "BCCI and team management" will take a final call.&nbsp;

"Quarantine life is definitely a challenge, especially we know that in Australia, in Sydney especially, the life is normal," he told reporters.

"The players are stuck in the room, which is okay. We know how to handle it, we are prepared for any kind of situation. We are not at all annoyed. We know what`s our priority here.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-announce-playing-xi-for-sydney-test-vs-australia-rohit-sharma-navdeep-saini-start-354769" hreflang="en">India announce playing XI for Sydney Test vs Australia; Rohit Sharma, Navdeep Saini start</a>

"We are here to play cricket and we just want to do that. Starting from tomorrow, start well in the test match and, as a team, as a unit, we are just focused on playing some good cricket."

On the other hand, Paine said Australia would play the fourth Test anywhere in the world, even Mumbai."When you hear things like that coming, particularly from India, who we know hold a lot of power in world cricket, it`s likely that it could happen," he said.

"But we`re not too fussed. We`re not buying into where the test is being played. As far as we`re aware it is at the Gabba, but as I said in the team meeting the other day, we couldn`t care less.

"If you rang us up and said it`s in Mumbai tomorrow, we`d get on a plane and we`d go and play it. That`s the way we are looking at it."

The four-Test series is nicely locked at 1-1 after India made a cracking comeback in the Boxing Day Test. Both India and Australia would be looking to win the Sydney Test and take an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.

With reports surfacing that India are discontent at the prospect of being forced into hard quarantine for the fourth Test against Australia in Brisbane, Australian captain Tim Paine reckoned that the controversial build-up could raise tensions on the field during the third Test match in Sydney.

With reports surfacing that India are discontent at the prospect of being forced into hard quarantine for the fourth Test against Australia in Brisbane, Australian captain Tim Paine reckoned that the controversial build-up could raise tensions on the field during the third Test match in Sydney. Paine conceded that reports stating that India might not turn up to play at the Gabba has started to annoy some of the Aussie players and could result in a high-tension match when the third Test starts at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday. "I think there`s a bit of tension starting to boil under the surface with a lot of unnamed sources coming out from their camp saying where they want to play the fourth test and where they don`t want to go," Paine said in his pre-match news conference. "I think it`s starting to grind a few people, so we`ll see how it goes." ALSO READ: Quarantine is challenging when life in Sydney is normal: India captain Ajinkya Rahane India have officially made no statement about the issue and on Monday, Cricket Australia boss Nick Hockley said the fourth Test is scheduled to be played in Brisbane and he has heard nothing from the Indian camp about the quarantine protocols. However, Indian captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday said that quarantine was "challenging" when life outside in Sydney was "normal". When asked about a potential Brisbane boycott, Rahane evaded the question and said that the "BCCI and team management" will take a final call. "Quarantine life is definitely a challenge, especially we know that in Australia, in Sydney especially, the life is normal," he told reporters. "The players are stuck in the room, which is okay. We know how to handle it, we are prepared for any kind of situation. We are not at all annoyed. We know what`s our priority here. ALSO READ: India announce playing XI for Sydney Test vs Australia; Rohit Sharma, Navdeep Saini start "We are here to play cricket and we just want to do that. Starting from tomorrow, start well in the test match and, as a team, as a unit, we are just focused on playing some good cricket." On the other hand, Paine said Australia would play the fourth Test anywhere in the world, even Mumbai."When you hear things like that coming, particularly from India, who we know hold a lot of power in world cricket, it`s likely that it could happen," he said. "But we`re not too fussed. We`re not buying into where the test is being played. As far as we`re aware it is at the Gabba, but as I said in the team meeting the other day, we couldn`t care less. "If you rang us up and said it`s in Mumbai tomorrow, we`d get on a plane and we`d go and play it. That`s the way we are looking at it." The four-Test series is nicely locked at 1-1 after India made a cracking comeback in the Boxing Day Test. Both India and Australia would be looking to win the Sydney Test and take an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.

AUS vs IND: Tensions broil over Team India Brisbane boycott reports

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