<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>
The India cricket team&rsquo;s dressing room has become a huge talking point as the visitors have been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons. While the news of Rohit Sharma opting out of the Sydney Test is doing rounds, another media report has emerged stating the players have been far from happy for several reasons. It is reported that the Indian team did not celebrate after winning the Perth Test, raising issues of dressing room rift between players and coaching staff. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Team India did not celebrate Perth win?<o:p></o:p></h2>
India won the Perth Test by 295 runs, which was Australia&rsquo;s biggest defeat on home turf in a Test match. The win also saw India start the series on a positive note as they took a 1-0 lead. However, the players did not celebrate together as they usually do and were rather seen accompanying their partners on the night they won the Test match. <o:p></o:p>
"After the Perth win, such a significant win in the history of Indian cricket, the fact that they didn&rsquo;t celebrate that as a team and went their own ways didn&rsquo;t tell me it was a broken dressing room. But it was a dressing room where there are different cliques, generationally and otherwise, who are just doing their own things," journalist Bharat Sundaresan said while speaking to Channel 7.<o:p></o:p>
"This, I am told, is despite one of the senior support staff members saying, 'Here, I will put in my credit card, let&rsquo;s all order some drinks, stick together.' But that was not meant to be. I thought a win like that would bring things together and energise this as one collective. As we&rsquo;ve seen, as the series has gone on, it took that one bad loss in Melbourne&mdash;where it was one bad session, and they lost a Test match they fought hard in&mdash;for those simmering uncertainties, not really tensions, to surface and become public," he added.<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/scg-test-rishabh-pant-suffers-series-of-blows-on-day-1-of-bgt-2024-25-series-finale-watch-video-8587828" aria-label="SCG Test: Rishabh Pant suffers several blows on Day 1 of series finale - Watch" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">SCG Test: Rishabh Pant suffers several blows on Day 1 of series finale - Watch</a>
The communication gap in the dressing room has only broadened after the start of the SCG Test, with captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir not speaking to one another. Rohit opted out of the SCG Test while Gambhir was very harsh with the Indian team members after the Melbourne Test. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">India suffer in Rohit&rsquo;s absence<o:p></o:p></h2>
After a heavy build-up to the contest, India had another poor day at the office despite seeing skipper Rohit make way for Shubman Gill. India was reduced to 185 in their first innings, with the visitors losing key wickets in the first session of the match. Jaiswal (10), KL Rahul (4), and Gill (20) all failed to impress in what is a must-win contest for Team India in the ongoing BGT. <o:p></o:p>
Later Virat Kohli (17) and Rishabh Pant (40) also failed to convert their starts before Australian bowlers bowled out India for 185.<o:p></o:p>
(With Inputs from Agencies)

Sports, Cricket: It is reported that the Indian team did not celebrate after winning the Perth Test, raising issues of dressing room rift between players and coaching staff. 

The India cricket team’s dressing room has become a huge talking point as the visitors have been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons. While the news of Rohit Sharma opting out of the Sydney Test is doing rounds, another media report has emerged stating the players have been far from happy for several reasons. It is reported that the Indian team did not celebrate after winning the Perth Test, raising issues of dressing room rift between players and coaching staff. Team India did not celebrate Perth win? India won the Perth Test by 295 runs, which was Australia’s biggest defeat on home turf in a Test match. The win also saw India start the series on a positive note as they took a 1-0 lead. However, the players did not celebrate together as they usually do and were rather seen accompanying their partners on the night they won the Test match. "After the Perth win, such a significant win in the history of Indian cricket, the fact that they didn’t celebrate that as a team and went their own ways didn’t tell me it was a broken dressing room. But it was a dressing room where there are different cliques, generationally and otherwise, who are just doing their own things," journalist Bharat Sundaresan said while speaking to Channel 7. "This, I am told, is despite one of the senior support staff members saying, 'Here, I will put in my credit card, let’s all order some drinks, stick together.' But that was not meant to be. I thought a win like that would bring things together and energise this as one collective. As we’ve seen, as the series has gone on, it took that one bad loss in Melbourne—where it was one bad session, and they lost a Test match they fought hard in—for those simmering uncertainties, not really tensions, to surface and become public," he added. ALSO READ | SCG Test: Rishabh Pant suffers several blows on Day 1 of series finale - Watch The communication gap in the dressing room has only broadened after the start of the SCG Test, with captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir not speaking to one another. Rohit opted out of the SCG Test while Gambhir was very harsh with the Indian team members after the Melbourne Test. India suffer in Rohit’s absence After a heavy build-up to the contest, India had another poor day at the office despite seeing skipper Rohit make way for Shubman Gill. India was reduced to 185 in their first innings, with the visitors losing key wickets in the first session of the match. Jaiswal (10), KL Rahul (4), and Gill (20) all failed to impress in what is a must-win contest for Team India in the ongoing BGT. Later Virat Kohli (17) and Rishabh Pant (40) also failed to convert their starts before Australian bowlers bowled out India for 185. (With Inputs from Agencies)

BGT 2024/25: Team India did not celebrate record-breaking Perth win as dressing room issues broaden - Report

India&rsquo;s stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah has questioned the double standard umpiring in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia. Playing at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), India were bowled out for 185, but it was the Washington Sundar dismissal that made the headlines after Bumrah did not hold back. This backlash comes after India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal was given not out and then given out in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5gmmd64-8vnmccx1-r1vq5zc4">
🧐 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bumrah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bumrah</a> not pleased with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WashingtonSundar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WashingtonSundar</a>'s wicket, frustrated by Snicko's decision 🫣<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvINDOnStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvINDOnStar</a> 👉 5th Test, Day 2 | SAT, 4th JAN, 5 AM | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ToughestRivalry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ToughestRivalry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BorderGavaskarTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BorderGavaskarTrophy</a> <a href="https://t.co/8WKRYjy8j1">pic.twitter.com/8WKRYjy8j1</a>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1875092829057511733?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Bumrah questions umpiring decision<o:p></o:p></h2>
On the last ball of the 66th over, Sundar was caught by keeper Alex Carey and was initially judged not out. However, the decision was overturned when Pat Cummins asked for a DRS, and Sundar was given out. After the dismissal, one of the cameras caught Bumrah, who was seen taking a dig at the umpires. He uttered, &ldquo;Last game, he didn&rsquo;t give it out on Snicko.&rdquo;<o:p></o:p>
The Indian stand-in skipper was clearly not happy with the decision having seen Jaiswal given out when there was no deflection on the snicko in the MCG Test. He was left animated but could not do much about the situation.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/scg-test-rishabh-pant-suffers-series-of-blows-on-day-1-of-bgt-2024-25-series-finale-watch-video-8587828" aria-label="SCG Test: Rishabh Pant suffers several blows on Day 1 of series finale - Watch">SCG Test: Rishabh Pant suffers several blows on Day 1 of series finale - Watch</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">India suffer in Rohit&rsquo;s absence<o:p></o:p></h2>
After a heavy build-up to the contest, India had another poor day at the office despite seeing skipper Rohit Sharma make way for Shubman Gill. India was reduced to 185 in their first innings, with the visitors losing key wickets in the first session of the match. Jaiswal (10), KL Rahul (4), and Gill (20) all failed to impress in what is a must-win contest for Team India in the ongoing BGT. <o:p></o:p>
Later Virat Kohli (17) and Rishabh Pant (40) also failed to convert their starts before Australian bowlers bowled out India for 185. <o:p></o:p>
With India getting bowled out, Australia came out to bat for a mere three overs but suffered a blow in the form of Usman Khawaja (2) after he was dismissed on the last ball of the day. At Stumps, Australia were 9/1 in three overs and still trail India by 176 runs in the first innings.<o:p></o:p>
&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: Playing at the SCG, India were bowled out for 185, but it was the Washington Sundar dismissal that made the headlines after Bumrah did not hold back. 

India’s stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah has questioned the double standard umpiring in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia. Playing at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), India were bowled out for 185, but it was the Washington Sundar dismissal that made the headlines after Bumrah did not hold back. This backlash comes after India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal was given not out and then given out in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. 🧐 #Bumrah not pleased with #WashingtonSundar's wicket, frustrated by Snicko's decision 🫣#AUSvINDOnStar 👉 5th Test, Day 2 | SAT, 4th JAN, 5 AM | #ToughestRivalry #BorderGavaskarTrophy pic.twitter.com/8WKRYjy8j1 — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) January 3, 2025 Bumrah questions umpiring decision On the last ball of the 66th over, Sundar was caught by keeper Alex Carey and was initially judged not out. However, the decision was overturned when Pat Cummins asked for a DRS, and Sundar was given out. After the dismissal, one of the cameras caught Bumrah, who was seen taking a dig at the umpires. He uttered, “Last game, he didn’t give it out on Snicko.” The Indian stand-in skipper was clearly not happy with the decision having seen Jaiswal given out when there was no deflection on the snicko in the MCG Test. He was left animated but could not do much about the situation. ALSO READ | SCG Test: Rishabh Pant suffers several blows on Day 1 of series finale - Watch India suffer in Rohit’s absence After a heavy build-up to the contest, India had another poor day at the office despite seeing skipper Rohit Sharma make way for Shubman Gill. India was reduced to 185 in their first innings, with the visitors losing key wickets in the first session of the match. Jaiswal (10), KL Rahul (4), and Gill (20) all failed to impress in what is a must-win contest for Team India in the ongoing BGT. Later Virat Kohli (17) and Rishabh Pant (40) also failed to convert their starts before Australian bowlers bowled out India for 185. With India getting bowled out, Australia came out to bat for a mere three overs but suffered a blow in the form of Usman Khawaja (2) after he was dismissed on the last ball of the day. At Stumps, Australia were 9/1 in three overs and still trail India by 176 runs in the first innings.

BGT: Jasprit Bumrah questions double standard umpiring after Washington Sundar's wicket in SCG Test - WATCH

India had a tough day on&nbsp; of the SCG Test, in Sydney, versus Australia on Friday (Jan 3). Opting to bat first, in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series finale, Jasprit Bumrah-led visitors got bundled out for 185 with Rishabh Pant top-scoring with 40. During his stay in the middle, Pant suffered a series of body blows as he made a hard-fought 40 (98).&nbsp;
Here is the video of Pant taking body blows on Day 1 of the Sydney Test:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5gj6wl9-a4eezbtc-szfq93b0">
Rishabh Pant took a number of heavy hits to the body.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/TdyJ1qhm9C">pic.twitter.com/TdyJ1qhm9C</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1875019635822559412?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-jasprit-bumrah-stares-down-sam-konstas-as-duo-involved-in-heated-moment-on-day-1-of-scg-test-watch-8587643" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Bumrah stares down Konstas as duo involved in heated exchange on Day 1 of SCG Test - Watch</a>
The left-hander came out to bat at No. 5, after Shubman Gill fell for 20 with India reeling at 57-3. Pant stitched a 15-run stand with Virat Kohli, who once again edged one outside off-stump to depart for 17. The keeper-batter then stitched a vital 48-run sixth-wicket stand with Ravindra Jadeja (26) before falling for 40. He smashed a six and three fours during his stay, showing resistance in the middle but failed to capitalise on his start.&nbsp;
After Scott Boland's 4-fer dismissed India for 185, the visitors reduced Australia to 9 for 1 at stumps. Earlier in the day, Bumrah walked out for the toss as Rohit Sharma 'opted to rest' amid his poor run of form.
Pat Cummins-led Australia lead the five-match series 2-1 after a win in the fourth and penultimate Test at the MCG, Melbourne.

Cricket, Sports | SCG Test: Indian batter Rishabh Pant suffered several blows on Day 1 of series finale in Sydney - Watch viral video 

India had a tough day on of the SCG Test, in Sydney, versus Australia on Friday (Jan 3). Opting to bat first, in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series finale, Jasprit Bumrah-led visitors got bundled out for 185 with Rishabh Pant top-scoring with 40. During his stay in the middle, Pant suffered a series of body blows as he made a hard-fought 40 (98). Here is the video of Pant taking body blows on Day 1 of the Sydney Test: Rishabh Pant took a number of heavy hits to the body.#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/TdyJ1qhm9C — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 3, 2025 Also read: Bumrah stares down Konstas as duo involved in heated exchange on Day 1 of SCG Test - Watch The left-hander came out to bat at No. 5, after Shubman Gill fell for 20 with India reeling at 57-3. Pant stitched a 15-run stand with Virat Kohli, who once again edged one outside off-stump to depart for 17. The keeper-batter then stitched a vital 48-run sixth-wicket stand with Ravindra Jadeja (26) before falling for 40. He smashed a six and three fours during his stay, showing resistance in the middle but failed to capitalise on his start. After Scott Boland's 4-fer dismissed India for 185, the visitors reduced Australia to 9 for 1 at stumps. Earlier in the day, Bumrah walked out for the toss as Rohit Sharma 'opted to rest' amid his poor run of form. Pat Cummins-led Australia lead the five-match series 2-1 after a win in the fourth and penultimate Test at the MCG, Melbourne.

SCG Test: Rishabh Pant suffers several blows on Day 1 of series finale - Watch

India head coach Gautam Gambhir remained tight-lipped about captain Rohit Sharma's inclusion in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) final Test versus Australia, at the SCG, Sydney on Thursday (Jan 2). The fifth and final Test commences on Friday (Jan 3). With the series on the line for the visitors, Rohit skipped the pre-match presser. When a journalist repeatedly asked about Rohit, Gambhir remained non-committal regarding Hitman's inclusion and the team combination.
Rohit was seen&nbsp;during the warm-ups, shadow-practising his drives and kicking a football around with the teammates. However, his absence from the presser raised some eyebrows. With his form being very poor in the ongoing BGT, his absence led to many speculations. In this regard, Gambhir said, "Everything is fine with Rohit. I don't think it's a tradition (of captain attending the pre-match presser). The head coach is here. That should be fine, that should be good enough. I am going to have a look at the wicket and finalise it tomorrow."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/border-gavaskar-trophy-2024-25-mitchell-starc-declared-fit-debutant-replaces-mitchell-marsh-as-australia-name-playing-xi-for-scg-test-versus-india-8584136" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT: Mitchell Starc declared fit, debutant replaces Mitchell Marsh as Australia name playing XI for SCG Test</a>
When asked if Rohit would feature in India's plans, Gambhir reiterated: "As I just said, we are going to have a look at the wicket and announce the playing XI tomorrow." On being asked further, the former Indian opener added firmly, "The answer is the same."
Gambhir, however, confirmed that pacer Akash Deep will miss the Sydney Test due to back issue.
For Rohit the scores have so far been 3, 6, 10, 3 and 9 in the ongoing BGT in Australia.
He ended 2024 with 619 runs at an average of 24.76 in the longest format of the game, with many calling for his Test retirement post the Australia tour.
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Meanwhile, Australia named their playing XI for the SCG Test. With them leading the five-match series 2-1, the hosts have dropped Mitchell Marsh whereas Mitchell Starc has been declared fit.
<h2>Australia XI for New Year's Test vs India</h2>
<div class="post-content">
Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (captain), Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland.
</div>

Cricket, Sports | Border-Gavaskar 2024-25: Will Rohit Sharma play the  Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) Test in Sydney? India head coach Gautam Gambhir reacts 

India head coach Gautam Gambhir remained tight-lipped about captain Rohit Sharma's inclusion in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) final Test versus Australia, at the SCG, Sydney on Thursday (Jan 2). The fifth and final Test commences on Friday (Jan 3). With the series on the line for the visitors, Rohit skipped the pre-match presser. When a journalist repeatedly asked about Rohit, Gambhir remained non-committal regarding Hitman's inclusion and the team combination. Rohit was seen during the warm-ups, shadow-practising his drives and kicking a football around with the teammates. However, his absence from the presser raised some eyebrows. With his form being very poor in the ongoing BGT, his absence led to many speculations. In this regard, Gambhir said, "Everything is fine with Rohit. I don't think it's a tradition (of captain attending the pre-match presser). The head coach is here. That should be fine, that should be good enough. I am going to have a look at the wicket and finalise it tomorrow." Also read: BGT: Mitchell Starc declared fit, debutant replaces Mitchell Marsh as Australia name playing XI for SCG Test When asked if Rohit would feature in India's plans, Gambhir reiterated: "As I just said, we are going to have a look at the wicket and announce the playing XI tomorrow." On being asked further, the former Indian opener added firmly, "The answer is the same." Gambhir, however, confirmed that pacer Akash Deep will miss the Sydney Test due to back issue. For Rohit the scores have so far been 3, 6, 10, 3 and 9 in the ongoing BGT in Australia. He ended 2024 with 619 runs at an average of 24.76 in the longest format of the game, with many calling for his Test retirement post the Australia tour. Meanwhile, Australia named their playing XI for the SCG Test. With them leading the five-match series 2-1, the hosts have dropped Mitchell Marsh whereas Mitchell Starc has been declared fit. Australia XI for New Year's Test vs India Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (captain), Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland.

SCG Test: Will Rohit Sharma play the series finale? Gautam Gambhir reacts

Australia announced their playing XI for the fifth and final Test versus India, at the SCG in Sydney, on Thursday (Jan 2). Ahead of the New Year's Test, which is also the series decider of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Mitchell Starc has been declared fit whereas debutant Beau Webster replaces a struggling all-rounder Mitchell Marsh.
Speaking to the press ahead of the SCG Test, Australia skipper Pat Cummins revealed that it was the selectors' call to drop Marsh, who has fared poorly with both bat and ball in the five-match series in Australia. He said, "Mitchy (Marsh) obviously hasn't quite got the runs, and perhaps wickets this series. So we felt like it was time for a freshen up and Beau's been great," Cummins said.
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"It's a shame for Mitchy, because we know how much he brings to the team, but feel like now it's a good week for Beau to get a chance," he added.
Webster has done remarkably well in the domestic circuit. He ended as the highest scorer in the Shield last season with 938 runs and during a recent one-day match against Western Australia, the all-rounder claimed six wickets for 17 runs.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhirs-position-as-head-coach-not-safe-after-india-close-2024-with-mcg-defeat-report-8583356" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Gautam Gambhir's position as head coach not safe after India close 2024 with MCG defeat: Report</a>
Regarding Starc, the wily pacer battled pain and bowled in the second innings of the fourth and penultimate Test, at the MCG, Melbourne, sending down 16 overs without any compromise on pace. With him fit, the hosts will be confident of ending the series with a 3-1 scoreline.
Australia beat India by 184 runs in the Boxing Day Test, in Melbourne, to take an unassailable 2-1 lead. They now aim to regain the BGT for the first time since 2014-15 with a win in Sydney.
Australia XI for New Year's Test vs India
Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (captain), Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland.

Cricket, Sports | Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25: Mitchell Starc declared fit, Mitchell Marsh dropped as Australia name playing XI for Sydney Test versus India

Australia announced their playing XI for the fifth and final Test versus India, at the SCG in Sydney, on Thursday (Jan 2). Ahead of the New Year's Test, which is also the series decider of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Mitchell Starc has been declared fit whereas debutant Beau Webster replaces a struggling all-rounder Mitchell Marsh. Speaking to the press ahead of the SCG Test, Australia skipper Pat Cummins revealed that it was the selectors' call to drop Marsh, who has fared poorly with both bat and ball in the five-match series in Australia. He said, "Mitchy (Marsh) obviously hasn't quite got the runs, and perhaps wickets this series. So we felt like it was time for a freshen up and Beau's been great," Cummins said. "It's a shame for Mitchy, because we know how much he brings to the team, but feel like now it's a good week for Beau to get a chance," he added. Webster has done remarkably well in the domestic circuit. He ended as the highest scorer in the Shield last season with 938 runs and during a recent one-day match against Western Australia, the all-rounder claimed six wickets for 17 runs. Also read: Gautam Gambhir's position as head coach not safe after India close 2024 with MCG defeat: Report Regarding Starc, the wily pacer battled pain and bowled in the second innings of the fourth and penultimate Test, at the MCG, Melbourne, sending down 16 overs without any compromise on pace. With him fit, the hosts will be confident of ending the series with a 3-1 scoreline. Australia beat India by 184 runs in the Boxing Day Test, in Melbourne, to take an unassailable 2-1 lead. They now aim to regain the BGT for the first time since 2014-15 with a win in Sydney. Australia XI for New Year's Test vs India Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (captain), Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland.

BGT: Mitchell Starc declared fit, debutant replaces Mitchell Marsh as Australia name playing XI for SCG Test

After a record-breaking crowd turned up at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) between India and Australia during the Boxing Day Test, Ravi Shastri has suggested launching a new Test format. Writing in his latest column, Shastri suggested the red-ball format should have a two-tier system with a relegation and promotion format. Currently, all teams compete under the same format for a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final which takes place once in two years.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Shastri suggests new format</h2>
"To break crowd records that have stood for nearly a century... is testimony to the fact that when the best teams play, the toughest and best format of the game is still alive and thriving," he wrote in a column for The Australian newspaper.
"It was also a sound reminder to the ICC (International Cricket Council) that the best should play the best for Test cricket to survive.&nbsp;
"I will say that there's too much of a clutter otherwise.&nbsp;
"This match further emphasises why we need a two-tier system with the top 6-8 teams and then include promotion and demotion. You will not get these kinds of crowds if you don't have two proper teams playing."
More to Follow&hellip;

Sports, Cricket: Writing in his latest column, Ravi Shastri suggested the red-ball format should have a two-tier system with a relegation and promotion format.

After a record-breaking crowd turned up at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) between India and Australia during the Boxing Day Test, Ravi Shastri has suggested launching a new Test format. Writing in his latest column, Shastri suggested the red-ball format should have a two-tier system with a relegation and promotion format. Currently, all teams compete under the same format for a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final which takes place once in two years. Shastri suggests new format "To break crowd records that have stood for nearly a century... is testimony to the fact that when the best teams play, the toughest and best format of the game is still alive and thriving," he wrote in a column for The Australian newspaper. "It was also a sound reminder to the ICC (International Cricket Council) that the best should play the best for Test cricket to survive. "I will say that there's too much of a clutter otherwise. "This match further emphasises why we need a two-tier system with the top 6-8 teams and then include promotion and demotion. You will not get these kinds of crowds if you don't have two proper teams playing." More to Follow…

Former India coach Ravi Shastri calls for two-tier structure in Test cricket with relegation and promotion

India are reeling at 164-5 in response to Australia's 474 after the end of Day 2 of the MCG Test, in Melbourne, on Friday (Dec 27). The day resumed with Australia at 311-6 as the hosts aimed to get past the 400-run mark. Steve Smith, unbeaten on 68, slammed his 34th Test ton -- second-most by an Australian -- and was well supported by skipper Pat Cummins (49) to take Australia to 474. In reply, India lost two quick wickets but Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli stitched a vital 102-run stand before the visitors lost three quick wickets to fall behind in the fourth and penultimate Test of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The day commenced with Smith and Cummins stitching a match-changing 112-run seventh-wicket stand. Indian bowlers lacked penetration and the hosts made the most of it. While Cummins fell for 49, trying to hit Jadeja, Smith registered his 34th ton, also smashing his 11th century in the history of BGT (most by any batter). Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon also got starts to push the team total near 500.&nbsp;
In reply, India opened with captain Rohit Sharma and Jaiswal coming out in the middle. Rohit departed soon as his torrid tour continued. Jaiswal and Rahul looked good and aimed to take India to the tea break without any further hiccups before Cummins cleaned up Rahul with a peach of a delivery.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-pat-cummins-removes-kl-rahul-with-an-absolute-jaffa-on-day-2-of-mcg-test-watch-8569713" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT: Pat Cummins removes KL Rahul with an absolute jaffa on Day 2 of MCG Test - Watch</a>
The third and final session began on a promising note for India. Jaiswal and Kohli looked comfortable in the middle and kept the scoreboard ticking. Kohli was more watchful towards the balls outside off-stump whereas Jaiswal looked solid in defence and cut and drove with aplomb. Against the run of play, the swashbuckling left-hander was run-out for 82; trying the tides in Australia's favour.
Jaiswal's run-out affected Kohli as well. The former Indian captain edged one outside off-stump, off Scott Boland, as India lost two key wickets close to stumps. Pacer Akash Deep, promoted as a nightwatchman, was the last wicket to fall as Jadeja-Rishabh Pant took India to 164-5 at stumps, with hosts trailing by 310 runs.

MCG Test, Day 2 report: India hurt by late setbacks in response to Australia's 474

India are reeling at 164-5 in response to Australia's 474 after the end of Day 2 of the MCG Test, in Melbourne, on Friday (Dec 27). The day resumed with Australia at 311-6 as the hosts aimed to get past the 400-run mark. Steve Smith, unbeaten on 68, slammed his 34th Test ton -- second-most by an Australian -- and was well supported by skipper Pat Cummins (49) to take Australia to 474. In reply, India lost two quick wickets but Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli stitched a vital 102-run stand before the visitors lost three quick wickets to fall behind in the fourth and penultimate Test of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The day commenced with Smith and Cummins stitching a match-changing 112-run seventh-wicket stand. Indian bowlers lacked penetration and the hosts made the most of it. While Cummins fell for 49, trying to hit Jadeja, Smith registered his 34th ton, also smashing his 11th century in the history of BGT (most by any batter). Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon also got starts to push the team total near 500. In reply, India opened with captain Rohit Sharma and Jaiswal coming out in the middle. Rohit departed soon as his torrid tour continued. Jaiswal and Rahul looked good and aimed to take India to the tea break without any further hiccups before Cummins cleaned up Rahul with a peach of a delivery. Also read: BGT: Pat Cummins removes KL Rahul with an absolute jaffa on Day 2 of MCG Test - Watch The third and final session began on a promising note for India. Jaiswal and Kohli looked comfortable in the middle and kept the scoreboard ticking. Kohli was more watchful towards the balls outside off-stump whereas Jaiswal looked solid in defence and cut and drove with aplomb. Against the run of play, the swashbuckling left-hander was run-out for 82; trying the tides in Australia's favour. Jaiswal's run-out affected Kohli as well. The former Indian captain edged one outside off-stump, off Scott Boland, as India lost two key wickets close to stumps. Pacer Akash Deep, promoted as a nightwatchman, was the last wicket to fall as Jadeja-Rishabh Pant took India to 164-5 at stumps, with hosts trailing by 310 runs.

Australia started Day 2 of the MCG Test versus India with a bang, with Steve Smith (140) and valuable contribution from skipper Pat Cummins (49) taking the hosts to 474 all-out. In reply, Rohit Sharma-led India started poorly, losing the captain (who regained the opening slot) whereas KL Rahul, demoted to No. 3, was also removed by a peach of a delivery. Cummins got both the wickets but his delivery to get rid of in-form Rahul was an absolute jaffa.
Here is the video:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m56dw0pl-3g4ovoz6-979kzjt2">
ABSOLUTE SEED FROM CUMMINS! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DeliveredWithSpeed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DeliveredWithSpeed</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/NBN_Australia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nbn_australia</a> <a href="https://t.co/zvzvkDyAnb">pic.twitter.com/zvzvkDyAnb</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1872497414206009414?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-the-scale-of-punishment-is-different-for-some-people-ponting-on-kohlis-fine-for-shouldering-konstas-8569390" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT: Ponting reckons Kohli's fine for shouldering Konstas wasn't 'harsh enough'</a>
Cummins' delivery came angling in and straightened just a bit to hit the stumps. Rahul missed the it and saw his stumps rattle as he walked back to the pavilion before the tea break, despite looking good in the middle. The in-form batter departed for 24 (42).
Before Rahul, Cummins also removed Rohit as Hitman failed in trying to pull and got dismissed for 3.
At tea, India were 51-2.
Day 1 of the fourth and penultimate Test, of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended with Australia 311-6, after fifties from the top four including debutant Sam Konstas.
Smith, unbeaten on 68, smashed his 34th Test hundred. In addition, he scored his 11th ton in BGT history; the most by any batter.
With Smith's ton and Cummins' strikes, Australia are well ahead on Day 2, on Friday (Dec 27), of the Boxing Day Test match at the MCG, Melbourne.
At the time of publishing this report, India lost two quick wickets, after Rahul and Rohit's departures, with Yashasvi Jaiswal (82) and Virat Kohli (36) being dismissed in quick succession before stumps.
The five-match Test series is currently tied at 1-1.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25: Pat Cummins removes KL Rahul with an absolute jaffa on Day 2 of MCG Test - Watch

Australia started Day 2 of the MCG Test versus India with a bang, with Steve Smith (140) and valuable contribution from skipper Pat Cummins (49) taking the hosts to 474 all-out. In reply, Rohit Sharma-led India started poorly, losing the captain (who regained the opening slot) whereas KL Rahul, demoted to No. 3, was also removed by a peach of a delivery. Cummins got both the wickets but his delivery to get rid of in-form Rahul was an absolute jaffa. Here is the video: ABSOLUTE SEED FROM CUMMINS! #AUSvIND | #DeliveredWithSpeed | @nbn_australia pic.twitter.com/zvzvkDyAnb — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 27, 2024 Also read: BGT: Ponting reckons Kohli's fine for shouldering Konstas wasn't 'harsh enough' Cummins' delivery came angling in and straightened just a bit to hit the stumps. Rahul missed the it and saw his stumps rattle as he walked back to the pavilion before the tea break, despite looking good in the middle. The in-form batter departed for 24 (42). Before Rahul, Cummins also removed Rohit as Hitman failed in trying to pull and got dismissed for 3. At tea, India were 51-2. Day 1 of the fourth and penultimate Test, of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended with Australia 311-6, after fifties from the top four including debutant Sam Konstas. Smith, unbeaten on 68, smashed his 34th Test hundred. In addition, he scored his 11th ton in BGT history; the most by any batter. With Smith's ton and Cummins' strikes, Australia are well ahead on Day 2, on Friday (Dec 27), of the Boxing Day Test match at the MCG, Melbourne. At the time of publishing this report, India lost two quick wickets, after Rahul and Rohit's departures, with Yashasvi Jaiswal (82) and Virat Kohli (36) being dismissed in quick succession before stumps. The five-match Test series is currently tied at 1-1.

BGT: Pat Cummins removes KL Rahul with an absolute jaffa on Day 2 of MCG Test - Watch

Australia ended Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test versus India, at the MCG, Melbourne, at 311-6 on Thursday (Dec 26). There was plenty of drama and action during the opening day's play which saw Australia's top four impress with a fifty each with debutant Sam Konstas making a 65-ball 60. For India, in-form pacer Jasprit Bumrah remained among wickets as he managed to account for three big scalps, also removing Travis Head for a duck, to stage his side's recovery after the Aussies were 237-2 at one stage.
The day's play commenced with Rohit Sharma-led visitors asking Australia to bat first at the iconic venue. The new opening pair of Konstas and Usman Khawaja started positively. The debutant impressed one and all by taking on Bumrah, with a reverse-sweep six, and wasn't afraid to charge down the ground as well. He scored a blazing 65-ball 60 as Australian openers put on 89 in 19 overs. Ravindra Jadeja dismissed him before the lunch break as Australia ended the first session at 112-1.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/border-gavaskar-trophy-2024-25-australia-end-day-1-of-boxing-day-test-at-311-6-debutant-sam-konstas-impresses-with-fiery-60-8566856" rel="dofollow">Also read | BGT: Australia end Day 1 of Boxing Day Test at 311-6, debutant Sam Konstas impresses with fiery 60</a>
The second session saw Australia progress steadily as India got one breakthrough with Bumrah removing Khawaja (57). The third session saw Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith continue to add runs on the board as the duo complemented each other very well. Labuschagne got out for 72 against the run of play, taking on Washington Sundar. This opened the doors for India's comeback as Bumrah struck twice in quick succession. From 237-2, Australia was reduced to 246-5.
Alex Carey and Smith stitched an important 53-run sixth-wicket stand with both taking on the attack. Before the end of the play, Carey was dismissed by Akash Deep. The home side ended with 311-6. They scored at a healthy pace in the first and last session, however, India would be content with their comeback and aim to dismiss the hosts before the 350-run mark on Day 2, on Friday (Dec 27).&nbsp;

BGT: Australia ended Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test at 311-6 with fifties from the top four. Debutant Sam Konstas impressed with a fiery 60.

Australia ended Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test versus India, at the MCG, Melbourne, at 311-6 on Thursday (Dec 26). There was plenty of drama and action during the opening day's play which saw Australia's top four impress with a fifty each with debutant Sam Konstas making a 65-ball 60. For India, in-form pacer Jasprit Bumrah remained among wickets as he managed to account for three big scalps, also removing Travis Head for a duck, to stage his side's recovery after the Aussies were 237-2 at one stage. The day's play commenced with Rohit Sharma-led visitors asking Australia to bat first at the iconic venue. The new opening pair of Konstas and Usman Khawaja started positively. The debutant impressed one and all by taking on Bumrah, with a reverse-sweep six, and wasn't afraid to charge down the ground as well. He scored a blazing 65-ball 60 as Australian openers put on 89 in 19 overs. Ravindra Jadeja dismissed him before the lunch break as Australia ended the first session at 112-1. Also read | BGT: Australia end Day 1 of Boxing Day Test at 311-6, debutant Sam Konstas impresses with fiery 60 The second session saw Australia progress steadily as India got one breakthrough with Bumrah removing Khawaja (57). The third session saw Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith continue to add runs on the board as the duo complemented each other very well. Labuschagne got out for 72 against the run of play, taking on Washington Sundar. This opened the doors for India's comeback as Bumrah struck twice in quick succession. From 237-2, Australia was reduced to 246-5. Alex Carey and Smith stitched an important 53-run sixth-wicket stand with both taking on the attack. Before the end of the play, Carey was dismissed by Akash Deep. The home side ended with 311-6. They scored at a healthy pace in the first and last session, however, India would be content with their comeback and aim to dismiss the hosts before the 350-run mark on Day 2, on Friday (Dec 27).

BGT: Australia end Day 1 of Boxing Day Test at 311-6, debutant Sam Konstas impresses with fiery 60

New Delhi, India
Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed his unwavering support to Virat Kohli for being able to counter his woes outside off-stump deliveries ahead of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia, at the MCG, Melbourne. Kohli scored a hundred in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series opener, in Perth, but fell flat in the next two games, due to his weakness outside off-stump. Thus, Rohit supported the 'modern-day great' in tackling his issues and becoming good at the MCG, with the five-match series tied at 1-1 after three Tests.
When asked if he had spoken to Kohli about his weakness, Rohit Sharma said in the pre-match presser, "You only said he is a modern-day great. Modern-day greats will figure out their way or the path (to overcome issues)."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-head-coach-andrew-mcdonald-confirms-sam-konstas-debut-for-boxing-day-test-travis-head-uncertain-786336">BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain</a>
Speaking of Rohit, Hitman has also struggled for runs in the ongoing series versus Pat Cummins-led Australia. After missing the series opener, due to paternity leave, Rohit has had scores of 3, 6 and 10. He demoted himself from opening the innings to batting at No. 6 but the move hasn't paid dividends. He did this to ensure KL Rahul bats at the top, who has been in good form since the series opener.
On being asked about his batting spot, Rohit said, "Let's not worry about that. I think 'who bats where?' is something that we need to figure out within ourselves. It's not something I should be discussing at every press conference. Whatever it takes for our team to look good or give the best chance to succeed, we will do that."
The Boxing Day Test commences on Thursday (Dec 26) as both sides will look to take an unassailable lead in the five-match series. If India win, they will be able to retain the BGT once again, since 2016/17.

BGT 2024/25: Indian captain Rohit Sharma backed 'modern-day great' Virat Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in the Boxing Day Test, in Melbourne.



New Delhi, India Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed his unwavering support to Virat Kohli for being able to counter his woes outside off-stump deliveries ahead of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia, at the MCG, Melbourne. Kohli scored a hundred in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series opener, in Perth, but fell flat in the next two games, due to his weakness outside off-stump. Thus, Rohit supported the 'modern-day great' in tackling his issues and becoming good at the MCG, with the five-match series tied at 1-1 after three Tests. When asked if he had spoken to Kohli about his weakness, Rohit Sharma said in the pre-match presser, "You only said he is a modern-day great. Modern-day greats will figure out their way or the path (to overcome issues)." Also read: BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain Speaking of Rohit, Hitman has also struggled for runs in the ongoing series versus Pat Cummins-led Australia. After missing the series opener, due to paternity leave, Rohit has had scores of 3, 6 and 10. He demoted himself from opening the innings to batting at No. 6 but the move hasn't paid dividends. He did this to ensure KL Rahul bats at the top, who has been in good form since the series opener. On being asked about his batting spot, Rohit said, "Let's not worry about that. I think 'who bats where?' is something that we need to figure out within ourselves. It's not something I should be discussing at every press conference. Whatever it takes for our team to look good or give the best chance to succeed, we will do that." The Boxing Day Test commences on Thursday (Dec 26) as both sides will look to take an unassailable lead in the five-match series. If India win, they will be able to retain the BGT once again, since 2016/17.

BGT: Rohit backs 'modern-day great' Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in Boxing Day Test

Melbourne, Australia
India skipper Rohit Sharma has declared himself fit for the Boxing Day Test match against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, dismissing any injury concerns. Speaking to the press ahead of the fourth Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Rohit said his knee is doing fine and will be available for selection in the traditional contest. On the other hand, he has also backed the likes of Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill to come good in the series as India chase a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.
<h2>Rohit dismisses injury concern</h2>
"My knee is fine," said Rohit on Christmas Eve ahead of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Test between India and Australia.
"Let's not worry about who bats where. Something that we need to figure out and not something I would be discussing here. We will do what is best for the team," Rohit on Kohli's form.
Rohit was hit on the knee on Monday during the practice session at MCG. India will head into the Boxing Day contest fighting for a place in the WTC final, with a win putting them in pole position. Rohit’s men have a proud recent record at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) having avoided defeats on their last three defeats. Interestingly, India have won the last two Tests at the venue under the leadership of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively. Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, India drew the 2014 Boxing Day Test while Australia’s last win came in the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-head-coach-andrew-mcdonald-confirms-sam-konstas-debut-for-boxing-day-test-travis-head-uncertain-786336">BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain</a>
<h2>Pant, Gill to come good at MCG?</h2>
So far in the BGT, Rishabh Pant has scored 96 runs in the five innings, scoring at an average of 19.2. On the other hand, Gill has scored 151 runs in five innings, again being a concern for the management. However, Rohit has backed them to come good in the BGT and show their class. Yashasvi Jaiswal has also struggled to cope with the Aussie bowling attack excluding his second innings heroics at Optus Stadium in Perth.
Currently, the BGT is all square at 1-1 after a draw at Gabba between India and Australia. Earlier, India had won the Perth Test with a record margin of 295 runs while Australia returned the favours with a 10-wicket win in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.

Speaking to the press ahead of the fourth Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Rohit Sharma said his knee is doing fine and will be available for selection in the traditional contest. On the other hand, he has also backed the likes of Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill to come good in the series as India chase a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.



Melbourne, Australia India skipper Rohit Sharma has declared himself fit for the Boxing Day Test match against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, dismissing any injury concerns. Speaking to the press ahead of the fourth Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Rohit said his knee is doing fine and will be available for selection in the traditional contest. On the other hand, he has also backed the likes of Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill to come good in the series as India chase a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Rohit dismisses injury concern "My knee is fine," said Rohit on Christmas Eve ahead of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Test between India and Australia. "Let's not worry about who bats where. Something that we need to figure out and not something I would be discussing here. We will do what is best for the team," Rohit on Kohli's form. Rohit was hit on the knee on Monday during the practice session at MCG. India will head into the Boxing Day contest fighting for a place in the WTC final, with a win putting them in pole position. Rohit’s men have a proud recent record at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) having avoided defeats on their last three defeats. Interestingly, India have won the last two Tests at the venue under the leadership of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively. Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, India drew the 2014 Boxing Day Test while Australia’s last win came in the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain Pant, Gill to come good at MCG? So far in the BGT, Rishabh Pant has scored 96 runs in the five innings, scoring at an average of 19.2. On the other hand, Gill has scored 151 runs in five innings, again being a concern for the management. However, Rohit has backed them to come good in the BGT and show their class. Yashasvi Jaiswal has also struggled to cope with the Aussie bowling attack excluding his second innings heroics at Optus Stadium in Perth. Currently, the BGT is all square at 1-1 after a draw at Gabba between India and Australia. Earlier, India had won the Perth Test with a record margin of 295 runs while Australia returned the favours with a 10-wicket win in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.

BGT 2024/25: 'My knee is fine, let's not worry,' says Rohit Sharma ahead of Boxing Day Test against Australia

New Delhi, India 
R Ashwin stunned the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement during Day 5 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia, in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Dec 18. Ashwin ended a stellar run at the international level with 765 scalps -- second-most among Indians. In Tests, he accounted for 537 scalps whereas the wily spinner claimed 228 wickets in white-ball formats. After his retirement, Ashwin opened up on his career and not being able to captain India once.
On not captaining India, Ashwin said during a Sky Sports Podcast, "It's interesting. I am smart enough to know what works for me and what doesn't for another person. When I started my career, I got first-class captaincy very early. I have won a few tournaments for my team. I believe I had it in me. But I did not have any regret that I didn't go on to lead my country because these are not things that I can control."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rohit-backs-modern-day-great-kohli-to-come-good-vs-outside-off-stump-deliveries-in-boxing-day-test-786380">BGT: Rohit backs 'modern-day great' Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in Boxing Day Test</a>
The wily spinner opined, "I have realised somebody needs to feel that I am good enough to lead the team, I need to get another 15-20 people to come along with me for me to be able to lead the team. It wasn't meant for me in this particular chapter of my life."
"I don't think this office or corporate felt I was good enough to lead the team. That doesn't mean I am not good enough for leadership. Leadership, you don't need a title to do that because, within me, I was a great leader in that group to be able to contribute to other people's success. I looked out for zones of contribution. I did it to the best of my ability. I do not have regrets, but I do think it would have been something I would have enjoyed," Ashwin added.
Ashwin made his debut under MS Dhoni in 2010. He played under numerous captains, such as Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir, KL Rahul, etc. While he didn't lead India, he has had enough leadership exposure at the domestic level.
The 38-year-old Ashwin is known to be an astute reader of the game and will make his presence felt in the domestic tournaments.

Former Indian spinner R Ashwin opened up on not leading the national side after hanging his boots from international cricket last week. 



New Delhi, India R Ashwin stunned the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement during Day 5 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia, in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Dec 18. Ashwin ended a stellar run at the international level with 765 scalps -- second-most among Indians. In Tests, he accounted for 537 scalps whereas the wily spinner claimed 228 wickets in white-ball formats. After his retirement, Ashwin opened up on his career and not being able to captain India once. On not captaining India, Ashwin said during a Sky Sports Podcast, "It's interesting. I am smart enough to know what works for me and what doesn't for another person. When I started my career, I got first-class captaincy very early. I have won a few tournaments for my team. I believe I had it in me. But I did not have any regret that I didn't go on to lead my country because these are not things that I can control." Also read: BGT: Rohit backs 'modern-day great' Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in Boxing Day Test The wily spinner opined, "I have realised somebody needs to feel that I am good enough to lead the team, I need to get another 15-20 people to come along with me for me to be able to lead the team. It wasn't meant for me in this particular chapter of my life." "I don't think this office or corporate felt I was good enough to lead the team. That doesn't mean I am not good enough for leadership. Leadership, you don't need a title to do that because, within me, I was a great leader in that group to be able to contribute to other people's success. I looked out for zones of contribution. I did it to the best of my ability. I do not have regrets, but I do think it would have been something I would have enjoyed," Ashwin added. Ashwin made his debut under MS Dhoni in 2010. He played under numerous captains, such as Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir, KL Rahul, etc. While he didn't lead India, he has had enough leadership exposure at the domestic level. The 38-year-old Ashwin is known to be an astute reader of the game and will make his presence felt in the domestic tournaments.

'No regrets about not captaining India, but...': R Ashwin on not leading national side

Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed his unwavering support to Virat Kohli for being able to counter his woes outside off-stump deliveries ahead of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia, at the MCG, Melbourne. Kohli scored a hundred in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series opener, in Perth, but fell flat in the next two games, due to his weakness outside off-stump. Thus, Rohit supported the 'modern-day great' in tackling his issues and becoming good at the MCG, with the five-match series tied at 1-1 after three Tests.

When asked if he had spoken to Kohli about his&nbsp;weakness, Rohit Sharma said in the pre-match presser, "You only said he is a modern-day great. Modern-day greats will figure out their way or the path (to overcome issues)."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-head-coach-andrew-mcdonald-confirms-sam-konstas-debut-for-boxing-day-test-travis-head-uncertain-786336">BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain</a>

Speaking of Rohit, Hitman has also struggled for runs in the ongoing series versus Pat Cummins-led Australia. After missing the series opener, due to paternity leave, Rohit has had scores of 3, 6 and 10. He demoted himself from opening the innings to batting at No. 6 but the move hasn't paid dividends. He did this to ensure KL Rahul bats at the top, who has been in good form since the series opener.

On being asked about his batting spot, Rohit said, "Let's not worry about that. I think 'who bats where?' is something that we need to figure out within ourselves. It's not something I should be discussing at every press conference. Whatever it takes for our team to look good or give the best chance to succeed, we will do that."

The Boxing Day Test commences on Thursday (Dec 26) as both sides will look to take an unassailable lead in the five-match series. If India win, they will be able to retain the BGT once again, since 2016/17.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed his unwavering support to Virat Kohli for being able to counter his woes outside off-stump deliveries ahead of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia, at the MCG, Melbourne.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed his unwavering support to Virat Kohli for being able to counter his woes outside off-stump deliveries ahead of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia, at the MCG, Melbourne. Kohli scored a hundred in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series opener, in Perth, but fell flat in the next two games, due to his weakness outside off-stump. Thus, Rohit supported the 'modern-day great' in tackling his issues and becoming good at the MCG, with the five-match series tied at 1-1 after three Tests. When asked if he had spoken to Kohli about his weakness, Rohit Sharma said in the pre-match presser, "You only said he is a modern-day great. Modern-day greats will figure out their way or the path (to overcome issues)." Also read: BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain Speaking of Rohit, Hitman has also struggled for runs in the ongoing series versus Pat Cummins-led Australia. After missing the series opener, due to paternity leave, Rohit has had scores of 3, 6 and 10. He demoted himself from opening the innings to batting at No. 6 but the move hasn't paid dividends. He did this to ensure KL Rahul bats at the top, who has been in good form since the series opener. On being asked about his batting spot, Rohit said, "Let's not worry about that. I think 'who bats where?' is something that we need to figure out within ourselves. It's not something I should be discussing at every press conference. Whatever it takes for our team to look good or give the best chance to succeed, we will do that." The Boxing Day Test commences on Thursday (Dec 26) as both sides will look to take an unassailable lead in the five-match series. If India win, they will be able to retain the BGT once again, since 2016/17.

India skipper Rohit Sharma has declared himself fit for the Boxing Day Test match against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, dismissing any injury concerns. Speaking to the press ahead of the fourth Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Rohit said his knee is doing fine and will be available for selection in the traditional contest. On the other hand, he has also backed the likes of Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill to come good in the series as India chase a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.

<h2>Rohit dismisses injury concern</h2>

"My knee is fine," said Rohit on Christmas Eve ahead of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Test between India and Australia.

"Let's not worry about who bats where. Something that we need to figure out and not something I would be discussing here. We will do what is best for the team," Rohit on Kohli's form.

Rohit was hit on the knee on Monday during the practice session at MCG. India will head into the Boxing Day contest fighting for a place in the WTC final, with a win putting them in pole position. Rohit’s men have a proud recent record at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) having avoided defeats on their last three defeats. Interestingly, India have won the last two Tests at the venue under the leadership of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively. Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, India drew the 2014 Boxing Day Test while Australia’s last win came in the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-head-coach-andrew-mcdonald-confirms-sam-konstas-debut-for-boxing-day-test-travis-head-uncertain-786336">BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain</a>

<h2>Pant, Gill to come good at MCG?</h2>

So far in the BGT, Rishabh Pant has scored 96 runs in the five innings, scoring at an average of 19.2. On the other hand, Gill has scored 151 runs in five innings, again being a concern for the management. However, Rohit has backed them to come good in the BGT and show their class. Yashasvi Jaiswal has also struggled to cope with the Aussie bowling attack excluding his second innings heroics at Optus Stadium in Perth.

Currently, the BGT is all square at 1-1 after a draw at Gabba between India and Australia. Earlier, India had won the Perth Test with a record margin of 295 runs while Australia returned the favours with a 10-wicket win in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.

India skipper Rohit Sharma has declared himself fit for the Boxing Day Test match against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, dismissing any injury concerns.

India skipper Rohit Sharma has declared himself fit for the Boxing Day Test match against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, dismissing any injury concerns. Speaking to the press ahead of the fourth Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Rohit said his knee is doing fine and will be available for selection in the traditional contest. On the other hand, he has also backed the likes of Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill to come good in the series as India chase a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Rohit dismisses injury concern "My knee is fine," said Rohit on Christmas Eve ahead of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Test between India and Australia. "Let's not worry about who bats where. Something that we need to figure out and not something I would be discussing here. We will do what is best for the team," Rohit on Kohli's form. Rohit was hit on the knee on Monday during the practice session at MCG. India will head into the Boxing Day contest fighting for a place in the WTC final, with a win putting them in pole position. Rohit’s men have a proud recent record at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) having avoided defeats on their last three defeats. Interestingly, India have won the last two Tests at the venue under the leadership of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively. Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, India drew the 2014 Boxing Day Test while Australia’s last win came in the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain Pant, Gill to come good at MCG? So far in the BGT, Rishabh Pant has scored 96 runs in the five innings, scoring at an average of 19.2. On the other hand, Gill has scored 151 runs in five innings, again being a concern for the management. However, Rohit has backed them to come good in the BGT and show their class. Yashasvi Jaiswal has also struggled to cope with the Aussie bowling attack excluding his second innings heroics at Optus Stadium in Perth. Currently, the BGT is all square at 1-1 after a draw at Gabba between India and Australia. Earlier, India had won the Perth Test with a record margin of 295 runs while Australia returned the favours with a 10-wicket win in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.

R Ashwin stunned the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement during Day 5 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia, in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Dec 18. Ashwin ended a stellar run at the international level with 765 scalps -- second-most among Indians. In Tests, he accounted for 537 scalps whereas the wily spinner claimed 228 wickets in white-ball formats. After his retirement, Ashwin opened up on his career and not being able to captain India once.

On not captaining India, Ashwin said during a&nbsp;Sky Sports Podcast, "It's interesting. I am smart enough to know what works for me and what doesn't for another person. When I started my career, I got first-class captaincy very early. I have won a few tournaments for my team. I believe I had it in me. But I did not have any regret that I didn't go on to lead my country because these are not things that I can control."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rohit-backs-modern-day-great-kohli-to-come-good-vs-outside-off-stump-deliveries-in-boxing-day-test-786380">BGT: Rohit backs 'modern-day great' Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in Boxing Day Test</a>

The wily spinner opined, "I have realised somebody needs to feel that I am good enough to lead the team, I need to get another 15-20 people to come along with me for me to be able to lead the team. It wasn't meant for me in this particular chapter of my life."

"I don't think this office or corporate felt I was good enough to lead the team. That doesn't mean I am not good enough for leadership. Leadership, you don't need a title to do that because, within me, I was a great leader in that group to be able to contribute to other people's success. I looked out for zones of contribution. I did it to the best of my ability. I do not have regrets, but I do think it would have been something I would have enjoyed," Ashwin added.

Ashwin made his debut under MS Dhoni in 2010. He played under numerous captains, such as Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane,&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir, KL Rahul, etc. While he didn't lead India, he has had enough leadership exposure at the domestic level.

The 38-year-old Ashwin is known to be an astute reader of the game and will make his presence felt in the domestic tournaments.

R Ashwin stunned the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement during Day 5 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia, in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Dec 18.

R Ashwin stunned the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement during Day 5 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia, in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Dec 18. Ashwin ended a stellar run at the international level with 765 scalps -- second-most among Indians. In Tests, he accounted for 537 scalps whereas the wily spinner claimed 228 wickets in white-ball formats. After his retirement, Ashwin opened up on his career and not being able to captain India once. On not captaining India, Ashwin said during a Sky Sports Podcast, "It's interesting. I am smart enough to know what works for me and what doesn't for another person. When I started my career, I got first-class captaincy very early. I have won a few tournaments for my team. I believe I had it in me. But I did not have any regret that I didn't go on to lead my country because these are not things that I can control." Also read: BGT: Rohit backs 'modern-day great' Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in Boxing Day Test The wily spinner opined, "I have realised somebody needs to feel that I am good enough to lead the team, I need to get another 15-20 people to come along with me for me to be able to lead the team. It wasn't meant for me in this particular chapter of my life." "I don't think this office or corporate felt I was good enough to lead the team. That doesn't mean I am not good enough for leadership. Leadership, you don't need a title to do that because, within me, I was a great leader in that group to be able to contribute to other people's success. I looked out for zones of contribution. I did it to the best of my ability. I do not have regrets, but I do think it would have been something I would have enjoyed," Ashwin added. Ashwin made his debut under MS Dhoni in 2010. He played under numerous captains, such as Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir, KL Rahul, etc. While he didn't lead India, he has had enough leadership exposure at the domestic level. The 38-year-old Ashwin is known to be an astute reader of the game and will make his presence felt in the domestic tournaments.

New Delhi, India 
The India-Australia Test series is currently poised at 1-1 after the first three Tests. A lot of drama has taken place off the field before the next encounter at the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), i.e. the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. Virat Kohli confronted an Australian journalist after the reporter filmed a video of his family, without permission, irking the star batter. After a few days, Ravindra Jadeja was accused by the Australian media for not entertaining questions in English after a net session at the MCG, Melbourne.
Speaking about Kohli and Jadeja's sour moments with the media, in the lead-up to the Boxing Day Test, former Australia batter Simon Katich feels it is all 'mind games', due to the 'enormity of the series'.
Katich said on Channel 7, "Obviously, there’s been a few things unfolding in the last week or so, that haven’t gone down well at that camp. It’s probably just the mind games being played, given the enormity of this series. "The media are here to promote the game and I don’t know what the Indians are thinking at the moment. That’s their problem,” he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sa-vs-pak-history-made-wanderers-stadium-witnesses-birth-of-baby-boy-during-third-odi-in-jburg-786094">SA vs Pak: HISTORY MADE! Wanderers Stadium witnesses birth of baby boy during third ODI in J'burg</a>
Talking about Kohli's confrontation with the media, the former Indian captain argued with the media after a video of his family was captured, without permission, at the Melbourne airport. To this, he was caught saying on the camera, "With my kids, I need some privacy. You can't film without asking me."
On the other hand, Jadeja took a few questions from the Indian reporters post a net session in Melbourne before rushing to catch the team bus. Just then, an Australian reporter argued with the Indian team media manager, saying, "Can't we take one question in English?" While the manager replied saying, "This was organised mainly for the travelling Indian media." The reporter expressed his frustration, stating, "the organisation is hopeless."
The fourth and penultimate Test between India and Australia kicks off at the iconic MCG, Melbourne on Thursday (Dec 26).

BGT: Former Australian batter Simon Katich reacted to Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja's sour moments with the media before the Boxing Day Test. Here is what he said - 



New Delhi, India The India-Australia Test series is currently poised at 1-1 after the first three Tests. A lot of drama has taken place off the field before the next encounter at the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), i.e. the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. Virat Kohli confronted an Australian journalist after the reporter filmed a video of his family, without permission, irking the star batter. After a few days, Ravindra Jadeja was accused by the Australian media for not entertaining questions in English after a net session at the MCG, Melbourne. Speaking about Kohli and Jadeja's sour moments with the media, in the lead-up to the Boxing Day Test, former Australia batter Simon Katich feels it is all 'mind games', due to the 'enormity of the series'. Katich said on Channel 7, "Obviously, there’s been a few things unfolding in the last week or so, that haven’t gone down well at that camp. It’s probably just the mind games being played, given the enormity of this series. "The media are here to promote the game and I don’t know what the Indians are thinking at the moment. That’s their problem,” he added. Also read: SA vs Pak: HISTORY MADE! Wanderers Stadium witnesses birth of baby boy during third ODI in J'burg Talking about Kohli's confrontation with the media, the former Indian captain argued with the media after a video of his family was captured, without permission, at the Melbourne airport. To this, he was caught saying on the camera, "With my kids, I need some privacy. You can't film without asking me." On the other hand, Jadeja took a few questions from the Indian reporters post a net session in Melbourne before rushing to catch the team bus. Just then, an Australian reporter argued with the Indian team media manager, saying, "Can't we take one question in English?" While the manager replied saying, "This was organised mainly for the travelling Indian media." The reporter expressed his frustration, stating, "the organisation is hopeless." The fourth and penultimate Test between India and Australia kicks off at the iconic MCG, Melbourne on Thursday (Dec 26).

BGT: Katich reacts to Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja's sour moments with media before Boxing Day Test

The India-Australia Test series is currently poised at 1-1 after the first three Tests. A lot of drama has taken place off the field before the next encounter at the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), i.e. the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. Virat Kohli confronted an Australian journalist after the reporter filmed a video of his family, without permission, irking the star batter. After a few days, Ravindra Jadeja&nbsp;was accused by the Australian media for not entertaining questions in English after a net session at the MCG, Melbourne.

Speaking about Kohli and Jadeja's sour moments with the media, in the lead-up to the Boxing Day Test, former Australia batter Simon Katich feels it is all 'mind games', due to the 'enormity of the series'.

Katich said on Channel 7, "Obviously, there’s been a few things unfolding in the last week or so, that haven’t gone down well at that camp. It’s probably just the mind games being played, given the enormity of this series. "The media are here to promote the game and I don’t know what the Indians are thinking at the moment. That’s their problem,” he added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sa-vs-pak-history-made-wanderers-stadium-witnesses-birth-of-baby-boy-during-third-odi-in-jburg-786094">SA vs Pak: HISTORY MADE! Wanderers Stadium witnesses birth of baby boy during third ODI in J'burg</a>

Talking about Kohli's confrontation with the media, the former Indian captain argued with the media after a video of his family was captured, without permission, at the Melbourne airport. To this, he was caught saying on the camera, "With my kids, I need some privacy. You can't film without asking me."

On the other hand, Jadeja took a few questions from the Indian reporters post a net session in Melbourne before rushing to catch the team bus. Just then, an Australian reporter argued with the Indian team media manager,&nbsp;saying, "Can't we take one question in English?" While the manager replied saying, "This was organised mainly for the travelling Indian media." The reporter expressed his frustration, stating, "the organisation is hopeless."

The fourth and penultimate Test between India and Australia kicks off at the iconic MCG, Melbourne on Thursday (Dec 26).

The India-Australia Test series is currently poised at 1-1 after the first three Tests. A lot of drama has taken place off the field before the next encounter at the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), i.

The India-Australia Test series is currently poised at 1-1 after the first three Tests. A lot of drama has taken place off the field before the next encounter at the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), i.e. the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. Virat Kohli confronted an Australian journalist after the reporter filmed a video of his family, without permission, irking the star batter. After a few days, Ravindra Jadeja was accused by the Australian media for not entertaining questions in English after a net session at the MCG, Melbourne. Speaking about Kohli and Jadeja's sour moments with the media, in the lead-up to the Boxing Day Test, former Australia batter Simon Katich feels it is all 'mind games', due to the 'enormity of the series'. Katich said on Channel 7, "Obviously, there’s been a few things unfolding in the last week or so, that haven’t gone down well at that camp. It’s probably just the mind games being played, given the enormity of this series. "The media are here to promote the game and I don’t know what the Indians are thinking at the moment. That’s their problem,” he added. Also read: SA vs Pak: HISTORY MADE! Wanderers Stadium witnesses birth of baby boy during third ODI in J'burg Talking about Kohli's confrontation with the media, the former Indian captain argued with the media after a video of his family was captured, without permission, at the Melbourne airport. To this, he was caught saying on the camera, "With my kids, I need some privacy. You can't film without asking me." On the other hand, Jadeja took a few questions from the Indian reporters post a net session in Melbourne before rushing to catch the team bus. Just then, an Australian reporter argued with the Indian team media manager, saying, "Can't we take one question in English?" While the manager replied saying, "This was organised mainly for the travelling Indian media." The reporter expressed his frustration, stating, "the organisation is hopeless." The fourth and penultimate Test between India and Australia kicks off at the iconic MCG, Melbourne on Thursday (Dec 26).

New Delhi, India 
Australia on Friday (Dec 20) announced a 15-member squad for the final two Tests versus India in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Opening batter Nathan McSweeney has been dropped after his scores of 10, 0, 39, 10*, 9 and 4 in the first three Tests. McSweeney has been replaced by rising star Sam Konstas following his amazing run in the domestic circuit.
Australia chief selector George Bailey explained the decision to drop McSweeney, stating that the move was intended to bring a "point of difference" to the squad. 
Bailey told cricket.com.au on McSweeney, "We remain confident Nathan has the ability and temperament to succeed at Test level in the future...It was a difficult decision to leave him out. It has clearly been a challenge at the top of the order for batters throughout the series, and we want to provide the option of a different line-up for the next two matches"
"Sam gets a call-up to the Test squad for the first time. His style of batting offers a point of difference and we look forward to watching his game develop further," he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-nathan-mcsweeney-likely-to-be-axed-from-boxing-day-test-sam-konstas-in-frame-for-australia-785445">BGT 2024/25: Nathan McSweeney axed from Boxing Day Test; Sam Konstas roped in for Australia</a>
After the third Test between India and Australia ended in a draw at The Gabba, Brisbane, Australia captain Pat Cummins defended the side's top three's poor returns.
In the post-match presser, he said, "Obviously they [the top three] would be hoping to score more runs, we'd like them to score more runs, but I think they have made some important contributions that others have benefited from."
While Cummins praised McSweeney for his temperament, the selectors have moved on from the latter for the remainder of the BGT edition.
All eyes are now on Konstas to take up the challenge at the top of the order.
The right-hander has 736 runs across formats this summer in the domestic circuit. He also scored a blistering 107 off 97 balls, at the Manuka Oval, Canberra, during the two-day warm-up match between India and the Prime Minster's XI.
Australia squad for final two Tests
Pat Cummins (c), Travis Head (vc), Steve Smith (vc), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.

BGT 2024-25: Australia selectors explained the decision to drop Nathan McSweeney for the final two Tests vs India. Rising star Sam Konstas has replaced McSweeney.



New Delhi, India Australia on Friday (Dec 20) announced a 15-member squad for the final two Tests versus India in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Opening batter Nathan McSweeney has been dropped after his scores of 10, 0, 39, 10*, 9 and 4 in the first three Tests. McSweeney has been replaced by rising star Sam Konstas following his amazing run in the domestic circuit. Australia chief selector George Bailey explained the decision to drop McSweeney, stating that the move was intended to bring a "point of difference" to the squad. Bailey told cricket.com.au on McSweeney, "We remain confident Nathan has the ability and temperament to succeed at Test level in the future...It was a difficult decision to leave him out. It has clearly been a challenge at the top of the order for batters throughout the series, and we want to provide the option of a different line-up for the next two matches" "Sam gets a call-up to the Test squad for the first time. His style of batting offers a point of difference and we look forward to watching his game develop further," he added. Also read: BGT 2024/25: Nathan McSweeney axed from Boxing Day Test; Sam Konstas roped in for Australia After the third Test between India and Australia ended in a draw at The Gabba, Brisbane, Australia captain Pat Cummins defended the side's top three's poor returns. In the post-match presser, he said, "Obviously they [the top three] would be hoping to score more runs, we'd like them to score more runs, but I think they have made some important contributions that others have benefited from." While Cummins praised McSweeney for his temperament, the selectors have moved on from the latter for the remainder of the BGT edition. All eyes are now on Konstas to take up the challenge at the top of the order. The right-hander has 736 runs across formats this summer in the domestic circuit. He also scored a blistering 107 off 97 balls, at the Manuka Oval, Canberra, during the two-day warm-up match between India and the Prime Minster's XI. Australia squad for final two Tests Pat Cummins (c), Travis Head (vc), Steve Smith (vc), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.

BGT: 'We want to provide...,' Australia selector on dropping Nathan McSweeney for final two Tests

Australia on Friday (Dec 20) announced a 15-member squad for the final two Tests versus India in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Opening batter Nathan McSweeney has been dropped after his scores of&nbsp;10, 0, 39, 10*, 9 and 4 in the first three Tests. McSweeney has been replaced by rising star Sam Konstas following his amazing run in the domestic circuit.

Australia chief selector George Bailey explained the decision to drop McSweeney,&nbsp;stating that the move was intended to bring a "point of difference" to the squad.&nbsp;

Bailey told cricket.com.au on McSweeney, "We remain confident Nathan has the ability and temperament to succeed at Test level in the future...It was a difficult decision to leave him out. It has clearly been a challenge at the top of the order for batters throughout the series, and we want to provide the option of a different line-up for the next two matches"

"Sam gets a call-up to the Test squad for the first time. His style of batting offers a point of difference and we look forward to watching his game develop further," he added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-nathan-mcsweeney-likely-to-be-axed-from-boxing-day-test-sam-konstas-in-frame-for-australia-785445">BGT 2024/25: Nathan McSweeney axed from Boxing Day Test; Sam Konstas roped in for Australia</a>

After the third Test between India and Australia ended in a draw at The Gabba, Brisbane, Australia captain Pat Cummins defended the side's top three's poor returns.

In the post-match presser, he said, "Obviously they [the top three] would be hoping to score more runs, we'd like them to score more runs, but I think they have made some important contributions that others have benefited from."

While Cummins praised McSweeney for his temperament, the selectors have moved on from the latter for the remainder of the BGT edition.

All eyes are now on Konstas to take up the challenge at the top of the order.

The right-hander has 736 runs across formats this summer in the domestic circuit. He also scored a&nbsp;blistering 107 off 97 balls, at the Manuka Oval, Canberra, during the two-day warm-up match between India and the Prime Minster's XI.

Australia squad for final two Tests

Pat Cummins (c), Travis Head (vc), Steve Smith (vc), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.

Australia on Friday (Dec 20) announced a 15-member squad for the final two Tests versus India in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Opening batter Nathan McSweeney has been dropped after his scores of 10, 0, 39, 10*, 9 and 4 in the first three Tests.

Australia on Friday (Dec 20) announced a 15-member squad for the final two Tests versus India in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Opening batter Nathan McSweeney has been dropped after his scores of 10, 0, 39, 10*, 9 and 4 in the first three Tests. McSweeney has been replaced by rising star Sam Konstas following his amazing run in the domestic circuit. Australia chief selector George Bailey explained the decision to drop McSweeney, stating that the move was intended to bring a "point of difference" to the squad. Bailey told cricket.com.au on McSweeney, "We remain confident Nathan has the ability and temperament to succeed at Test level in the future...It was a difficult decision to leave him out. It has clearly been a challenge at the top of the order for batters throughout the series, and we want to provide the option of a different line-up for the next two matches" "Sam gets a call-up to the Test squad for the first time. His style of batting offers a point of difference and we look forward to watching his game develop further," he added. Also read: BGT 2024/25: Nathan McSweeney axed from Boxing Day Test; Sam Konstas roped in for Australia After the third Test between India and Australia ended in a draw at The Gabba, Brisbane, Australia captain Pat Cummins defended the side's top three's poor returns. In the post-match presser, he said, "Obviously they [the top three] would be hoping to score more runs, we'd like them to score more runs, but I think they have made some important contributions that others have benefited from." While Cummins praised McSweeney for his temperament, the selectors have moved on from the latter for the remainder of the BGT edition. All eyes are now on Konstas to take up the challenge at the top of the order. The right-hander has 736 runs across formats this summer in the domestic circuit. He also scored a blistering 107 off 97 balls, at the Manuka Oval, Canberra, during the two-day warm-up match between India and the Prime Minster's XI. Australia squad for final two Tests Pat Cummins (c), Travis Head (vc), Steve Smith (vc), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.

New Delhi, India 
R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia, at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw. Ashwin ended his illustrious career with 537 Test scalps, only behind Anil Kumble (who tops the list for India with 619 wickets) and 228 wickets in white-ball formats.
Ashwin had a real chance of surpassing Kumble to become India's highest wicket-taker in the purest format. However, he retired in the middle of the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Thus, Kumble reacted to his retirement and expressed his disappointment as he was backing Ashwin to surpass his wicket-tally.
"Congratulations, Ash, on a fantastic career. You’ve been a champion bowler for India, a champion all-rounder for India. You’ll certainly be missed. It’s not that easy, carrying that kind of expectation day in and day out. You’ve done it right throughout your career. You’ve been a match-winner for India, and Team India will certainly miss you," Kumble said in a video shared by ESPNcricinfo.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-it-doesnt-help-cheteshwar-pujara-reveals-reason-behind-rohits-struggles-at-number-6-785179">BGT 2024-25: 'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6</a>
"I, for one, am a bit disappointed that you ended your career today at the international level. Ideally, I would have wanted to see you go beyond 619, but you have your reasons for that," Kumble further opined.
"All the best to you in your second chapter. And I am sure it will be as glorious as chapter one. So, Ash, here’s to a fantastic career that you’ve had for India. And congratulations once again. All the very best. Catch you soon," the former Indian captain added.
Ashwin ends his career as India's second-highest wicket-taker in international cricket, finishing with 765 victims. Only Kumble is ahead of him, with 953 scalps.

Former India spinner Anil Kumble reacted to R Ashwin's sudden international retirement, expressing his disappointment as he wanted Ashwin to surpass his Test wicket tally (619).



New Delhi, India R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia, at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw. Ashwin ended his illustrious career with 537 Test scalps, only behind Anil Kumble (who tops the list for India with 619 wickets) and 228 wickets in white-ball formats. Ashwin had a real chance of surpassing Kumble to become India's highest wicket-taker in the purest format. However, he retired in the middle of the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Thus, Kumble reacted to his retirement and expressed his disappointment as he was backing Ashwin to surpass his wicket-tally. "Congratulations, Ash, on a fantastic career. You’ve been a champion bowler for India, a champion all-rounder for India. You’ll certainly be missed. It’s not that easy, carrying that kind of expectation day in and day out. You’ve done it right throughout your career. You’ve been a match-winner for India, and Team India will certainly miss you," Kumble said in a video shared by ESPNcricinfo. Also read: BGT 2024-25: 'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6 "I, for one, am a bit disappointed that you ended your career today at the international level. Ideally, I would have wanted to see you go beyond 619, but you have your reasons for that," Kumble further opined. "All the best to you in your second chapter. And I am sure it will be as glorious as chapter one. So, Ash, here’s to a fantastic career that you’ve had for India. And congratulations once again. All the very best. Catch you soon," the former Indian captain added. Ashwin ends his career as India's second-highest wicket-taker in international cricket, finishing with 765 victims. Only Kumble is ahead of him, with 953 scalps.

'Bit disappointed you retired, wanted you to go past 619': Anil Kumble reacts to Ashwin's retirement

R Ashwin retired from international cricket on Wednesday (Dec 18) following the Gabba Test between India and Australia, of the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), in Brisbane. After his retirement, he announced that he would be leaving for India and the wily spinner reached his hometown Chennai on Thursday (Dec 19). Meeting&nbsp;reporters in his hometown post his arrival, Ashwin made it clear that he has 'no regrets' and aspires to play for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for long.

Talking to the media, Ashwin quashed rumours of having regrets of not captaining India during his 14-year-long career. He said, "I can't any more. It's done. No, I have zero regrets. I have seen so many people with regrets from afar, but I don't want to live my life like that."

On his plans post retirement, the 38-year-old Ashwin stated, "I want to be idle-no immediate plans. Being idle is difficult for me.

He added,&nbsp;"I am going to play for CSK, and don't be surprised if I try and aspire to play for as long as I can. I don't think Ashwin the cricketer is done. I think Ashwin the Indian cricketer has probably called it time. That's it."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bit-disappointed-you-retired-wanted-you-to-go-past-619-anil-kumble-reacts-to-ashwins-retirement-785192">'Bit disappointed you retired, wanted you to go past 619': Anil Kumble reacts to Ashwin's retirement</a>

"Thanks to all of you. I didn't expect so many of you to come. I thought I would quietly reach home, but you've all made my day. The last time it was like this was when I returned home after the 2011 World Cup. It brought back those memories," Ashwin concluded.

Ashwin ended his international career having represented India in 106 Tests, 116 ODIs and 65 T20Is. He accounted for 537 Test scalps (second-most by an Indian) and 228 wickets in white-ball formats. He even returned with 3,503 Test runs, including six centuries.&nbsp;The off-spinner was part of India's victorious runs in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy.

Ashwin will be back in Chennai colours in IPL 2025, after being bought by the CSK franchise in IPL 2025 mega auction. He represented the Yellow Army from 2010-2015, being part of their winning runs in 2010 and 2011.

R Ashwin retired from international cricket on Wednesday (Dec 18) following the Gabba Test between India and Australia, of the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), in Brisbane.

R Ashwin retired from international cricket on Wednesday (Dec 18) following the Gabba Test between India and Australia, of the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), in Brisbane. After his retirement, he announced that he would be leaving for India and the wily spinner reached his hometown Chennai on Thursday (Dec 19). Meeting reporters in his hometown post his arrival, Ashwin made it clear that he has 'no regrets' and aspires to play for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for long. Talking to the media, Ashwin quashed rumours of having regrets of not captaining India during his 14-year-long career. He said, "I can't any more. It's done. No, I have zero regrets. I have seen so many people with regrets from afar, but I don't want to live my life like that." On his plans post retirement, the 38-year-old Ashwin stated, "I want to be idle-no immediate plans. Being idle is difficult for me. He added, "I am going to play for CSK, and don't be surprised if I try and aspire to play for as long as I can. I don't think Ashwin the cricketer is done. I think Ashwin the Indian cricketer has probably called it time. That's it." Also read: 'Bit disappointed you retired, wanted you to go past 619': Anil Kumble reacts to Ashwin's retirement "Thanks to all of you. I didn't expect so many of you to come. I thought I would quietly reach home, but you've all made my day. The last time it was like this was when I returned home after the 2011 World Cup. It brought back those memories," Ashwin concluded. Ashwin ended his international career having represented India in 106 Tests, 116 ODIs and 65 T20Is. He accounted for 537 Test scalps (second-most by an Indian) and 228 wickets in white-ball formats. He even returned with 3,503 Test runs, including six centuries. The off-spinner was part of India's victorious runs in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. Ashwin will be back in Chennai colours in IPL 2025, after being bought by the CSK franchise in IPL 2025 mega auction. He represented the Yellow Army from 2010-2015, being part of their winning runs in 2010 and 2011.

I have zero regrets, want to play for CSK as long as possible, says R Ashwin post his international retirement

R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia, at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw. Ashwin ended his illustrious career with 537 Test scalps, only behind Anil Kumble (who tops the list for India with 619 wickets) and 228 wickets in white-ball formats.

Ashwin had a real chance of surpassing Kumble to become India's highest wicket-taker in the purest format. However, he retired in the middle of the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Thus, Kumble reacted to his retirement and expressed his disappointment as he was backing Ashwin to surpass his wicket-tally.

"Congratulations, Ash, on a fantastic career. You’ve been a champion bowler for India, a champion all-rounder for India. You’ll certainly be missed. It’s not that easy, carrying that kind of expectation day in and day out. You’ve done it right throughout your career. You’ve been a match-winner for India, and Team India will certainly miss you," Kumble said in a video shared by ESPNcricinfo.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-it-doesnt-help-cheteshwar-pujara-reveals-reason-behind-rohits-struggles-at-number-6-785179">BGT 2024-25: 'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6</a>

"I, for one, am a bit disappointed that you ended your career today at the international level. Ideally, I would have wanted to see you go beyond 619, but you have your reasons for that," Kumble further opined.

"All the best to you in your second chapter. And I am sure it will be as glorious as chapter one. So, Ash, here’s to a fantastic career that you’ve had for India. And congratulations once again. All the very best. Catch you soon," the former Indian captain added.

Ashwin ends his career as India's second-highest wicket-taker in international cricket, finishing with 765 victims. Only Kumble is ahead of him, with 953 scalps.&nbsp;

R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia, at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw.

R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia, at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw. Ashwin ended his illustrious career with 537 Test scalps, only behind Anil Kumble (who tops the list for India with 619 wickets) and 228 wickets in white-ball formats. Ashwin had a real chance of surpassing Kumble to become India's highest wicket-taker in the purest format. However, he retired in the middle of the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Thus, Kumble reacted to his retirement and expressed his disappointment as he was backing Ashwin to surpass his wicket-tally. "Congratulations, Ash, on a fantastic career. You’ve been a champion bowler for India, a champion all-rounder for India. You’ll certainly be missed. It’s not that easy, carrying that kind of expectation day in and day out. You’ve done it right throughout your career. You’ve been a match-winner for India, and Team India will certainly miss you," Kumble said in a video shared by ESPNcricinfo. Also read: BGT 2024-25: 'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6 "I, for one, am a bit disappointed that you ended your career today at the international level. Ideally, I would have wanted to see you go beyond 619, but you have your reasons for that," Kumble further opined. "All the best to you in your second chapter. And I am sure it will be as glorious as chapter one. So, Ash, here’s to a fantastic career that you’ve had for India. And congratulations once again. All the very best. Catch you soon," the former Indian captain added. Ashwin ends his career as India's second-highest wicket-taker in international cricket, finishing with 765 victims. Only Kumble is ahead of him, with 953 scalps.

New Delhi, India 
R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). After bad light and rain played spoilsport in the Brisbane Test, Ashwin made the headlines for stepping aside from international cricket. He ends with 765 scalps—second-most by an Indian in internationals—and was hailed by many former cricketers for his contribution to Indian cricket. Sunil Gavaskar also lauded 'one heck of a cricketer' Ashwin but was critical of the timing of his call.
<h2>'Similarly, when MS Dhoni retired in 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short'</h2>
Speaking to the broadcasters, Gavaskar said, "He could have said, 'Listen, after the end of the series, I won't be available for selection for India'. What it does is that, similarly, when MS Dhoni retired at the end of the 3rd Test of 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short. The selection committee has picked so many players for a tour with a purpose. If there are any injuries, they can select from the reserve players to have in the team. So, Sydney is somewhere where there is a lot of support on offer for spinners. So India could have played with 2 spinners. You never know. He could have been there for sure. I don't know what the pitch in Melbourne will be like."<iframe allow="private-state-token-redemption;attribution-reporting" aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="7" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>
"Normally, you tend to look at the end of the series. That's it. In the middle, it is not usual.  Maybe Washington Sundar is ahead of him. Rohit said he is flying out tomorrow. So that's the end of Ashwin as an international cricketer. He has been one heck of a cricketer," Gavaskar further opined.
Ashwin only featured in the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT edition. Washington Sundar has been preferred over him in the recent past. Thus, it might have played a part in Ashwin's retirement call.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/youll-always-be-remembered-as-legend-of-indian-cricket-emotional-kohli-lauds-ashwin-after-his-retirement-784896">You'll always be remembered as legend of Indian cricket: Emotional Kohli lauds Ashwin after his retirement</a>
Indian captain Rohit Sharma, however, backed Ashwin's call. In the post-match presser, he said, "I heard R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. I was not there for the first few days of the Test. This was in his mind since then. There are obviously a lot of things that went behind it. Ashwin, when he is in position, will be able to answer that. He understands the kind of combinations we are thinking. When we came here as well, we were not sure which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us. But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, we had a chat and somehow convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test match. It happened so that he felt, 'If I am not needed right now in the series, then I am better off saying goodbye to the game'."
<iframe allow="private-state-token-redemption;attribution-reporting" aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="7" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>"Keeping Ashwin in mind, if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way. We should all standby his call. That is what I am thinking right now, and that's the same mindset of Gautam Gambhir as well. It's important a player like him who has had great moments with the team is allowed to make such a call," Rohit added.
Ashwin signs off with 537, 156, and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 72 T20Is for India from 2010 to 2024 and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. The 38-year-old ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765).

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar reacted to R Ashwin's sudden international retirement, saying he could've waited to make the big call after the end of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).



New Delhi, India R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). After bad light and rain played spoilsport in the Brisbane Test, Ashwin made the headlines for stepping aside from international cricket. He ends with 765 scalps—second-most by an Indian in internationals—and was hailed by many former cricketers for his contribution to Indian cricket. Sunil Gavaskar also lauded 'one heck of a cricketer' Ashwin but was critical of the timing of his call. 'Similarly, when MS Dhoni retired in 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short' Speaking to the broadcasters, Gavaskar said, "He could have said, 'Listen, after the end of the series, I won't be available for selection for India'. What it does is that, similarly, when MS Dhoni retired at the end of the 3rd Test of 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short. The selection committee has picked so many players for a tour with a purpose. If there are any injuries, they can select from the reserve players to have in the team. So, Sydney is somewhere where there is a lot of support on offer for spinners. So India could have played with 2 spinners. You never know. He could have been there for sure. I don't know what the pitch in Melbourne will be like." "Normally, you tend to look at the end of the series. That's it. In the middle, it is not usual. Maybe Washington Sundar is ahead of him. Rohit said he is flying out tomorrow. So that's the end of Ashwin as an international cricketer. He has been one heck of a cricketer," Gavaskar further opined. Ashwin only featured in the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT edition. Washington Sundar has been preferred over him in the recent past. Thus, it might have played a part in Ashwin's retirement call. Also read: You'll always be remembered as legend of Indian cricket: Emotional Kohli lauds Ashwin after his retirement Indian captain Rohit Sharma, however, backed Ashwin's call. In the post-match presser, he said, "I heard R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. I was not there for the first few days of the Test. This was in his mind since then. There are obviously a lot of things that went behind it. Ashwin, when he is in position, will be able to answer that. He understands the kind of combinations we are thinking. When we came here as well, we were not sure which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us. But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, we had a chat and somehow convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test match. It happened so that he felt, 'If I am not needed right now in the series, then I am better off saying goodbye to the game'." "Keeping Ashwin in mind, if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way. We should all standby his call. That is what I am thinking right now, and that's the same mindset of Gautam Gambhir as well. It's important a player like him who has had great moments with the team is allowed to make such a call," Rohit added. Ashwin signs off with 537, 156, and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 72 T20Is for India from 2010 to 2024 and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. The 38-year-old ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765).

He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement

New Delhi, India 
R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity, on Wednesday (Dec 18), after announcing his international retirement soon after the India-Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. After bad light and rain continued to interrupt the Gabba Test, in Brisbane, both sides settled for a draw as the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is interestingly poised at 1-1. Soon after, Ashwin shared the big news, joining skipper Rohit Sharma in the post-match presser. 
Speculations regarding Ashwin's retirement started doing the rounds on social media after he was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli during Day 5's play in the Gabba Test. After India's 275-run chase was interrupted, the two shared an emotional moment with Kohli hugging Ashwin, sparking rumours of the latter's retirement. After the official announcement, Kohli shared his reaction on social media.
<h2>'You will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket'</h2>
Kohli wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "I’ve played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you ash, your skill and match-winning contributions to Indian cricket are second to none and you will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket. Wish you nothing but the best in your life with your family and everything else that it unfolds for you. With massive respect and lots of love to you and your close ones. Thanks for everything buddy."
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I’ve played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you ash, your skill and match winning contributions to Indian… <a href="https://t.co/QGQ2Z7pAgc">pic.twitter.com/QGQ2Z7pAgc</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1869269640154923429?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Kohli and Ashwin share a great equation, with the off-spinner being an instrumental part of India's memorable Test wins during Kohli's captaincy. 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-r-ashwin-announces-international-retirement-after-india-vs-australia-gabba-test-ends-in-draw-784878">Ravichandran Ashwin announces international retirement after India vs Australia Gabba Test ends in draw</a>
At the post-match presser, Ashwin said, "This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohitt and several of my teammates."
Ashwin signs off with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs and 72 T20Is for India, from 2010-2024, and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. He ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765).
In the ongoing BGT edition, Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, before stepping aside from the highest level.

An emotional Virat Kohli lauded R Ashwin after the 38-year-old wily off-spinner confirmed his international retirement post the Gabba Test between India and Australia. 



New Delhi, India R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity, on Wednesday (Dec 18), after announcing his international retirement soon after the India-Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. After bad light and rain continued to interrupt the Gabba Test, in Brisbane, both sides settled for a draw as the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is interestingly poised at 1-1. Soon after, Ashwin shared the big news, joining skipper Rohit Sharma in the post-match presser. Speculations regarding Ashwin's retirement started doing the rounds on social media after he was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli during Day 5's play in the Gabba Test. After India's 275-run chase was interrupted, the two shared an emotional moment with Kohli hugging Ashwin, sparking rumours of the latter's retirement. After the official announcement, Kohli shared his reaction on social media. 'You will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket' Kohli wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "I’ve played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you ash, your skill and match-winning contributions to Indian cricket are second to none and you will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket. Wish you nothing but the best in your life with your family and everything else that it unfolds for you. With massive respect and lots of love to you and your close ones. Thanks for everything buddy." I’ve played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you ash, your skill and match winning contributions to Indian… pic.twitter.com/QGQ2Z7pAgc — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) December 18, 2024 × Kohli and Ashwin share a great equation, with the off-spinner being an instrumental part of India's memorable Test wins during Kohli's captaincy. Also read: Ravichandran Ashwin announces international retirement after India vs Australia Gabba Test ends in draw At the post-match presser, Ashwin said, "This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohitt and several of my teammates." Ashwin signs off with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs and 72 T20Is for India, from 2010-2024, and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. He ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765). In the ongoing BGT edition, Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, before stepping aside from the highest level.

You'll always be remembered as legend of Indian cricket: 'Emotional' Kohli lauds Ashwin after his retirement

Brisbane, Australia
The Gabba Test match between India and Australia ended in a draw after rain played spoilsport on Day 5 of the contest. With Australia declaring at 89/7 in their second innings and setting a 275-run target for India, players from both camps decided to shake hands with no play taking place in the overcast conditions of Gabba post-tea session. As a result, the series stays at 1-1 with the next Test match to take place in Melbourne starting on Dec 26.
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The play has been abandoned in Brisbane and the match is drawn.
After the Third Test, the series is evenly poised at 1-1
Scorecard - <a href="https://t.co/dcdiT9NAoa">https://t.co/dcdiT9NAoa</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/GvfzHXcvoG">pic.twitter.com/GvfzHXcvoG</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1869255540377043290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Gabba Test ends in a draw</h2>
With India needing 275 runs to win the Gabba Test, the rain was once again the highlight reel of Day 5 before the stumps were called. Interestingly, India started the day with the bat as Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep added eight more runs before the latter was dismissed by Travis Head.
With a lead of 185 runs, Australia came out to bat as they looked to make a good start to their innings. However, Bumrah was on the money for the visitors and scalped the wickets of Usman Khawaja (8) and Marnus Labuschagne (1) which saw him break Kapil’s record for most wickets.
Kapil had 51 wickets in 11 matches while Anil Kumble bagged 49 wickets in 10 matches during their tours Down Under.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/mitchell-santner-takes-over-as-new-white-ball-captain-of-new-zealand-784862">Mitchell Santner takes over as new white-ball captain of New Zealand</a>
The early wickets saw Australia suffer a batting meltdown as they lost seven wickets. Before declaring on 89, Aussie batters were all over the place, as Bumrah ended with figures of 18/3, while Akash Deep (28/2) and Mohammed Siraj (36/2) were also amongst the wicket-takers.
Pat Cummins was the top scorer with 22 off 10 while Alex Carey (20) and Travis Head (17) were the only other batters to get into double figures.
<h2>Ashwin calls time on career</h2>
After the match, legendary all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin called time on his illustrious career and bowed out on a high. The 2011 World Cup winner retired with a tally of 537 Test wickets in 106 matches while also scoring 3503 runs. He scored six hundreds in the format and was India’s most reliable all-rounder for over a decade.

With Australia declaring at 89/7 in their second innings and setting a 275-run target for India, players from both camps decided to shake hands with no play taking place in the overcast conditions of Gabba post-tea session. As a result, the series stays at 1-1 with the next Test match to take place in Melbourne starting on Dec 26.



Brisbane, Australia The Gabba Test match between India and Australia ended in a draw after rain played spoilsport on Day 5 of the contest. With Australia declaring at 89/7 in their second innings and setting a 275-run target for India, players from both camps decided to shake hands with no play taking place in the overcast conditions of Gabba post-tea session. As a result, the series stays at 1-1 with the next Test match to take place in Melbourne starting on Dec 26. The play has been abandoned in Brisbane and the match is drawn. After the Third Test, the series is evenly poised at 1-1 Scorecard - https://t.co/dcdiT9NAoa#TeamIndia | #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/GvfzHXcvoG — BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024 × Gabba Test ends in a draw With India needing 275 runs to win the Gabba Test, the rain was once again the highlight reel of Day 5 before the stumps were called. Interestingly, India started the day with the bat as Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep added eight more runs before the latter was dismissed by Travis Head. With a lead of 185 runs, Australia came out to bat as they looked to make a good start to their innings. However, Bumrah was on the money for the visitors and scalped the wickets of Usman Khawaja (8) and Marnus Labuschagne (1) which saw him break Kapil’s record for most wickets. Kapil had 51 wickets in 11 matches while Anil Kumble bagged 49 wickets in 10 matches during their tours Down Under. ALSO READ | Mitchell Santner takes over as new white-ball captain of New Zealand The early wickets saw Australia suffer a batting meltdown as they lost seven wickets. Before declaring on 89, Aussie batters were all over the place, as Bumrah ended with figures of 18/3, while Akash Deep (28/2) and Mohammed Siraj (36/2) were also amongst the wicket-takers. Pat Cummins was the top scorer with 22 off 10 while Alex Carey (20) and Travis Head (17) were the only other batters to get into double figures. Ashwin calls time on career After the match, legendary all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin called time on his illustrious career and bowed out on a high. The 2011 World Cup winner retired with a tally of 537 Test wickets in 106 matches while also scoring 3503 runs. He scored six hundreds in the format and was India’s most reliable all-rounder for over a decade.

BGT 2024/25: Gabba Test ends in a draw after rain plays spoilsport on Day 5

New Delhi, India
On Wednesday (Dec 18), R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the India versus Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. The 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) edition has already seen lots of drama and action and Ashwin's retirement comes as a huge surprise.
"This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohit and several of my teammates," Ashwin said at the post-match press conference.
Ashwin has been a legend of the game. In his 14-year-long international career, the 38-year-old wily spinner ends with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He was part of India's victorious campaigns in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. In the red-ball format, the veteran steps aside as the seventh-highest wicket-taker overall and second-most among Indians. Only former Indian captain Anil Kumble is ahead of him, with 619 Test scalps. In addition, Ashwin signs off as India's second-highest wicket-taker in internationals with 765 wickets, once again only behind Kumble's tally (953).
Speculations of Ashwin's retirement spread like wildfire just ahead of the final result at The Gabba, Brisbane. He was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli in the dressing room when India's chase of 275 was halted due to bad light. The two looked emotional as many speculated a retirement on the cards for the spinner. With rain coming back and conditions not looking promising for any further play, both sides settled for a draw before Ashwin joined Rohit in the post-match presser to announce the big news.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-gabba-test-ends-in-a-draw-after-rain-plays-spoilsport-on-day-5-784879">BGT 2024/25: Gabba Test ends in a draw after rain plays spoilsport on Day 5</a>
Apart from his bowling, Ashwin also made a mark as a batter, especially in the longer format. He ended with 3,503 runs and six hundreds at an average of 25.75. He was instrumental in India's dominant run in home Tests, where they were unbeaten for over a decade since 2013. He finished his Test career with as many as 11 Player-of-the-Series awards; most by any player.
Regarding the India-Australia Gabba Test, Rohit-led India opted to bowl first but Australia rode on centuries from Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) to post 445. In reply, India struggled but managed to avoid the follow-on, to end up with 260 on the final day. In reply, Australia declared at 89-7, setting a 275-run target in 54 overs before the bad light and weather had the final say. 
Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT before hanging his boots. The five-match Test series is currently poised at 1-1.

R Ashwin announced his international retirement after India vs Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). 



New Delhi, India On Wednesday (Dec 18), R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the India versus Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. The 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) edition has already seen lots of drama and action and Ashwin's retirement comes as a huge surprise. "This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohit and several of my teammates," Ashwin said at the post-match press conference. Ashwin has been a legend of the game. In his 14-year-long international career, the 38-year-old wily spinner ends with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He was part of India's victorious campaigns in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. In the red-ball format, the veteran steps aside as the seventh-highest wicket-taker overall and second-most among Indians. Only former Indian captain Anil Kumble is ahead of him, with 619 Test scalps. In addition, Ashwin signs off as India's second-highest wicket-taker in internationals with 765 wickets, once again only behind Kumble's tally (953). Speculations of Ashwin's retirement spread like wildfire just ahead of the final result at The Gabba, Brisbane. He was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli in the dressing room when India's chase of 275 was halted due to bad light. The two looked emotional as many speculated a retirement on the cards for the spinner. With rain coming back and conditions not looking promising for any further play, both sides settled for a draw before Ashwin joined Rohit in the post-match presser to announce the big news. Also read: BGT 2024/25: Gabba Test ends in a draw after rain plays spoilsport on Day 5 Apart from his bowling, Ashwin also made a mark as a batter, especially in the longer format. He ended with 3,503 runs and six hundreds at an average of 25.75. He was instrumental in India's dominant run in home Tests, where they were unbeaten for over a decade since 2013. He finished his Test career with as many as 11 Player-of-the-Series awards; most by any player. Regarding the India-Australia Gabba Test, Rohit-led India opted to bowl first but Australia rode on centuries from Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) to post 445. In reply, India struggled but managed to avoid the follow-on, to end up with 260 on the final day. In reply, Australia declared at 89-7, setting a 275-run target in 54 overs before the bad light and weather had the final say. Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT before hanging his boots. The five-match Test series is currently poised at 1-1.

Ravichandran Ashwin announces international retirement after India vs Australia Gabba Test ends in draw

R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia&nbsp;at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). After bad light&nbsp;and rain played spoilsport in the Brisbane Test, Ashwin made the headlines for stepping aside from international cricket. He ends with 765 scalps—second-most by an Indian in internationals—and was hailed by many former cricketers for his contribution to Indian cricket. Sunil Gavaskar also lauded 'one heck of a cricketer' Ashwin but was critical of the timing of his call.

<h2>'Similarly, when MS Dhoni retired&nbsp;in 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short'</h2>

Speaking to the broadcasters, Gavaskar said, "He could have said, 'Listen, after the end of the series, I won't be available for selection for India'. What it does is that, similarly, when MS Dhoni retired at the end of the 3rd Test of 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short. The selection committee has picked so many players for a tour with a purpose. If there are any injuries, they can select from the reserve players to have in the team. So, Sydney is somewhere where there is a lot of support on offer for spinners. So India could have played with 2 spinners. You never know. He could have been there for sure. I don't know what the pitch in Melbourne will be like."<iframe allow="private-state-token-redemption;attribution-reporting" aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="7" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>

"Normally, you tend to look at the end of the series. That's it. In the middle, it is not usual.&nbsp; Maybe Washington Sundar is ahead of him. Rohit said he is flying out tomorrow. So that's the end of Ashwin as an international cricketer. He has been one heck of a cricketer," Gavaskar further opined.

Ashwin only featured in the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT edition. Washington Sundar has been preferred over him in the recent past. Thus, it might have played a part in Ashwin's retirement call.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/youll-always-be-remembered-as-legend-of-indian-cricket-emotional-kohli-lauds-ashwin-after-his-retirement-784896">You'll always be remembered as legend of Indian cricket: Emotional Kohli lauds Ashwin after his retirement</a>

Indian captain Rohit Sharma, however, backed Ashwin's call. In the post-match presser, he said, "I heard R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. I was not there for the first few days of the Test. This was in his mind since then. There are obviously a lot of things that went behind it. Ashwin, when he is in position, will be able to answer that. He understands the kind of combinations we are thinking. When we came here as well, we were not sure which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us. But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, we had a chat and somehow convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test match. It happened so that he felt, 'If I am not needed right now in the series, then I am better off saying goodbye to the game'."

<iframe allow="private-state-token-redemption;attribution-reporting" aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="7" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>"Keeping Ashwin in mind, if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way. We should all standby his call. That is what I am thinking right now, and that's the same mindset of Gautam Gambhir as well. It's important a player like him who has had great moments with the team is allowed to make such a call," Rohit added.

Ashwin signs off with&nbsp;537, 156, and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is&nbsp;respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 72 T20Is for India&nbsp;from 2010 to 2024&nbsp;and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. The 38-year-old ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765).

R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18).

R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the third Test between India and Australia at The Gabba, Brisbane, ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). After bad light and rain played spoilsport in the Brisbane Test, Ashwin made the headlines for stepping aside from international cricket. He ends with 765 scalps—second-most by an Indian in internationals—and was hailed by many former cricketers for his contribution to Indian cricket. Sunil Gavaskar also lauded 'one heck of a cricketer' Ashwin but was critical of the timing of his call. 'Similarly, when MS Dhoni retired in 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short' Speaking to the broadcasters, Gavaskar said, "He could have said, 'Listen, after the end of the series, I won't be available for selection for India'. What it does is that, similarly, when MS Dhoni retired at the end of the 3rd Test of 2014-15 series, it leaves you one short. The selection committee has picked so many players for a tour with a purpose. If there are any injuries, they can select from the reserve players to have in the team. So, Sydney is somewhere where there is a lot of support on offer for spinners. So India could have played with 2 spinners. You never know. He could have been there for sure. I don't know what the pitch in Melbourne will be like." "Normally, you tend to look at the end of the series. That's it. In the middle, it is not usual. Maybe Washington Sundar is ahead of him. Rohit said he is flying out tomorrow. So that's the end of Ashwin as an international cricketer. He has been one heck of a cricketer," Gavaskar further opined. Ashwin only featured in the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT edition. Washington Sundar has been preferred over him in the recent past. Thus, it might have played a part in Ashwin's retirement call. Also read: You'll always be remembered as legend of Indian cricket: Emotional Kohli lauds Ashwin after his retirement Indian captain Rohit Sharma, however, backed Ashwin's call. In the post-match presser, he said, "I heard R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. I was not there for the first few days of the Test. This was in his mind since then. There are obviously a lot of things that went behind it. Ashwin, when he is in position, will be able to answer that. He understands the kind of combinations we are thinking. When we came here as well, we were not sure which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us. But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, we had a chat and somehow convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test match. It happened so that he felt, 'If I am not needed right now in the series, then I am better off saying goodbye to the game'." "Keeping Ashwin in mind, if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way. We should all standby his call. That is what I am thinking right now, and that's the same mindset of Gautam Gambhir as well. It's important a player like him who has had great moments with the team is allowed to make such a call," Rohit added. Ashwin signs off with 537, 156, and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs, and 72 T20Is for India from 2010 to 2024 and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. The 38-year-old ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765).

R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity, on Wednesday (Dec 18), after announcing his international retirement soon after the India-Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. After bad light and rain continued to interrupt the Gabba Test, in Brisbane, both sides settled for a draw as the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is interestingly poised at 1-1. Soon after, Ashwin shared the big news, joining skipper Rohit Sharma in the post-match presser.&nbsp;

Speculations regarding Ashwin's retirement started doing the rounds on social media after he was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli during Day 5's play in the Gabba Test. After India's 275-run chase was interrupted, the two shared an emotional moment with Kohli hugging Ashwin, sparking rumours of the latter's retirement. After the official announcement, Kohli shared his reaction on social media.

<h2>'You will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket'</h2>

Kohli wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "I’ve played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you ash, your skill and match-winning contributions to Indian cricket are second to none and you will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket. Wish you nothing but the best in your life with your family and everything else that it unfolds for you. With massive respect and lots of love to you and your close ones. Thanks for everything buddy."

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I’ve played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you ash, your skill and match winning contributions to Indian… <a href="https://t.co/QGQ2Z7pAgc">pic.twitter.com/QGQ2Z7pAgc</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1869269640154923429?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Kohli and Ashwin share a great equation, with the off-spinner being an instrumental part of India's memorable Test wins during Kohli's captaincy.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-r-ashwin-announces-international-retirement-after-india-vs-australia-gabba-test-ends-in-draw-784878">Ravichandran Ashwin announces international retirement after India vs Australia Gabba Test ends in draw</a>

At the post-match presser, Ashwin said, "This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohitt and several of my teammates."

Ashwin signs off with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs and 72 T20Is for India, from 2010-2024, and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. He ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765).

In the ongoing BGT edition, Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, before stepping aside from the highest level.

R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity, on Wednesday (Dec 18), after announcing his international retirement soon after the India-Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw.

R Ashwin shocked the cricketing fraternity, on Wednesday (Dec 18), after announcing his international retirement soon after the India-Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. After bad light and rain continued to interrupt the Gabba Test, in Brisbane, both sides settled for a draw as the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is interestingly poised at 1-1. Soon after, Ashwin shared the big news, joining skipper Rohit Sharma in the post-match presser. Speculations regarding Ashwin's retirement started doing the rounds on social media after he was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli during Day 5's play in the Gabba Test. After India's 275-run chase was interrupted, the two shared an emotional moment with Kohli hugging Ashwin, sparking rumours of the latter's retirement. After the official announcement, Kohli shared his reaction on social media. 'You will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket' Kohli wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "I’ve played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you ash, your skill and match-winning contributions to Indian cricket are second to none and you will always and always be remembered as a legend of Indian cricket. Wish you nothing but the best in your life with your family and everything else that it unfolds for you. With massive respect and lots of love to you and your close ones. Thanks for everything buddy." I’ve played with you for 14 years and when you told me today you’re retiring, it made me a bit emotional and the flashbacks of all those years playing together came to me. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey with you ash, your skill and match winning contributions to Indian… pic.twitter.com/QGQ2Z7pAgc — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) December 18, 2024 × Kohli and Ashwin share a great equation, with the off-spinner being an instrumental part of India's memorable Test wins during Kohli's captaincy. Also read: Ravichandran Ashwin announces international retirement after India vs Australia Gabba Test ends in draw At the post-match presser, Ashwin said, "This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohitt and several of my teammates." Ashwin signs off with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He played 106 Tests, 116 ODIs and 72 T20Is for India, from 2010-2024, and was part of the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy wins. He ends as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests and overall (765). In the ongoing BGT edition, Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, before stepping aside from the highest level.

The Gabba Test match between India and Australia ended in a draw after rain played spoilsport on Day 5 of the contest. With Australia declaring at 89/7 in their second innings and setting a 275-run target for India, players from both camps decided to shake hands with no play taking place in the overcast conditions of Gabba post-tea session. As a result, the series stays at 1-1 with the next Test match to take place in Melbourne starting on Dec 26.

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The play has been abandoned in Brisbane and the match is drawn. 
 
After the Third Test, the series is evenly poised at 1-1 
 
Scorecard - <a href="https://t.co/dcdiT9NAoa">https://t.co/dcdiT9NAoa</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/GvfzHXcvoG">pic.twitter.com/GvfzHXcvoG</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1869255540377043290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Gabba Test ends in a draw</h2>

With India needing 275 runs to win the Gabba Test, the rain was once again the highlight reel of Day 5 before the stumps were called. Interestingly, India started the day with the bat as Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep added eight more runs before the latter was dismissed by Travis Head.

With a lead of 185 runs, Australia came out to bat as they looked to make a good start to their innings. However, Bumrah was on the money for the visitors and scalped the wickets of Usman Khawaja (8) and Marnus Labuschagne (1) which saw him break Kapil’s record for most wickets.

Kapil had 51 wickets in 11 matches while Anil Kumble bagged 49 wickets in 10 matches during their tours Down Under.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/mitchell-santner-takes-over-as-new-white-ball-captain-of-new-zealand-784862">Mitchell Santner takes over as new white-ball captain of New Zealand</a>

The early wickets saw Australia suffer a batting meltdown as they lost seven wickets. Before declaring on 89, Aussie batters were all over the place, as Bumrah ended with figures of 18/3, while Akash Deep (28/2) and Mohammed Siraj (36/2) were also amongst the wicket-takers.

Pat Cummins was the top scorer with 22 off 10 while Alex Carey (20) and Travis Head (17) were the only other batters to get into double figures.

<h2>Ashwin calls time on career</h2>

After the match, legendary all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin called time on his illustrious career and bowed out on a high. The 2011 World Cup winner retired with a tally of 537 Test wickets in 106 matches while also scoring 3503 runs. He scored six hundreds in the format and was India’s most reliable all-rounder for over a decade.

The Gabba Test match between India and Australia ended in a draw after rain played spoilsport on Day 5 of the contest. With Australia declaring at 89/7 in their second innings and setting a 275-run target for India, players from both camps decided to shake hands with no play taking place in the overcast conditions of Gabba post-tea session.

The Gabba Test match between India and Australia ended in a draw after rain played spoilsport on Day 5 of the contest. With Australia declaring at 89/7 in their second innings and setting a 275-run target for India, players from both camps decided to shake hands with no play taking place in the overcast conditions of Gabba post-tea session. As a result, the series stays at 1-1 with the next Test match to take place in Melbourne starting on Dec 26. The play has been abandoned in Brisbane and the match is drawn. After the Third Test, the series is evenly poised at 1-1 Scorecard - https://t.co/dcdiT9NAoa#TeamIndia | #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/GvfzHXcvoG — BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024 × Gabba Test ends in a draw With India needing 275 runs to win the Gabba Test, the rain was once again the highlight reel of Day 5 before the stumps were called. Interestingly, India started the day with the bat as Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep added eight more runs before the latter was dismissed by Travis Head. With a lead of 185 runs, Australia came out to bat as they looked to make a good start to their innings. However, Bumrah was on the money for the visitors and scalped the wickets of Usman Khawaja (8) and Marnus Labuschagne (1) which saw him break Kapil’s record for most wickets. Kapil had 51 wickets in 11 matches while Anil Kumble bagged 49 wickets in 10 matches during their tours Down Under. ALSO READ | Mitchell Santner takes over as new white-ball captain of New Zealand The early wickets saw Australia suffer a batting meltdown as they lost seven wickets. Before declaring on 89, Aussie batters were all over the place, as Bumrah ended with figures of 18/3, while Akash Deep (28/2) and Mohammed Siraj (36/2) were also amongst the wicket-takers. Pat Cummins was the top scorer with 22 off 10 while Alex Carey (20) and Travis Head (17) were the only other batters to get into double figures. Ashwin calls time on career After the match, legendary all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin called time on his illustrious career and bowed out on a high. The 2011 World Cup winner retired with a tally of 537 Test wickets in 106 matches while also scoring 3503 runs. He scored six hundreds in the format and was India’s most reliable all-rounder for over a decade.

On Wednesday (Dec 18), R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon&nbsp;after the India versus Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. The 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) edition has already seen lots of drama and action and Ashwin's retirement comes as a huge surprise.

"This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohit&nbsp;and several of my teammates," Ashwin said at the post-match press conference.

Ashwin has been a legend of the game. In his 14-year-long international career, the 38-year-old wily spinner ends with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He was part of India's victorious campaigns in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy.&nbsp;In the red-ball format, the veteran steps aside as the seventh-highest wicket-taker overall and second-most among Indians. Only former Indian captain Anil Kumble is ahead of him, with 619 Test scalps. In addition, Ashwin signs off as India's second-highest wicket-taker in internationals with 765 wickets, once again only behind Kumble's tally (953).

Speculations of Ashwin's retirement spread like wildfire just ahead of the final result at The Gabba, Brisbane. He was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli in the dressing room when India's chase of 275 was halted due to&nbsp;bad light. The two looked emotional as many speculated a retirement on the cards for the spinner. With rain coming back and conditions not looking promising for any further play, both sides settled for a draw before Ashwin joined Rohit in the post-match presser to announce the big news.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-gabba-test-ends-in-a-draw-after-rain-plays-spoilsport-on-day-5-784879">BGT 2024/25: Gabba Test ends in a draw after rain plays spoilsport on Day 5</a>

Apart from his bowling, Ashwin also made a mark as a batter, especially in the longer format. He ended with 3,503 runs and six hundreds at an average of&nbsp;25.75. He was instrumental in India's dominant run in home Tests, where they were unbeaten for over a decade since 2013. He finished his Test career with as many as 11 Player-of-the-Series awards; most by any player.

Regarding the India-Australia Gabba Test, Rohit-led India opted to bowl first but Australia rode on centuries from Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) to post 445. In reply, India struggled but managed to avoid the follow-on, to end up with 260 on the final day. In reply, Australia declared at 89-7, setting a 275-run target in 54 overs before the bad light and weather had the final say.&nbsp;

Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT before hanging his boots. The five-match Test series is currently poised at 1-1.

On Wednesday (Dec 18), R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the India versus Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. The 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) edition has already seen lots of drama and action and Ashwin's retirement comes as a huge surprise.

On Wednesday (Dec 18), R Ashwin announced his international retirement soon after the India versus Australia Gabba Test ended in a draw. The 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) edition has already seen lots of drama and action and Ashwin's retirement comes as a huge surprise. "This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats of the game at the international level. I do feel there is a bit of punch left in me as a cricketer. I would like to showcase that in club-level cricket. So this will be my last day. I have had a lot of fun. I must say I've created a lot of memories alongside Rohit and several of my teammates," Ashwin said at the post-match press conference. Ashwin has been a legend of the game. In his 14-year-long international career, the 38-year-old wily spinner ends with 537, 156 and 72 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively. He was part of India's victorious campaigns in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. In the red-ball format, the veteran steps aside as the seventh-highest wicket-taker overall and second-most among Indians. Only former Indian captain Anil Kumble is ahead of him, with 619 Test scalps. In addition, Ashwin signs off as India's second-highest wicket-taker in internationals with 765 wickets, once again only behind Kumble's tally (953). Speculations of Ashwin's retirement spread like wildfire just ahead of the final result at The Gabba, Brisbane. He was seen having a lengthy chat with Virat Kohli in the dressing room when India's chase of 275 was halted due to bad light. The two looked emotional as many speculated a retirement on the cards for the spinner. With rain coming back and conditions not looking promising for any further play, both sides settled for a draw before Ashwin joined Rohit in the post-match presser to announce the big news. Also read: BGT 2024/25: Gabba Test ends in a draw after rain plays spoilsport on Day 5 Apart from his bowling, Ashwin also made a mark as a batter, especially in the longer format. He ended with 3,503 runs and six hundreds at an average of 25.75. He was instrumental in India's dominant run in home Tests, where they were unbeaten for over a decade since 2013. He finished his Test career with as many as 11 Player-of-the-Series awards; most by any player. Regarding the India-Australia Gabba Test, Rohit-led India opted to bowl first but Australia rode on centuries from Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) to post 445. In reply, India struggled but managed to avoid the follow-on, to end up with 260 on the final day. In reply, Australia declared at 89-7, setting a 275-run target in 54 overs before the bad light and weather had the final say. Ashwin only played the second Test, in Adelaide, in the ongoing BGT before hanging his boots. The five-match Test series is currently poised at 1-1.

New Delhi, India 
Day 4 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia once again saw rain interrupting the proceedings, however, India ended on a high by successfully avoiding the follow-on. Resuming the day at 51-4, India lost overnight batter and captain Rohit Sharma (10) early but fifties from KL Rahul (84) and Ravindra Jadeja (77) took the visitors near the follow-on mark, i.e. 246. Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep stitched an unbeaten 39-run stand to help India successfully avoid the follow-on before stumps. Soon after, Akash smashed Australia captain Pat Cummins for a huge six.
Here is the video of Akash taking on Cummins and smashing the ball into the stands: 

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Akash Deep makes sure India avoid the follow-on and then smashes Pat Cummins into the second level!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/HIu86M7BNW">pic.twitter.com/HIu86M7BNW</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868927711361532313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-india-avoid-follow-on-as-gabba-test-heads-for-a-draw-despite-australias-bowling-dominance-784605">BGT 2024/25: India avoid follow-on as Gabba Test heads for a draw despite Australia's bowling dominance</a>
With Akash smashing Cummins, the Indian dressing room reaction also went viral as Virat Kohli, Rohit, coach Gautam Gambhir, etc. rejoiced to see the fight from Akash-Bumrah for the last wicket.
The rain-marred penultimate day saw India ending at 252-9, trailing by 193 runs. 
With Australia failing to dismiss the visitors before the follow-on mark, Cummins &amp; Co. have a herculean task to put up a brilliant all-round show to force a result in the third Test at The Gabba, Brisbane.
The hosts also dealt a major blow with Josh Hazlewood being ruled out of the remainder of the ongoing Test. He is likely to miss the last two games due to a calf injury.  "He is likely to miss the remainder of the Test series. A squad replacement will be made in due course," a Cricket Australia (CA) statement read.

BGT 2024/25: Akash Deep smashed Pat Cummins for a huge six after India successfully avoided the follow-on during Day 4 of the Gabba Test in Brisbane. Here is the video - 



New Delhi, India Day 4 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia once again saw rain interrupting the proceedings, however, India ended on a high by successfully avoiding the follow-on. Resuming the day at 51-4, India lost overnight batter and captain Rohit Sharma (10) early but fifties from KL Rahul (84) and Ravindra Jadeja (77) took the visitors near the follow-on mark, i.e. 246. Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep stitched an unbeaten 39-run stand to help India successfully avoid the follow-on before stumps. Soon after, Akash smashed Australia captain Pat Cummins for a huge six. Here is the video of Akash taking on Cummins and smashing the ball into the stands: Akash Deep makes sure India avoid the follow-on and then smashes Pat Cummins into the second level!#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/HIu86M7BNW — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 17, 2024 × Also read: BGT 2024/25: India avoid follow-on as Gabba Test heads for a draw despite Australia's bowling dominance With Akash smashing Cummins, the Indian dressing room reaction also went viral as Virat Kohli, Rohit, coach Gautam Gambhir, etc. rejoiced to see the fight from Akash-Bumrah for the last wicket. The rain-marred penultimate day saw India ending at 252-9, trailing by 193 runs. With Australia failing to dismiss the visitors before the follow-on mark, Cummins & Co. have a herculean task to put up a brilliant all-round show to force a result in the third Test at The Gabba, Brisbane. The hosts also dealt a major blow with Josh Hazlewood being ruled out of the remainder of the ongoing Test. He is likely to miss the last two games due to a calf injury. "He is likely to miss the remainder of the Test series. A squad replacement will be made in due course," a Cricket Australia (CA) statement read.

WATCH: Akash Deep sends one into the stands after India avoid follow-on during Day 4 of Gabba Test

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