<p>Australian all-rounder Cameron Green is ready to make his mark in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy as he opened up on his bowling stance while speaking on Thursday (Aug 22). Green, one of the ace all-rounders in the Aussie side, reckons he is ready to bowl in the red-ball format after struggling with&nbsp;injuries in the past. According to Green, he and Mitchell Marsh are good options for the side in the bowling department as they take on India in the five-match Test series.</p>

<h2><strong>Green ready for BGT</strong></h2>

<p>“Physically, I am in a really good place to be able to do that. We always laugh and joke between me and Mitch about who bowls those graveyard overs between the 70th and the 80th overs when the ball is not doing anything. We'll wait and see how we do it this summer,” the 25-year-old stated, dismissing any immediate plans to scale back his dual responsibilities.</p>

<p>Green will be ready to step up with both bat and ball as the series will have huge bearings on the World Test Championship (WTC) final qualification. Australia currently sit second in the WTC standings with eight wins in 12 matches and have lost three games in the cycle so far.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/eng-vs-sl-england-pacer-chris-woakes-not-shying-away-from-selection-for-overseas-tours-752251">Eng vs SL: England pacer Chris Woakes not shying away from selection for overseas tours</a></strong></p>

<p>Australia had a good last summer, having beaten Pakistan and then drawing against West Indies in two home series. They will rely heavily on the services of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood in the bowling department. The likes of Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne will have to come good with the bat if the Aussies are to win the BG Trophy in almost a decade.</p>

<h2><strong>Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule</strong></h2>

<p><strong>1st Test:</strong> 22nd Nov to 26th Nov, Perth</p>

<p><strong>2nd Test:</strong> 6th Dec to 10th Dec, Adelaide</p>

<p><strong>3rd Test:</strong> 14th Dec to 18th Dec, Brisbane</p>

<p><strong>4th Test: </strong>26th Dec to 30th Dec, Melbourne</p>

<p><strong>5th Test:</strong> 3rd Jan to 7th Jan, Sydney</p>


Australian all-rounder Cameron Green is ready to make his mark in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy as he opened up on his bowling stance while speaking on Thursday (Aug 22).

Australian all-rounder Cameron Green is ready to make his mark in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy as he opened up on his bowling stance while speaking on Thursday (Aug 22). Green, one of the ace all-rounders in the Aussie side, reckons he is ready to bowl in the red-ball format after struggling with injuries in the past. According to Green, he and Mitchell Marsh are good options for the side in the bowling department as they take on India in the five-match Test series. Green ready for BGT “Physically, I am in a really good place to be able to do that. We always laugh and joke between me and Mitch about who bowls those graveyard overs between the 70th and the 80th overs when the ball is not doing anything. We'll wait and see how we do it this summer,” the 25-year-old stated, dismissing any immediate plans to scale back his dual responsibilities. Green will be ready to step up with both bat and ball as the series will have huge bearings on the World Test Championship (WTC) final qualification. Australia currently sit second in the WTC standings with eight wins in 12 matches and have lost three games in the cycle so far. ALSO READ | Eng vs SL: England pacer Chris Woakes not shying away from selection for overseas tours Australia had a good last summer, having beaten Pakistan and then drawing against West Indies in two home series. They will rely heavily on the services of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood in the bowling department. The likes of Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne will have to come good with the bat if the Aussies are to win the BG Trophy in almost a decade. Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule 1st Test: 22nd Nov to 26th Nov, Perth 2nd Test: 6th Dec to 10th Dec, Adelaide 3rd Test: 14th Dec to 18th Dec, Brisbane 4th Test: 26th Dec to 30th Dec, Melbourne 5th Test: 3rd Jan to 7th Jan, Sydney

India tour of Australia: Cameron Green ready to bowl during BGT, says 'I am in a really good place'

<p>Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has questioned the BCCI for India's lack of preparations heading into the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), to be held in Australia. The five-match Test series is set to get underway on Nov 22, in Perth, and the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team will head into the marquee series after playing just one practice game, i.e. a two-day affair at Manuka Oval, Canberra. Hence, this has left Little Master Gavaskar worried given Australia are looking to regain the BGT for the first time since 2014.</p>

<p>Gavaskar wrote in his column for Mid-Day, "The news that the regular match for touring teams against the Australian Prime Minister’s XI has been reduced to a 2-day game is a disappointing one. By all means, rest the seniors and let them not even travel to Canberra for the game but give the newer younger players a proper first-class game rather than a 2-day game which will be neither here nor there. After all, the team are going there to play cricket and not to take rest."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/get-back-to-the-high-standards-sunil-gavaskar-questions-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-missing-duleep-trophy-751338">'Get back to the high standards...': Sunil Gavaskar questions Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma missing Duleep Trophy</a></strong></p>

<h2><b>'There's still time to change it to a 3-day game'</b></h2>

<p>Gavaskar further insisted, "The Australians are thirsting for revenge and the Indians will have to be razor sharp to get a hat-trick of series wins there. There's still time to change it to a 3-day game and give the younger inexperienced players a better chance to succeed against the World Test Champions. C'mon BCCI, you can do it."</p>

<p>Pat Cummins-led Australia are desperate to win their first-ever BGT since 2014/15 edition, at home. Since then, Aussies have lost two away and home series each to their fierce rivals India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit-led India will have to be on their toes to make it three successive Test series win on Australian soil by winning the forthcoming BGT. However, it won't be an easy task against the reigning Test world champions.</p>


Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has questioned the BCCI for India's lack of preparations heading into the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), to be held in Australia.

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has questioned the BCCI for India's lack of preparations heading into the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), to be held in Australia. The five-match Test series is set to get underway on Nov 22, in Perth, and the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team will head into the marquee series after playing just one practice game, i.e. a two-day affair at Manuka Oval, Canberra. Hence, this has left Little Master Gavaskar worried given Australia are looking to regain the BGT for the first time since 2014. Gavaskar wrote in his column for Mid-Day, "The news that the regular match for touring teams against the Australian Prime Minister’s XI has been reduced to a 2-day game is a disappointing one. By all means, rest the seniors and let them not even travel to Canberra for the game but give the newer younger players a proper first-class game rather than a 2-day game which will be neither here nor there. After all, the team are going there to play cricket and not to take rest." Also read: 'Get back to the high standards...': Sunil Gavaskar questions Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma missing Duleep Trophy 'There's still time to change it to a 3-day game' Gavaskar further insisted, "The Australians are thirsting for revenge and the Indians will have to be razor sharp to get a hat-trick of series wins there. There's still time to change it to a 3-day game and give the younger inexperienced players a better chance to succeed against the World Test Champions. C'mon BCCI, you can do it." Pat Cummins-led Australia are desperate to win their first-ever BGT since 2014/15 edition, at home. Since then, Aussies have lost two away and home series each to their fierce rivals India. Rohit-led India will have to be on their toes to make it three successive Test series win on Australian soil by winning the forthcoming BGT. However, it won't be an easy task against the reigning Test world champions.

Team is going there to play, not rest: Gavaskar SLAMS BCCI's preparation for India's tour of Australia

<p>Legendary Australia player Adam Gilchrist has warned his side ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy as they face India in a five-match Test series. Gilchrist, who was the member of the last Australian side to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Indian soil in 2004 has stated that the onus will be on the hosts. Australia will come into the series as the defending champions in the World Test Championship (WTC) but will be wary of India who have beaten them in their last two visits down under.</p>

<h2><strong>Gilchrist warns Australia</strong></h2>

<p>"The onus is on Australia to prove they are the dominant force at home. India know how to go away and win overseas," said Gilchrist, speaking to The Times of India</p>

<p>"Naturally, I'm going to say Australia, hope they get there. But it's too close to call. It will be a close tussle," Gilchrist said.</p>

<p>India have won the BG Trophy on their last two visits to Australia and have a good track record against the Aussies. Not since the 2014-15 BG Trophy have Australia emerged victorious in the prestigious bilateral Test series. However, Gilchrist has backed his former side to win the series as they look in good shape.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-changes-2024-womens-t20-world-cup-venue-from-bangladesh-to-uae-751718">ICC changes 2024 Women's T20 World Cup venue from Bangladesh to UAE</a></strong></p>

<p>Australia had a good last summer having beaten Pakistan and then drawing against West Indies in two home series. They will rely heavily on the services of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood in the bowling department. The likes of Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne will have to come good with the bat if the Aussies are to register a win in the BG Trophy in almost a decade.</p>

<h2><strong>Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule</strong></h2>

<p><strong>1st Test:</strong> 22nd Nov to 26th Nov, Perth</p>

<p><strong>2nd Test:</strong> 6th Dec to 10th Dec, Adelaide</p>

<p><strong>3rd Test:</strong> 14th Dec to 18th Dec, Brisbane</p>

<p><strong>4th Test: </strong>26th Dec to 30th Dec, Melbourne</p>

<p><strong>5th Test:</strong> 3rd Jan to 7th Jan, Sydney</p>


Legendary Australia player Adam Gilchrist has warned his side ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy as they face India in a five-match Test series. Gilchrist, who was the member of the last Australian side to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Indian soil in 2004 has stated that the onus will be on the hosts.

Legendary Australia player Adam Gilchrist has warned his side ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy as they face India in a five-match Test series. Gilchrist, who was the member of the last Australian side to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Indian soil in 2004 has stated that the onus will be on the hosts. Australia will come into the series as the defending champions in the World Test Championship (WTC) but will be wary of India who have beaten them in their last two visits down under. Gilchrist warns Australia "The onus is on Australia to prove they are the dominant force at home. India know how to go away and win overseas," said Gilchrist, speaking to The Times of India "Naturally, I'm going to say Australia, hope they get there. But it's too close to call. It will be a close tussle," Gilchrist said. India have won the BG Trophy on their last two visits to Australia and have a good track record against the Aussies. Not since the 2014-15 BG Trophy have Australia emerged victorious in the prestigious bilateral Test series. However, Gilchrist has backed his former side to win the series as they look in good shape. ALSO READ | ICC changes 2024 Women's T20 World Cup venue from Bangladesh to UAE Australia had a good last summer having beaten Pakistan and then drawing against West Indies in two home series. They will rely heavily on the services of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood in the bowling department. The likes of Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne will have to come good with the bat if the Aussies are to register a win in the BG Trophy in almost a decade. Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) Schedule 1st Test: 22nd Nov to 26th Nov, Perth 2nd Test: 6th Dec to 10th Dec, Adelaide 3rd Test: 14th Dec to 18th Dec, Brisbane 4th Test: 26th Dec to 30th Dec, Melbourne 5th Test: 3rd Jan to 7th Jan, Sydney

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Adam Gilchrist admits Australia 'under pressure' against India

<p>India and Australia are set to lock horns in a five-match Test series, i.e. the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting later this year Down Under. Notably, this will be the first time since the 1991-92 season that the two heavyweights will square off to play five Tests in a series. Ahead of the marquee series, former Australia captain Ricky Ponting made a bold early claim, backing Pat Cummis &amp; Co. to beat India 3-1 and reclaim the BG Trophy for the first time since 2014-15.</p>

<h2><strong>'Australia's got a bit of a point to prove against India in Australia'</strong></h2>

<p>Ponting told ICC Review Show, "It's going to be a competitive series and as I said I think Australia's got a bit of a point to prove against India in Australia on the back of what's happened the last the last two series here. We are back to five Tests as well, which is the other really important thing about this series. It’s only been four Tests the last couple of times. Five tests, I think everyone's really excited by that and I don't know if there'd be too many drawn games."</p>

<p>He added, "I'm obviously going to tip Australia to win and I'm never going to tip against Australia. There will be a draw somewhere and there will be some bad weather somewhere, so I'm going to say 3-1 to Australia."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/can-vouch-for-gambhirs-ability-to-robin-uthappa-after-indias-shambolic-odi-series-loss-vs-sri-lanka-749737">'Can vouch for Gambhir's ability to...': Robin Uthappa after India’s shambolic ODI series loss vs Sri Lanka</a></strong></p>

<h4>India vs Australia Test series full schedule:</h4>

<p>1st Test: November 22-26 (Perth Stadium, Perth)</p>

<p>2nd Test: December 6-10 (Adelaide Oval, Adelaide)</p>

<p>3rd Test: December 14-18 (The Gabba, Brisbane)</p>

<p>4th Test: December 26-30 (Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne)</p>

<p>5th Test: January 3-7 (Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney)</p>

<p>The second Test, in Adelaide, will be a day-night affair. Prior to the series commencement, India will also play a two-day day-night practice Test at Manuka Oval, Canberra. Rohit &amp; Co. will be eager to retain the BG Trophy once again but will be wary of a strong comeback from Australia on their home soil.</p>


India and Australia are set to lock horns in a five-match Test series, i.e. the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting later this year Down Under. Notably, this will be the first time since the 1991-92 season that the two heavyweights will square off to play five Tests in a series.

India and Australia are set to lock horns in a five-match Test series, i.e. the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting later this year Down Under. Notably, this will be the first time since the 1991-92 season that the two heavyweights will square off to play five Tests in a series. Ahead of the marquee series, former Australia captain Ricky Ponting made a bold early claim, backing Pat Cummis & Co. to beat India 3-1 and reclaim the BG Trophy for the first time since 2014-15. 'Australia's got a bit of a point to prove against India in Australia' Ponting told ICC Review Show, "It's going to be a competitive series and as I said I think Australia's got a bit of a point to prove against India in Australia on the back of what's happened the last the last two series here. We are back to five Tests as well, which is the other really important thing about this series. It’s only been four Tests the last couple of times. Five tests, I think everyone's really excited by that and I don't know if there'd be too many drawn games." He added, "I'm obviously going to tip Australia to win and I'm never going to tip against Australia. There will be a draw somewhere and there will be some bad weather somewhere, so I'm going to say 3-1 to Australia." Also read: 'Can vouch for Gambhir's ability to...': Robin Uthappa after India’s shambolic ODI series loss vs Sri Lanka India vs Australia Test series full schedule: 1st Test: November 22-26 (Perth Stadium, Perth) 2nd Test: December 6-10 (Adelaide Oval, Adelaide) 3rd Test: December 14-18 (The Gabba, Brisbane) 4th Test: December 26-30 (Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne) 5th Test: January 3-7 (Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney) The second Test, in Adelaide, will be a day-night affair. Prior to the series commencement, India will also play a two-day day-night practice Test at Manuka Oval, Canberra. Rohit & Co. will be eager to retain the BG Trophy once again but will be wary of a strong comeback from Australia on their home soil.

BGT 2024-25: '3-1 to...,' Ricky Ponting makes BRAVE early prediction for India vs Australia five Tests

<p>India and Australia are set to lock horns in a five-match Test series, i.e. the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting later this year Down Under. Notably, this will be first time since the 1991-92 season that the two heavyweights will square off to play five Tests in a series. Ahead of the marquee series, former Australia captain Ricky Ponting made a bold claim, backing Pat Cummis &amp; Co. to beat India 3-1 and reclaim the BG Trophy for the first time since 2014-15.</p>

<p>Ponting told ICC Review Show, "It's going to be a competitive series and as I said I think Australia's got a bit of a point to prove against India in Australia on the back of what's happened the last the last two series here. We are back to five Tests as well, which is the other really important thing about this series. It’s only been four Tests the last couple of times. Five tests, I think everyone's really excited by that and I don't know if there'd be too many drawn games."</p>

<p>He added, "I'm obviously going to tip Australia to win and I'm never going to tip against Australia. There will be a draw somewhere and there will be some bad weather somewhere, so I'm going to say 3-1 to Australia."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/can-vouch-for-gambhirs-ability-to-robin-uthappa-after-indias-shambolic-odi-series-loss-vs-sri-lanka-749737">'Can vouch for Gambhir's ability to...': Robin Uthappa after India’s shambolic ODI series loss vs Sri Lanka</a></strong></p>

<h4>India vs Australia Test series full schedule:</h4>

<p>1st Test: November 22-26 (Perth Stadium, Perth)</p>

<p>2nd Test: December 6-10 (Adelaide Oval, Adelaide)</p>

<p>3rd Test: December 14-18 (The Gabba, Brisbane)</p>

<p>4th Test: December 26-30 (Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne)</p>

<p>5th Test: January 3-7 (Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney)</p>

<p>The second Test, in Adelaide, will be a day-night affair. Prior to the series commencement, India will also play a two-day day-night practice Test at Manuka Oval, Canberra. Rohit &amp; Co. will be eager to retain the BG Trophy once again but will be wary of a strong comeback from Australia.</p>


India and Australia are set to lock horns in a five-match Test series, i.e. the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting later this year Down Under. Notably, this will be first time since the 1991-92 season that the two heavyweights will square off to play five Tests in a series.

India and Australia are set to lock horns in a five-match Test series, i.e. the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting later this year Down Under. Notably, this will be first time since the 1991-92 season that the two heavyweights will square off to play five Tests in a series. Ahead of the marquee series, former Australia captain Ricky Ponting made a bold claim, backing Pat Cummis & Co. to beat India 3-1 and reclaim the BG Trophy for the first time since 2014-15. Ponting told ICC Review Show, "It's going to be a competitive series and as I said I think Australia's got a bit of a point to prove against India in Australia on the back of what's happened the last the last two series here. We are back to five Tests as well, which is the other really important thing about this series. It’s only been four Tests the last couple of times. Five tests, I think everyone's really excited by that and I don't know if there'd be too many drawn games." He added, "I'm obviously going to tip Australia to win and I'm never going to tip against Australia. There will be a draw somewhere and there will be some bad weather somewhere, so I'm going to say 3-1 to Australia." Also read: 'Can vouch for Gambhir's ability to...': Robin Uthappa after India’s shambolic ODI series loss vs Sri Lanka India vs Australia Test series full schedule: 1st Test: November 22-26 (Perth Stadium, Perth) 2nd Test: December 6-10 (Adelaide Oval, Adelaide) 3rd Test: December 14-18 (The Gabba, Brisbane) 4th Test: December 26-30 (Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne) 5th Test: January 3-7 (Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney) The second Test, in Adelaide, will be a day-night affair. Prior to the series commencement, India will also play a two-day day-night practice Test at Manuka Oval, Canberra. Rohit & Co. will be eager to retain the BG Trophy once again but will be wary of a strong comeback from Australia.

BGT 2024-25: '3-1 to....,' Ricky Ponting makes BRAVE early prediction for India vs Australia five-Test series

<p>Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley has compared the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to the Ashes as&nbsp;he made a bold statement on the upcoming series between the nations on Saturday (Aug 10). India will face Australia in a five-match Test series later in the year as the nations compete in a repeat of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023 final. The two nations are top contenders to reach the 2025 WTC final but a lot will depend on the outcome of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.</p>

<h2><strong>Nick Hockley makes a bold comment on BGT</strong></h2>

<p>“The Border Gavaskar Trophy and the Ashes are both massive tours on the Australian cricket calendar and are largely comparable in commercial terms, with fantastic crowds and huge broadcast audiences for each. Ticket sales from India are already six times greater than for the previous non-COVID series,” Hockley told Hindustan Times.</p>

<p>The series will start on November 22 as the sides will square off the first Test match in Perth. It will also break the tradition of a four-match series as it will move into a five-match cycle starting from the upcoming tour. This will mean that the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will be in power with the Ashes as both tournaments will consist of the same number of matches.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-2024-meaningless-algerias-imane-khelif-reacts-after-winning-boxing-gold-amid-gender-row-748956">Paris Olympics 2024: 'Meaningless...,' Algeria's Imane Khelif reacts after winning boxing gold amid gender row</a></strong></p>

<p>The series will be new coach Gautam Gambhir’s first big test away from home as he tries stamping authority on the side. Gambhir took over as the coach of the side during the Sri Lanka tour where India lost the ODI series 2-0 while they had earlier won the T20I series 3-0.</p>

<p>The tour is likely to be Rohit Sharma’s last away assignment as captain (unless they reach the WTC final) in the Test format. It is also likely to be Virat Kohli’s last away tour to Australia in the Test format as he reaches the twilight of his career. He did not participate in the entire Test series having opted to return to India for paternity leave. Ajinkya Rahane would then help India win the series Down Under in 2020-21 while Ravi Shastri was still the coach.</p>


Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley has compared the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to the Ashes as he made a bold statement on the upcoming series between the nations on Saturday (Aug 10).

Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley has compared the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to the Ashes as he made a bold statement on the upcoming series between the nations on Saturday (Aug 10). India will face Australia in a five-match Test series later in the year as the nations compete in a repeat of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023 final. The two nations are top contenders to reach the 2025 WTC final but a lot will depend on the outcome of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Nick Hockley makes a bold comment on BGT “The Border Gavaskar Trophy and the Ashes are both massive tours on the Australian cricket calendar and are largely comparable in commercial terms, with fantastic crowds and huge broadcast audiences for each. Ticket sales from India are already six times greater than for the previous non-COVID series,” Hockley told Hindustan Times. The series will start on November 22 as the sides will square off the first Test match in Perth. It will also break the tradition of a four-match series as it will move into a five-match cycle starting from the upcoming tour. This will mean that the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will be in power with the Ashes as both tournaments will consist of the same number of matches. ALSO READ | Paris Olympics 2024: 'Meaningless...,' Algeria's Imane Khelif reacts after winning boxing gold amid gender row The series will be new coach Gautam Gambhir’s first big test away from home as he tries stamping authority on the side. Gambhir took over as the coach of the side during the Sri Lanka tour where India lost the ODI series 2-0 while they had earlier won the T20I series 3-0. The tour is likely to be Rohit Sharma’s last away assignment as captain (unless they reach the WTC final) in the Test format. It is also likely to be Virat Kohli’s last away tour to Australia in the Test format as he reaches the twilight of his career. He did not participate in the entire Test series having opted to return to India for paternity leave. Ajinkya Rahane would then help India win the series Down Under in 2020-21 while Ravi Shastri was still the coach.

IND vs AUS: Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley compares BGT to Ashes, says 'it has same commercial value'

<p>India is set to tour Australia for the next edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy later this year, with the tour to kickoff in late November. Perth, which didn't get a single game during the last edition in 2020/21, is likely to host the first Test. The tour is keenly-awaited as both sides have given a tough run to each other in the purest format in recent times. India have dominated Australia, winning the last four editions of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. They have won the last two Test series in Australia as well, being the only Asian side to win a red-ball series on Australian soil.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per&nbsp;a report in The Sydney Morning Herald, Perth is a strong contender to host the series opener. Notably, it will also be&nbsp;the first time since the 1991-92 that India would play a five-match series on Australian soil. After Perth, Adelaide is set to host the second Test whereas Brisbane will welcome both sides for the third encounter. The fourth and final Test will be held in Melbourne's Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and the Sydney Cricket Ground, SCG in Sydney, respectively.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-postpone-t20i-series-vs-afghanistan-citing-concerns-over-womens-rights-in-asian-country-701763">Cricket Australia postpones T20I series vs Afghanistan citing concerns over women's rights in country</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that&nbsp;Cricket Australia is yet to finalise as well as announce the complete schedule for the upcoming season. However, there is a lot of buzz on the upcoming India-Australia Test series due to the rivalry between the two heavyweights. Moreover, the series holds a lot of significance in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle with both India and Australia occupying the top two spots, respectively, at present.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two sides' last face-off in Tests came during the WTC 2023 final, where Pat Cummins-led Australia beat India by 209 runs at The Oval, London in early June.</p>


India is set to tour Australia for the next edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy later this year, with the tour to kickoff in late November. Perth, which didn't get a single game during the last edition in 2020/21, is likely to host the first Test.

India is set to tour Australia for the next edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy later this year, with the tour to kickoff in late November. Perth, which didn't get a single game during the last edition in 2020/21, is likely to host the first Test. The tour is keenly-awaited as both sides have given a tough run to each other in the purest format in recent times. India have dominated Australia, winning the last four editions of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. They have won the last two Test series in Australia as well, being the only Asian side to win a red-ball series on Australian soil. As per a report in The Sydney Morning Herald, Perth is a strong contender to host the series opener. Notably, it will also be the first time since the 1991-92 that India would play a five-match series on Australian soil. After Perth, Adelaide is set to host the second Test whereas Brisbane will welcome both sides for the third encounter. The fourth and final Test will be held in Melbourne's Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and the Sydney Cricket Ground, SCG in Sydney, respectively. Also read: Cricket Australia postpones T20I series vs Afghanistan citing concerns over women's rights in country It is to be noted that Cricket Australia is yet to finalise as well as announce the complete schedule for the upcoming season. However, there is a lot of buzz on the upcoming India-Australia Test series due to the rivalry between the two heavyweights. Moreover, the series holds a lot of significance in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle with both India and Australia occupying the top two spots, respectively, at present. The two sides' last face-off in Tests came during the WTC 2023 final, where Pat Cummins-led Australia beat India by 209 runs at The Oval, London in early June.

BG Trophy 2024/25: India tour of Australia to commence in late November, Perth likely to host 1st Test

<p>Former Australia captain Tim Paine criticised Pat Cummins-led Australian batting unit despite their narrow three-wicket win over New Zealand in the second and final Test, in Christchurch, on Monday (March 11). In chase of 279, the visitors were reeling at 80-5, and further reduced to 220 for 7, before keeper-batter Alex Carey (98*) and skipper Cummins (32 not out) propelled their side home to inflict a series whitewash. Nonetheless, Paine isn't happy with his national side's batting unit and have asked them to improve their performance else they will be beaten by the likes of England and India in the near future.</p>

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India, who are currently at the top of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) points table, will tour Australia later this year for five Tests. Hence, Paine believes Australia's top order needs to get going.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On SEN Tassie Breakfast, Paine said, "I’m disappointed. We’re a better team than them (New Zealand) and it was the same against the West Indies, there seems to be a bit of a pattern. Not scoring enough runs,&nbsp;you can’t always believe what they’re telling you but the leadership and coaching and captain and selectors say, ‘we have no concerns with our batters’. Well, I do now."</p>

<p>“There are more questions coming out of the last three or four Tests than answers, and we need to find some answers pretty quickly,” Paine further opined.</p>

<p>The likes of Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne have not been at their consistent best in the last few series and, hence, the former Aussie skipper wants the batting line-up to improve further with a home series versus a rampant India coming this Australian summer. In addition, the 39-year-old believes the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, etc. will pose a stern test for the Aussie batters at home.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-keep-finding-ways-to-win-its-an-awesome-squad-cummins-hails-australian-team-after-christchurch-win-698860">'We keep finding ways to win, it's an awesome squad' - Cummins hails Australian team after Christchurch win</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'India are certainly going to trouble us with Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj...'</strong></h2>

<p>He added, "We might not beat New Zealand, we’ve lost a Test to West Indies, we wouldn’t beat England if they were playing well with a full-strength side and&nbsp;India are certainly going to trouble us with Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, so there are some concerns."</p>

<p>India have beaten Australia in their last two Test series held Down Under, in 2018-19 and 2020-21. While the series is still far away, it is expected to be a mouth-watering contest between the two heavyweights and, hence, both sides' key players will be desperate to be in form before the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar edition&nbsp;gets underway.</p>


Former Australia captain Tim Paine criticised Pat Cummins-led Australian batting unit despite their narrow three-wicket win over New Zealand in the second and final Test, in Christchurch, on Monday (March 11).

Former Australia captain Tim Paine criticised Pat Cummins-led Australian batting unit despite their narrow three-wicket win over New Zealand in the second and final Test, in Christchurch, on Monday (March 11). In chase of 279, the visitors were reeling at 80-5, and further reduced to 220 for 7, before keeper-batter Alex Carey (98*) and skipper Cummins (32 not out) propelled their side home to inflict a series whitewash. Nonetheless, Paine isn't happy with his national side's batting unit and have asked them to improve their performance else they will be beaten by the likes of England and India in the near future. Rohit Sharma-led India, who are currently at the top of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) points table, will tour Australia later this year for five Tests. Hence, Paine believes Australia's top order needs to get going. On SEN Tassie Breakfast, Paine said, "I’m disappointed. We’re a better team than them (New Zealand) and it was the same against the West Indies, there seems to be a bit of a pattern. Not scoring enough runs, you can’t always believe what they’re telling you but the leadership and coaching and captain and selectors say, ‘we have no concerns with our batters’. Well, I do now." “There are more questions coming out of the last three or four Tests than answers, and we need to find some answers pretty quickly,” Paine further opined. The likes of Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne have not been at their consistent best in the last few series and, hence, the former Aussie skipper wants the batting line-up to improve further with a home series versus a rampant India coming this Australian summer. In addition, the 39-year-old believes the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, etc. will pose a stern test for the Aussie batters at home. Also read: 'We keep finding ways to win, it's an awesome squad' - Cummins hails Australian team after Christchurch win 'India are certainly going to trouble us with Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj...' He added, "We might not beat New Zealand, we’ve lost a Test to West Indies, we wouldn’t beat England if they were playing well with a full-strength side and India are certainly going to trouble us with Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, so there are some concerns." India have beaten Australia in their last two Test series held Down Under, in 2018-19 and 2020-21. While the series is still far away, it is expected to be a mouth-watering contest between the two heavyweights and, hence, both sides' key players will be desperate to be in form before the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar edition gets underway.

Bumrah, Shami will trouble Australia in 2024/25 BG Trophy: Paine concerned with Cummins & Co.'s batting unit

<p>MS Dhoni remains the only international captain to have won all three ICC titles. During his captaincy, India became mentally strong&nbsp;in tough situations in multi-nation events, believed in taking&nbsp;the game deep, backed multi-dimensional players and emphasised on fielding. Dhoni took several memorable decisions as captain, which changed the course of Indian cricket, but some of his calls raised eyebrows.</p>

<p>During India's tour of Australia in 2011/12, they were whitewashed in the four Tests and had a poor run in the tri-series, also involving Sri Lanka, in early 2012. Back then, Dhoni introduced a rotational policy where he did not play&nbsp;India's top three -- Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir -- together before their&nbsp;must-win game versus the Lankans in Hobart.</p>

<p>As a result, India were not consistent and won only three out of eight matches. It is believed that Dhoni resorted to the rotational policy to accommodate Rohit Sharma in the line-up, keeping the 2015 ODI World Cup in mind (also held in Australia), along with having better fielders in the playing XI.&nbsp;Back in 2019, Gambhir recalled Dhoni's rotational policy and slammed it, calling it 'absolute crap'.</p>

<h2><strong>'It was absolute crap. If you make a decision, then back it'</strong></h2>

<p>Four years back, in an interview with Lallantop, Gambhir pointed out, "As far as the rotation policy goes, it was absolute crap and I’ve always maintained it. I have always believed that players are supposed to follow their captain’s decision but if you ask me, it was complete crap. If he believed in the rotation policy so much, then he should have stuck to it. He started with the rotation policy but played all three in the must-win games. If you make a decision, then back it."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-cut-2-frames-so-that-big-claim-ajmal-recalls-lbw-appeal-vs-tendulkar-in-cwc11-semi-final-611374">'They cut 2 frames so that...': BIG CLAIM! Ajmal recalls lbw appeal vs Tendulkar in CWC'11 semi-final</a></strong></p>

<p>“If you were preparing for the 2015 World Cup, then you shouldn’t have thought if you’re going to win this CV series or the one after this. It shouldn’t be like this. You began the policy but after four matches, when the results didn’t come, when questions began to be asked, then you start playing all three. That’s why I believe it was a complete waste of time If you play for your country, you should play your best team," the former batter added.</p>

<p>India's last game in the tri-series was against Sri Lanka, a must-win for them. Chasing a daunting 321, the Men in Blue had to pull off the run-chase in less than 40 overs to have any chance of qualifying for the finals. They rode on Sehwag-Sachin's blistering start, Gambhir's 64-ball 63, Virat Kohli's majestic 133&nbsp;not out and Suresh Raina's unbeaten 24-ball 40 to win by seven wickets. However,&nbsp;they still could not feature in the best of three finals.</p>

<p>Australia defeated Sri Lanka, 2-1, in a best-of-three final to win the tournament Down Under.</p>

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MS Dhoni remains the only international captain to have won all three ICC titles. During his captaincy, India became mentally strong in tough situations in multi-nation events, believed in taking the game deep, backed multi-dimensional players and emphasised on fielding.

MS Dhoni remains the only international captain to have won all three ICC titles. During his captaincy, India became mentally strong in tough situations in multi-nation events, believed in taking the game deep, backed multi-dimensional players and emphasised on fielding. Dhoni took several memorable decisions as captain, which changed the course of Indian cricket, but some of his calls raised eyebrows. During India's tour of Australia in 2011/12, they were whitewashed in the four Tests and had a poor run in the tri-series, also involving Sri Lanka, in early 2012. Back then, Dhoni introduced a rotational policy where he did not play India's top three -- Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir -- together before their must-win game versus the Lankans in Hobart. As a result, India were not consistent and won only three out of eight matches. It is believed that Dhoni resorted to the rotational policy to accommodate Rohit Sharma in the line-up, keeping the 2015 ODI World Cup in mind (also held in Australia), along with having better fielders in the playing XI. Back in 2019, Gambhir recalled Dhoni's rotational policy and slammed it, calling it 'absolute crap'. 'It was absolute crap. If you make a decision, then back it' Four years back, in an interview with Lallantop, Gambhir pointed out, "As far as the rotation policy goes, it was absolute crap and I’ve always maintained it. I have always believed that players are supposed to follow their captain’s decision but if you ask me, it was complete crap. If he believed in the rotation policy so much, then he should have stuck to it. He started with the rotation policy but played all three in the must-win games. If you make a decision, then back it." Also Read: 'They cut 2 frames so that...': BIG CLAIM! Ajmal recalls lbw appeal vs Tendulkar in CWC'11 semi-final “If you were preparing for the 2015 World Cup, then you shouldn’t have thought if you’re going to win this CV series or the one after this. It shouldn’t be like this. You began the policy but after four matches, when the results didn’t come, when questions began to be asked, then you start playing all three. That’s why I believe it was a complete waste of time If you play for your country, you should play your best team," the former batter added. India's last game in the tri-series was against Sri Lanka, a must-win for them. Chasing a daunting 321, the Men in Blue had to pull off the run-chase in less than 40 overs to have any chance of qualifying for the finals. They rode on Sehwag-Sachin's blistering start, Gambhir's 64-ball 63, Virat Kohli's majestic 133 not out and Suresh Raina's unbeaten 24-ball 40 to win by seven wickets. However, they still could not feature in the best of three finals. Australia defeated Sri Lanka, 2-1, in a best-of-three final to win the tournament Down Under. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

THROWBACK | I told Dhoni it was crap: When Gambhir rejected his former skipper's rotational policy

<p>India women's hockey team is set to face Australia in a three-match series, in Adelaide, which kicks off on May 18. The Savita Punia-led Women in Blue will take on the Aussies in three games, on May 18, 20, and 21 followed by two against&nbsp;Australia 'A' on May 25 and May 27. Mate Stadium in Adelaide will host all the games, which will be crucial to India's preparations for the&nbsp;Hangzhou Asian Games 2023.</p>

<p>After their historic fourth-place finish in the Tokyo Olympics, the Indian women's team could not do anything significant in last year's Hockey World Cup. In the mega event, held in the Netherlands, India finished in the ninth spot with a solitary win, three draws and two defeats. Ahead of their tour Down Under, Indian striker Vandana Katariya --&nbsp;who has more than 250 International Caps -- will spearhead India's forward line in Australia. Ahead of the tour opener, Wion's Aditya Sahay spoke exclusively with Vandana on Team India's preparations, how to deal with pressure, learnings from the World Cup campaign and more.</p>

<p><strong>How are the girls preparing for the Australia tour to tackle the different conditions and an experienced Aussie side?</strong></p>

<p>We are preparing really well. Our&nbsp;sessions -- hard, red and green -- have been well planned.&nbsp;We are treating them as competition days. The tour of Australia is really important ahead of this year's Asian Games. We are practising with regard to exactly what we plan to do in Australia.</p>

<p><strong>Learning from WC campaign and how to deal with big-stage pressure?</strong></p>

<p>We ended ninth in the Women's World Cup last year. We ended with a lot of drawn encounters. There is always pressure but we have to ensure we do not get bogged down by it. There will always be pressure at the highest level. We have to use it in a good way. We need to be positive. We also need to learn from our experiences and mistakes, take some time when the going gets tough, and try to be in a calm state&nbsp;to perform better. Whatever mistakes we made in the World Cup, we need to rectify them during the Australian tour.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-wouldve-selected-yashasvi-jaiswal-as-rahuls-replacement-michael-vaughans-big-remark-591661">WTC Final: ‘Would’ve selected Yashasvi Jaiswal as Rahul’s replacement’ - Michael Vaughan's big remark</a></strong></p>

<p>Vandana has always excelled at the big stage. She was among the goal-scorers&nbsp;in last year's WC. In addition, she became India's first woman with an Olympic hat-trick during Tokyo 2020. Thus, she surely knows how to deliver in mega-events.</p>

<p><strong>How important is it to understand when to defend, and when to attack?</strong></p>

<p>We need to always be on the move. We need to have more control of the ball and maintain lead in most times. We have improved on double transfer, counter control, etc. Every player is eager to improve in all aspects. We have a lot of speed and agility in our team so we need to make the most of our squad going forward. Whether we defend or attack, we do it collectively and need to keep repeating the same basics we need to tick.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Any message for youngsters and aspiring players?</strong></p>

<p>I just want to say that first, we need to be comfortable with the team, be it a youngster or a senior. We need to gel first and build confidence as a side. If we are on the attack, we should not waste it and ensure we convert it into a goal. These are some aspects we have improved upon and we can continue to reap benefits out of it.</p>

<p><strong>Indian Team for Australia tour:</strong>&nbsp;Savita (C), Bichu Devi Kharibam, Deep Grace Ekka (VC), Nikki Pradhan, Ishika Chaudhary, Udita, Gurjit Kaur, Nisha, Navjot Kaur, Monika, Salima Tete, Neha, Navneet Kaur, Sonika, Jyoti, Baljeet Kaur, Lalremsiami, Vandana Katariya, Sangita Kumari, Sharmila Devi.</p>


India women's hockey team is set to face Australia in a three-match series, in Adelaide, which kicks off on May 18. The Savita Punia-led Women in Blue will take on the Aussies in three games, on May 18, 20, and 21 followed by two against Australia 'A' on May 25 and May 27.

India women's hockey team is set to face Australia in a three-match series, in Adelaide, which kicks off on May 18. The Savita Punia-led Women in Blue will take on the Aussies in three games, on May 18, 20, and 21 followed by two against Australia 'A' on May 25 and May 27. Mate Stadium in Adelaide will host all the games, which will be crucial to India's preparations for the Hangzhou Asian Games 2023. After their historic fourth-place finish in the Tokyo Olympics, the Indian women's team could not do anything significant in last year's Hockey World Cup. In the mega event, held in the Netherlands, India finished in the ninth spot with a solitary win, three draws and two defeats. Ahead of their tour Down Under, Indian striker Vandana Katariya -- who has more than 250 International Caps -- will spearhead India's forward line in Australia. Ahead of the tour opener, Wion's Aditya Sahay spoke exclusively with Vandana on Team India's preparations, how to deal with pressure, learnings from the World Cup campaign and more. How are the girls preparing for the Australia tour to tackle the different conditions and an experienced Aussie side? We are preparing really well. Our sessions -- hard, red and green -- have been well planned. We are treating them as competition days. The tour of Australia is really important ahead of this year's Asian Games. We are practising with regard to exactly what we plan to do in Australia. Learning from WC campaign and how to deal with big-stage pressure? We ended ninth in the Women's World Cup last year. We ended with a lot of drawn encounters. There is always pressure but we have to ensure we do not get bogged down by it. There will always be pressure at the highest level. We have to use it in a good way. We need to be positive. We also need to learn from our experiences and mistakes, take some time when the going gets tough, and try to be in a calm state to perform better. Whatever mistakes we made in the World Cup, we need to rectify them during the Australian tour. Also Read: WTC Final: ‘Would’ve selected Yashasvi Jaiswal as Rahul’s replacement’ - Michael Vaughan's big remark Vandana has always excelled at the big stage. She was among the goal-scorers in last year's WC. In addition, she became India's first woman with an Olympic hat-trick during Tokyo 2020. Thus, she surely knows how to deliver in mega-events. How important is it to understand when to defend, and when to attack? We need to always be on the move. We need to have more control of the ball and maintain lead in most times. We have improved on double transfer, counter control, etc. Every player is eager to improve in all aspects. We have a lot of speed and agility in our team so we need to make the most of our squad going forward. Whether we defend or attack, we do it collectively and need to keep repeating the same basics we need to tick. Any message for youngsters and aspiring players? I just want to say that first, we need to be comfortable with the team, be it a youngster or a senior. We need to gel first and build confidence as a side. If we are on the attack, we should not waste it and ensure we convert it into a goal. These are some aspects we have improved upon and we can continue to reap benefits out of it. Indian Team for Australia tour: Savita (C), Bichu Devi Kharibam, Deep Grace Ekka (VC), Nikki Pradhan, Ishika Chaudhary, Udita, Gurjit Kaur, Nisha, Navjot Kaur, Monika, Salima Tete, Neha, Navneet Kaur, Sonika, Jyoti, Baljeet Kaur, Lalremsiami, Vandana Katariya, Sangita Kumari, Sharmila Devi.

Exclusive: Australia tour will be beneficial ahead of Asian Games 2023, says India's striker Vandana Katariya

<p>India created history by winning their second successive Test series in Australia during the 2020/21 tour. After the first Test, at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, Virat Kohli-led India were trailing 1-0 post a shambolic performance in the opening match, which they lost by eight wickets.</p>

<p>After the series opener loss, India were without regular captain Kohli, who travelled back home for the birth of his first child. Hence, Ajinkya Rahane was the stand-in captain and&nbsp;had plethora of young guns at his disposal as India hoped for a turnaround. The visitors battled several odds -- injuries, reports of alleged bio-bubble breach, sledging, racial abuse, etc. -- to not only bounce back in style and but also ended&nbsp;Australia's 32-year-old unbeaten streak at The Gabba, Brisbane in the series decider to eventually win 2-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-had-tears-rolling-tim-paine-recalls-md-sirajs-racism-incident-during-india-australia-sydney-test-490147">'He had tears rolling...': Tim Paine recalls Md Siraj's racism incident during India-Australia Sydney Test</a></strong></p>

<p>In a recently-released documentary Badon mein tha Dum, celebrating India's historic series triumph Down Under in 2020/21, Rishabh Pant -- the then second-highest run-getter for the visitors -- shared an untold story about Shubman Gill. In a 328-run chase, on the final day of the series, Indian opener Gill scored a magnificent 91 to lay the foundation before Pant's 89 not out and Cheteshwar Pujara's gritty 56 took India home in the Brisbane Test.</p>

<p>Missing out on his maiden Test ton, Gill was livid with himself and Pant spoke about his reaction after being dismissed. "Gill and I had discussed that we wanted to win the match and not just draw it. Gill was hitting the pull shot, the cut shot. I was feeling happy because we had discussed it. In my mind, I had only one thought that we have to win. When Gill got out, he was furious after he came back. He was shouting, 'What have I done?' and was cursing himself. I told him… 'Don't worry, you have batted well'," said Pant on the docudrama<em>.</em></p>

<p>Currently, both Pant and Gill are part of India's Test line-up, which is gearing up for their rescheduled fifth and final match versus Ben Stokes-led England, on July 1 in Edgbaston. The duo will now look to take India to their first-ever series win on English soil since 2007 as India lead the incomplete five-match Tests 2-1.</p>


India created history by winning their second successive Test series in Australia during the 2020/21 tour. After the first Test, at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, Virat Kohli-led India were trailing 1-0 post a shambolic performance in the opening match, which they lost by eight wickets.

India created history by winning their second successive Test series in Australia during the 2020/21 tour. After the first Test, at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, Virat Kohli-led India were trailing 1-0 post a shambolic performance in the opening match, which they lost by eight wickets. After the series opener loss, India were without regular captain Kohli, who travelled back home for the birth of his first child. Hence, Ajinkya Rahane was the stand-in captain and had plethora of young guns at his disposal as India hoped for a turnaround. The visitors battled several odds -- injuries, reports of alleged bio-bubble breach, sledging, racial abuse, etc. -- to not only bounce back in style and but also ended Australia's 32-year-old unbeaten streak at The Gabba, Brisbane in the series decider to eventually win 2-1. ALSO READ | 'He had tears rolling...': Tim Paine recalls Md Siraj's racism incident during India-Australia Sydney Test In a recently-released documentary Badon mein tha Dum, celebrating India's historic series triumph Down Under in 2020/21, Rishabh Pant -- the then second-highest run-getter for the visitors -- shared an untold story about Shubman Gill. In a 328-run chase, on the final day of the series, Indian opener Gill scored a magnificent 91 to lay the foundation before Pant's 89 not out and Cheteshwar Pujara's gritty 56 took India home in the Brisbane Test. Missing out on his maiden Test ton, Gill was livid with himself and Pant spoke about his reaction after being dismissed. "Gill and I had discussed that we wanted to win the match and not just draw it. Gill was hitting the pull shot, the cut shot. I was feeling happy because we had discussed it. In my mind, I had only one thought that we have to win. When Gill got out, he was furious after he came back. He was shouting, 'What have I done?' and was cursing himself. I told him… 'Don't worry, you have batted well'," said Pant on the docudrama. Currently, both Pant and Gill are part of India's Test line-up, which is gearing up for their rescheduled fifth and final match versus Ben Stokes-led England, on July 1 in Edgbaston. The duo will now look to take India to their first-ever series win on English soil since 2007 as India lead the incomplete five-match Tests 2-1.

He shouted 'What have...': Pant recalls Gill's reaction after falling for 91 during Brisbane Test run-chase

<p>India and Australia were engaged in a gruelling four-match Test series in 2020/21 Down Under. During the last edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, in Australia, India had their back against the wall at most times but found ways to stage a comeback at all times to eventually beat the then Tim Paine-led Australia 2-1 in their own backyard and retain the BG Trophy.</p>

<p>After being 1-0 down following the series opener defeat, India was without then regular captain Virat Kohli -- who was out on maternity leave -- but defied all odds to emerge on top eventually. Under Ajinkya Rahane, India levelled the series in the second Test, at the MCG, and then pulled off a&nbsp;heist to save the third and penultimate encounter before winning the series finale by three wickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, R Ashwin recalled India's miraculous SCG Test escape, where his and Hanuma Vihari's unbeaten 62-run sixth-wicket stand saved the visitors from the jaws of defeats. "It was surprising to me that I went bowling after the injury with painkillers. And bowled 13 or 14 over on the trot. It was so bad I was rolling on the floor because of the pain. My wife and kids helped me to stand and then the Physio came to check me. I went to the game crawling, but did my best," Ashwin told ANI.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/disappointing-that-people-make-such-comments-question-saha-on-quitting-bengal-ranji-team-484769"><strong>'Disappointing that people make such comments &amp; question....' - Saha on quitting Bengal Ranji team</strong></a></p>

<p>The 62-run stand between Ashwin and Vihari helped India save the Test match when they were asked to chase 407. At one stage, India were 250-3 and on the attack courtesy of Rishabh Pant's 97 and Cheteshwar Pujara's gritty 77. However, their dismissals exposed India's lower order, filled with injured players such as Ravindra Jadeja, Vihari, and Ashwin.</p>

<p>Recalling how Vihari and he&nbsp;came up with a strategy to not let Australia break their stand, Ashwin added, "We both got comfortable the instant we went in. We realised what problem we had, he could not come forward and be going on the backfoot. He was struggling from the hamstring injury. When I went to the crease I could not go forward against the fast bowlers. So in that situation, I said we will rotate and see how this will work."</p>

<p>Young guns&nbsp;such as Shubman Gill, Washington Sundar, T Natarajan, Md Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Pant, etc. made a mark to star in India's memorable 2-1 win over Australia.</p>


India and Australia were engaged in a gruelling four-match Test series in 2020/21 Down Under. During the last edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, in Australia, India had their back against the wall at most times but found ways to stage a comeback at all times to eventually beat the then Tim Paine-led Australia 2-1 in their own backyard and retain the BG Trophy.

India and Australia were engaged in a gruelling four-match Test series in 2020/21 Down Under. During the last edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, in Australia, India had their back against the wall at most times but found ways to stage a comeback at all times to eventually beat the then Tim Paine-led Australia 2-1 in their own backyard and retain the BG Trophy. After being 1-0 down following the series opener defeat, India was without then regular captain Virat Kohli -- who was out on maternity leave -- but defied all odds to emerge on top eventually. Under Ajinkya Rahane, India levelled the series in the second Test, at the MCG, and then pulled off a heist to save the third and penultimate encounter before winning the series finale by three wickets. Recently, R Ashwin recalled India's miraculous SCG Test escape, where his and Hanuma Vihari's unbeaten 62-run sixth-wicket stand saved the visitors from the jaws of defeats. "It was surprising to me that I went bowling after the injury with painkillers. And bowled 13 or 14 over on the trot. It was so bad I was rolling on the floor because of the pain. My wife and kids helped me to stand and then the Physio came to check me. I went to the game crawling, but did my best," Ashwin told ANI. ALSO READ | 'Disappointing that people make such comments & question....' - Saha on quitting Bengal Ranji team The 62-run stand between Ashwin and Vihari helped India save the Test match when they were asked to chase 407. At one stage, India were 250-3 and on the attack courtesy of Rishabh Pant's 97 and Cheteshwar Pujara's gritty 77. However, their dismissals exposed India's lower order, filled with injured players such as Ravindra Jadeja, Vihari, and Ashwin. Recalling how Vihari and he came up with a strategy to not let Australia break their stand, Ashwin added, "We both got comfortable the instant we went in. We realised what problem we had, he could not come forward and be going on the backfoot. He was struggling from the hamstring injury. When I went to the crease I could not go forward against the fast bowlers. So in that situation, I said we will rotate and see how this will work." Young guns such as Shubman Gill, Washington Sundar, T Natarajan, Md Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Pant, etc. made a mark to star in India's memorable 2-1 win over Australia.

My wife and kids helped me to stand: R Ashwin recalls India's miraculous escape in SCG Test

<p>Team India had a drastic change of approach under Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri. Under Kohli-Shastri, India had a dominant run across formats, especially in bilateral series, but were most impressive in the red-ball format. Thus, India were at the No. 1 spot in ICC Test Rankings for a long period of time, played the inaugural WTC final, dominated at home and even tasted success in SENA countries.</p>

<p>While India came close to beating South Africa in three Tests in the African nation, in early 2018, they lost the series 2-1. In England, they lost 4-1 in 2018 before turning it around with an unassailable 2-1 lead in an incomplete five-match Test series in 2021. They struggled in New Zealand but won two series on the trot versus Australia in their own backyard during the Kohli-Shastri era.</p>

<p>Shastri became the first Asian coach to win a series in Australia when Kohli &amp; Co. won 2-1 in the 2018/19 tour. The series scoreline remained the same when India toured Australia and played the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under in 2020/21. Thus, it is safe to claim that the national side's playing style, mannerism and body language went through a rapid change under Shastri's coaching and Kohli's leadership.</p>

<p>Reflecting on India's twin success in Australia, Shastri recently spilled the beans on how he pumped up the Indian players and helped them in tackling the Aussies' sledging. "It was also outlining how we want to play: to be aggressive and ruthless, to up the fitness levels, to get a group of fast bowlers to take 20 wickets overseas. And it was about attitude, especially when playing the Aussies. I told the boys if one single expletive comes your way, give them three back: two in our language and one in theirs," said Shastri to the&nbsp;<em>Guardian</em>.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-bcci-to-do-away-with-bio-bubbles-and-hard-quarantine-senior-players-to-be-rested-report-473961"><strong>India vs SA: BCCI to do away with bio-bubbles and hard quarantine, senior players to be rested - Report</strong></a></p>

<p>While Cheteshwar Pujara, Kohli, Ishant Sharma, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah were India's star performers in the 2-1 Test series win over Australia in 2018/19, the visitors overcame various obstacles (injury concerns, Covid-19 bio-bubbles, sledging, racism) and played sans regular captain Kohli to triumph in the 2020/21 series Down Under. Back then, several youngsters such as Md Siraj, Shubman Gill, Pant, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, T Natarajan, etc. stood tall along with contributions from stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane, Pujara, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and R Ashwin.</p>


Team India had a drastic change of approach under Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri. Under Kohli-Shastri, India had a dominant run across formats, especially in bilateral series, but were most impressive in the red-ball format.

Team India had a drastic change of approach under Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri. Under Kohli-Shastri, India had a dominant run across formats, especially in bilateral series, but were most impressive in the red-ball format. Thus, India were at the No. 1 spot in ICC Test Rankings for a long period of time, played the inaugural WTC final, dominated at home and even tasted success in SENA countries. While India came close to beating South Africa in three Tests in the African nation, in early 2018, they lost the series 2-1. In England, they lost 4-1 in 2018 before turning it around with an unassailable 2-1 lead in an incomplete five-match Test series in 2021. They struggled in New Zealand but won two series on the trot versus Australia in their own backyard during the Kohli-Shastri era. Shastri became the first Asian coach to win a series in Australia when Kohli & Co. won 2-1 in the 2018/19 tour. The series scoreline remained the same when India toured Australia and played the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under in 2020/21. Thus, it is safe to claim that the national side's playing style, mannerism and body language went through a rapid change under Shastri's coaching and Kohli's leadership. Reflecting on India's twin success in Australia, Shastri recently spilled the beans on how he pumped up the Indian players and helped them in tackling the Aussies' sledging. "It was also outlining how we want to play: to be aggressive and ruthless, to up the fitness levels, to get a group of fast bowlers to take 20 wickets overseas. And it was about attitude, especially when playing the Aussies. I told the boys if one single expletive comes your way, give them three back: two in our language and one in theirs," said Shastri to the Guardian. ALSO READ | India vs SA: BCCI to do away with bio-bubbles and hard quarantine, senior players to be rested - Report While Cheteshwar Pujara, Kohli, Ishant Sharma, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah were India's star performers in the 2-1 Test series win over Australia in 2018/19, the visitors overcame various obstacles (injury concerns, Covid-19 bio-bubbles, sledging, racism) and played sans regular captain Kohli to triumph in the 2020/21 series Down Under. Back then, several youngsters such as Md Siraj, Shubman Gill, Pant, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, T Natarajan, etc. stood tall along with contributions from stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane, Pujara, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and R Ashwin.

'If one comes your way....' - Former coach Ravi Shastri reveals how Team India tackled Australia's sledging

<p>Rishabh Pant was having a torrid time at the highest level prior to India's tour of Australia in 2020-21. Ahead of the epic tour Down Under, Pant was under the scanner for his keeping, fitness concerns and shot selections as many former cricketers and experts called for his omission.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, the script changed emphatically for Pant ever since he was included in the playing XI during the second Test, at the MCG, Melbourne, during the Australia tour. The left-hander played a gutsy and match-saving 97 in the third and penultimate Test, at the SCG, Sydney, before playing the best knock of his career, so far, with a match-winning 89 not out in the final Test, at Brisbane, to help India win the series 2-1.</p>

<p>Recently, Pant recalled his SCG Test heroics, where he battled injury to slam a memorable 97 and helped the visitors to a draw on the final day.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-rahul-dravid-are-in-the-saddle-now-vikram-rathour-heaps-praise-on-indian-youngster-468345"><strong>Rohit Sharma, Rahul Dravid are in the saddle now: Vikram Rathour heaps praise on Indian youngster</strong></a></p>

<p>Speaking to India women's star cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues, on Dream 11, Pant said, "We were under pressure, they gave us some 400 something. Injury&nbsp;happened in the first innings. He bowled a bounce, it kept low and it hit my elbow and I was unable to move my hand in the first innings. I didn't keep in the second innings. Wriddhi (Wriddhiman Saha)&nbsp;<i>bhai&nbsp;</i>did all the keeping."</p>

<p>"We went for a scan and it was bone bruise. It wasn't a major injury, but it was very painful. We were talking to the physios because I had to bat, by hook or by crook. So we decided to take injection to help with the pain. We have to see in the nets obviously, at first. So, I took the painkiller injection during the game, went to the nets and I was trying to hold the bat but it was paining. I couldn't hold my bat properly. After this there's Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood and they will be bowling a lot faster," he pointed out.</p>

<p>Pant opined, “I was just telling myself, 'you have to do this, there is no choice.' Firstly, there was no intention of winning the match. First goal was to draw, because it was the last day and we needed 400 runs. Then there was an idea of making me bat at No.5 because I was injured and even if I got out then the batters to come could still look to remake. It was still paining and on top of that I took a painkiller pill too."</p>

<p>"Rahane got out before lunch and I got tensed. I went inside, I couldn't get my way, pressure was building, Aussies were sledging and because they were up in the game and they wanted to win. Then it was my threshold, mid on was up and he bowled me there and I hit him over mid on for a boundary. Next ball he bowled there, after a few overs, and I hit him for a six. Next over the long on was back and I was playing my normal game and I was getting runs," he revealed.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-talking-to-rohit-sharma-ms-dhoni-rishabh-pant-recalls-his-tough-phase-before-miraculous-comeback-468334">'I was talking to Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni' - Rishabh Pant recalls his tough phase before miraculous comeback</a></strong></p>

<p>"Then there was good partnership that happened between me a Pujara and suddenly the momentum of the match changed and we were in a position to win the match. And slowly, my pain started lessening because I was concentrating entirely on every ball and so the focus on the pain went away.</p>

<p>"Then I scored 97. I was feeling bad, but not for missing out on my hundred because I felt that I could have won the match for India from there," added Pant.</p>

<p>While Pant couldn't lead India to a win in the third Test, he stood tall in the final Test with an attacking 89 not out at Australia's fortress, at The Gabba, Brisbane, to help Ajinkya Rahane-led visitors chase down 328 on the final day of the series.</p>

<p>Without then regular captain Virat Kohli, India bounced back in style -- riding on Pant, Washington Sundar, Md Siraj, Shubman Gill, Rahane, Pujara, Shardul Thakur, etc. -- to claim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1.</p>


Rishabh Pant was having a torrid time at the highest level prior to India's tour of Australia in 2020-21. Ahead of the epic tour Down Under, Pant was under the scanner for his keeping, fitness concerns and shot selections as many former cricketers and experts called for his omission.

Rishabh Pant was having a torrid time at the highest level prior to India's tour of Australia in 2020-21. Ahead of the epic tour Down Under, Pant was under the scanner for his keeping, fitness concerns and shot selections as many former cricketers and experts called for his omission. Nonetheless, the script changed emphatically for Pant ever since he was included in the playing XI during the second Test, at the MCG, Melbourne, during the Australia tour. The left-hander played a gutsy and match-saving 97 in the third and penultimate Test, at the SCG, Sydney, before playing the best knock of his career, so far, with a match-winning 89 not out in the final Test, at Brisbane, to help India win the series 2-1. Recently, Pant recalled his SCG Test heroics, where he battled injury to slam a memorable 97 and helped the visitors to a draw on the final day. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma, Rahul Dravid are in the saddle now: Vikram Rathour heaps praise on Indian youngster Speaking to India women's star cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues, on Dream 11, Pant said, "We were under pressure, they gave us some 400 something. Injury happened in the first innings. He bowled a bounce, it kept low and it hit my elbow and I was unable to move my hand in the first innings. I didn't keep in the second innings. Wriddhi (Wriddhiman Saha) bhai did all the keeping." "We went for a scan and it was bone bruise. It wasn't a major injury, but it was very painful. We were talking to the physios because I had to bat, by hook or by crook. So we decided to take injection to help with the pain. We have to see in the nets obviously, at first. So, I took the painkiller injection during the game, went to the nets and I was trying to hold the bat but it was paining. I couldn't hold my bat properly. After this there's Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood and they will be bowling a lot faster," he pointed out. Pant opined, “I was just telling myself, 'you have to do this, there is no choice.' Firstly, there was no intention of winning the match. First goal was to draw, because it was the last day and we needed 400 runs. Then there was an idea of making me bat at No.5 because I was injured and even if I got out then the batters to come could still look to remake. It was still paining and on top of that I took a painkiller pill too." "Rahane got out before lunch and I got tensed. I went inside, I couldn't get my way, pressure was building, Aussies were sledging and because they were up in the game and they wanted to win. Then it was my threshold, mid on was up and he bowled me there and I hit him over mid on for a boundary. Next ball he bowled there, after a few overs, and I hit him for a six. Next over the long on was back and I was playing my normal game and I was getting runs," he revealed. ALSO READ | 'I was talking to Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni' - Rishabh Pant recalls his tough phase before miraculous comeback "Then there was good partnership that happened between me a Pujara and suddenly the momentum of the match changed and we were in a position to win the match. And slowly, my pain started lessening because I was concentrating entirely on every ball and so the focus on the pain went away. "Then I scored 97. I was feeling bad, but not for missing out on my hundred because I felt that I could have won the match for India from there," added Pant. While Pant couldn't lead India to a win in the third Test, he stood tall in the final Test with an attacking 89 not out at Australia's fortress, at The Gabba, Brisbane, to help Ajinkya Rahane-led visitors chase down 328 on the final day of the series. Without then regular captain Virat Kohli, India bounced back in style -- riding on Pant, Washington Sundar, Md Siraj, Shubman Gill, Rahane, Pujara, Shardul Thakur, etc. -- to claim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1.

Couldn't hold my bat properly: Rishabh Pant recalls how he battled injury to help India save SCG Test

<p>Haris Rauf was one of the top performers for Babar Azam-led Team Pakistan in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Rauf returned with eight wickets in the showpiece event, with a best of 4 for 22 versus New Zealand. While he went wicketless and conceded at over ten per over in the semi-final clash versus eventual winners Australia, Rauf impressed overall with his raw pace.</p>

<p>Rauf's career took off after his maiden stint in the BBL 2019/20 season for the Glenn Maxwell-led Melbourne Stars. Not many know that the speedster was also a net bowler for Virat Kohli-led Team India during their 2018/19 tour of Australia for four Tests Down Under. Back then, he struck a chord with Kohli, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya and the likes. In a recent interaction, the 28-year-old revealed that Rahul and Hardik were very happy seeing his progress and play for his country when they met him during India-Pakistan's 2021 T20 WC face-off in Dubai.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-stick-your-hand-out-and-hurt-yourself-salman-butt-slams-team-indias-poor-show-in-south-africa-odis-447218"><strong>Why stick your hand out and hurt yourself: Salman Butt slams Team India's poor show in South Africa ODIs</strong></a></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-better-than-india-akhtar-makes-bold-claim-predicts-men-in-green-to-win-2022-t20-wc-face-off-447142"><strong>PAK better than India: Akhtar makes bold claim, predicts Men in Green to win 2022 T20 WC face-off</strong></a></p>

<p>Talking to&nbsp;<em>paktv.tv</em>&nbsp;recently Rauf recalled the interaction he had with Rahul and Hardik and said, "When I was net bowler for India, I had bowled to them in Sydney in the nets. So I had told them once that I would one day bowl to them in an international game. And both Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul had told me that I have the potential to bowl at international level. They gave me a lot of confidence."</p>

<p>"Then when I met them recently at the T20 World Cup, they remembered all our conversations. We had a discussion over it as well and they were really happy for me watching me play for Pakistan. When you play with good players you learn all the good things. I always try to learn good things from such players," he further added.</p>

<p>Rauf returned with 1 for 25 in Pakistan's 10-wicket win over India in the 2021 T20 WC. He debuted for the Men in Green during early 2020, in a T20I versus Bangladesh. So far, he&nbsp;has impressed one and all in his 34 T20Is, taking 41 wickets at an economy rate of&nbsp;8.44. In addition, he has represented Pakistan in 8 ODIs, claiming 14 wickets at an economy rate of less than 6.</p>


Haris Rauf was one of the top performers for Babar Azam-led Team Pakistan in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Rauf returned with eight wickets in the showpiece event, with a best of 4 for 22 versus New Zealand.

Haris Rauf was one of the top performers for Babar Azam-led Team Pakistan in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Rauf returned with eight wickets in the showpiece event, with a best of 4 for 22 versus New Zealand. While he went wicketless and conceded at over ten per over in the semi-final clash versus eventual winners Australia, Rauf impressed overall with his raw pace. Rauf's career took off after his maiden stint in the BBL 2019/20 season for the Glenn Maxwell-led Melbourne Stars. Not many know that the speedster was also a net bowler for Virat Kohli-led Team India during their 2018/19 tour of Australia for four Tests Down Under. Back then, he struck a chord with Kohli, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya and the likes. In a recent interaction, the 28-year-old revealed that Rahul and Hardik were very happy seeing his progress and play for his country when they met him during India-Pakistan's 2021 T20 WC face-off in Dubai. ALSO READ | Why stick your hand out and hurt yourself: Salman Butt slams Team India's poor show in South Africa ODIs View this post on Instagram A post shared by Haris Rauf (@harisraufofficial) × ALSO READ | PAK better than India: Akhtar makes bold claim, predicts Men in Green to win 2022 T20 WC face-off Talking to paktv.tv recently Rauf recalled the interaction he had with Rahul and Hardik and said, "When I was net bowler for India, I had bowled to them in Sydney in the nets. So I had told them once that I would one day bowl to them in an international game. And both Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul had told me that I have the potential to bowl at international level. They gave me a lot of confidence." "Then when I met them recently at the T20 World Cup, they remembered all our conversations. We had a discussion over it as well and they were really happy for me watching me play for Pakistan. When you play with good players you learn all the good things. I always try to learn good things from such players," he further added. Rauf returned with 1 for 25 in Pakistan's 10-wicket win over India in the 2021 T20 WC. He debuted for the Men in Green during early 2020, in a T20I versus Bangladesh. So far, he has impressed one and all in his 34 T20Is, taking 41 wickets at an economy rate of 8.44. In addition, he has represented Pakistan in 8 ODIs, claiming 14 wickets at an economy rate of less than 6.

Rahul, Hardik were really happy watching me play in T20 WC: Pak pacer recalls his time as India's net bowler

Virat Kohli's glorious Test captaincy tenure: Reliving former skipper's inspiring run as leader in whites

<p>Mankading continues to divide the cricket fraternity. While the mode of dismissal is mentioned within the laws of the game, it remains controversial as many believe it is against the spirit of the game. Nonetheless, many bowlers have used the mode of dismissal to get rid of batters in the modern era.</p>

<p>R Ashwin remains one such bowler who has been quite vocal in support of the controversial mode of dismissal, i.e. mankading. In IPL 2019, he dismissed Jos Buttler by resorting to mankading which led to a widespread reaction in the cricketing fraternity. While many slammed him, there were a few who also supported the off-spinner. However, the wily spin-bowling all-rounder remained adamant that he will continue to back the mode of dismissal as it is in the laws of the game.</p>

<p>However, not many know that Ashwin had resorted to mankading in 2012. During India's tour of Australia, the then MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue were involved in the tri-series, i.e. the 2011-12 CB Series, which also had Sri Lanka as the third team. While facing Sri Lanka in match 8, India were without regular captain Dhoni (banned for one game due to slow over-rate).</p>

<p>During the encounter, Ashwin mankaded Sri Lanka batter&nbsp;Lahiru Thirimanne (batting on 44) in the 40th over. While Ashwin had warned the batter before as well, he went ahead with mankading the Sri Lankan before stand-in captain Virender Sehwag decided to overturn the appeal (influenced by Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar). Here's the video:</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-eyes-twin-milestones-as-he-gears-up-for-comeback-in-3rd-test-against-south-africa-in-cape-town-443518"><strong>Virat Kohli eyes twin milestones as he gears up for comeback in 3rd Test against South Africa in Cape Town</strong></a></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-kapil-dev-mankanded-peter-kirsten-during-indias-1992-tour-of-sa-watch-438727"><strong>THROWBACK: When Kapil Dev mankanded Peter Kirsten during India's 1992 tour of SA -</strong></a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-kapil-dev-mankanded-peter-kirsten-during-indias-1992-tour-of-sa-watch-438727"><strong> WATCH</strong></a></p>

<p>Talking about the match, at The Gabba, Brisbane, the Mahela Jayawardene-led SL batted first and posted 289-6 riding on Tilakaratne Dilshan and Thirimanne's fifties. In reply, Dhoni-less India only managed 238 all-out in 45.1 overs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the unversed, India were competitive in most matches but didn't qualify for the finals. Australia went onto win the tournament; winning the best of 3 finals 2-1.</p>


Mankading continues to divide the cricket fraternity. While the mode of dismissal is mentioned within the laws of the game, it remains controversial as many believe it is against the spirit of the game.

Mankading continues to divide the cricket fraternity. While the mode of dismissal is mentioned within the laws of the game, it remains controversial as many believe it is against the spirit of the game. Nonetheless, many bowlers have used the mode of dismissal to get rid of batters in the modern era. R Ashwin remains one such bowler who has been quite vocal in support of the controversial mode of dismissal, i.e. mankading. In IPL 2019, he dismissed Jos Buttler by resorting to mankading which led to a widespread reaction in the cricketing fraternity. While many slammed him, there were a few who also supported the off-spinner. However, the wily spin-bowling all-rounder remained adamant that he will continue to back the mode of dismissal as it is in the laws of the game. However, not many know that Ashwin had resorted to mankading in 2012. During India's tour of Australia, the then MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue were involved in the tri-series, i.e. the 2011-12 CB Series, which also had Sri Lanka as the third team. While facing Sri Lanka in match 8, India were without regular captain Dhoni (banned for one game due to slow over-rate). During the encounter, Ashwin mankaded Sri Lanka batter Lahiru Thirimanne (batting on 44) in the 40th over. While Ashwin had warned the batter before as well, he went ahead with mankading the Sri Lankan before stand-in captain Virender Sehwag decided to overturn the appeal (influenced by Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar). Here's the video: ALSO READ | Virat Kohli eyes twin milestones as he gears up for comeback in 3rd Test against South Africa in Cape Town × ALSO READ | THROWBACK: When Kapil Dev mankanded Peter Kirsten during India's 1992 tour of SA - WATCH Talking about the match, at The Gabba, Brisbane, the Mahela Jayawardene-led SL batted first and posted 289-6 riding on Tilakaratne Dilshan and Thirimanne's fifties. In reply, Dhoni-less India only managed 238 all-out in 45.1 overs. For the unversed, India were competitive in most matches but didn't qualify for the finals. Australia went onto win the tournament; winning the best of 3 finals 2-1.

Throwback: When Ashwin mankaded SL batter only for stand-in captain Sehwag to overturn appeal - WATCH

<p>MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. He announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020, being one of the best limited-overs players for Team India (with staggering success in ODIs, decent contributions in T20Is and IPL) whereas he was also a force to reckon with in Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni amassed 4,876 runs in the purest format --&nbsp;the most by an Indian keeper and third-most overall -- and accounted for 294 dismissals behind the stumps in 90 Tests. He played some memorable knocks in England, Pakistan, New Zealand and at home before shockingly retiring from the format in late 2014, during India's tour of Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the third and penultimate Test of the 2014/15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy ended in a draw, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Dhoni called it quits from the Test format in a press conference; shocking many in the cricketing fraternity. Recalling how Dhoni's retirement announced shocked Team India players, the then team director and former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri recently opened up on the whole episode.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/blessing-in-disguise-ravi-shastri-opens-up-on-bccis-decision-to-replace-virat-kohli-as-indias-odi-captain-440298"><strong>'Blessing in disguise': Ravi Shastri opens up on BCCI's decision to replace Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain</strong></a></p>

<p>Reliving Dhoni's&nbsp;shocking announcement, former India head coach Shastri shared the dressing room's reaction. Speaking to Star Sports, Shastri, who was the team's director back then, has revealed, "I knew that the moment MS Dhoni finishes, Virat Kohli is the guy to lead the side. He (MS Dhoni) knew who was the next leader in line."</p>

<p>"Well, it came as a surprise. He came to me and said 'I want to say something to the boys'. I said 'sure'. I thought he was going to say something about the draw. He comes out. I just saw the faces around the dressing room. Most of the boys were in a state of shock when MS made the announcement. But that's MS for you," Shastri added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-ms-dhonis-chennai-super-kings-scripted-a-fairytale-comeback-in-ipl-2021-440193"><strong>How MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings scripted a fairytale comeback in IPL 2021</strong></a></p>

<p>Dhoni went onto lead the limited-overs side till 2016 end and gave up captaincy altogether in early 2017. From thereon, he played as a regular wicketkeeper-batsman in ODIs and T20Is before featuring in his last international match during the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final between India and New Zealand. He retired from the highest level in mid-August last year.</p>

<p>Dhoni remains an active player in IPL and will lead current champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2022.</p>


MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. He announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020, being one of the best limited-overs players for Team India (with staggering success in ODIs, decent contributions in T20Is and IPL) whereas he was also a force to reckon with in Tests.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. He announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020, being one of the best limited-overs players for Team India (with staggering success in ODIs, decent contributions in T20Is and IPL) whereas he was also a force to reckon with in Tests. Dhoni amassed 4,876 runs in the purest format -- the most by an Indian keeper and third-most overall -- and accounted for 294 dismissals behind the stumps in 90 Tests. He played some memorable knocks in England, Pakistan, New Zealand and at home before shockingly retiring from the format in late 2014, during India's tour of Australia. After the third and penultimate Test of the 2014/15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy ended in a draw, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Dhoni called it quits from the Test format in a press conference; shocking many in the cricketing fraternity. Recalling how Dhoni's retirement announced shocked Team India players, the then team director and former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri recently opened up on the whole episode. ALSO READ | 'Blessing in disguise': Ravi Shastri opens up on BCCI's decision to replace Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain Reliving Dhoni's shocking announcement, former India head coach Shastri shared the dressing room's reaction. Speaking to Star Sports, Shastri, who was the team's director back then, has revealed, "I knew that the moment MS Dhoni finishes, Virat Kohli is the guy to lead the side. He (MS Dhoni) knew who was the next leader in line." "Well, it came as a surprise. He came to me and said 'I want to say something to the boys'. I said 'sure'. I thought he was going to say something about the draw. He comes out. I just saw the faces around the dressing room. Most of the boys were in a state of shock when MS made the announcement. But that's MS for you," Shastri added. ALSO READ | How MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings scripted a fairytale comeback in IPL 2021 Dhoni went onto lead the limited-overs side till 2016 end and gave up captaincy altogether in early 2017. From thereon, he played as a regular wicketkeeper-batsman in ODIs and T20Is before featuring in his last international match during the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final between India and New Zealand. He retired from the highest level in mid-August last year. Dhoni remains an active player in IPL and will lead current champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2022.

I want to say something to the boys: Shastri recalls Dhoni's Test retirement and how it shocked Team India

<p>India beat Australia in the four Tests during their 2018/19 tour Down Under to win their first-ever series in whites in Aussies' backyard. During the series, the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah led the charge for India's historic win whereas the likes of Ishant Sharma, Captain Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav also played their parts.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Back then, Ashwin accounted for six scalps in the series opener in Adelaide before injury ruled him out of action for the remainder of the Tests. Kuldeep featured in the last Test, in Sydney, and returned with a five-fer to earn words of praise from then head coach Ravi Shastri. At that time, Shastri labelled Kuldeep as India's best 'overseas spinner'.</p>

<p>Ashwin recalled Shastri's words, which 'absolutely crushed' him while he watched the proceedings from the sidelines due to injury concerns.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/difficult-to-maintain-former-indian-cricketers-react-to-r-ashwins-remark-on-ravi-shastri-438965"><strong>'Difficult to maintain....' - Former Indian cricketers react to R Ashwin's remark on Ravi Shastri</strong></a></p>

<p>Ashwin recently reacted to Shastri's remark and told in an interview with The&nbsp;Cricket Monthly, "I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed. We all talk about how important it is to enjoy your team-mates' success. And I was happy for Kuldeep. I have not been able to get a five-for but he has a five-for in Australia. I know how big it is. Even when I have bowled well [at other times], I haven't ended up with a five-for. So I am genuinely happy for him. And it's an extremely happy occasion, to win in Australia."</p>

<p>"But if I have to come and partake in his happiness, and the success of the team, I must feel like I belong there. If I feel like I am being thrown under the bus, how am I supposed to get up and come for a party to enjoy the team's or team-mate's success? I went back to my room and then I spoke to my wife. And my children were there. So we were able to, you know, shrug it off, and I still made it to the party, because, end of the day, we had won a massive series," he added.</p>

<p>Now, Shastri has reacted to Ashwin's statements and told the Indian Express, "Ashwin did not play the Test in Sydney and Kuldeep bowled well. So it's fair I give Kuldeep a chance. If that hurt Ashwin, I am very happy. It made him do something different. My job is not to butter everyone’s toast. My job is to state facts without agenda."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/felt-crushed-r-ashwin-recalls-ravi-shastris-huge-praise-for-kuldeep-yadav-during-2018-19-australia-tour-438692"><strong>Felt crushed: R Ashwin recalls Ravi Shastri's huge praise for Kuldeep Yadav during 2018-19 Australia tour</strong></a></p>

<p>Ashwin, however, played a bigger role in India's second successive Test series win in Australia during the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. He returned with 11 wickets in 3 Tests to end as India's second-highest wicket-taker in their historic 2-1 series triumph over Tim Paine &amp; Co. Injury, however, ruled him out of action for the series finale at The Gabba, Brisbane.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At present, Ashwin-starrer Team India is gearing up for the series opener of the three Tests versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion.</p>


India beat Australia in the four Tests during their 2018/19 tour Down Under to win their first-ever series in whites in Aussies' backyard. During the series, the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah led the charge for India's historic win whereas the likes of Ishant Sharma, Captain Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav also played their parts.

India beat Australia in the four Tests during their 2018/19 tour Down Under to win their first-ever series in whites in Aussies' backyard. During the series, the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah led the charge for India's historic win whereas the likes of Ishant Sharma, Captain Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav also played their parts. Back then, Ashwin accounted for six scalps in the series opener in Adelaide before injury ruled him out of action for the remainder of the Tests. Kuldeep featured in the last Test, in Sydney, and returned with a five-fer to earn words of praise from then head coach Ravi Shastri. At that time, Shastri labelled Kuldeep as India's best 'overseas spinner'. Ashwin recalled Shastri's words, which 'absolutely crushed' him while he watched the proceedings from the sidelines due to injury concerns. ALSO READ | 'Difficult to maintain....' - Former Indian cricketers react to R Ashwin's remark on Ravi Shastri Ashwin recently reacted to Shastri's remark and told in an interview with The Cricket Monthly, "I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed. We all talk about how important it is to enjoy your team-mates' success. And I was happy for Kuldeep. I have not been able to get a five-for but he has a five-for in Australia. I know how big it is. Even when I have bowled well [at other times], I haven't ended up with a five-for. So I am genuinely happy for him. And it's an extremely happy occasion, to win in Australia." "But if I have to come and partake in his happiness, and the success of the team, I must feel like I belong there. If I feel like I am being thrown under the bus, how am I supposed to get up and come for a party to enjoy the team's or team-mate's success? I went back to my room and then I spoke to my wife. And my children were there. So we were able to, you know, shrug it off, and I still made it to the party, because, end of the day, we had won a massive series," he added. Now, Shastri has reacted to Ashwin's statements and told the Indian Express, "Ashwin did not play the Test in Sydney and Kuldeep bowled well. So it's fair I give Kuldeep a chance. If that hurt Ashwin, I am very happy. It made him do something different. My job is not to butter everyone’s toast. My job is to state facts without agenda." ALSO READ | Felt crushed: R Ashwin recalls Ravi Shastri's huge praise for Kuldeep Yadav during 2018-19 Australia tour Ashwin, however, played a bigger role in India's second successive Test series win in Australia during the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. He returned with 11 wickets in 3 Tests to end as India's second-highest wicket-taker in their historic 2-1 series triumph over Tim Paine & Co. Injury, however, ruled him out of action for the series finale at The Gabba, Brisbane. At present, Ashwin-starrer Team India is gearing up for the series opener of the three Tests versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion.

My job isn't to butter everyone’s toast: Ravi Shastri recalls his praise for Kuldeep which 'crushed' R Ashwin

<p>India achieved their second Test series win over Australia in their own backyard during the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Despite not having the services of Virat Kohli (due to paternity leave) after the first Test, which India lost by 8 wickets, the Ajinkya Rahane-led Indian team pulled off an upset over Tim Paine-led Aussies to win the series 2-1 Down Under.</p>

<p>During the series, India managed to keep Steve Smith at bay -- despite him scoring a century in the third Test -- as the wily off-spinner R Ashwin got the better of the former Aussie captain on three occasions. Recently, the 35-year-old spinner Ashwin opened up on his duel with Smith and how he managed to keep him quiet with the bat for most part of the epic series.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/difficult-to-maintain-former-indian-cricketers-reacts-to-r-ashwins-remark-on-ravi-shastri-438965"><strong>'Difficult to maintain....' - Former Indian cricketers reacts to R Ashwin's remark on Ravi Shastri</strong></a></p>

<p>Speaking to&nbsp;<em>ESPN Cricinfo</em>, Ashwin said, "I made him (Steve Smith) my obsession for about six months, not just two weeks or three weeks. Just footage, just watching different matches. The most recent series they played (before India toured Australia in 2020-21) was New Zealand. I went through every single day's play. I would go on to my app and check - how many runs was (Marnus) Labuschagne batting on when Will Somerville came on to bowl? Which ball did he hit over the cow corner?"</p>

<p>"As a spinner, you need to be very precise in Australia. Every run you give must be on your own terms. So whenever Marnus Labuschagne steps out, he hits the ball over cow corner for an offspinner, or he hits it over mid-off. It's very rare through long-on. And he doesn't have a flat sweep, he has a lap sweep, like a paddle. All these shots have a trigger. And it's very fine. If you don't know or if you've not seen enough footage, you cannot pick these things up. And with Steve Smith, his batting is very momentum-driven. Most of his batting comes from his hands, so my whole idea was to disturb his hands through the series. He's got certain hand-movement patterns. You have to pick them and be able to bowl in a way that disturbs his hand pattern. So I bowled with different load-ups, different speeds, different run-ups and all that. I realised I kind of got to him," Ashwin further elaborated.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-contemplated-giving-up-the-sport-r-ashwin-admits-to-have-thought-of-retirement-between-2018-20-438664"><strong>I contemplated giving up the sport: R Ashwin admits to have thought of retirement between 2018-20</strong></a></p>

<p>With no Kohli for the last three Tests, many experts and former cricketers hadn't given Team India any chance going forward after the Adelaide Test drubbing. Nonetheless, the likes of Rahane (MCG Test ton), Ashwin, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill, Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar stood tall in various crucial junctures to bail India out and come from behind to win the series 2-1. Ashwin, in particular, was one of the key players for India, ending as the side's second-highest wicket-taker (11) after Siraj (13).</p>

<p>At present, Ashwin is gearing up for India's upcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa in the African nation. The first Test commences on December 26 in Centurion.&nbsp;</p>


India achieved their second Test series win over Australia in their own backyard during the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Despite not having the services of Virat Kohli (due to paternity leave) after the first Test, which India lost by 8 wickets, the Ajinkya Rahane-led Indian team pulled off an upset over Tim Paine-led Aussies to win the series 2-1 Down Under.

India achieved their second Test series win over Australia in their own backyard during the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Despite not having the services of Virat Kohli (due to paternity leave) after the first Test, which India lost by 8 wickets, the Ajinkya Rahane-led Indian team pulled off an upset over Tim Paine-led Aussies to win the series 2-1 Down Under. During the series, India managed to keep Steve Smith at bay -- despite him scoring a century in the third Test -- as the wily off-spinner R Ashwin got the better of the former Aussie captain on three occasions. Recently, the 35-year-old spinner Ashwin opened up on his duel with Smith and how he managed to keep him quiet with the bat for most part of the epic series. ALSO READ | 'Difficult to maintain....' - Former Indian cricketers reacts to R Ashwin's remark on Ravi Shastri Speaking to ESPN Cricinfo, Ashwin said, "I made him (Steve Smith) my obsession for about six months, not just two weeks or three weeks. Just footage, just watching different matches. The most recent series they played (before India toured Australia in 2020-21) was New Zealand. I went through every single day's play. I would go on to my app and check - how many runs was (Marnus) Labuschagne batting on when Will Somerville came on to bowl? Which ball did he hit over the cow corner?" "As a spinner, you need to be very precise in Australia. Every run you give must be on your own terms. So whenever Marnus Labuschagne steps out, he hits the ball over cow corner for an offspinner, or he hits it over mid-off. It's very rare through long-on. And he doesn't have a flat sweep, he has a lap sweep, like a paddle. All these shots have a trigger. And it's very fine. If you don't know or if you've not seen enough footage, you cannot pick these things up. And with Steve Smith, his batting is very momentum-driven. Most of his batting comes from his hands, so my whole idea was to disturb his hands through the series. He's got certain hand-movement patterns. You have to pick them and be able to bowl in a way that disturbs his hand pattern. So I bowled with different load-ups, different speeds, different run-ups and all that. I realised I kind of got to him," Ashwin further elaborated. ALSO READ | I contemplated giving up the sport: R Ashwin admits to have thought of retirement between 2018-20 With no Kohli for the last three Tests, many experts and former cricketers hadn't given Team India any chance going forward after the Adelaide Test drubbing. Nonetheless, the likes of Rahane (MCG Test ton), Ashwin, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill, Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar stood tall in various crucial junctures to bail India out and come from behind to win the series 2-1. Ashwin, in particular, was one of the key players for India, ending as the side's second-highest wicket-taker (11) after Siraj (13). At present, Ashwin is gearing up for India's upcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa in the African nation. The first Test commences on December 26 in Centurion.

Made him my obsession: Ashwin reveals how he got the better of Steve Smith in 2020/21 IND-AUS series

<p>R Ashwin is gearing up for Team India's forthcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation, which gets underway from December 26 in Centurion. Ashwin, at 35, remains an integral part of the Test line-up and recently also returned to the limited-overs setup -- after a four-year halt -- during the 2021 T20 World Cup.</p>

<p>Back in mid-2017, Ashwin had lost his place in the ODI and T20I line-up whereas the rise of Kuldeep Yadav kept him on his toes even in the purest format. During India's Test series versus&nbsp;Australia in the 2018/19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Down Under, Ashwin played the first Test in Adelaide and helped Virat Kohli &amp; Co. win the series opener by 31 runs. However, an injury led to his omission from the remainder of the series. Kuldeep made the most of his absence and played the series decider at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney to return with a five-fer. Hence, then head coach Ravi Shastri labelled Kuldeep as the 'No. 1 overseas spinner' for India.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-contemplated-giving-up-the-sport-r-ashwin-admits-to-have-thought-of-retirement-between-2018-20-438664"><strong>I contemplated giving up the sport: R Ashwin admits to have thought of retirement between 2018-20</strong></a></p>

<p>In an interview with&nbsp;<em>Cricket Monthly</em>, Ashwin opened up on former head coach Shastri's comments and said, "I hold Ravi&nbsp;<i>bhai</i>&nbsp;in high esteem. We all do. And I understand we all can say things and then retract them. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed. We all talk about how important it is to enjoy your team-mates' success.</p>

<p>"And I was happy for Kuldeep. I have not been able to get a five-for but he has a five-for in Australia. I know how big it is. Even when I have bowled well [at other times], I haven't ended up with a five-for. So I am genuinely happy for him. And it's an extremely happy occasion, to win in Australia. But if I have to come and partake in his happiness, and the success of the team, I must feel like I belong there. If I feel like I am being thrown under the bus, how am I supposed to get up and come for a party to enjoy the team's or team-mate's success?," said Ashwin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-couldve-picked-up-the-phone-aakash-chopra-opines-on-team-indias-odi-captaincy-row-438647">'Virat Kohli could've picked up the phone...' - Aakash Chopra opines on Team India's ODI captaincy row</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "I went back to my room and then I spoke to my wife. And my children were there. So we were able to, you know, shrug it off, and I still made it to the party, because, end of the day, we had won a massive series."</p>

<p>At present, the tables have turned with Kuldeep not being in the scheme of things for the full-strength national side across formats. On the other hand, Ashwin has been on a roll in the home Tests versus England and New Zealand and was also India's second-highest wicket-taker in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy win over Australia in their own backyard. In addition, he has contributed with the bat in crunch situations in the recent past in whites. Moreover, he has also claimed 9 wickets in five T20Is ever since his return to white-ball formats.</p>


R Ashwin is gearing up for Team India's forthcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation, which gets underway from December 26 in Centurion.

R Ashwin is gearing up for Team India's forthcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation, which gets underway from December 26 in Centurion. Ashwin, at 35, remains an integral part of the Test line-up and recently also returned to the limited-overs setup -- after a four-year halt -- during the 2021 T20 World Cup. Back in mid-2017, Ashwin had lost his place in the ODI and T20I line-up whereas the rise of Kuldeep Yadav kept him on his toes even in the purest format. During India's Test series versus Australia in the 2018/19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Down Under, Ashwin played the first Test in Adelaide and helped Virat Kohli & Co. win the series opener by 31 runs. However, an injury led to his omission from the remainder of the series. Kuldeep made the most of his absence and played the series decider at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney to return with a five-fer. Hence, then head coach Ravi Shastri labelled Kuldeep as the 'No. 1 overseas spinner' for India. ALSO READ | I contemplated giving up the sport: R Ashwin admits to have thought of retirement between 2018-20 In an interview with Cricket Monthly, Ashwin opened up on former head coach Shastri's comments and said, "I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. And I understand we all can say things and then retract them. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed. We all talk about how important it is to enjoy your team-mates' success. "And I was happy for Kuldeep. I have not been able to get a five-for but he has a five-for in Australia. I know how big it is. Even when I have bowled well [at other times], I haven't ended up with a five-for. So I am genuinely happy for him. And it's an extremely happy occasion, to win in Australia. But if I have to come and partake in his happiness, and the success of the team, I must feel like I belong there. If I feel like I am being thrown under the bus, how am I supposed to get up and come for a party to enjoy the team's or team-mate's success?," said Ashwin. ALSO READ | 'Virat Kohli could've picked up the phone...' - Aakash Chopra opines on Team India's ODI captaincy row He added, "I went back to my room and then I spoke to my wife. And my children were there. So we were able to, you know, shrug it off, and I still made it to the party, because, end of the day, we had won a massive series." At present, the tables have turned with Kuldeep not being in the scheme of things for the full-strength national side across formats. On the other hand, Ashwin has been on a roll in the home Tests versus England and New Zealand and was also India's second-highest wicket-taker in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy win over Australia in their own backyard. In addition, he has contributed with the bat in crunch situations in the recent past in whites. Moreover, he has also claimed 9 wickets in five T20Is ever since his return to white-ball formats.

Felt crushed: R Ashwin recalls Ravi Shastri's huge praise for Kuldeep Yadav during 2018-19 Australia tour

<p>The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 was filled with sporting events, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in early 2020 and postponing many big-ticket tournaments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Year 2021 had plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip. Talking about Team India, the senior men's team had some glorious highs along with two disheartening lows. While the optimists can claim that India maintained their hold in the top-3 in rankings across formats, one reality also remains that national side couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Revisiting India's 2021, let us have a look at how Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer line-up performed in the calendar year:</p>

<p><strong>Conquering all odds Down Under</strong></p>

<p>Ajinkya Rahane-led India managed to draw the 2020/22 Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the halfway stage before 2021 commenced. Coming to the third and penultimate Test, Rishabh Pant's scintillating 97, Cheteshwar Pujara's lengthy stay at the middle and blockathon from R Ashwin-Hanuna Vihari led to the series being wide open, at 1-1, going into the finale at The Gabba, Brisbane.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fourth and final Test lived upto expectations. Second-stringed India were jolted further with injuries to Ravindra Jadeja, Ashwin, Vihari, Jasprit Bumrah. However, they managed to keep themselves alive on the last day, chasing 328 to break Aussies' proud and unbeaten streak at the venue since 32 years.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Riding on Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur's fifties in the first essay, Mohammed Siraj's five-fer and Pant-Pujara's fighting knocks in the final innings, India chased down the total with three wickets in hand to win the series 2-1 in a dramatic fashion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Test would easily go down as one of the greatest heists pulled off by a second-stringed side in the toughest format.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>England tour of India, 2021</strong></p>

<p>Soon after the triumph versus the Aussies, India hosted England in an all-format tour of the Three Lions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Test series: India 3, England 1</strong></p>

<p>Losing the series opener, being in a tough spot in the second Test in Chennai, hearing several criticism around the Ahmedabad pitch, Kohli-led India won the four-match Test series 3-1 to confirm their slot in the inaugural WTC final.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The top-performers for the home side were Ashwin (32 wickets and a ton), Axar Patel (27 wickets in his debut series), Pant and Rohit Sharma's contributions with the willow.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Beating Eoin Morgan &amp; Co. in white-ball formats&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The five T20Is and three ODIs followed suit. The white-ball series was expected to be a tougher assignment for hosts given England's strength in the shorter formats. The T20Is lived upto expectations before India won it 3-2 eventually. The three ODIs saw India go 1-0 up before Morgan-less England turned it around to level it at 1-1. Nonetheless, the series finale was a tough nut to crack for the hosts before finally winning it 2-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-find-anything-wrong-former-india-player-opines-on-rohit-sharma-replacing-virat-kohli-as-odi-captain-435854"><strong>Don't find anything wrong: Former India player opines on Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as ODI captain</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>WTC final - One Where India Never Turned Up&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>After the England home series, Indian players featured in the IPL 2021 edition, which was cut-short due to the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in India. Getting a much-needed breather before WTC final, Team India finally reached the United Kingdom in early June (for WTC final and England Tests).</p>

<p>The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finale was much-awaited. Entering the final as the No. 1 ranked side, having beaten Australia in their own backyard, India were favourites versus the Black Caps. Nonetheless, India's wait for an ICC title, since 2013, extended as Kane Williamson &amp; Co. produced an all-round performance.</p>

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<p>Being asked to bat first, at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, India were 70 for no loss before being bundled out for 217. In reply, NZ were dismissed for 249; gaining a vital 32-run. India had no answers to Tim Southee and Kyle Jamieson's pace, swing and bounce as they were dismissed for 170 in the second innings, setting up a paltry 139-run target.</p>

<p>Kiwis, thus, closed the match with 8 wickets to spare and become the World Test Champions. Agony continued for India in ICC events.</p>

<p><strong>India vs England, five Tests in the UK</strong></p>

<p>After the shambles of the WTC final, India regrouped for&nbsp;the five Tests versus Joe Root-led England. Despite coming so close to the WTC title, India missed out in the final hurdle but had to revamp and start from scratch as the second cycle commenced with the England series.</p>

<p>Kohli-led India were up for the challenge. They came close to winning the five-match Test series opener in Edgbaston before rain washed out entire day five's proceedings. The second Test, at Lord's, brought more luck for India as they won their third Test at the venue, first after seven years, with a comprehensive 151-run margin. Jasprit Bumrah-Mohammed Shami's 89-run unbeaten ninth-wicket stand, KL Rahul's first-innings ton, Mohammed Siraj's eight-wicket haul led to India going 1-0 up despite conceding a 27-run lead.</p>

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<p>The third Test was a disaster for the visitors, losing by an innings and 76 runs. The fourth and penultimate Test once again tested Kohli's brigade to the core but they triumphed against all odds. Being asked to bat first, India were dismissed for 190, after reeling at 127-7 at one stage. To add to this, they conceded a 99-run lead before staging a comeback for the ages.</p>

<p>Riding on Rohit's 127 and fifties from Cheteshwar Pujara, Shardul Thakur (twin half-centuries in the match), Rishabh Pant and cameos from the tail, India set up a daunting 368-run target for Root &amp; Co. In reply, the hosts fell like nine pins, for 210, to lose by 151 runs. Thus, England gave an unassailable lead to the tourists.</p>

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<p>The fifth and final Test, in Manchester, got cancelled at the last minute due to Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. The series decider will be held next year as Team India loyalists are desperately waiting for the national side's first-ever Test series win on English soil since 2007.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-being-able-to-win-icc-title-mightve-cost-virat-kohli-the-odi-captaincy-former-indian-wicketkeeper-435848"><strong>Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>T20 World Cup 2021 - India succumb to new low</strong></p>

<p>After the England Tests and final leg of IPL 2021, in the UAE, the action moved to the Men's T20 World Cup. Starting as one of the strongest contenders, India endured a horrible start. In their opening game, Kohli-led India lost to arch-rivals Pakistan for the first time in World Cup history (both in ODIs and T20Is). Losing by ten wickets, India had a herculean task to stage a comeback.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, more embarrassment awaited the one-time winners. India's losing streak versus New Zealand in ICC events, since 2007, continued as they were hammered by the Black Caps in their second outing. Starring on the brink of an early exit, India gathered themselves to pull off three convincing wins, however, the writing was on the wall long back.</p>

<p>India failed to move past the group stages with three wins from five encounters. Winning against the likes of Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia didn't matter as the Pakistan and New Zealand encounters dented India's campaign severely.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/some-in-bcci-made-sure-i-dont-get-the-job-ex-india-head-coach-ravi-shastri-makes-glaring-remark-435719"><strong>'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>New Zealand tour of India: Start of Rahul Dravid-era</strong></p>

<p>Post the disheartening T20 WC, India began a new era under Rahul Dravid. After much hesitation, Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri to become India's head coach as the former all-rounder's tenure ended with the T20 WC campaign. In addition, Kohli stepped aside as the Indian captain in T20Is -- having made the official announcement prior to the mega event -- and was replaced by Rohit.</p>

<p>While Rohit-led India commenced a new journey in the shortest format with the home series versus NZ. Sans Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and the likes, India demolished the Black Caps 3-0. The two-match Test series followed suit.</p>

<p>It wasn't going to be easy versus the World Test champions. Hence, Williamson-led Kiwis held onto a fighting draw in the series opener, which saw Ajinkya Rahane leading the side in Kohli's absence. The second and final Test brought Kohli back in action as the hosts humbled the visitors at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.</p>

<p>Courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150 and vital contributions from Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav and R Ashwin, India beat New Zealand by a whopping 372-run margin (their biggest win by runs).</p>

<p>India still have a Test left in the calendar year. They are scheduled to tour South Africa, comprising three Tests and ODIs each, but the tour-opener will commence on December 26 with the first Test at Centurion.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-new-era-3-reasons-why-rohit-sharmas-appointment-as-odi-captain-can-be-a-good-move-for-team-india-435882">A new era! 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>The ICC title wait, unearthing of young stars, change in leadership group</strong></p>

<p>Overall, India had a topsy-turvy ride in 2021. While they continued to remain a solid unit across formats, they particularly flourished in bilateral series as an ICC title continues to evade them. Young stars such as Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Ishan Kishan, Pant, etc. made a mark whereas KL Rahul rose in prominence and stature. Kohli lost limited-overs captaincy altogether as Rohit-Dravid-era has commenced in the white-ball formats.</p>

<p>Team India will hope to continue their dominance at home and conquer more Test series away from home. However, their biggest aim would be to end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.</p>


The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 was filled with sporting events, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in early 2020 and postponing many big-ticket tournaments.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 was filled with sporting events, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in early 2020 and postponing many big-ticket tournaments. Year 2021 had plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip. Talking about Team India, the senior men's team had some glorious highs along with two disheartening lows. While the optimists can claim that India maintained their hold in the top-3 in rankings across formats, one reality also remains that national side couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Revisiting India's 2021, let us have a look at how Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer line-up performed in the calendar year: Conquering all odds Down Under Ajinkya Rahane-led India managed to draw the 2020/22 Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the halfway stage before 2021 commenced. Coming to the third and penultimate Test, Rishabh Pant's scintillating 97, Cheteshwar Pujara's lengthy stay at the middle and blockathon from R Ashwin-Hanuna Vihari led to the series being wide open, at 1-1, going into the finale at The Gabba, Brisbane. The fourth and final Test lived upto expectations. Second-stringed India were jolted further with injuries to Ravindra Jadeja, Ashwin, Vihari, Jasprit Bumrah. However, they managed to keep themselves alive on the last day, chasing 328 to break Aussies' proud and unbeaten streak at the venue since 32 years. × Riding on Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur's fifties in the first essay, Mohammed Siraj's five-fer and Pant-Pujara's fighting knocks in the final innings, India chased down the total with three wickets in hand to win the series 2-1 in a dramatic fashion. The Test would easily go down as one of the greatest heists pulled off by a second-stringed side in the toughest format. England tour of India, 2021 Soon after the triumph versus the Aussies, India hosted England in an all-format tour of the Three Lions. Test series: India 3, England 1 Losing the series opener, being in a tough spot in the second Test in Chennai, hearing several criticism around the Ahmedabad pitch, Kohli-led India won the four-match Test series 3-1 to confirm their slot in the inaugural WTC final. The top-performers for the home side were Ashwin (32 wickets and a ton), Axar Patel (27 wickets in his debut series), Pant and Rohit Sharma's contributions with the willow. Beating Eoin Morgan & Co. in white-ball formats The five T20Is and three ODIs followed suit. The white-ball series was expected to be a tougher assignment for hosts given England's strength in the shorter formats. The T20Is lived upto expectations before India won it 3-2 eventually. The three ODIs saw India go 1-0 up before Morgan-less England turned it around to level it at 1-1. Nonetheless, the series finale was a tough nut to crack for the hosts before finally winning it 2-1. ALSO READ | Don't find anything wrong: Former India player opines on Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as ODI captain WTC final - One Where India Never Turned Up After the England home series, Indian players featured in the IPL 2021 edition, which was cut-short due to the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in India. Getting a much-needed breather before WTC final, Team India finally reached the United Kingdom in early June (for WTC final and England Tests). The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finale was much-awaited. Entering the final as the No. 1 ranked side, having beaten Australia in their own backyard, India were favourites versus the Black Caps. Nonetheless, India's wait for an ICC title, since 2013, extended as Kane Williamson & Co. produced an all-round performance. × Being asked to bat first, at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, India were 70 for no loss before being bundled out for 217. In reply, NZ were dismissed for 249; gaining a vital 32-run. India had no answers to Tim Southee and Kyle Jamieson's pace, swing and bounce as they were dismissed for 170 in the second innings, setting up a paltry 139-run target. Kiwis, thus, closed the match with 8 wickets to spare and become the World Test Champions. Agony continued for India in ICC events. India vs England, five Tests in the UK After the shambles of the WTC final, India regrouped for the five Tests versus Joe Root-led England. Despite coming so close to the WTC title, India missed out in the final hurdle but had to revamp and start from scratch as the second cycle commenced with the England series. Kohli-led India were up for the challenge. They came close to winning the five-match Test series opener in Edgbaston before rain washed out entire day five's proceedings. The second Test, at Lord's, brought more luck for India as they won their third Test at the venue, first after seven years, with a comprehensive 151-run margin. Jasprit Bumrah-Mohammed Shami's 89-run unbeaten ninth-wicket stand, KL Rahul's first-innings ton, Mohammed Siraj's eight-wicket haul led to India going 1-0 up despite conceding a 27-run lead. × The third Test was a disaster for the visitors, losing by an innings and 76 runs. The fourth and penultimate Test once again tested Kohli's brigade to the core but they triumphed against all odds. Being asked to bat first, India were dismissed for 190, after reeling at 127-7 at one stage. To add to this, they conceded a 99-run lead before staging a comeback for the ages. Riding on Rohit's 127 and fifties from Cheteshwar Pujara, Shardul Thakur (twin half-centuries in the match), Rishabh Pant and cameos from the tail, India set up a daunting 368-run target for Root & Co. In reply, the hosts fell like nine pins, for 210, to lose by 151 runs. Thus, England gave an unassailable lead to the tourists. × The fifth and final Test, in Manchester, got cancelled at the last minute due to Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. The series decider will be held next year as Team India loyalists are desperately waiting for the national side's first-ever Test series win on English soil since 2007. ALSO READ | Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper T20 World Cup 2021 - India succumb to new low After the England Tests and final leg of IPL 2021, in the UAE, the action moved to the Men's T20 World Cup. Starting as one of the strongest contenders, India endured a horrible start. In their opening game, Kohli-led India lost to arch-rivals Pakistan for the first time in World Cup history (both in ODIs and T20Is). Losing by ten wickets, India had a herculean task to stage a comeback. Nonetheless, more embarrassment awaited the one-time winners. India's losing streak versus New Zealand in ICC events, since 2007, continued as they were hammered by the Black Caps in their second outing. Starring on the brink of an early exit, India gathered themselves to pull off three convincing wins, however, the writing was on the wall long back. India failed to move past the group stages with three wins from five encounters. Winning against the likes of Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia didn't matter as the Pakistan and New Zealand encounters dented India's campaign severely. ALSO READ | 'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark New Zealand tour of India: Start of Rahul Dravid-era Post the disheartening T20 WC, India began a new era under Rahul Dravid. After much hesitation, Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri to become India's head coach as the former all-rounder's tenure ended with the T20 WC campaign. In addition, Kohli stepped aside as the Indian captain in T20Is -- having made the official announcement prior to the mega event -- and was replaced by Rohit. While Rohit-led India commenced a new journey in the shortest format with the home series versus NZ. Sans Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and the likes, India demolished the Black Caps 3-0. The two-match Test series followed suit. It wasn't going to be easy versus the World Test champions. Hence, Williamson-led Kiwis held onto a fighting draw in the series opener, which saw Ajinkya Rahane leading the side in Kohli's absence. The second and final Test brought Kohli back in action as the hosts humbled the visitors at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150 and vital contributions from Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav and R Ashwin, India beat New Zealand by a whopping 372-run margin (their biggest win by runs). India still have a Test left in the calendar year. They are scheduled to tour South Africa, comprising three Tests and ODIs each, but the tour-opener will commence on December 26 with the first Test at Centurion. ALSO READ | A new era! 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India The ICC title wait, unearthing of young stars, change in leadership group Overall, India had a topsy-turvy ride in 2021. While they continued to remain a solid unit across formats, they particularly flourished in bilateral series as an ICC title continues to evade them. Young stars such as Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Ishan Kishan, Pant, etc. made a mark whereas KL Rahul rose in prominence and stature. Kohli lost limited-overs captaincy altogether as Rohit-Dravid-era has commenced in the white-ball formats. Team India will hope to continue their dominance at home and conquer more Test series away from home. However, their biggest aim would be to end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

From conquering Aussies Down Under to T20 World Cup debacle: Team India in 2021

<p>India's Test and ODI captain Virat Kohli remains a superstar in world cricket. The 33-year-old made a big name for himself in world cricket since early 2012 but was one of the star attractions even before his heydays. During MS Dhoni-led India's 2011/12 tour of Australia, Kohli was one of the few Indian players who was targetted consistently by the hostile Australian crowd.</p>

<p>During the second Test, in Sydney, the then youngster Kohli made the headlines for all the wrong reasons. He was being jeered by the Aussie crowd continuously and the Delhi-born cricketer finally decided to give them back as he showed his middle finger to the crowd, while fielding at the boundary line. While he settled scores with the crowd, it wasn't over for the right-hander as he was called upon by the match referee the following day.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-to-lead-india-in-new-zealand-t20i-series-jasprit-bumrah-mohammed-shami-likely-to-be-rested-427998"><strong>Rohit Sharma to lead India in New Zealand T20I series; Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami likely to be rested</strong></a></p>

<p>In an exclusive interview in the Wisden Cricket Monthly, in 2018, Kohli revealed how he pleaded with the match referee to not ban him following the infamous incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The one thing I remember most is when I’d had enough of the Australian crowd at Sydney [in 2012] and I just decided to flick a [middle] finger at them. ‘I’m so cool’," he told Wisden Cricket Monthly. "The match referee [Ranjan Madugalle] called me to his room the next day and I’m like, ‘What’s wrong?’. He said, ‘What happened at the boundary yesterday?’. I said, ‘Nothing, it was a bit of banter’. Then he threw the newspaper in front of me and there was this big image of me flicking on the front page and I said, ‘I’m so sorry, please don’t ban me!’. I got away with that one. He was a nice guy, he understood I was young and these things happen."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-one-is-more-disappointed-than-us-kohli-pens-down-emotional-note-after-indias-dismal-t20-wc-427901"><strong>'No one is more disappointed than us' - Kohli pens down emotional note after India's dismal T20 WC</strong></a></p>

<p>Kohli moved past the infamous incident during the India-Australia Test series and made heads turn for the right reasons by the end of the four Tests Down Under. While his place was under threat due to low returns in the first two Tests and the altercation with the Aussie crowd, he turned it around emphatically with a fighting 72 in the third and penultimate Test, in Perth, before slamming his maiden Test ton in the final Test in Adelaide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To date, Kohli has&nbsp;7,765 runs in 96 Tests at an average of 51.08 along with 27 hundreds. He is expected to lead Team India in the longest format once again during their forthcoming two-match Test series versus New Zealand at home, later this month.</p>


India's Test and ODI captain Virat Kohli remains a superstar in world cricket. The 33-year-old made a big name for himself in world cricket since early 2012 but was one of the star attractions even before his heydays.

India's Test and ODI captain Virat Kohli remains a superstar in world cricket. The 33-year-old made a big name for himself in world cricket since early 2012 but was one of the star attractions even before his heydays. During MS Dhoni-led India's 2011/12 tour of Australia, Kohli was one of the few Indian players who was targetted consistently by the hostile Australian crowd. During the second Test, in Sydney, the then youngster Kohli made the headlines for all the wrong reasons. He was being jeered by the Aussie crowd continuously and the Delhi-born cricketer finally decided to give them back as he showed his middle finger to the crowd, while fielding at the boundary line. While he settled scores with the crowd, it wasn't over for the right-hander as he was called upon by the match referee the following day. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma to lead India in New Zealand T20I series; Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami likely to be rested In an exclusive interview in the Wisden Cricket Monthly, in 2018, Kohli revealed how he pleaded with the match referee to not ban him following the infamous incident. "The one thing I remember most is when I’d had enough of the Australian crowd at Sydney [in 2012] and I just decided to flick a [middle] finger at them. ‘I’m so cool’," he told Wisden Cricket Monthly. "The match referee [Ranjan Madugalle] called me to his room the next day and I’m like, ‘What’s wrong?’. He said, ‘What happened at the boundary yesterday?’. I said, ‘Nothing, it was a bit of banter’. Then he threw the newspaper in front of me and there was this big image of me flicking on the front page and I said, ‘I’m so sorry, please don’t ban me!’. I got away with that one. He was a nice guy, he understood I was young and these things happen." ALSO READ | 'No one is more disappointed than us' - Kohli pens down emotional note after India's dismal T20 WC Kohli moved past the infamous incident during the India-Australia Test series and made heads turn for the right reasons by the end of the four Tests Down Under. While his place was under threat due to low returns in the first two Tests and the altercation with the Aussie crowd, he turned it around emphatically with a fighting 72 in the third and penultimate Test, in Perth, before slamming his maiden Test ton in the final Test in Adelaide. To date, Kohli has 7,765 runs in 96 Tests at an average of 51.08 along with 27 hundreds. He is expected to lead Team India in the longest format once again during their forthcoming two-match Test series versus New Zealand at home, later this month.

THROWBACK: 'Please don’t ban me' - When Kohli recalled how match referee refrained from banning him

<p>India have had incredible success in Australia in the last two editions of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, held Down Under. During the 2018 tour, Virat Kohli &amp; Co. had a chance to become the first Asian side to win a Test series on Australian soil as Tim Paine-led Aussies didn't have the services of David Warner and Steve Smith, who were serving a one-year international ban for the ball-tampering saga.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the duo's absence, Australia had enough firepower in their bowling line-up whereas they also had some reliable batters in the series. Nonetheless, Kohli-led India moved past the Aussies to win the series 2-1 and create history. During the course of the series, Indian skipper Virat Kohli scored a scintillating hundred in the second Test, at Perth, but won accolades mainly for his captaincy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the series, when Kohli was preparing to go out and bat, he was wished 'all the best' by a little fan in the stands in the most adorable way. The right-hander didn't disappoint his young fan and responded with a thumbs-up as well. Here's the throwback video from the 2018 series -</p>

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<p>After the 2018 tour, India once again managed to stun Australia in their own backyard when they played the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy; winning the series 2-1 without Kohli (who left after the series opener). Both sides will meet once again for the next edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy but this time it will be held in India in late 2022.</p>


India have had incredible success in Australia in the last two editions of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, held Down Under. During the 2018 tour, Virat Kohli & Co. had a chance to become the first Asian side to win a Test series on Australian soil as Tim Paine-led Aussies didn't have the services of David Warner and Steve Smith, who were serving a one-year international ban for the ball-tampering saga.

India have had incredible success in Australia in the last two editions of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, held Down Under. During the 2018 tour, Virat Kohli & Co. had a chance to become the first Asian side to win a Test series on Australian soil as Tim Paine-led Aussies didn't have the services of David Warner and Steve Smith, who were serving a one-year international ban for the ball-tampering saga. Despite the duo's absence, Australia had enough firepower in their bowling line-up whereas they also had some reliable batters in the series. Nonetheless, Kohli-led India moved past the Aussies to win the series 2-1 and create history. During the course of the series, Indian skipper Virat Kohli scored a scintillating hundred in the second Test, at Perth, but won accolades mainly for his captaincy. During the series, when Kohli was preparing to go out and bat, he was wished 'all the best' by a little fan in the stands in the most adorable way. The right-hander didn't disappoint his young fan and responded with a thumbs-up as well. Here's the throwback video from the 2018 series - View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cricket bloggers (@_cricblog_) × After the 2018 tour, India once again managed to stun Australia in their own backyard when they played the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy; winning the series 2-1 without Kohli (who left after the series opener). Both sides will meet once again for the next edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy but this time it will be held in India in late 2022.

Adorable! When Indian skipper Virat Kohli responded to little fan's 'All the best' during Australia Tests in 2018 - watch

<p class="MsoNormal">Australia Test captain Tim Paine has taken a sly dig at India as he said that the Men in Blue are good at distracting opponents with things that “do not matter”. Paine’s comments come in the backdrop of India’s historic Test series win against Australia as they became the first team to defeat Australia in Australia on a back-to-back occasion in the longest format of the game.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Ahead of the final Test of the series, reports emerged that the Indian team was unwilling to travel to Brisbane in relation to the COVID-19 situation in the city and bio-secure bubble protocols and reportedly insisted the final Test to be played in Sydney – the host of the third Test. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">However, India went to Brisbane and went on to win the Test and the series. Paine said the distractions created by the Indian team played a role in Australia losing focus ahead of the series decider.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/domination-continues-india-remain-atop-of-icc-mens-test-team-rankings-384711" hreflang="en">Domination continues! India remain atop of ICC Men’s Test team rankings</a></strong><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Part of the challenge of playing against India is they're very good at niggling you and trying to distract you with stuff that doesn't really matter and there were times in that series where we fell for that," Paine told news.com.au.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"The classic example was when they said they weren't going to the Gabba so we didn't know where we were going. They're very good at creating these sideshows and we took our eye off the ball."</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-picked-australian-brains-to-build-indias-solid-domestic-structure-greg-chappell-384565" hreflang="en">ahul Dravid picked 'Australian brains' to build India's solid domestic structure: Greg Chappell</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">While India’s previous tour of Australia was epic in many ways, the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar trophy win was sweeter for the players and fans given the number of injuries in the first-team. With the likes of Virat Kohli unavailable and many key players like Mohammed Shami, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah among others injured, India put a commendable show to seal a Test series for ages.<o:p></o:p></p>


Australia Test captain Tim Paine has taken a sly dig at India as he said that the Men in Blue are good at distracting opponents with things that “do not matter”.

Australia Test captain Tim Paine has taken a sly dig at India as he said that the Men in Blue are good at distracting opponents with things that “do not matter”. Paine’s comments come in the backdrop of India’s historic Test series win against Australia as they became the first team to defeat Australia in Australia on a back-to-back occasion in the longest format of the game. Ahead of the final Test of the series, reports emerged that the Indian team was unwilling to travel to Brisbane in relation to the COVID-19 situation in the city and bio-secure bubble protocols and reportedly insisted the final Test to be played in Sydney – the host of the third Test. However, India went to Brisbane and went on to win the Test and the series. Paine said the distractions created by the Indian team played a role in Australia losing focus ahead of the series decider. ALSO READ: Domination continues! India remain atop of ICC Men’s Test team rankings "Part of the challenge of playing against India is they're very good at niggling you and trying to distract you with stuff that doesn't really matter and there were times in that series where we fell for that," Paine told news.com.au. "The classic example was when they said they weren't going to the Gabba so we didn't know where we were going. They're very good at creating these sideshows and we took our eye off the ball." ALSO READ: ahul Dravid picked 'Australian brains' to build India's solid domestic structure: Greg Chappell While India’s previous tour of Australia was epic in many ways, the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar trophy win was sweeter for the players and fans given the number of injuries in the first-team. With the likes of Virat Kohli unavailable and many key players like Mohammed Shami, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah among others injured, India put a commendable show to seal a Test series for ages.

'They weren't going to Gabba': Australia skipper Tim Paine says Team India good at 'creating sideshows'

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{db7ddd3f-00bc-4b8f-b44d-e9f6ccd2f1db}{39}" paraid="314862706" >The Indian cricket team is set to lock horns with Australia in the fourth and final Test of the series at The Gabba in Brisbane on January 15. The visitors have shown immense grit and determination to keep the series level at 1-1 despite having an injury-plagued squad at their helm. With so many injuries in the Indian team,&nbsp;fans have been guessing the playing XI of the visitors led by Ajinkya Rahane. Ahead of the Brisbane Test, let us take a look at the probable playing XI of the Indian team against Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{fdd10de9-d996-40bc-a5af-befb4b9c32c6}{202}" paraid="958349559" >While the likes of Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav were ruled out earlier in the series, India will miss the services of Ravindra Jadeja and&nbsp;Hanuma Vihari. Even the likes of&nbsp;Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;and Ravichandran Ashwin are doubtful due to abdominal strain and back strain respectively. Even Mayank Agarwal was hit during a net session&nbsp;ahead of the series decider.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0c9b6373-059b-4fee-a96d-31d2005428be}{125}" paraid="1388405043" >While Team India's batting coach Vikram&nbsp;Rathour&nbsp;said that the visitors will take a call on&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;on Friday morning, it is highly unlikely that the ace Indian pacer will feature in the match, which will force the Indian team to field an inexperienced bowling attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0c9b6373-059b-4fee-a96d-31d2005428be}{125}" paraid="1388405043" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/call-on-jasprit-bumrahs-availability-to-be-taken-on-friday-says-vikram-rathour-ahead-of-brisbane-test-356626" hreflang="en">Call on Jasprit Bumrah's availability to be taken on Friday, says Vikram Rathour ahead of Brisbane Test</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{010c2f92-1130-4b36-9c67-51a5ecb23ba5}{190}" paraid="1398368533" >"The injuries are still being monitored. Our medical staff is looking into it, I would not be in a position to comment on this right now. We would like to give them as much time as possible. It will be tomorrow morning that you will know which eleven takes the field," India's batting coach Vikram&nbsp;Rathour&nbsp;said in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the final Test.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{d03bfd4d-d0c5-41ca-84e0-9e5be7c6671d}{246}" paraid="1519172505" >"As far as I am concerned, we have the ability, with or without injuries, the eleven that will play would be the best eleven that India could put on the ground, all of them deserve to be there, if they play to their potential, I cannot see any reason, why we cannot do well," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{d03bfd4d-d0c5-41ca-84e0-9e5be7c6671d}{246}" paraid="1519172505" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-cricket-fan-waits-10-months-for-sri-lanka-test-and-gets-kicked-out-356640" hreflang="en">England cricket fan waits 10 months for Sri Lanka Test - and gets kicked out</a></strong></p>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{d03bfd4d-d0c5-41ca-84e0-9e5be7c6671d}{191}" paraid="165930402" >Indian cricket team likely playing XI against Australia in the fourth Test in Brisbane:</h2>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{d03bfd4d-d0c5-41ca-84e0-9e5be7c6671d}{191}" paraid="165930402" >Rohit Sharma,&nbsp;Shubman&nbsp;Gill,&nbsp;Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (C), Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant (WK),&nbsp;Washington Sundar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


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

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

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