The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced Team India's 15-man squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final versus Australia, which will be held next month at The Oval, London. In the 15-member squad, Ajinkya Rahane made a comeback into the national side on the back of a decent run in the Ranji Trophy 2022/23 edition and his recent success in the ongoing IPL 2023 edition for Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

Rahane's comeback was mainly possible after Shreyas Iyer got injured, due to his persistent back issues, and Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will bank on him in the English conditions given his overall experience. Many former cricketers and experts have shared their take on Rahane's return. MSK Prasad, former Indian chief selector, also joined the bandwagon and gave a thumbs up to the former Indian Test vice-captain's return.&nbsp;

Speaking to IndiaToday, Prasad said, "It’s a fair team, it’s the right call. Ajinkya&nbsp;with so much of uncertainty in the middle-order, I think they (selectors) were absolutely right. I am very, very happy for him. He has always been a wonderful performer for India in the away series. And I think he fits the bill perfectly. Full credit to the selectors for bringing him back."

<iframe aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="2" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" role="region" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>"Basically, his attitude is like a monk's. He is never disturbed when he is not selected. He is not over-excited when he is selected. He is that kind of a guy. His mood doesn't swing up and down, just like that. He is a very mature person. Unfortunately, because of a dip in his form, he had to sit out," he added.

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🚨 NEWS 🚨<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> squad for ICC World Test Championship 2023 Final announced. 
 
Details 🔽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC23</a> <a href="https://t.co/sz7F5ByfiU">https://t.co/sz7F5ByfiU</a> <a href="https://t.co/KIcH530rOL">pic.twitter.com/KIcH530rOL</a>
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Rahane was part of India's playing XI when they faced eventual winners New Zealand in the inaugural WTC final, at Southampton, in 2021. He returned with scores of 49 and 15 and will hope to contribute with a big knock this time around and lead India to a memorable win.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-unseen-ms-dhoni-loses-cool-screams-and-gives-death-stare-to-his-csk-teammate-watch-586028">IPL 2023: UNSEEN! MS Dhoni loses cool, screams and gives DEATH STARE to his CSK teammate - Watch</a>

INDIA SQUAD FOR WTC FINAL

Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, K L Rahul, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced Team India's 15-man squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final versus Australia, which will be held next month at The Oval, London.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced Team India's 15-man squad for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final versus Australia, which will be held next month at The Oval, London. In the 15-member squad, Ajinkya Rahane made a comeback into the national side on the back of a decent run in the Ranji Trophy 2022/23 edition and his recent success in the ongoing IPL 2023 edition for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Rahane's comeback was mainly possible after Shreyas Iyer got injured, due to his persistent back issues, and Rohit Sharma & Co. will bank on him in the English conditions given his overall experience. Many former cricketers and experts have shared their take on Rahane's return. MSK Prasad, former Indian chief selector, also joined the bandwagon and gave a thumbs up to the former Indian Test vice-captain's return. Speaking to IndiaToday, Prasad said, "It’s a fair team, it’s the right call. Ajinkya with so much of uncertainty in the middle-order, I think they (selectors) were absolutely right. I am very, very happy for him. He has always been a wonderful performer for India in the away series. And I think he fits the bill perfectly. Full credit to the selectors for bringing him back." "Basically, his attitude is like a monk's. He is never disturbed when he is not selected. He is not over-excited when he is selected. He is that kind of a guy. His mood doesn't swing up and down, just like that. He is a very mature person. Unfortunately, because of a dip in his form, he had to sit out," he added. 🚨 NEWS 🚨#TeamIndia squad for ICC World Test Championship 2023 Final announced. Details 🔽 #WTC23 https://t.co/sz7F5ByfiU pic.twitter.com/KIcH530rOL — BCCI (@BCCI) April 25, 2023 × Rahane was part of India's playing XI when they faced eventual winners New Zealand in the inaugural WTC final, at Southampton, in 2021. He returned with scores of 49 and 15 and will hope to contribute with a big knock this time around and lead India to a memorable win. Also Read: IPL 2023: UNSEEN! MS Dhoni loses cool, screams and gives DEATH STARE to his CSK teammate - Watch INDIA SQUAD FOR WTC FINAL Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, K L Rahul, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat.

Ajinkya Rahane has monk-like attitude, good call to pick him for WTC final: Former India chief selector

With the three-match ODI series levelled at 1-1, India and Australia have locked horns in the series finale at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Wednesday (March 22). Opting to bat first, Steve Smith-led Australia were off to a flying start courtesy of in-form openers Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh before Hardik Pandya's three quick strikes brought India back into the game.

Hardik removed Australia's top three and could have got rid of Head a bit earlier as well had Shubman Gill not dropped a catch off the all-rounder's bowling. The incident took place in the 11th over when Head pulled a short-pitched delivery towards deep square leg with Gill stationed at the position. He went for the catch and timed his dive but could not hold on to the ball (his third drop of the series) and it went to the boundary as well. Gill's efforts didn't please captain Rohit Sharma and vice-captain Hardik. Here's how the duo reacted:

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashwin-lauds-kl-rahul-for-doing-very-difficult-role-with-ease-compares-him-with-ms-dhoni-yuvraj-singh-574649">Ashwin lauds KL Rahul for 'doing very difficult role with ease', compares him with MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh</a>

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To Gill's relief, Head fell in the same over as Kuldeeo Yadav took a sharp catch at the deep. Hardik also removed well-set Marsh (47) and accounted for stand-in captain Smith's wicket 0 (3). Gill later redeemed himself with a catch of Marcus Stoinis, who was looking dangerous at 25 (26).

Australia will hope to post anything over 265-270 to challenge Team India at the Chepauk stadium. The series is interestingly poised at 1-1 after Australia won the second and penultimate game&nbsp;by ten wickets. The home side won the series opener, in Mumbai, by five wickets.

With the three-match ODI series levelled at 1-1, India and Australia have locked horns in the series finale at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Wednesday (March 22).

With the three-match ODI series levelled at 1-1, India and Australia have locked horns in the series finale at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Wednesday (March 22). Opting to bat first, Steve Smith-led Australia were off to a flying start courtesy of in-form openers Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh before Hardik Pandya's three quick strikes brought India back into the game. Hardik removed Australia's top three and could have got rid of Head a bit earlier as well had Shubman Gill not dropped a catch off the all-rounder's bowling. The incident took place in the 11th over when Head pulled a short-pitched delivery towards deep square leg with Gill stationed at the position. He went for the catch and timed his dive but could not hold on to the ball (his third drop of the series) and it went to the boundary as well. Gill's efforts didn't please captain Rohit Sharma and vice-captain Hardik. Here's how the duo reacted: Also Read: Ashwin lauds KL Rahul for 'doing very difficult role with ease', compares him with MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh pic.twitter.com/W9saXsTI8j — Guess Karo (@KuchNahiUkhada) March 22, 2023 × To Gill's relief, Head fell in the same over as Kuldeeo Yadav took a sharp catch at the deep. Hardik also removed well-set Marsh (47) and accounted for stand-in captain Smith's wicket 0 (3). Gill later redeemed himself with a catch of Marcus Stoinis, who was looking dangerous at 25 (26). Australia will hope to post anything over 265-270 to challenge Team India at the Chepauk stadium. The series is interestingly poised at 1-1 after Australia won the second and penultimate game by ten wickets. The home side won the series opener, in Mumbai, by five wickets.

WATCH: Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya unimpressed as Shubman Gill drops a catch in Ind-Aus Chennai ODI

India entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final early this month and are set to face Australia in the title clash, set to be held at The Oval, London on June 07. Ever since India qualified for the summit clash, many felt the team management might include star all-rounder Hardik Pandya for the marquee clash with an ICC trophy at stake.

Hardik has not played a Test since India's tour of England in 2018, where he picked a five-fer. He has done reasonably well in the 11 Tests and even has a hundred to his name. Nonetheless, due to his back issues, Hardik hasn't been risked by the Indian team management in all formats and only features in white-ball cricket of late.

When he was asked if he will return in the Test arena for the WTC final, Hardik told reporters ahead of the India-Australia ODIs, "No. I am ethically very strong person. I haven’t done 10% to reach there. I am not even a part of 1%. So me coming there and taking someone’s place will ethically not go well. If I want to play Test cricket, I’ll go through the grind and earn my spot. Hence, for that reason I will not be available for the WTC final or future test series until I feel that I have earned my spot."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashwin-lauds-kl-rahul-for-doing-very-difficult-role-with-ease-compares-him-with-ms-dhoni-yuvraj-singh-574649">Ashwin lauds KL Rahul for 'doing very difficult role with ease', compares him with MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh</a>

Now, veteran Indian off-spinner R Ashwin has lauded Hardik for his take on a possible Test return during the WTC final. Ashwin hailed the all-rounder and said it is a 'proper statement to the cricket fraternity and to the entire world by Hardik'.

"We have reached the WTC final and many felt that Hardik Pandya must return to the Test side. Of course, those opinions were great since Hardik has done well in England with the limited Tests he has played there. But Hardik has said that it won't do justice and, 'I will come back when I feel it's the right time to play Test cricket and I haven't even played one percent role in qualifying for the finals'. This is a proper statement to the cricket fraternity and to the entire world by Hardik Pandya," Ashwin said on his Youtube channel.

He added, "We often tend to blame others for our failures. We believe in superstitions or find other reasons because at the end of the day we are disappointed. But Hardik has accepted that he isn't eligible to play Test at the moment. That is a big statement coming from a player- like him. Hats off to Hardik Pandya."

“Why am I hyping this so much about Hardik? Well, because he led us in Rohit Sharma's absence in the first ODI against Australia. Many has praised saying that he doesn't back down from a challenge. Australia were on course for a huge total. But Hardik played a role in bringing back Siraj and Shami even after the spinners took two wickets because he felt there was something in the wicket for the pacers. To get a team all out for 188 from 155 for three is phenomenal achievement by India,” Ashwin concluded.

Hardik has played 11&nbsp;Tests, scoring&nbsp;532 runs -- with a hundred and four fifties -- along with claiming 17 wickets.

India entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final early this month and are set to face Australia in the title clash, set to be held at The Oval, London on June 07.

India entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final early this month and are set to face Australia in the title clash, set to be held at The Oval, London on June 07. Ever since India qualified for the summit clash, many felt the team management might include star all-rounder Hardik Pandya for the marquee clash with an ICC trophy at stake. Hardik has not played a Test since India's tour of England in 2018, where he picked a five-fer. He has done reasonably well in the 11 Tests and even has a hundred to his name. Nonetheless, due to his back issues, Hardik hasn't been risked by the Indian team management in all formats and only features in white-ball cricket of late. When he was asked if he will return in the Test arena for the WTC final, Hardik told reporters ahead of the India-Australia ODIs, "No. I am ethically very strong person. I haven’t done 10% to reach there. I am not even a part of 1%. So me coming there and taking someone’s place will ethically not go well. If I want to play Test cricket, I’ll go through the grind and earn my spot. Hence, for that reason I will not be available for the WTC final or future test series until I feel that I have earned my spot." Also Read: Ashwin lauds KL Rahul for 'doing very difficult role with ease', compares him with MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh Now, veteran Indian off-spinner R Ashwin has lauded Hardik for his take on a possible Test return during the WTC final. Ashwin hailed the all-rounder and said it is a 'proper statement to the cricket fraternity and to the entire world by Hardik'. "We have reached the WTC final and many felt that Hardik Pandya must return to the Test side. Of course, those opinions were great since Hardik has done well in England with the limited Tests he has played there. But Hardik has said that it won't do justice and, 'I will come back when I feel it's the right time to play Test cricket and I haven't even played one percent role in qualifying for the finals'. This is a proper statement to the cricket fraternity and to the entire world by Hardik Pandya," Ashwin said on his Youtube channel. He added, "We often tend to blame others for our failures. We believe in superstitions or find other reasons because at the end of the day we are disappointed. But Hardik has accepted that he isn't eligible to play Test at the moment. That is a big statement coming from a player- like him. Hats off to Hardik Pandya." “Why am I hyping this so much about Hardik? Well, because he led us in Rohit Sharma's absence in the first ODI against Australia. Many has praised saying that he doesn't back down from a challenge. Australia were on course for a huge total. But Hardik played a role in bringing back Siraj and Shami even after the spinners took two wickets because he felt there was something in the wicket for the pacers. To get a team all out for 188 from 155 for three is phenomenal achievement by India,” Ashwin concluded. Hardik has played 11 Tests, scoring 532 runs -- with a hundred and four fifties -- along with claiming 17 wickets.

This is a proper statement: R Ashwin lauds Hardik Pandya for his remark on Test return during WTC final

After a gruelling four-match Test series, India and Australia have locked horns in the three-match ODI series opener at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (March 17). Both the regular captains Rohit Sharma and Pat Cummins are not in action as the latter remains in Australia after his mother's passing away whereas Hitman will join the squad for the remainder ODIs after missing the series opener due to personal reasons.

In Rohit's absence, Hardik Pandya is leading Team India. After winning the toss, India opted to bowl first and have bundled out the Steve Smith-led Aussies for a paltry 188 in 35.4 overs. Md Siraj and Md Shami ended with three scalps each whereas Ravindra Jadeja took 2 for 48. Captain Hardik removed the dangerman Smith with KL Rahul grabbing a sharp low catch. Here's the video of Rahul's timely dive as he removed Smith with a stunner behind the stumps:

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Edged and taken!<a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a> strikes and how good was that grab behind the stumps from <a href="https://twitter.com/klrahul?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@klrahul</a> 💪 
 
Steve Smith departs. 
 
Watch his dismissal here 👇👇<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mastercardindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mastercardindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/yss3sj4N4z">pic.twitter.com/yss3sj4N4z</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1636659941585870848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-safe-sachin-adam-gilchrist-reacts-to-incorrect-claims-labelling-him-as-worlds-richest-cricketer-572958">You safe Sachin: Adam Gilchrist reacts to INCORRECT claims labelling him as world's RICHEST cricketer</a>

Rohit-less India will look to take a 1-0 lead in the three ODIs after dismissing Australia for 188. At one stage, they were well-placed at 129 for 2 with Mitchell Marsh (81 off 65 balls) lying the perfect platform but regular breakthroughs dented their progress.

From 129 for 2, Australia were soon reduced to 188 all-out and the Men in Yellow have a herculean task to stop the Indian team from chasing down the below-par total.

After a gruelling four-match Test series, India and Australia have locked horns in the three-match ODI series opener at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (March 17).

After a gruelling four-match Test series, India and Australia have locked horns in the three-match ODI series opener at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (March 17). Both the regular captains Rohit Sharma and Pat Cummins are not in action as the latter remains in Australia after his mother's passing away whereas Hitman will join the squad for the remainder ODIs after missing the series opener due to personal reasons. In Rohit's absence, Hardik Pandya is leading Team India. After winning the toss, India opted to bowl first and have bundled out the Steve Smith-led Aussies for a paltry 188 in 35.4 overs. Md Siraj and Md Shami ended with three scalps each whereas Ravindra Jadeja took 2 for 48. Captain Hardik removed the dangerman Smith with KL Rahul grabbing a sharp low catch. Here's the video of Rahul's timely dive as he removed Smith with a stunner behind the stumps: Edged and taken!@hardikpandya7 strikes and how good was that grab behind the stumps from @klrahul 💪 Steve Smith departs. Watch his dismissal here 👇👇#INDvAUS @mastercardindia pic.twitter.com/yss3sj4N4z — BCCI (@BCCI) March 17, 2023 × Also read: You safe Sachin: Adam Gilchrist reacts to INCORRECT claims labelling him as world's RICHEST cricketer Rohit-less India will look to take a 1-0 lead in the three ODIs after dismissing Australia for 188. At one stage, they were well-placed at 129 for 2 with Mitchell Marsh (81 off 65 balls) lying the perfect platform but regular breakthroughs dented their progress. From 129 for 2, Australia were soon reduced to 188 all-out and the Men in Yellow have a herculean task to stop the Indian team from chasing down the below-par total.

WATCH: KL Rahul takes a STUNNER as Hardik Pandya gets rid of Steve Smith in India-Australia 1st ODI

After winning 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1, India will take on Australia in the three-match ODI series opener, on Friday (March 17), at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. The Men in Blue will be without regular captain Rohit Sharma, who is out of action due to personal reasons and will join for the remainder ODIs, as Hardik Pandya will lead the side.&nbsp;

In Rohit's absence, former captain Virat Kohli will be expected to guide the young batters and take the bulk of the scoring responsibilities. The 34-year-old Kohli has been in good form in the 50-over format, smashing three tons in the last four months. The star batter is on the cusp of achieving a plethora of records in the three-match ODI series versus Steve Smith &amp; Co. The right-hander is&nbsp;only 191 runs away from becoming the fifth batter to complete 13,000 runs in ODIs. The likes of Sachin Tendulkar (18426), Kumar Sangakkara (14,234), Ricky Ponting (13,704), and Sanath Jayasuriya (13,430) are the only ones to be part of the 13k club.&nbsp;

Kohli is also just three&nbsp;centuries away from equalling Tendulkar's world record for most ODI hundreds (49). Kohli's tally stands at 46. He averages a superb&nbsp;54.81 versus the Men in Yellow, along with ten half-centuries and eight hundreds. Thus, he has a chance to equal Tendulkar's tally. It is to be noted that Kohli has scored three tons on the trot in the format once (in 2018 during the home series versus West Indies). Hence, there is every chance for him to replicate the same once again and come at par with SRT.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2023-virat-kohlis-pep-talk-with-smriti-mandhanas-rcb-goes-viral-ahead-of-their-first-win-watch-572524">WPL 2023: Virat Kohli's pep talk with Smriti Mandhana's RCB goes viral ahead of their first win - Watch</a>

In addition, Kohli is eyeing to overtake Ponting in the list of batters with the most runs in home ODIs. He is currently third in the overall list&nbsp;behind Tendulkar and Ponting. The Master Blaster is at the top with&nbsp;6,976 runs whereas the former Australian captain comes next with&nbsp;5,406 runs. Meanwhile, Kohli has&nbsp;5,358 runs under his belt in home conditions; 48 runs away from the Aussie.&nbsp;

Since the 2015 ODI World Cup, India and Australia have squared off in five bilateral ODI series. The Men in Blue have won twice and lost the remaining three. Hence, they will hope for a winning start in the three-match series opener in Mumbai on Friday.

After winning 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1, India will take on Australia in the three-match ODI series opener, on Friday (March 17), at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

After winning 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1, India will take on Australia in the three-match ODI series opener, on Friday (March 17), at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. The Men in Blue will be without regular captain Rohit Sharma, who is out of action due to personal reasons and will join for the remainder ODIs, as Hardik Pandya will lead the side. In Rohit's absence, former captain Virat Kohli will be expected to guide the young batters and take the bulk of the scoring responsibilities. The 34-year-old Kohli has been in good form in the 50-over format, smashing three tons in the last four months. The star batter is on the cusp of achieving a plethora of records in the three-match ODI series versus Steve Smith & Co. The right-hander is only 191 runs away from becoming the fifth batter to complete 13,000 runs in ODIs. The likes of Sachin Tendulkar (18426), Kumar Sangakkara (14,234), Ricky Ponting (13,704), and Sanath Jayasuriya (13,430) are the only ones to be part of the 13k club. Kohli is also just three centuries away from equalling Tendulkar's world record for most ODI hundreds (49). Kohli's tally stands at 46. He averages a superb 54.81 versus the Men in Yellow, along with ten half-centuries and eight hundreds. Thus, he has a chance to equal Tendulkar's tally. It is to be noted that Kohli has scored three tons on the trot in the format once (in 2018 during the home series versus West Indies). Hence, there is every chance for him to replicate the same once again and come at par with SRT. Also read: WPL 2023: Virat Kohli's pep talk with Smriti Mandhana's RCB goes viral ahead of their first win - Watch In addition, Kohli is eyeing to overtake Ponting in the list of batters with the most runs in home ODIs. He is currently third in the overall list behind Tendulkar and Ponting. The Master Blaster is at the top with 6,976 runs whereas the former Australian captain comes next with 5,406 runs. Meanwhile, Kohli has 5,358 runs under his belt in home conditions; 48 runs away from the Aussie. Since the 2015 ODI World Cup, India and Australia have squared off in five bilateral ODI series. The Men in Blue have won twice and lost the remaining three. Hence, they will hope for a winning start in the three-match series opener in Mumbai on Friday.

India vs Australia: Former captain Virat Kohli eyes plethora of records in ODI series vs Men in Yellow

India is gearing up for the three-match ODI series versus Australia, which kicks off on March 17 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. In Rohit Sharma's absence, vice-captain Hardik Pandya will lead the side in the series opener. While the ODI squad sees the return of some senior players, such as Ravindra Jadeja, KL Rahul, etc., many superstars are not part of the line-up.

Among the younger lot, Prithvi Shaw remains out of contention. He returned to the Indian side for the home New Zealand T20Is, in February, but didn't get a single game. He has been in rollicking form in the domestic circuit. He scored a majestic 379 in Ranji Trophy. He even ended as the second-highest run-getter in 2022/23 Syed Mushtaq Ali Tournament, with 332 runs including a ton and a fifty. However, he hasn't managed to seal a spot in the Indian team across formats.

Recently, India's retired cricketer Murali Vijay opined on Shaw's omission. The former Test opener is clueless as to why the talented young batter is not playing for Team India at present.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-had-packed-our-suitcases-ex-ind-player-shares-unheard-tale-from-ganguly-cos-2001-kolkata-test-win-572156">'Packed our suitcases': Ex-India player shares UNHEARD tale from famous 2001 Kolkata Test win vs Australia</a>

On being asked about the next Indian batting superstar, Vijay told Hindustan Times, "There are 15 superstars playing for India. If you are playing for India, you are already a superstar for me. But skill-wise, I really love Shubman Gill and Prithvi Shaw. They are top players. Rishabh Pant has done a great job for Indian cricket as well. I wish him a speedy recovery. Shreyas Iyer is doing well."

He&nbsp;then opined on Shaw's absence and said, "I don't know why he (Shaw) is not playing now. You should ask the team management."

Shaw is gearing up for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition where he will represent the David Warner-led Delhi Capitals (DC).

India is gearing up for the three-match ODI series versus Australia, which kicks off on March 17 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. In Rohit Sharma's absence, vice-captain Hardik Pandya will lead the side in the series opener.

India is gearing up for the three-match ODI series versus Australia, which kicks off on March 17 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. In Rohit Sharma's absence, vice-captain Hardik Pandya will lead the side in the series opener. While the ODI squad sees the return of some senior players, such as Ravindra Jadeja, KL Rahul, etc., many superstars are not part of the line-up. Among the younger lot, Prithvi Shaw remains out of contention. He returned to the Indian side for the home New Zealand T20Is, in February, but didn't get a single game. He has been in rollicking form in the domestic circuit. He scored a majestic 379 in Ranji Trophy. He even ended as the second-highest run-getter in 2022/23 Syed Mushtaq Ali Tournament, with 332 runs including a ton and a fifty. However, he hasn't managed to seal a spot in the Indian team across formats. Recently, India's retired cricketer Murali Vijay opined on Shaw's omission. The former Test opener is clueless as to why the talented young batter is not playing for Team India at present. Also read: 'Packed our suitcases': Ex-India player shares UNHEARD tale from famous 2001 Kolkata Test win vs Australia On being asked about the next Indian batting superstar, Vijay told Hindustan Times, "There are 15 superstars playing for India. If you are playing for India, you are already a superstar for me. But skill-wise, I really love Shubman Gill and Prithvi Shaw. They are top players. Rishabh Pant has done a great job for Indian cricket as well. I wish him a speedy recovery. Shreyas Iyer is doing well." He then opined on Shaw's absence and said, "I don't know why he (Shaw) is not playing now. You should ask the team management." Shaw is gearing up for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition where he will represent the David Warner-led Delhi Capitals (DC).

'Don't know why he is not playing': Murali Vijay clueless about THIS star player's absence from Team India

Rohit Sharma-led India's fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended in a tame draw in Ahmedabad as the hosts won the series 2-1. In the high-scoring series decider, Australia posted 480 all-out riding on centuries from Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green whereas India replied back strongly with tons from Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli (186). On Day 5, on Monday (March 13), both sides settled for a draw when Australia were 175 for 2 in the final session with no chance of any result.

There were a lot of positives for Team India in the just-concluded BGT. While the biggest positive is that India entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), the likes of Shubman Gill and Axar Patel also impressed and were some bright performers along with senior pros R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, captain Rohit. Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lavished huge praise on Gill and revealed 'another of his rare strengths' while comparing him with Virender Sehwag.

During a discussion on&nbsp;Star Sports, Manjrekar said, "He showed glimpses of it when he made his debut in Australia. It seemed that he is a capable player and can play Test cricket as well. We knew his fundamentals were good when we saw him in Under-19. Rahul Dravid was the coach then and was very happy with his basic abilities."

&nbsp;"The things I liked - one thing I will talk about is the footwork. The front foot is now going further forward although the trigger movement is the back foot. This will help him a lot in Test cricket," Manjrekar opined.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-does-become-kohlis-brutally-honest-reply-to-dravds-question-on-century-drought-watch-571912">'It does become...': Kohli's 'brutally honest' reply to Dravd's question on century drought - WATCH</a>

'This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag'

Manjrekar further added, "The second thing we saw in Test cricket as well is the big game, the confidence with which he plays the lofted shots. When you see him, it seems he is a purist, a classical player to an extent, but the power game comes whenever he calls for it. In this match also he played a lofted shot in the nineties to go close to a hundred. He reached his (ODI) double hundred also with a six. This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag. I didn't know about this but now it has come to the fore that this is another of his rare strengths."

Gill will now shift his focus on the ODI series versus Australia, which kicks off in Mumbai on March 17. After that, he will gear up for defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2023, which commences on March 31 in Ahmedabad.

Rohit Sharma-led India's fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended in a tame draw in Ahmedabad as the hosts won the series 2-1.

Rohit Sharma-led India's fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended in a tame draw in Ahmedabad as the hosts won the series 2-1. In the high-scoring series decider, Australia posted 480 all-out riding on centuries from Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green whereas India replied back strongly with tons from Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli (186). On Day 5, on Monday (March 13), both sides settled for a draw when Australia were 175 for 2 in the final session with no chance of any result. There were a lot of positives for Team India in the just-concluded BGT. While the biggest positive is that India entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), the likes of Shubman Gill and Axar Patel also impressed and were some bright performers along with senior pros R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, captain Rohit. Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lavished huge praise on Gill and revealed 'another of his rare strengths' while comparing him with Virender Sehwag. During a discussion on Star Sports, Manjrekar said, "He showed glimpses of it when he made his debut in Australia. It seemed that he is a capable player and can play Test cricket as well. We knew his fundamentals were good when we saw him in Under-19. Rahul Dravid was the coach then and was very happy with his basic abilities." "The things I liked - one thing I will talk about is the footwork. The front foot is now going further forward although the trigger movement is the back foot. This will help him a lot in Test cricket," Manjrekar opined. Also Read: 'It does become...': Kohli's 'brutally honest' reply to Dravd's question on century drought - WATCH 'This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag' Manjrekar further added, "The second thing we saw in Test cricket as well is the big game, the confidence with which he plays the lofted shots. When you see him, it seems he is a purist, a classical player to an extent, but the power game comes whenever he calls for it. In this match also he played a lofted shot in the nineties to go close to a hundred. He reached his (ODI) double hundred also with a six. This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag. I didn't know about this but now it has come to the fore that this is another of his rare strengths." Gill will now shift his focus on the ODI series versus Australia, which kicks off in Mumbai on March 17. After that, he will gear up for defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2023, which commences on March 31 in Ahmedabad.

Ind vs Aus: Sanjay Manjrekar lavishes huge praise on Shubman Gill, reveals 'another of his rare strengths'

India qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final when New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka by two wickets in the Christchurch Test on Monday (March 13). Sri Lanka had to whitewash New Zealand in the two-match Test series and hope for India to not win the fourth and final Test versus Australia, in Ahmedabad. With their two-wicket loss at the hands of the Black Caps, SL was eliminated from the WTC final race. NZ's win propelled India to the summit clash where they will face Australia on June 7 at The Oval, London.

SL's loss meant that the outcome of the Ahmedabad Test became null and void, which eventually ended in a tame draw. Thus, India have entered the WTC final for the second time in a row. After missing out on winning the elusive title in 2021, losing to New Zealand, India will have another go at the WTC title. Here's a look at India's journey in the second cycle of the WTC:

India tour of England, 2021: 2-2

After losing the inaugural WTC final to New Zealand by eight wickets, Virat Kohli-led India faced hosts England in a five-match Test series in the 2021 English summer. With famous wins in Lord's and The Oval Test, India had an unassailable 2-1 lead going into the series decider before the Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp postponed the final Test by almost a year. In 2022, Jasprit Bumrah led India in the fifth and final Test where Ben Stokes-led England defeated the visitors by eight wickets in pursuit of 378. The series ended in a 2-2 stalemate.

NZ tour of India, 2021: 1-0

The two-match Test series saw the Kiwis hold onto a draw, in Kanpur, as Ajinkya Rahane-led India failed to claim the tenth wicket of the visitors who were asked to chase 285. The second and final Test saw regular captain Virat Kohli return as the home side thrashed NZ by a whopping 372-run margin.&nbsp;

India tour of SA, 2022: 1-2

India had a golden opportunity to beat South Africa in their own backyard when it toured the African nation in early 2022. However, the Kohli-led Indian team failed to make the most of their 1-0 lead and lost the series 1-2. KL Rahul led the side in Kohli's absence in the second and penultimate Test. Kohli resigned as the red-ball skipper after this series.

SL tour of India, 2022: 2-0

This was Rohit Sharma's first assignment as the Test captain after he was promoted as the full-time skipper. The Dimuth Karunaratne-led Islanders were clueless against the Indian team who romped past their Asian neighbours in both the Tests.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-kane-williamsons-timely-dive-vs-sri-lanka-in-christchurch-test-that-propelled-india-to-wtc-final-571532">WATCH: Kane Williamson's timely dive vs Sri Lanka, in Christchurch Test, that propelled India to WTC final</a>

India tour of Bangladesh, 2022: 2-0

Rahul led India in the two Tests with Rohit out of action due to injury. They defeated the Bangla Tigers by 188 runs in the series opener before the home side put up a great fight in the series decider and gave it all while defending a paltry 145. Nonetheless, R Ashwin and Shreyas Iyer ensured India chased down the target with three wickets in hand to whitewash the hosts.&nbsp;

Australia tour of India, 2023: 2-1

After the England and SA tour, this was India's litmus Test. 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy was highly-anticipated series as India still had some work to do to qualify for the WTC final. Rohit &amp; Co. took a 2-0 lead after winning the opening two Tests, with Rohit, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja and Ashwin being the top performers before Australia bounced back to make it 2-1; winning the third Test by nine wickets. Before the end of the fourth and final Test, India qualified for the WTC summit clash -- with New Zealand defeating Sri Lanka in a thriller in Christchurch -- before the series finale ended in a tame draw on Monday (March 13).&nbsp;

India will face Australia in the WTC finale at The Oval, London. This will be India's first-ever ICC final face-off&nbsp;versus Australia, in men's cricket, after the 2003 ODI World Cup.

India qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final when New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka by two wickets in the Christchurch Test on Monday (March 13).

India qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final when New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka by two wickets in the Christchurch Test on Monday (March 13). Sri Lanka had to whitewash New Zealand in the two-match Test series and hope for India to not win the fourth and final Test versus Australia, in Ahmedabad. With their two-wicket loss at the hands of the Black Caps, SL was eliminated from the WTC final race. NZ's win propelled India to the summit clash where they will face Australia on June 7 at The Oval, London. SL's loss meant that the outcome of the Ahmedabad Test became null and void, which eventually ended in a tame draw. Thus, India have entered the WTC final for the second time in a row. After missing out on winning the elusive title in 2021, losing to New Zealand, India will have another go at the WTC title. Here's a look at India's journey in the second cycle of the WTC: India tour of England, 2021: 2-2 After losing the inaugural WTC final to New Zealand by eight wickets, Virat Kohli-led India faced hosts England in a five-match Test series in the 2021 English summer. With famous wins in Lord's and The Oval Test, India had an unassailable 2-1 lead going into the series decider before the Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp postponed the final Test by almost a year. In 2022, Jasprit Bumrah led India in the fifth and final Test where Ben Stokes-led England defeated the visitors by eight wickets in pursuit of 378. The series ended in a 2-2 stalemate. NZ tour of India, 2021: 1-0 The two-match Test series saw the Kiwis hold onto a draw, in Kanpur, as Ajinkya Rahane-led India failed to claim the tenth wicket of the visitors who were asked to chase 285. The second and final Test saw regular captain Virat Kohli return as the home side thrashed NZ by a whopping 372-run margin. India tour of SA, 2022: 1-2 India had a golden opportunity to beat South Africa in their own backyard when it toured the African nation in early 2022. However, the Kohli-led Indian team failed to make the most of their 1-0 lead and lost the series 1-2. KL Rahul led the side in Kohli's absence in the second and penultimate Test. Kohli resigned as the red-ball skipper after this series. SL tour of India, 2022: 2-0 This was Rohit Sharma's first assignment as the Test captain after he was promoted as the full-time skipper. The Dimuth Karunaratne-led Islanders were clueless against the Indian team who romped past their Asian neighbours in both the Tests. Also read: WATCH: Kane Williamson's timely dive vs Sri Lanka, in Christchurch Test, that propelled India to WTC final India tour of Bangladesh, 2022: 2-0 Rahul led India in the two Tests with Rohit out of action due to injury. They defeated the Bangla Tigers by 188 runs in the series opener before the home side put up a great fight in the series decider and gave it all while defending a paltry 145. Nonetheless, R Ashwin and Shreyas Iyer ensured India chased down the target with three wickets in hand to whitewash the hosts. Australia tour of India, 2023: 2-1 After the England and SA tour, this was India's litmus Test. 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy was highly-anticipated series as India still had some work to do to qualify for the WTC final. Rohit & Co. took a 2-0 lead after winning the opening two Tests, with Rohit, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja and Ashwin being the top performers before Australia bounced back to make it 2-1; winning the third Test by nine wickets. Before the end of the fourth and final Test, India qualified for the WTC summit clash -- with New Zealand defeating Sri Lanka in a thriller in Christchurch -- before the series finale ended in a tame draw on Monday (March 13). India will face Australia in the WTC finale at The Oval, London. This will be India's first-ever ICC final face-off versus Australia, in men's cricket, after the 2003 ODI World Cup.

WTC Final: Reliving India's run in second cycle as they qualify for summit clash

The New Zealand-Sri Lanka first Test, at Christchurch, was on a knife-edge at stumps on Day 4 on Sunday (March 12). The Tim Southee-led hosts were 28 for 1 in pursuit of 285 after Angelo Mathews' stunning ton propelled the Lankans to set up a challenging target. On Day 5, on Monday (March 13), New Zealand rode on former skipper Kane Williamson's 121* and Darly Mitchell's blitz (81 off 86 balls) to end Sri Lanka's hopes of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. The Islanders had to whitewash the Kiwis in the two-match Test series but with defeat in the series opener, they are out of WTC final race with Team India joining Australia in the finale.&nbsp;

Day 5 started with a rain delay. After the weather was clear, the Black Caps were set to face a minimum of 53 overs, requiring another 257 for a stunning win. NZ lost opener Tom Latham. Henry Nicholls played with positive intent but departed for a 24-ball 20. It gave a sneak peek into the hosts' mindset as they were going after the target. After Nicholls' fall, Mitchell -- whose century propelled the Black Caps to a slender 18-run lead -- came out all guns blazing. He upped the ante and brought some urgency to the chase while Williamson held his end as well. Although the former captain looked rusty, he didn't get bogged down to concede his wicket.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/4th-test-day-4-virat-kohlis-best-test-score-against-australia-puts-india-on-brink-of-sealing-wtc-final-spot-571155">4th Test, day 4: Virat Kohli's best Test score against Australia puts India on brink of sealing WTC final</a>

Williamson-Mitchell were proactive in their 142-run stand as they found the boundaries and ran hard&nbsp;to keep the scoreboard ticking. Mitchell fell for an impressive 86-ball 81, laced with 3 fours and 4 sixes. Amid regular fall of wickets and some tight bowling, Williamson's 27th Test ton still managed to guide the home side to a famous two-wicket win on the last ball of the contest.&nbsp;

With one needed off the final delivery,&nbsp;Asitha Fernando bowled on the middle and leg stump as Williamson tried to hook but could not connect. Williamson and Neil Wagner ran to steal a run as the wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella missed hitting the stumps at the striker's end. Fernando collected the ball and hit the timber at the non-striker's end but Williamson's timely dived sealed a famous win for the Black Caps. Here's the video:

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A thriller in Christchurch. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvSL</a> <a href="https://t.co/7hv2j4bEjJ">pic.twitter.com/7hv2j4bEjJ</a>
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS/status/1635171478164602880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka fought hard from the first day. After being invited to bat first, they scored at a rapid pace and made 355. In addition, they had NZ reeling at 151 for 5 but couldn't get rid of their&nbsp;middle and lower order in a flash. As a result of Mitchell's 102 and Matt Henry's 72, the hosts gained a vital lead and managed 373. Later, Mathews' 115 took SL to 302 all-out; setting up a tricky 285-run target. Nonetheless, NZ's attacking display shut the game for SL as they are out of the reckoning to play the WTC final.

Sri Lanka came to NZ with a herculean task ahead, to whitewash the hosts 2-0 and hope for India to not win their ongoing Ahmedabad Test versus Australia. However, with this loss, they are out of contention to play the WTC final. Meanwhile, India -- irrespective of the outcome of the Ahmedabad Test -- have qualified and will meet Australia in the WTC summit clash at The Oval on June 7.

The New Zealand-Sri Lanka first Test, at Christchurch, was on a knife-edge at stumps on Day 4 on Sunday (March 12). The Tim Southee-led hosts were 28 for 1 in pursuit of 285 after Angelo Mathews' stunning ton propelled the Lankans to set up a challenging target.

The New Zealand-Sri Lanka first Test, at Christchurch, was on a knife-edge at stumps on Day 4 on Sunday (March 12). The Tim Southee-led hosts were 28 for 1 in pursuit of 285 after Angelo Mathews' stunning ton propelled the Lankans to set up a challenging target. On Day 5, on Monday (March 13), New Zealand rode on former skipper Kane Williamson's 121* and Darly Mitchell's blitz (81 off 86 balls) to end Sri Lanka's hopes of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. The Islanders had to whitewash the Kiwis in the two-match Test series but with defeat in the series opener, they are out of WTC final race with Team India joining Australia in the finale. Day 5 started with a rain delay. After the weather was clear, the Black Caps were set to face a minimum of 53 overs, requiring another 257 for a stunning win. NZ lost opener Tom Latham. Henry Nicholls played with positive intent but departed for a 24-ball 20. It gave a sneak peek into the hosts' mindset as they were going after the target. After Nicholls' fall, Mitchell -- whose century propelled the Black Caps to a slender 18-run lead -- came out all guns blazing. He upped the ante and brought some urgency to the chase while Williamson held his end as well. Although the former captain looked rusty, he didn't get bogged down to concede his wicket. Also read: 4th Test, day 4: Virat Kohli's best Test score against Australia puts India on brink of sealing WTC final Williamson-Mitchell were proactive in their 142-run stand as they found the boundaries and ran hard to keep the scoreboard ticking. Mitchell fell for an impressive 86-ball 81, laced with 3 fours and 4 sixes. Amid regular fall of wickets and some tight bowling, Williamson's 27th Test ton still managed to guide the home side to a famous two-wicket win on the last ball of the contest. With one needed off the final delivery, Asitha Fernando bowled on the middle and leg stump as Williamson tried to hook but could not connect. Williamson and Neil Wagner ran to steal a run as the wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella missed hitting the stumps at the striker's end. Fernando collected the ball and hit the timber at the non-striker's end but Williamson's timely dived sealed a famous win for the Black Caps. Here's the video: A thriller in Christchurch. #NZvSL pic.twitter.com/7hv2j4bEjJ — BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) March 13, 2023 × Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka fought hard from the first day. After being invited to bat first, they scored at a rapid pace and made 355. In addition, they had NZ reeling at 151 for 5 but couldn't get rid of their middle and lower order in a flash. As a result of Mitchell's 102 and Matt Henry's 72, the hosts gained a vital lead and managed 373. Later, Mathews' 115 took SL to 302 all-out; setting up a tricky 285-run target. Nonetheless, NZ's attacking display shut the game for SL as they are out of the reckoning to play the WTC final. Sri Lanka came to NZ with a herculean task ahead, to whitewash the hosts 2-0 and hope for India to not win their ongoing Ahmedabad Test versus Australia. However, with this loss, they are out of contention to play the WTC final. Meanwhile, India -- irrespective of the outcome of the Ahmedabad Test -- have qualified and will meet Australia in the WTC summit clash at The Oval on June 7.

NZ vs SL, 1st Test: Williamson, Mitchell take Kiwis to thrilling two-wicket win as India qualify for WTC final

Day 2 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia saw the Steve Smith-led visitors post a challenging 480 on a belter of a surface at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. On the opening day,&nbsp;on Thursday (March 9), Australia opted to bat first and went to stumps at 255 for 4. The second day's play saw the visitors ride on Usman Khawaja's 180 and Cameron Green's 114&nbsp;to post a mammoth 480 before Rohit Sharma-led India went to stumps at 36 for no loss.&nbsp;

During the day's proceedings, Indian bowlers were made to work hard for every wicket. The opening session saw the home side remain wicketless as Khawaja-Green's partnership frustrated them. As a result, Rohit &amp; Co. took a horrendous review on the last ball of the 128th over, bowled by Ravindra Jadeja. The Indian players made an lbw appeal versus Khawaja, who was batting on 160 along with Green on 112, but the replays showed the ball to be miles away from the stumps. Hence, umpire Richard&nbsp;Kettleborough's reaction went viral as he couldn't stop smiling on the poor DRS call from Team India.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-ms-dhoni-turns-back-the-clock-with-magnanimous-sixes-in-csk-practice-session-watch-570632">IPL 2023: MS Dhoni turns back the clock with MAGNANIMOUS sixes in CSK practice session - WATCH</a>

Here's the viral video:

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<a href="https://t.co/eMxKD9khgT">pic.twitter.com/eMxKD9khgT</a>
— Anna 24GhanteChaukanna (@Anna24GhanteCh2) <a href="https://twitter.com/Anna24GhanteCh2/status/1634107222811721728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Eventually, India got rid of centurion Khawaja for 180, trapping him lbw off Axar Patel. Green, on the other hand, fell for 114 after scoring his maiden ton in whites. Some help from their tail-enders saw Australia post a mammoth 480 all-out before Indian openers Rohit (17 not out) and Shubman Gill (unbeaten 18) negated any threat from the Aussie bowlers to take India to 36 for no loss at the end of day's play.&nbsp;

Day 3 will be extremely crucial for Team India, who trail Australia by a whopping 444-run margin. The hosts lead the four-match series 2-1 but need a win in this tie to not only clinch the Border-Gavaskar Trophy but also enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Australia are already through to the WTC summit clash.

Day 2 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia saw the Steve Smith-led visitors post a challenging 480 on a belter of a surface at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad.

Day 2 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia saw the Steve Smith-led visitors post a challenging 480 on a belter of a surface at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. On the opening day, on Thursday (March 9), Australia opted to bat first and went to stumps at 255 for 4. The second day's play saw the visitors ride on Usman Khawaja's 180 and Cameron Green's 114 to post a mammoth 480 before Rohit Sharma-led India went to stumps at 36 for no loss. During the day's proceedings, Indian bowlers were made to work hard for every wicket. The opening session saw the home side remain wicketless as Khawaja-Green's partnership frustrated them. As a result, Rohit & Co. took a horrendous review on the last ball of the 128th over, bowled by Ravindra Jadeja. The Indian players made an lbw appeal versus Khawaja, who was batting on 160 along with Green on 112, but the replays showed the ball to be miles away from the stumps. Hence, umpire Richard Kettleborough's reaction went viral as he couldn't stop smiling on the poor DRS call from Team India. Also read: IPL 2023: MS Dhoni turns back the clock with MAGNANIMOUS sixes in CSK practice session - WATCH Here's the viral video: pic.twitter.com/eMxKD9khgT — Anna 24GhanteChaukanna (@Anna24GhanteCh2) March 10, 2023 × Eventually, India got rid of centurion Khawaja for 180, trapping him lbw off Axar Patel. Green, on the other hand, fell for 114 after scoring his maiden ton in whites. Some help from their tail-enders saw Australia post a mammoth 480 all-out before Indian openers Rohit (17 not out) and Shubman Gill (unbeaten 18) negated any threat from the Aussie bowlers to take India to 36 for no loss at the end of day's play. Day 3 will be extremely crucial for Team India, who trail Australia by a whopping 444-run margin. The hosts lead the four-match series 2-1 but need a win in this tie to not only clinch the Border-Gavaskar Trophy but also enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Australia are already through to the WTC summit clash.

Watch: India take HORRENDOUS review as umpire's reaction goes viral on Day 2 of 4th Test vs Australia

India and Australia locked horns on Day 1 of the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, on Thursday (March 9). After Steve Smith-led Aussies opted to bat first, the visitors ended the day at 255&nbsp;for 4 with Usman Khawaja remaining unbeaten on 104*. The day belonged to Australia as they batted consciously and Indian bowlers were made to work hard for every wicket. Eventually, Md Shami ended the opening day with two scalps whereas R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja shared a wicket each.

Shami got both the wickets by cleaning up the stumps. Firstly, he got rid of Marnus Labuschagne before also claiming the scalp of Peter Handscomb. Talking about Handscomb's dismissal, Shami hit the deck on a good length and the ball straightened off the deck. The batter was caught on the back foot and completely got beaten to see his stumps get rattled. Here's the video of the dismissal:

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cleaned-up-md-shami-rattles-marnus-labuschagnes-stumps-on-day-1-of-ahmedabad-test-watch-570152">CLEANED UP! Md Shami rattles Marnus Labuschagne's stumps on Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test - Watch</a>

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As good as it gets! 🔥🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/MdShami11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MdShami11</a> uproots the off-stump to dismiss Handscomb for 17! 👏👏 
 
Australia 170/4. 
 
Follow the match ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/8DPghkx0DE">https://t.co/8DPghkx0DE</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mastercardindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mastercardindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/2hXFYhvslW">pic.twitter.com/2hXFYhvslW</a>
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After Handscomb's fall, there was no further breakthrough for Team India. Rohit &amp; Co. struggled to break Khawaja-Cameron Green's fifth-wicket stand. The duo stitched 85 runs go take Australia's score to 255 for 4 at stumps on Day 1. After stumps, Khawaja told the broadcasters, "A lot of emotion in that. Has been a long journey, getting a hundred, as an Australian you always want to do that. It's very special. Head took the new ball down. He was smacking them. Was pretty good to watch that from the other end. It was such a nice wicket, I didn't want to give my wicket away. It was a mental battle more than anything else. You need to keep doing it for a long time. I had the helmet in my right hand, I told him (Green) just me a hug, instead of a high five (following his century). I have no superstitions, I stretched a bit in the morning and I was ready to go."

Rohit &amp; Co. will hope for quick wickets on Day 2, on Friday (March 10), to restrict the Aussies below 320. At present, it looks a herculean task for the hosts. India lead the series 2-1 and need a win to not only take the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 3-1 and enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.

India and Australia locked horns on Day 1 of the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, on Thursday (March 9). After Steve Smith-led Aussies opted to bat first, the visitors ended the day at 255 for 4 with Usman Khawaja remaining unbeaten on 104*.

India and Australia locked horns on Day 1 of the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, on Thursday (March 9). After Steve Smith-led Aussies opted to bat first, the visitors ended the day at 255 for 4 with Usman Khawaja remaining unbeaten on 104*. The day belonged to Australia as they batted consciously and Indian bowlers were made to work hard for every wicket. Eventually, Md Shami ended the opening day with two scalps whereas R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja shared a wicket each. Shami got both the wickets by cleaning up the stumps. Firstly, he got rid of Marnus Labuschagne before also claiming the scalp of Peter Handscomb. Talking about Handscomb's dismissal, Shami hit the deck on a good length and the ball straightened off the deck. The batter was caught on the back foot and completely got beaten to see his stumps get rattled. Here's the video of the dismissal: Also read: CLEANED UP! Md Shami rattles Marnus Labuschagne's stumps on Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test - Watch As good as it gets! 🔥🔥@MdShami11 uproots the off-stump to dismiss Handscomb for 17! 👏👏 Australia 170/4. Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/8DPghkx0DE#INDvAUS | @mastercardindia pic.twitter.com/2hXFYhvslW — BCCI (@BCCI) March 9, 2023 × After Handscomb's fall, there was no further breakthrough for Team India. Rohit & Co. struggled to break Khawaja-Cameron Green's fifth-wicket stand. The duo stitched 85 runs go take Australia's score to 255 for 4 at stumps on Day 1. After stumps, Khawaja told the broadcasters, "A lot of emotion in that. Has been a long journey, getting a hundred, as an Australian you always want to do that. It's very special. Head took the new ball down. He was smacking them. Was pretty good to watch that from the other end. It was such a nice wicket, I didn't want to give my wicket away. It was a mental battle more than anything else. You need to keep doing it for a long time. I had the helmet in my right hand, I told him (Green) just me a hug, instead of a high five (following his century). I have no superstitions, I stretched a bit in the morning and I was ready to go." Rohit & Co. will hope for quick wickets on Day 2, on Friday (March 10), to restrict the Aussies below 320. At present, it looks a herculean task for the hosts. India lead the series 2-1 and need a win to not only take the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 3-1 and enter the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.

WATCH: Md Shami dismisses Peter Handscomb with a peach of a delivery on Day 1 of 4th Test

WTC 2023 Points Table: On Friday (March 03), Australia thrashed India by nine wickets to win the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy to keep the series alive at 2-1.

WTC 2023 Points Table: On Friday (March 03), Australia thrashed India by nine wickets to win the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy to keep the series alive at 2-1. Moreover, Australia also qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, to be held at The Oval, London in early June, with their famous triumph on a turning track at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. Resuming Day 3, Australia started their run-chase, where they needed 76 for a win, and lost Usman Khawaja in the first over. Nonetheless, Travis Head's 49* and Marnus Labuschagne's 28 not out led the Steve Smith-led Aussies to victory, and through to the final of the second cycle of the WTC. The damage was done for India after they only managed 109, opting to bat first on Day 1 on Wednesday (March 01), before conceding a vital 88-run lead to the visitors -- who were all-out for 197 -- on a tough batting pitch tough. In their second essay, Rohit Sharma & Co. fell flat once again with Nathan Lyon taking 8 for 64 (ending with an 11-wicket haul in the match). Being all-out for 163, India gave a paltry 76-run target which the Aussies chased down in style during the first session of Day 3. With this win, Australia have become the first side to enter the WTC final. India have to wait for the final Test, in Ahmedabad and need a win to not depend on other results and meet the Aussies in the summit clash. Sri Lanka is the only other team who can play spoilsport for India and reach the final if they whitewash hosts New Zealand in their forthcoming two-match series. Here's a look at the updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Australia beat India in Indore Test: Also read: Indore Test: Nathan Lyon stars in visitors' famous win to keep series alive; Australia enter WTC final SN TEAM PCT (%) PTS W L D 1 AUSTRALIA 68.52 148 11 3 4 2 INDIA 60.29 123 10 5 2 3 SRI LANKA 53.33 64 5 4 1 4 SOUTH AFRICA 52.38 88 7 6 1 5 ENGLAND 46.97 124 10 8 4 6 PAKISTAN 38.1 64 4 6 4 7 WEST INDIES 37.5 54 4 6 2 8 NEW ZEALAND 27.27 36 2 6 3 9 BANGLADESH 11.11 16 1 10 1 At the post-match presentation, losing captain Rohit said, "We need to keep it simple and follow the plan. When you are playing on challenging pitches, we need to be brave. We allowed their bowlers to bowl on one particular spot. Not taking any credit away from their bowlers. especially Nathan Lyon, he kept challenging us hitting the right lengths. When the bowler is trying to do that, gotta be a little brave which I thought we were not. Things happen like that, but we can take a lot of credit about how we batted in the first 2 games." On the way forward, he opined, "Its all about everyone coming together and chipping in. We want few guys stand up and put their hand up to take the team through. You will falter in your plans and that's what happened in this game, we didn't adapt as well as we would have liked to." The fourth and final Test begins in Ahmedabad on March 09.

WTC points table 2023 ICC World Test Championship ranking after Australia beat India in Indore

Indian spinners R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja dominated proceedings versus Australia on Day 3 of the second Test, in New Delhi on Sunday (February 19), to help Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. win by six wickets. With Australia resuming the day's play with an overall lead of 62 runs, with nine wickets in hand, they fell like nine pins to be dismissed for a paltry 113 with Jadeja returning with 7 for 42 whereas Ashwin accounted for the remaining three scalps. Chasing 114, India achieved the target with six wickets in hand to go 2-0 up in the series and take an unassailable lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

After the match, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria was unimpressed with Australia and claimed that they had no clue what to do once India fought back in the contest. Australia had done a decent job gaining a run's lead but fell flat on Day 3, when they had a chance to set a difficult target.&nbsp;

'This defeat will make the Australian team cry'

Speaking on his Youtube channel, Kaneria said, "The Australian batters don't know how to play in front of the stumps. They all got out trying to play the sweep shot. Being the captain, is this how Pat Cummins should have batted? He had a chat with Peter Handscomb as he walked out to bat. I think he was scared once he knew there was a lot of turn. If an Indian or Pakistani captain did this, he would be sent home the next day."

“This defeat will make the Australian team cry. This won't let them make a comeback. They had the upper hand over India at one stage. However, they didn't know what was to be done when India fought back,” Kaneria asserted.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/venkatesh-prasad-once-again-slams-kl-rahul-hits-back-at-he-has-great-overseas-test-record-claims-563881">Venkatesh Prasad once again slams KL Rahul, hits back at 'he has great overseas Test record' claims</a>

The former spinner further added, "The Australian batters had no answers against the Indian spinners. They didn't know what to do and ended up blindly sweeping the ball. Ravindra Jadeja was fantastic with the ball, and Ravichandran Ashwin also used his experience very nicely. Rohit Sharma did the right thing by giving them long spells. Australia's scorecard looked like someone's mobile number."

The third and penultimate Test kicks off in Indore on March 01 with the visitors having a herculean task to prevent a whitewash. India, on the other hand, need one more win to confirm themselves a spot in the WTC final.

Indian spinners R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja dominated proceedings versus Australia on Day 3 of the second Test, in New Delhi on Sunday (February 19), to help Rohit Sharma & Co.

Indian spinners R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja dominated proceedings versus Australia on Day 3 of the second Test, in New Delhi on Sunday (February 19), to help Rohit Sharma & Co. win by six wickets. With Australia resuming the day's play with an overall lead of 62 runs, with nine wickets in hand, they fell like nine pins to be dismissed for a paltry 113 with Jadeja returning with 7 for 42 whereas Ashwin accounted for the remaining three scalps. Chasing 114, India achieved the target with six wickets in hand to go 2-0 up in the series and take an unassailable lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. After the match, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria was unimpressed with Australia and claimed that they had no clue what to do once India fought back in the contest. Australia had done a decent job gaining a run's lead but fell flat on Day 3, when they had a chance to set a difficult target. 'This defeat will make the Australian team cry' Speaking on his Youtube channel, Kaneria said, "The Australian batters don't know how to play in front of the stumps. They all got out trying to play the sweep shot. Being the captain, is this how Pat Cummins should have batted? He had a chat with Peter Handscomb as he walked out to bat. I think he was scared once he knew there was a lot of turn. If an Indian or Pakistani captain did this, he would be sent home the next day." “This defeat will make the Australian team cry. This won't let them make a comeback. They had the upper hand over India at one stage. However, they didn't know what was to be done when India fought back,” Kaneria asserted. Also Read: Venkatesh Prasad once again slams KL Rahul, hits back at 'he has great overseas Test record' claims The former spinner further added, "The Australian batters had no answers against the Indian spinners. They didn't know what to do and ended up blindly sweeping the ball. Ravindra Jadeja was fantastic with the ball, and Ravichandran Ashwin also used his experience very nicely. Rohit Sharma did the right thing by giving them long spells. Australia's scorecard looked like someone's mobile number." The third and penultimate Test kicks off in Indore on March 01 with the visitors having a herculean task to prevent a whitewash. India, on the other hand, need one more win to confirm themselves a spot in the WTC final.

Australians didn't know what to do when India fought back: Ex-Pakistan spinner after hosts win Delhi Test

Rohit Sharma-led India gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Sunday (February 19), with a six-wicket win on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. With this win, India have strengthened their chances of reaching the ICC World Test Championship final and look set to whitewash the Aussies in the four-match series with Pat Cummins &amp; Co. being clueless in front of the Indian spin trio.&nbsp;

After losing the Nagpur Test by an innings and 132 runs, Australia did put up a better show in the first innings of the Delhi Test. They managed 263 in their first essay and dismissed India for 262, gaining one-run lead, but fell flat in their second innings with their batters playing the sweep shots on a&nbsp;track which kept low, with Jadeja-Ashwin troubling them with spin. After the game, former Pakistan captain and PCB chairman Ramiz Raja feels 'Australia are not prepared' and went on to add that 'it is nearly impossible to beat Team India in India.'

"The Australians used to finish games against sub-continent teams in Perth or Brisbane. The tables have turned," Ramiz Raja said in his YouTube show. "It shows that Australia are not prepared, especially when it comes to playing good Test cricket in India. It's nearly impossible to beat Team India in India. An ordinary performance against spin. Nine wickets were dismissed in one session. Jadeja produced an excellent bowling performance," Raja added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-revealed-why-kl-rahul-has-been-axed-as-indias-vice-captain-for-remaining-tests-563823">IND vs AUS: Revealed! Why KL Rahul has been axed as India's vice-captain for remaining Tests</a>

India will be eager to go for a 4-0 whitewash versus the Aussies and storm their way into the WTC final. As of now, it looks certain that both sides will lock horns in the summit clash, to be held in early June at The Oval, London.&nbsp;

India’s Test squad for third and fourth Test against Australia: Rohit Sharma (Captain), K L Rahul, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat.

Rohit Sharma-led India gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Sunday (February 19), with a six-wicket win on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi.

Rohit Sharma-led India gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Sunday (February 19), with a six-wicket win on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. With this win, India have strengthened their chances of reaching the ICC World Test Championship final and look set to whitewash the Aussies in the four-match series with Pat Cummins & Co. being clueless in front of the Indian spin trio. After losing the Nagpur Test by an innings and 132 runs, Australia did put up a better show in the first innings of the Delhi Test. They managed 263 in their first essay and dismissed India for 262, gaining one-run lead, but fell flat in their second innings with their batters playing the sweep shots on a track which kept low, with Jadeja-Ashwin troubling them with spin. After the game, former Pakistan captain and PCB chairman Ramiz Raja feels 'Australia are not prepared' and went on to add that 'it is nearly impossible to beat Team India in India.' "The Australians used to finish games against sub-continent teams in Perth or Brisbane. The tables have turned," Ramiz Raja said in his YouTube show. "It shows that Australia are not prepared, especially when it comes to playing good Test cricket in India. It's nearly impossible to beat Team India in India. An ordinary performance against spin. Nine wickets were dismissed in one session. Jadeja produced an excellent bowling performance," Raja added. Also Read: IND vs AUS: Revealed! Why KL Rahul has been axed as India's vice-captain for remaining Tests India will be eager to go for a 4-0 whitewash versus the Aussies and storm their way into the WTC final. As of now, it looks certain that both sides will lock horns in the summit clash, to be held in early June at The Oval, London. India’s Test squad for third and fourth Test against Australia: Rohit Sharma (Captain), K L Rahul, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat.

BGT 2022/23: Beating India at home is almost impossible, says Ramiz Raja after Rohit & Co. take 2-0 lead

India were asked to bowl first after Pat Cummins-led Australia opted to bat after winning the toss on Day 1 of the second Test, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. After a 50-run opening stand, Australia lost the plot by losing&nbsp;wickets quickly before the lunch break to end the first session at 94 for 3. For India,&nbsp;R Ashwin struck twice and also attained a huge feat in the process.&nbsp;

After dismissing Marnus Labuschagne, Ashwin&nbsp;completed 700 first-class wickets. Later, he also got rid of Steve Smith (0) to put India ahead before the lunch break. Ashwin also claimed his 99th Test wicket versus Australia, including both home and away, and will be desperate to get to the 100-wicket club versus the Baggy Green in the remainder of the opening day of the Kotla Test.

Ashwin has been in superb form in Tests. In the first Test, he ended with match figures of 8 for 79.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-gives-guard-of-honour-to-cheteshwar-pujara-as-he-joins-100-test-club-watch-562947">Team India gives 'guard of honour' to Cheteshwar Pujara as he joins 100-Test club - WATCH</a>

Ahead of the commencement of the Test match, Indian players gave a guard of honour to Cheteshwar Pujara&nbsp;the No. 3 batter entered the 100-Test club.

List of Indian cricketers to have played 100 or more Test matches

Sachin Tendulkar - 200 Tests 
Rahul Dravid - 163 Tests 
VVS Laxman - 134 matches 
Anil Kumble - 132 
Kapil Dev - 131 matches 
Sunil Gavaskar - 125 Tests 
Dilip Vengsarkar - 116 matches 
Sourav Ganguly - 113 Tests 
Virat Kohli - 105 Tests 
Ishant Sharma - 105 matches 
Harbhajan Singh - 103 Tests 
Virender Sehwag - 103 matches 
Cheteshwar Pujara - 100 Tests*

India will be eager to dismiss Australia on Day 1 and dictate terms in the match. They lead the series 1-0 following a big win in the series opener, in Nagpur.&nbsp;

India were asked to bowl first after Pat Cummins-led Australia opted to bat after winning the toss on Day 1 of the second Test, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi.

India were asked to bowl first after Pat Cummins-led Australia opted to bat after winning the toss on Day 1 of the second Test, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. After a 50-run opening stand, Australia lost the plot by losing wickets quickly before the lunch break to end the first session at 94 for 3. For India, R Ashwin struck twice and also attained a huge feat in the process. After dismissing Marnus Labuschagne, Ashwin completed 700 first-class wickets. Later, he also got rid of Steve Smith (0) to put India ahead before the lunch break. Ashwin also claimed his 99th Test wicket versus Australia, including both home and away, and will be desperate to get to the 100-wicket club versus the Baggy Green in the remainder of the opening day of the Kotla Test. Ashwin has been in superb form in Tests. In the first Test, he ended with match figures of 8 for 79. Also Read: Team India gives 'guard of honour' to Cheteshwar Pujara as he joins 100-Test club - WATCH Ahead of the commencement of the Test match, Indian players gave a guard of honour to Cheteshwar Pujara the No. 3 batter entered the 100-Test club. List of Indian cricketers to have played 100 or more Test matches Sachin Tendulkar - 200 Tests Rahul Dravid - 163 Tests VVS Laxman - 134 matches Anil Kumble - 132 Kapil Dev - 131 matches Sunil Gavaskar - 125 Tests Dilip Vengsarkar - 116 matches Sourav Ganguly - 113 Tests Virat Kohli - 105 Tests Ishant Sharma - 105 matches Harbhajan Singh - 103 Tests Virender Sehwag - 103 matches Cheteshwar Pujara - 100 Tests* India will be eager to dismiss Australia on Day 1 and dictate terms in the match. They lead the series 1-0 following a big win in the series opener, in Nagpur.

700 first-class scalps! R Ashwin attains huge feat in IND-AUS 2nd Test after dismissing Marnus Labuschagne

Rohit Sharma-led India will take on Australia in the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi&nbsp;from February 17. After gaining a 1-0 lead in the Nagpur series opener, India will be eager to strengthen their chances of reaching the WTC final and consolidating their overall lead. Ahead of the match, head coach Rahul Dravid addressed a&nbsp;press conference and was asked to comment on the lack of left-arm pacers in the Indian camp.&nbsp;

At present, India have only Jaydev Unadkat in the&nbsp;Test squad who is a left-arm seamer. However, he has also been released for the ongoing Ranji Trophy final&nbsp;between Saurashtra and Bengal at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Apart from Unadkat, India have tried the likes of T Natarajan, Khaleel Ahmed and Arshdeep Singh but the latter is the only left-arm speedster who has earned a considerable run in recent times. Dravid spoke at length about left-arm pacers and said, "A left arm fast bowler brings a lot of variation. You forgot the name of Zaheer Khan. But selectors and management definitely watch out for these talents. Arshdeep Singh played well in the recent ODIs, he also played Ranji Trophy, where he picked 4-5 wickets. He's young, he's developing."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-wont-be-able-to-do-anything-afridi-reacts-to-bccis-refusal-to-send-india-to-pakistan-for-asia-cup-562564">'ICC won’t be able to do anything': Afridi reacts to BCCI's refusal to send India to Pakistan for Asia Cup</a>

'Only being a left-handed pacer will not help you get into the side'

Dravid further mentioned, "There are other guys who are performing. But only being a left-handed pacer will not help you get into the side, you need to perform as well. We do look at it, we know the importance but if you're only a left-hand fast bowler then you cannot be considered. Be it Zaheer Khan or Ashish Nehra they didn't get a chance just because they were left-hand fast bowler but since they were good."

Just then, Dravid was interrupted by a journalist who mentioned about Mitchell Starc and Shaheen Afridi and&nbsp;how these left-arm seamers have done well against India. To this, the head coach came up with a hilarious reply. "Agar 6 foot 4 inch bowler hain aapke paas toh aap batado&nbsp;(If you know a fast bowler who is 6 foot 4 inch, let us know). You took the names of Mitchell Starc and Shaheen Afridi, but in India, we rarely find someone as tall as 6 foot 5 inches who bowls left hand fast," Dravid added.

&nbsp;

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Rohit Sharma-led India will take on Australia in the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi from February 17. After gaining a 1-0 lead in the Nagpur series opener, India will be eager to strengthen their chances of reaching the WTC final and consolidating their overall lead.

Rohit Sharma-led India will take on Australia in the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi from February 17. After gaining a 1-0 lead in the Nagpur series opener, India will be eager to strengthen their chances of reaching the WTC final and consolidating their overall lead. Ahead of the match, head coach Rahul Dravid addressed a press conference and was asked to comment on the lack of left-arm pacers in the Indian camp. At present, India have only Jaydev Unadkat in the Test squad who is a left-arm seamer. However, he has also been released for the ongoing Ranji Trophy final between Saurashtra and Bengal at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Apart from Unadkat, India have tried the likes of T Natarajan, Khaleel Ahmed and Arshdeep Singh but the latter is the only left-arm speedster who has earned a considerable run in recent times. Dravid spoke at length about left-arm pacers and said, "A left arm fast bowler brings a lot of variation. You forgot the name of Zaheer Khan. But selectors and management definitely watch out for these talents. Arshdeep Singh played well in the recent ODIs, he also played Ranji Trophy, where he picked 4-5 wickets. He's young, he's developing." Also Read: 'ICC won’t be able to do anything': Afridi reacts to BCCI's refusal to send India to Pakistan for Asia Cup 'Only being a left-handed pacer will not help you get into the side' Dravid further mentioned, "There are other guys who are performing. But only being a left-handed pacer will not help you get into the side, you need to perform as well. We do look at it, we know the importance but if you're only a left-hand fast bowler then you cannot be considered. Be it Zaheer Khan or Ashish Nehra they didn't get a chance just because they were left-hand fast bowler but since they were good." Just then, Dravid was interrupted by a journalist who mentioned about Mitchell Starc and Shaheen Afridi and how these left-arm seamers have done well against India. To this, the head coach came up with a hilarious reply. "Agar 6 foot 4 inch bowler hain aapke paas toh aap batado (If you know a fast bowler who is 6 foot 4 inch, let us know). You took the names of Mitchell Starc and Shaheen Afridi, but in India, we rarely find someone as tall as 6 foot 5 inches who bowls left hand fast," Dravid added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

IND vs AUS, 2nd Test: Rahul Dravid shares epic response to reporter's question on Starc and Shaheen

Ahead of the second Test versus Australia, in New Delhi, Rohit Sharma-led India have created history. India displaced Australia to become the No. 1 ranked side in ICC Test Rankings and have also become the No. 1 team across formats. This is the first time that the Indian cricket team has&nbsp;topped the rankings across formats at the same time; making Rohit the first Indian captain to achieve the feat. India have been the No. 1 ranked side in T20Is for quite some time whereas they topped the ODI rankings following a 3-0 whitewash over New Zealand in the home series, in January. After their big win in the four-match Test series opener versus Australia&nbsp;by an innings and 132 runs, India have now topped the Test rankings to become No. 1 in all forms of the game.

In Tests, here's the top-five teams:

INDIA - 115 rating points 
Australia - 111 rating points 
England - 106 rating points 
New Zealand - 100 rating points 
South Africa - 85 rating points

Top-five ODI sides:

INDIA - 114 rating points 
Australia - 112 rating points 
New Zealand - 111 rating points 
England - 111 rating points 
Pakistan - 106 rating points

In T20Is:

India - 267 rating points 
England - 266 rating points 
Pakistan - 258 rating points 
South Africa - 256 rating points 
New Zealand - 252 rating points

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thought-something-positive-would-come-out-babar-azam-on-his-this-too-shall-pass-tweet-for-virat-kohli-562215">Thought something positive would come out: Babar Azam on his 'this too shall pass' tweet for Virat Kohli</a>

Among the players, R Ashwin jumped to the second spot in ICC Rankings for bowlers in Tests after his eight wicket haul in the Nagpur Test. The list is led by Australia captain Pat Cummins. Meanwhile, captain Rohit Sharma was rewarded for his majestic 120 in the first Test and moved from the 10th to the 8th spot in&nbsp;the Men's Test Batting Rankings. India will have to win the upcoming second Test versus Australia, in the national capital, to hold on to the top spot in Tests and strengthen their chances of making it to the ICC World Test Championship final -- for the second time in a row -- which will be held in June.

The second Test gets underway on February 17.

Ahead of the second Test versus Australia, in New Delhi, Rohit Sharma-led India have created history. India displaced Australia to become the No. 1 ranked side in ICC Test Rankings and have also become the No.

Ahead of the second Test versus Australia, in New Delhi, Rohit Sharma-led India have created history. India displaced Australia to become the No. 1 ranked side in ICC Test Rankings and have also become the No. 1 team across formats. This is the first time that the Indian cricket team has topped the rankings across formats at the same time; making Rohit the first Indian captain to achieve the feat. India have been the No. 1 ranked side in T20Is for quite some time whereas they topped the ODI rankings following a 3-0 whitewash over New Zealand in the home series, in January. After their big win in the four-match Test series opener versus Australia by an innings and 132 runs, India have now topped the Test rankings to become No. 1 in all forms of the game. In Tests, here's the top-five teams: INDIA - 115 rating points Australia - 111 rating points England - 106 rating points New Zealand - 100 rating points South Africa - 85 rating points Top-five ODI sides: INDIA - 114 rating points Australia - 112 rating points New Zealand - 111 rating points England - 111 rating points Pakistan - 106 rating points In T20Is: India - 267 rating points England - 266 rating points Pakistan - 258 rating points South Africa - 256 rating points New Zealand - 252 rating points Also Read: Thought something positive would come out: Babar Azam on his 'this too shall pass' tweet for Virat Kohli Among the players, R Ashwin jumped to the second spot in ICC Rankings for bowlers in Tests after his eight wicket haul in the Nagpur Test. The list is led by Australia captain Pat Cummins. Meanwhile, captain Rohit Sharma was rewarded for his majestic 120 in the first Test and moved from the 10th to the 8th spot in the Men's Test Batting Rankings. India will have to win the upcoming second Test versus Australia, in the national capital, to hold on to the top spot in Tests and strengthen their chances of making it to the ICC World Test Championship final -- for the second time in a row -- which will be held in June. The second Test gets underway on February 17.

MASSIVE FEAT! Rohit Sharma-led India become No. 1 across formats, dethrone Australia in Tests

India had another memorable day in the first Test versus Australia, in Nagpur. After commencing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023 edition in style by folding Pat Cummins &amp; Co. for 177 on Day 1, on Thursday (February 09), Rohit Sharma-led India rode on skipper's 120, Ravindra Jadeja's 66 not out and Axar Patel's 52* to reach 321 for 7; leading by 144 runs.

Rohit resumed the day's play at 56 and went on to slam a sublime 212-ball 120, laced with 15 fours and two sixes. He showed grit, determination and class during his knock but could have&nbsp;missed out on reaching his ninth Test hundred when he had a terrible mix-up with his predecessor Virat Kohli for the fourth-wicket stand. The incident took place during the 48th over, bowled by Nathan Lyon.

Kohli nudged a delivery to mid-wicket and began to run before realising there is no run on offer. By then, Rohit had come halfway down when he turned and dived to save himself. Hitman was lucky that the throw wasn't a direct hit otherwise he would've made the long walk back to the pavillion. As Rohit survived, Kohli apologised to him to which the Indian captain had a heartfelt reaction. Here's the video:&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-virat-kohli-gets-dismissed-for-cheap-after-lunch-break-on-day-2-of-1st-test-watch-560594">IND vs AUS: Virat Kohli gets dismissed for cheap after lunch break on Day 2 of 1st Test - Watch</a>

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Kohli-Rohit only added 16 runs for the fourth wicket before the former Indian captain departed for 12. He was caught behind off debutant Todd Murphy, on a delivery which kept low and was on the legside, but Rohit carried on and became the first Indian skipper to score a hundred in all formats of the game; fourth overall.&nbsp;

Courtesy of Rohit's ton and fifties from all-rounders Jadeja and Axar, India are in a strong position in the first Test in Nagpur. They will look to dictate terms on Day 3 by stretching the lead beyond the 200-run mark and go for the kill versus the Aussies on a tricky surface.

India had another memorable day in the first Test versus Australia, in Nagpur. After commencing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023 edition in style by folding Pat Cummins & Co.

India had another memorable day in the first Test versus Australia, in Nagpur. After commencing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023 edition in style by folding Pat Cummins & Co. for 177 on Day 1, on Thursday (February 09), Rohit Sharma-led India rode on skipper's 120, Ravindra Jadeja's 66 not out and Axar Patel's 52* to reach 321 for 7; leading by 144 runs. Rohit resumed the day's play at 56 and went on to slam a sublime 212-ball 120, laced with 15 fours and two sixes. He showed grit, determination and class during his knock but could have missed out on reaching his ninth Test hundred when he had a terrible mix-up with his predecessor Virat Kohli for the fourth-wicket stand. The incident took place during the 48th over, bowled by Nathan Lyon. Kohli nudged a delivery to mid-wicket and began to run before realising there is no run on offer. By then, Rohit had come halfway down when he turned and dived to save himself. Hitman was lucky that the throw wasn't a direct hit otherwise he would've made the long walk back to the pavillion. As Rohit survived, Kohli apologised to him to which the Indian captain had a heartfelt reaction. Here's the video: Also Read: IND vs AUS: Virat Kohli gets dismissed for cheap after lunch break on Day 2 of 1st Test - Watch pic.twitter.com/Kw0jMSDg6A — Nitin Varshney (@NitinVa15588475) February 10, 2023 × Kohli-Rohit only added 16 runs for the fourth wicket before the former Indian captain departed for 12. He was caught behind off debutant Todd Murphy, on a delivery which kept low and was on the legside, but Rohit carried on and became the first Indian skipper to score a hundred in all formats of the game; fourth overall. Courtesy of Rohit's ton and fifties from all-rounders Jadeja and Axar, India are in a strong position in the first Test in Nagpur. They will look to dictate terms on Day 3 by stretching the lead beyond the 200-run mark and go for the kill versus the Aussies on a tricky surface.

1st Test: Virat Kohli apologises to Rohit Sharma after terrible mix-up almost ends Hitman's inning - watch

Rohit Sharma created history on Friday (February 10) during Day 2 of the first Test between India and Australia at the VCA Stadium, Nagpur. After India dismissed Pat Cummins-led Australia for 177, riding on Ravindra Jadeja's 5 for 47, they resumed the second day's play with an aim to take a big lead. While wickets fell at regular intervals, Rohit looked at his fluent best and reached a stunning hundred and achieved a big feat.

By slamming his 9th Test ton, Rohit became the first Indian captain -- fourth overall -- to score a hundred in all three formats. In the overall list, he joined the likes of Sri Lanka's Tillakaratne Dilshan, South Africa's Faf du Plessis and Pakistan's Babar Azam.&nbsp;

Hundreds in all three formats as captain 
Tillakaratne Dilshan 
Faf du Plessis 
Babar Azam 
Rohit Sharma

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-couldve-scored-more-runs-with-harbhajan-on-indian-openers-failure-on-day-1-of-nagpur-test-560531">'KL Rahul could've scored more runs with...': Harbhajan on Indian opener's failure on Day 1 of Nagpur Test</a>

This is also Rohit's second successive ton at the highest level. He had slammed 101 in India-New Zealand third and final ODI in Indore on January 24. Overall, it is Hitman's 43rd international century; 12th overall. In addition, this is Rohit's maiden Test century as captain.&nbsp;

Rohit's inning has been a standout one by all means. On a pitch where other batters have struggled or failed to convert their starts, he has looked in full control from the word go. At tea break on Day 2, Rohit-Ravindra Jadeja (34*) have so far&nbsp;added 58&nbsp;runs for the sixth-wicket with India well-placed at 226 for 5; leading by 49 runs.

Rohit Sharma created history on Friday (February 10) during Day 2 of the first Test between India and Australia at the VCA Stadium, Nagpur. After India dismissed Pat Cummins-led Australia for 177, riding on Ravindra Jadeja's 5 for 47, they resumed the second day's play with an aim to take a big lead.

Rohit Sharma created history on Friday (February 10) during Day 2 of the first Test between India and Australia at the VCA Stadium, Nagpur. After India dismissed Pat Cummins-led Australia for 177, riding on Ravindra Jadeja's 5 for 47, they resumed the second day's play with an aim to take a big lead. While wickets fell at regular intervals, Rohit looked at his fluent best and reached a stunning hundred and achieved a big feat. By slamming his 9th Test ton, Rohit became the first Indian captain -- fourth overall -- to score a hundred in all three formats. In the overall list, he joined the likes of Sri Lanka's Tillakaratne Dilshan, South Africa's Faf du Plessis and Pakistan's Babar Azam. Hundreds in all three formats as captain Tillakaratne Dilshan Faf du Plessis Babar Azam Rohit Sharma Also Read: 'KL Rahul could've scored more runs with...': Harbhajan on Indian opener's failure on Day 1 of Nagpur Test This is also Rohit's second successive ton at the highest level. He had slammed 101 in India-New Zealand third and final ODI in Indore on January 24. Overall, it is Hitman's 43rd international century; 12th overall. In addition, this is Rohit's maiden Test century as captain. Rohit's inning has been a standout one by all means. On a pitch where other batters have struggled or failed to convert their starts, he has looked in full control from the word go. At tea break on Day 2, Rohit-Ravindra Jadeja (34*) have so far added 58 runs for the sixth-wicket with India well-placed at 226 for 5; leading by 49 runs.

IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma becomes 1st Indian skipper to score a ton in all three formats during Nagpur Test

India have been at their dominant best in the ongoing home leg, where they easily went past Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the white-ball formats. Now, they next opposition is Australia as the Pat Cummins-led tourists will lock horns with Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. in the upcoming edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting on February 09 in Nagpur. The last few editions of the BGT have lived up to expectations, if not exceeded them, and a lot is at stake for both sides in the upcoming Test series, with WTC final spots up for grabs.&nbsp;

The last three editions saw India beat Australia -- defeating them twice in a row in their own backyard -- and the hosts will be favourites in familiar conditions but Cummins &amp; Co. have enough firepower to replicate their 2004 heroics in India. Ahead of the series opener, here's a list of Indian captains with most wins in history of Border-Gavaskar Trophy:

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>CAPTAINS</td>
			<td>MATCHES</td>
			<td>WON</td>
			<td>LOST</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>MS Dhoni</td>
			<td>13</td>
			<td>8</td>
			<td>4 (1 DRAWN)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Virat Kohli</td>
			<td>10</td>
			<td>3</td>
			<td>4 (3 DRAWN)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sourav Ganguly</td>
			<td>9</td>
			<td>3</td>
			<td>3 (3 DRAWN)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ajinkya Rahane</td>
			<td>4</td>
			<td>3</td>
			<td>0 (! DRAWN)</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

In the overall list, Dhoni tops the charts once again with Steve Waugh and Michael Clarke following suit -- with five wins each. Under Waugh, Aussies lost thrice and two Tests ended in a draw whereas Clarke-led Australia lost thrice with no drawn encounters.

Thus, Dhoni tops another captaincy list. While he was known for his white-ball heroics, the former keeper-batter was a force to reckon with in whites as well; amassing 4,876 runs including a double ton versus Australia. Under him, India also topped the ICC Test rankings for the first time in late 2009. Kohli, India's most successful Test captain with 40 wins, follows his predecessor in the list of Indian captains with most wins in the history of BGT.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-can-play-till-40-and-will-be-motivated-to-go-for-100-hundreds-dutch-star-roelef-van-der-merwe-558446">Virat Kohli can play till 40 and will be motivated to go for 100 hundreds: Dutch star Roelef van der Merwe</a>

Full Schedule of 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India:

February 9-13:&nbsp;1st Test&nbsp;at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur

February 17-21:&nbsp;2nd Test&nbsp;at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

March 01-05:&nbsp;3rd Test at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala

March 09-13:&nbsp;4th Test&nbsp;at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

Squads

India (for first two Tests):&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav

Australia:&nbsp;Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb (wk), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

India have been at their dominant best in the ongoing home leg, where they easily went past Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the white-ball formats. Now, they next opposition is Australia as the Pat Cummins-led tourists will lock horns with Rohit Sharma & Co.

India have been at their dominant best in the ongoing home leg, where they easily went past Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the white-ball formats. Now, they next opposition is Australia as the Pat Cummins-led tourists will lock horns with Rohit Sharma & Co. in the upcoming edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting on February 09 in Nagpur. The last few editions of the BGT have lived up to expectations, if not exceeded them, and a lot is at stake for both sides in the upcoming Test series, with WTC final spots up for grabs. The last three editions saw India beat Australia -- defeating them twice in a row in their own backyard -- and the hosts will be favourites in familiar conditions but Cummins & Co. have enough firepower to replicate their 2004 heroics in India. Ahead of the series opener, here's a list of Indian captains with most wins in history of Border-Gavaskar Trophy: CAPTAINS MATCHES WON LOST MS Dhoni 13 8 4 (1 DRAWN) Virat Kohli 10 3 4 (3 DRAWN) Sourav Ganguly 9 3 3 (3 DRAWN) Ajinkya Rahane 4 3 0 (! DRAWN) In the overall list, Dhoni tops the charts once again with Steve Waugh and Michael Clarke following suit -- with five wins each. Under Waugh, Aussies lost thrice and two Tests ended in a draw whereas Clarke-led Australia lost thrice with no drawn encounters. Thus, Dhoni tops another captaincy list. While he was known for his white-ball heroics, the former keeper-batter was a force to reckon with in whites as well; amassing 4,876 runs including a double ton versus Australia. Under him, India also topped the ICC Test rankings for the first time in late 2009. Kohli, India's most successful Test captain with 40 wins, follows his predecessor in the list of Indian captains with most wins in the history of BGT. Also read: Virat Kohli can play till 40 and will be motivated to go for 100 hundreds: Dutch star Roelef van der Merwe Full Schedule of 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India: February 9-13: 1st Test at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur February 17-21: 2nd Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi March 01-05: 3rd Test at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala March 09-13: 4th Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad Squads India (for first two Tests): Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav Australia: Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb (wk), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

Not Virat Kohli! Here's which Indian captain has won most Tests in history of Border Gavaskar Trophy

India went past Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the ongoing home leg but have their toughest opponents next in the form of Australia as both sides will lock horns in the upcoming edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which gets underway on February 09 in Nagpur. The last three Test series between India and Australia have lived up to expectations -- with a lot of drama and action on and off the 22-yard cricket strip -- and another rollicking series is on the cards between the two heavyweights with the ICC World Test Championship final tickets up for grabs.&nbsp;

Ahead of the marquee series, former Aussie stumper Ian Healy made a glaring claim. He feels if the pitches are fair, Pat Cummins &amp; Co. will win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time since early 2017. It is to be noted that the last three editions have gone in favour of India, with them beating Australia twice in a row on their home soil as well.&nbsp;

"I think if they produce fair Indian wickets, that are good batting wickets, to start with, (that) probably spin and spin pretty consistently but spin a long way, late in the match we (Australia) win," Healy said on 'SENQ Breakfast'.&nbsp;

Healy further pointed out, "I'm worried about (Mitchell) Starc and (Nathan) Lyon in the first Test if they're unfair wickets which I've seen in the last series, where balls were jumping ridiculously and sliding down low from day one, I think India play those conditions better than us." Thus, he cited, "I want the players to be very aware if they are escaping that pressure (from the locals) if you're escaping that pressure and hiding in your room using the golf simulator I think you've got to do something else."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-border-gavaskar-trophy-from-full-schedule-to-streaming-details-all-you-need-to-know-558245">India vs Australia, Border-Gavaskar Trophy: From full schedule to streaming details - All you need to know</a>

'In Australia, you can create 13 chances and can waste a couple but they don't come along as easy in India'

"That's an escape, you shouldn't be doing it, you're dodging, just be very aware of what you are feeling at any given time. Immerse yourself before you really get to deploy your technique don't drop catches, fielding can be difficult over there.&nbsp;What happens in India, to get ten wickets, you'll only get ten chances, whereas in Australia with bounce, carry and speed you can create 13 chances and you can waste a couple but they don't come along as easy in India. I just think they have to live and breathe that pressure and have a philosophy over there," Healy cautioned Cummins-led Australia.

Australia's last Test series win on Indian soil came in 2004. Thus, Cummins &amp; Co. have a tough ask ahead when they lock horns with Rohit's Team India.&nbsp;

Squads

India (for first two Tests):&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav

Australia:&nbsp;Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb (wk), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

India went past Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the ongoing home leg but have their toughest opponents next in the form of Australia as both sides will lock horns in the upcoming edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which gets underway on February 09 in Nagpur.

India went past Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the ongoing home leg but have their toughest opponents next in the form of Australia as both sides will lock horns in the upcoming edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which gets underway on February 09 in Nagpur. The last three Test series between India and Australia have lived up to expectations -- with a lot of drama and action on and off the 22-yard cricket strip -- and another rollicking series is on the cards between the two heavyweights with the ICC World Test Championship final tickets up for grabs. Ahead of the marquee series, former Aussie stumper Ian Healy made a glaring claim. He feels if the pitches are fair, Pat Cummins & Co. will win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time since early 2017. It is to be noted that the last three editions have gone in favour of India, with them beating Australia twice in a row on their home soil as well. "I think if they produce fair Indian wickets, that are good batting wickets, to start with, (that) probably spin and spin pretty consistently but spin a long way, late in the match we (Australia) win," Healy said on 'SENQ Breakfast'. Healy further pointed out, "I'm worried about (Mitchell) Starc and (Nathan) Lyon in the first Test if they're unfair wickets which I've seen in the last series, where balls were jumping ridiculously and sliding down low from day one, I think India play those conditions better than us." Thus, he cited, "I want the players to be very aware if they are escaping that pressure (from the locals) if you're escaping that pressure and hiding in your room using the golf simulator I think you've got to do something else." Also read: India vs Australia, Border-Gavaskar Trophy: From full schedule to streaming details - All you need to know 'In Australia, you can create 13 chances and can waste a couple but they don't come along as easy in India' "That's an escape, you shouldn't be doing it, you're dodging, just be very aware of what you are feeling at any given time. Immerse yourself before you really get to deploy your technique don't drop catches, fielding can be difficult over there. What happens in India, to get ten wickets, you'll only get ten chances, whereas in Australia with bounce, carry and speed you can create 13 chances and you can waste a couple but they don't come along as easy in India. I just think they have to live and breathe that pressure and have a philosophy over there," Healy cautioned Cummins-led Australia. Australia's last Test series win on Indian soil came in 2004. Thus, Cummins & Co. have a tough ask ahead when they lock horns with Rohit's Team India. Squads India (for first two Tests): Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav Australia: Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb (wk), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

Australia will win Border Gavaskar Trophy if India produce fair pitches, claims former Aussie stumper

On Wednesday (January 11), Australia announced a strong 18-man squad for their forthcoming four-match Test series versus India, starting on February 09. The last three editions of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy have been won by India and with them hosting it this time around, after 2017, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will be confident but Pat Cummins-led Aussies have been in superb form of late and, hence, will surely pose a major threat to Team India. The series holds a lot of significance with the ICC World Test Championship final to be held in June 2023. India and Australia are expected to meet in the summit clash.

Australia have included as many as four spinners. Nathan Lyon, Ashton Agar, Mitchell Swepson and uncapped spinner&nbsp;Todd Murphy have been named in the 18-member squad&nbsp;for the matches in Nagpur, New Delhi, Dharamshala and Ahmedabad, respectively. The series will be followed by three ODIs before IPL 2023's commencement. It is to be noted that this will be the last BGT comprising four Tests as the editions to follow will comprise five matches. Here's Australia's squad for the India Tests:

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An 18-player Test squad has been assembled for the Qantas Tour of India in February and March. 
 
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prithvi-shaw-breaks-plethora-of-records-as-he-slams-second-highest-individual-score-in-ranji-trophy-history-551430">Prithvi Shaw breaks plethora of records as he slams second-highest individual score in Ranji Trophy history</a>

Head selector George Bailey spoke at length about the retention of Ashton Agar -- who went wicketless in the rain-marred Australia-South Africa SCG Test -- the addition of Peter Handscomb and spinner Swepson. "Ashton Agar continues to impress following his comeback in Sydney and we believe left-arm finger spin will play an important role in Indian conditions,"&nbsp;Bailey said in a news release. "Todd Murphy has progressed quickly having impressed in domestic cricket and recently with Australia A. With those performances Todd has emerged as a strong spin option. Selection in this squad also provides another opportunity to spend time alongside Nathan Lyon and assistant coach Daniel Vettori in India, which will be invaluable to his development."

Bailey added, "Peter Handscomb deserves his place back in the squad. His domestic form has been strong recently and Pete has proven he can perform at test level. His experience against spin on the subcontinent is valuable and he is also an exceptionally good close-to-the-wicket catcher."

Further, Mitchell Starc has been ruled out of the first Test due to a finger injury but is expected to join the team after the series opener. He remains part of the squad. The pace-bowling department comprise Cummins, Scott Boland, Josh Hazlewood whereas Steve Smith, David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Matt Renshaw and Travis Head will be their main batters. Cameron Green has&nbsp;also been selected in the hope that he will recover from his broken finger.

Australia Squad:&nbsp;Pat Cummins (captain), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

On Wednesday (January 11), Australia announced a strong 18-man squad for their forthcoming four-match Test series versus India, starting on February 09. The last three editions of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy have been won by India and with them hosting it this time around, after 2017, Rohit Sharma & Co.

On Wednesday (January 11), Australia announced a strong 18-man squad for their forthcoming four-match Test series versus India, starting on February 09. The last three editions of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy have been won by India and with them hosting it this time around, after 2017, Rohit Sharma & Co. will be confident but Pat Cummins-led Aussies have been in superb form of late and, hence, will surely pose a major threat to Team India. The series holds a lot of significance with the ICC World Test Championship final to be held in June 2023. India and Australia are expected to meet in the summit clash. Australia have included as many as four spinners. Nathan Lyon, Ashton Agar, Mitchell Swepson and uncapped spinner Todd Murphy have been named in the 18-member squad for the matches in Nagpur, New Delhi, Dharamshala and Ahmedabad, respectively. The series will be followed by three ODIs before IPL 2023's commencement. It is to be noted that this will be the last BGT comprising four Tests as the editions to follow will comprise five matches. Here's Australia's squad for the India Tests: An 18-player Test squad has been assembled for the Qantas Tour of India in February and March. Congratulations to everyone selected! pic.twitter.com/3fmCci4d9b — Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) January 11, 2023 × Also read: Prithvi Shaw breaks plethora of records as he slams second-highest individual score in Ranji Trophy history Head selector George Bailey spoke at length about the retention of Ashton Agar -- who went wicketless in the rain-marred Australia-South Africa SCG Test -- the addition of Peter Handscomb and spinner Swepson. "Ashton Agar continues to impress following his comeback in Sydney and we believe left-arm finger spin will play an important role in Indian conditions," Bailey said in a news release. "Todd Murphy has progressed quickly having impressed in domestic cricket and recently with Australia A. With those performances Todd has emerged as a strong spin option. Selection in this squad also provides another opportunity to spend time alongside Nathan Lyon and assistant coach Daniel Vettori in India, which will be invaluable to his development." Bailey added, "Peter Handscomb deserves his place back in the squad. His domestic form has been strong recently and Pete has proven he can perform at test level. His experience against spin on the subcontinent is valuable and he is also an exceptionally good close-to-the-wicket catcher." Further, Mitchell Starc has been ruled out of the first Test due to a finger injury but is expected to join the team after the series opener. He remains part of the squad. The pace-bowling department comprise Cummins, Scott Boland, Josh Hazlewood whereas Steve Smith, David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Matt Renshaw and Travis Head will be their main batters. Cameron Green has also been selected in the hope that he will recover from his broken finger. Australia Squad: Pat Cummins (captain), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

IND vs AUS: Cummins & Co. include four spinners in squad for Border-Gavaskar Trophy; Starc out of 1st Test

On Thursday (December 08), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's action-packed home schedule in early 2023. After India's ongoing tour of Bangladesh, the Rohit Sharma-led side will host Sri Lanka and New Zealand in white-ball series before Australia comes to India for a four-match Test series, i.e. the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, followed by a three-match ODI series prior to IPL 2023. Sri Lanka will be the first tourists in the next year, followed by the Kiwis with the much-awaited India-Australia rivalry resuming after that.

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🚨 NEWS 🚨: BCCI announces schedule for Mastercard home series against Sri Lanka, New Zealand &amp; Australia. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mastercardindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mastercardindia</a> 
 
More Details 🔽<a href="https://t.co/gEpahJztn5">https://t.co/gEpahJztn5</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1600746560605724672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-need-to-give-more-than-100-rohit-sharma-on-plethora-of-injury-concerns-in-team-india-541179">Players need to give more than 100%: Rohit Sharma on plethora of injury concerns in Team India</a>

Sri Lanka tour of India, 2023

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>MATCH</td>
			<td>DATE</td>
			<td>VENUE</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1st T20I</td>
			<td>January 03</td>
			<td>Mumbai</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2nd T20I</td>
			<td>January 05</td>
			<td>Pune&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>3rd T20I</td>
			<td>January 07</td>
			<td>Rajkot</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1st ODI</td>
			<td>January 10</td>
			<td>Guwahati</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2nd ODI</td>
			<td>Janaury 12</td>
			<td>Kolkata</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>3rd ODI</td>
			<td>January 15</td>
			<td>Trivandrum</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

NZ tour of India, 2023

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			<td>MATCH</td>
			<td>DATE</td>
			<td>VENUE</td>
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			<td>1st ODI</td>
			<td>January 18</td>
			<td>Hyderabad</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2nd ODI</td>
			<td>January 21</td>
			<td>Raipur</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>3rd ODI</td>
			<td>January 24</td>
			<td>Indore</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1st T20I</td>
			<td>January 27</td>
			<td>Ranchi</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2nd T20I</td>
			<td>January 29</td>
			<td>Lucknow</td>
		</tr>
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			<td>3rd T20I</td>
			<td>February 01</td>
			<td>Ahmedabad</td>
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Australia tour of India, 2023

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			<td>MATCH</td>
			<td>DATE</td>
			<td>VENUE</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1st Test</td>
			<td>Feb 9-13</td>
			<td>Nagpur</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2nd Test</td>
			<td>Feb 17-21</td>
			<td>Delhi</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>3rd Test</td>
			<td>March 1-5</td>
			<td>Dharamsala</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>4th Test</td>
			<td>March 9-13</td>
			<td>Ahmedabad</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1st ODI</td>
			<td>March 17</td>
			<td>Mumbai</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2nd ODI</td>
			<td>March 19</td>
			<td>Vizag</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>3rd ODI</td>
			<td>March 22</td>
			<td>Chennai</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Thus, there is plenty of cricket for the senior men's cricket team in the first quarter of 2023. They will prepare for the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be held in India later next year, with the six ODIs versus Sri Lanka and New Zealand and also play few T20Is. Against Australia, they will aim to beat the Pat Cummins-led Aussies in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which will be the last edition comprising four matches, before hosting them in three ODIs prior to the next edition of the IPL.

Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led India are battling with several injury concerns at present. Hence, they have lots on their table as the team gears up for the ODI WC next year. India's run in 2022 hasn't been good, with Asia Cup debacle, T20 World Cup semi-final exit, one-off Test loss versus hosts England, miserable South Africa tour and now an ODI series loss versus Bangladesh in their own backyard. Hence, they will hope for a memorable start to 2023 with some big series in the pipeline.

On Thursday (December 08), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's action-packed home schedule in early 2023. After India's ongoing tour of Bangladesh, the Rohit Sharma-led side will host Sri Lanka and New Zealand in white-ball series before Australia comes to India for a four-match Test series, i.

On Thursday (December 08), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's action-packed home schedule in early 2023. After India's ongoing tour of Bangladesh, the Rohit Sharma-led side will host Sri Lanka and New Zealand in white-ball series before Australia comes to India for a four-match Test series, i.e. the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, followed by a three-match ODI series prior to IPL 2023. Sri Lanka will be the first tourists in the next year, followed by the Kiwis with the much-awaited India-Australia rivalry resuming after that. 🚨 NEWS 🚨: BCCI announces schedule for Mastercard home series against Sri Lanka, New Zealand & Australia. #TeamIndia | #INDvSL | #INDvNZ | #INDvAUS | @mastercardindia More Details 🔽https://t.co/gEpahJztn5 — BCCI (@BCCI) December 8, 2022 × Also read: Players need to give more than 100%: Rohit Sharma on plethora of injury concerns in Team India Sri Lanka tour of India, 2023 MATCH DATE VENUE 1st T20I January 03 Mumbai 2nd T20I January 05 Pune 3rd T20I January 07 Rajkot 1st ODI January 10 Guwahati 2nd ODI Janaury 12 Kolkata 3rd ODI January 15 Trivandrum NZ tour of India, 2023 MATCH DATE VENUE 1st ODI January 18 Hyderabad 2nd ODI January 21 Raipur 3rd ODI January 24 Indore 1st T20I January 27 Ranchi 2nd T20I January 29 Lucknow 3rd T20I February 01 Ahmedabad Australia tour of India, 2023 MATCH DATE VENUE 1st Test Feb 9-13 Nagpur 2nd Test Feb 17-21 Delhi 3rd Test March 1-5 Dharamsala 4th Test March 9-13 Ahmedabad 1st ODI March 17 Mumbai 2nd ODI March 19 Vizag 3rd ODI March 22 Chennai Thus, there is plenty of cricket for the senior men's cricket team in the first quarter of 2023. They will prepare for the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be held in India later next year, with the six ODIs versus Sri Lanka and New Zealand and also play few T20Is. Against Australia, they will aim to beat the Pat Cummins-led Aussies in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which will be the last edition comprising four matches, before hosting them in three ODIs prior to the next edition of the IPL. Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led India are battling with several injury concerns at present. Hence, they have lots on their table as the team gears up for the ODI WC next year. India's run in 2022 hasn't been good, with Asia Cup debacle, T20 World Cup semi-final exit, one-off Test loss versus hosts England, miserable South Africa tour and now an ODI series loss versus Bangladesh in their own backyard. Hence, they will hope for a memorable start to 2023 with some big series in the pipeline.

BCCI announces India's action-packed home schedule, Australia Tests to start on February 9

After opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led India managed to restrict Australia to 186-7 in the third and final T20I on Sunday evening (September 25) in Hyderabad. Given it has been a high-scoring series, Australia had a competitive total on the board but Aaron Finch &amp; Co. would've fancied anything over the 200-run mark.&nbsp;

Riding on Cameron Green's 52 and Tim David's 27-ball 54, Australia had a good total after the end of 20 overs. Axar Patel once again stood tall with the ball, claiming 3 for 33 before the onus fell on the Indian batters in the second-half. In reply, India were 30 fro 2 before Virat Kohli's 63 and Suryakumar Yadav's match-winning 69, off 36 deliveries at a whopping 191.67, initiated their recovery. Eventually, Hardik Pandya's 16-ball 25 not out took India past the finish line to win the bilateral T20I series on home soil.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-strengthen-lead-at-the-top-in-icc-t20i-rankings-with-thrilling-series-win-vs-australia-519787">India strengthen lead at the top in ICC T20I rankings with thrilling series win vs Australia</a>

After the intense encounter, where India toppled Australia on the penultimate ball of the contest, Player-of-the-Series Axar (with eight scalps overall) interacted with SKY, who ended as the Player-of-the-Match in the series finale. During the chat, the swashbuckling batter Surya revealed how he battled fever to be match-ready.

"Kya hua tha raat ko?&nbsp;(What happened last night)?" asked Axar on BCCI.tv.&nbsp;Yeh problem actually aap bhi face kar rahe the, yeh mujhe team meeting mein pata chala&nbsp;(You were also facing the same issue, and I got to know about it in the team meeting)," responded Surya.

<section>
"Weather change hua aur phir ab naya travelling bhi chalu hua hai uske wajah se thoda stomach ache ho raha tha phir fever bhi aa gaya but at the same time pata bhi tha ki decider game hai&nbsp;(The weather changed last night and there has been a lot of travelling as well. Due to&nbsp;all of this, I'd a stomach ache and got fever as well, but at the same time I knew that it was a series decider).

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From setting the stage on fire to a special pre-match tale! 🔥 😎 
 
Men of the hour - <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@surya_14kumar</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/akshar2026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@akshar2026</a> - discuss it all after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s T20I series win against Australia in Hyderabad. 👍 👍- By <a href="https://twitter.com/RajalArora?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RajalArora</a> 
 
Full interview 🔽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/rfPgcGyO0H">https://t.co/rfPgcGyO0H</a> <a href="https://t.co/rDWz9Zwh3h">pic.twitter.com/rDWz9Zwh3h</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1574247389388410881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-go-bonkers-celebrate-wildly-after-india-win-t20i-series-vs-australia-519779">Watch: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli go bonkers, celebrate wildly after India win T20I series vs Australia</a>

"Toh main apne doctor and physio ko wahi bola ki agar yeh World Cup ka final hoga toh main kaise react karunga. Main aisa bimari leke baith nahi sakta hu. Toh aap kaise bhi karke, kuch bhi karo koi bhi goli do kuch bhi injection do lekin merko shaam ke game ke liye ready kar do (So I told my doctor and the physio that if there is a World Cup final how will I react? I can't sit for such reasons. Do whatever it takes, give me any medicine or injection but get me ready for the match in the evening)."

Ek baar ground pe aa gaye, yeh jersey pehen lya toh phir emotion hi alag hai&nbsp;(Once I'm on the ground wearing the India jersey then the emotion is&nbsp;different altogether)," Surya added.

SKY's heroics and Axar's key breakthroughs helped India beat Australia and clinch the series after conceding a 1-0 lead.
</section>

After opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led India managed to restrict Australia to 186-7 in the third and final T20I on Sunday evening (September 25) in Hyderabad.

After opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led India managed to restrict Australia to 186-7 in the third and final T20I on Sunday evening (September 25) in Hyderabad. Given it has been a high-scoring series, Australia had a competitive total on the board but Aaron Finch & Co. would've fancied anything over the 200-run mark. Riding on Cameron Green's 52 and Tim David's 27-ball 54, Australia had a good total after the end of 20 overs. Axar Patel once again stood tall with the ball, claiming 3 for 33 before the onus fell on the Indian batters in the second-half. In reply, India were 30 fro 2 before Virat Kohli's 63 and Suryakumar Yadav's match-winning 69, off 36 deliveries at a whopping 191.67, initiated their recovery. Eventually, Hardik Pandya's 16-ball 25 not out took India past the finish line to win the bilateral T20I series on home soil. ALSO READ | India strengthen lead at the top in ICC T20I rankings with thrilling series win vs Australia After the intense encounter, where India toppled Australia on the penultimate ball of the contest, Player-of-the-Series Axar (with eight scalps overall) interacted with SKY, who ended as the Player-of-the-Match in the series finale. During the chat, the swashbuckling batter Surya revealed how he battled fever to be match-ready. "Kya hua tha raat ko? (What happened last night)?" asked Axar on BCCI.tv. Yeh problem actually aap bhi face kar rahe the, yeh mujhe team meeting mein pata chala (You were also facing the same issue, and I got to know about it in the team meeting)," responded Surya. "Weather change hua aur phir ab naya travelling bhi chalu hua hai uske wajah se thoda stomach ache ho raha tha phir fever bhi aa gaya but at the same time pata bhi tha ki decider game hai (The weather changed last night and there has been a lot of travelling as well. Due to all of this, I'd a stomach ache and got fever as well, but at the same time I knew that it was a series decider). From setting the stage on fire to a special pre-match tale! 🔥 😎 Men of the hour - @surya_14kumar & @akshar2026 - discuss it all after #TeamIndia's T20I series win against Australia in Hyderabad. 👍 👍- By @RajalArora Full interview 🔽 #INDvAUS https://t.co/rfPgcGyO0H pic.twitter.com/rDWz9Zwh3h — BCCI (@BCCI) September 26, 2022 × ALSO READ | Watch: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli go bonkers, celebrate wildly after India win T20I series vs Australia "Toh main apne doctor and physio ko wahi bola ki agar yeh World Cup ka final hoga toh main kaise react karunga. Main aisa bimari leke baith nahi sakta hu. Toh aap kaise bhi karke, kuch bhi karo koi bhi goli do kuch bhi injection do lekin merko shaam ke game ke liye ready kar do (So I told my doctor and the physio that if there is a World Cup final how will I react? I can't sit for such reasons. Do whatever it takes, give me any medicine or injection but get me ready for the match in the evening)." Ek baar ground pe aa gaye, yeh jersey pehen lya toh phir emotion hi alag hai (Once I'm on the ground wearing the India jersey then the emotion is different altogether)," Surya added. SKY's heroics and Axar's key breakthroughs helped India beat Australia and clinch the series after conceding a 1-0 lead.

Give me any medicine: Suryakumar recalls how he battled fever before match-winning knock vs Australia

India beat Australia by six wickets in a thrilling 187-run chase in Hyderabad, on Sunday (September 25), to win the series 2-1. After levelling the series in the second and penultimate T20I in Nagpur, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue opted to bowl first at the Rajiv Gandhi&nbsp;International Stadium, Hyderabad on Sunday evening.

Cameron Green's 52 and Tim David's whirlwind 54 propelled the Aaron Finch-led Australia to a competitive 186-7 in 20 overs. They missed out on posting anything over 200 but still fancied their chances despite India's strong batting line-up. In reply, India were soon reduced to 30 for 2 before fifties from Virat Kohli (63) and Suryakumar Yadav (69) stood tall for the home side and brought them back into the contest. In the end overs, the match went down to the wire before all-rounder Hardik Pandya's 16-ball 25 not out propelled India to a thrilling six-wicket series win.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-go-bonkers-celebrate-wildly-after-india-win-t20i-series-vs-australia-519779">Watch: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli go bonkers, celebrate wildly after India win T20I series vs Australia</a>

After the series victory, India have bolstered their lead at the top of the ICC T20I rankings. India are now seven points clear of second-ranked England, who lost the fourth T20I of their ongoing seven-match series versus hosts Pakistan in Karachi on Sunday evening. India have a total of 268 rating points followed by England (261) whereas the likes of South Africa, Pakistan, New Zealand and Australia follow suit.

The likes of West Indies, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan come next to complete the top ten. Given that India have another home series coming up, they will like to maintain their strong record in familiar conditions and consolidate their top spot before heading into the T20 World Cup, from October-November in Australia. Nonetheless, India won't have it easy as they next face Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in a three-match T20I series starting on Wednesday (September 28).&nbsp;

India beat Australia by six wickets in a thrilling 187-run chase in Hyderabad, on Sunday (September 25), to win the series 2-1. After levelling the series in the second and penultimate T20I in Nagpur, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue opted to bowl first at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad on Sunday evening.

India beat Australia by six wickets in a thrilling 187-run chase in Hyderabad, on Sunday (September 25), to win the series 2-1. After levelling the series in the second and penultimate T20I in Nagpur, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue opted to bowl first at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad on Sunday evening. Cameron Green's 52 and Tim David's whirlwind 54 propelled the Aaron Finch-led Australia to a competitive 186-7 in 20 overs. They missed out on posting anything over 200 but still fancied their chances despite India's strong batting line-up. In reply, India were soon reduced to 30 for 2 before fifties from Virat Kohli (63) and Suryakumar Yadav (69) stood tall for the home side and brought them back into the contest. In the end overs, the match went down to the wire before all-rounder Hardik Pandya's 16-ball 25 not out propelled India to a thrilling six-wicket series win. ALSO READ | Watch: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli go bonkers, celebrate wildly after India win T20I series vs Australia After the series victory, India have bolstered their lead at the top of the ICC T20I rankings. India are now seven points clear of second-ranked England, who lost the fourth T20I of their ongoing seven-match series versus hosts Pakistan in Karachi on Sunday evening. India have a total of 268 rating points followed by England (261) whereas the likes of South Africa, Pakistan, New Zealand and Australia follow suit. The likes of West Indies, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan come next to complete the top ten. Given that India have another home series coming up, they will like to maintain their strong record in familiar conditions and consolidate their top spot before heading into the T20 World Cup, from October-November in Australia. Nonetheless, India won't have it easy as they next face Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in a three-match T20I series starting on Wednesday (September 28).

India strengthen lead at the top in ICC T20I rankings with thrilling series win vs Australia

India and Australia were involved in another high-scoring thriller in the third and final T20I, in Hyderabad, on Sunday evening (September 25). With the series levelled at 1-1, the stakes were high and the two heavyweights produced another thrilling contest where Rohit Sharma-led India won the clash on the penultimate ball to clinch the series 2-1.

The match went down to the wire, with India needing 11 off six balls. While Virat Kohli smashed a six off&nbsp;the first ball, he fell for 63 on the very next delivery. Hardik Pandya, who remained unbeaten on 25 off 16 balls, maintained his calm and hit the winning runs&nbsp;-- with four needed off two balls -- to take India past the finish line in front of a jam-packed stadium. As soon as Hardik did the job for India and completed the run-chase in style, cleverly opening the face of the bat to steer the ball towards the third-man region for a boundary -- skipper Rohit and Virat Kohli broke into wild celebrations sitting at the staircase of the Indian dressing room.&nbsp;

Here's the viral video of Rohit-Kohli going bonkers and celebrating wildly as India won the T20I series versus the current world champions:

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Best moment of this T20I series - Bond of Virat Kohli &amp; Rohit Sharma. RohiRat celebration.♥️ <a href="https://t.co/fXGjOridJZ">pic.twitter.com/fXGjOridJZ</a>
— CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImTanujSingh/status/1574315888203157506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-surpasses-virat-kohli-to-become-indias-second-most-successful-t20i-captain-519695">Rohit Sharma surpasses Virat Kohli to become India's second-most successful T20I captain</a>

Opting to bowl first, India rode on Axar Patel's 3 for 33 but the likes of Cameron Green (52), Tim David's 54 and Daniel Sams' 20-ball 28 propelled Australia to a competitive 186-7. In reply, India were reduced to 30 for 2 with the openers, KL Rahul and Rohit, falling cheaply before half-centurions Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav (who returned with the Player-of-the-Match award for his scintillating 36-ball 69, laced with 5 fours and sixes each) steadied the ship with an impressive 104-run third-wicket stand before Hardik's finishing skills stood out.

India will now face South Africa in three T20Is and ODIs, each, before leaving for Australia for the 2022 T20 World Cup.

India and Australia were involved in another high-scoring thriller in the third and final T20I, in Hyderabad, on Sunday evening (September 25). With the series levelled at 1-1, the stakes were high and the two heavyweights produced another thrilling contest where Rohit Sharma-led India won the clash on the penultimate ball to clinch the series 2-1.

India and Australia were involved in another high-scoring thriller in the third and final T20I, in Hyderabad, on Sunday evening (September 25). With the series levelled at 1-1, the stakes were high and the two heavyweights produced another thrilling contest where Rohit Sharma-led India won the clash on the penultimate ball to clinch the series 2-1. The match went down to the wire, with India needing 11 off six balls. While Virat Kohli smashed a six off the first ball, he fell for 63 on the very next delivery. Hardik Pandya, who remained unbeaten on 25 off 16 balls, maintained his calm and hit the winning runs -- with four needed off two balls -- to take India past the finish line in front of a jam-packed stadium. As soon as Hardik did the job for India and completed the run-chase in style, cleverly opening the face of the bat to steer the ball towards the third-man region for a boundary -- skipper Rohit and Virat Kohli broke into wild celebrations sitting at the staircase of the Indian dressing room. Here's the viral video of Rohit-Kohli going bonkers and celebrating wildly as India won the T20I series versus the current world champions: Best moment of this T20I series - Bond of Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma. RohiRat celebration.♥️ pic.twitter.com/fXGjOridJZ — CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) September 26, 2022 × ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma surpasses Virat Kohli to become India's second-most successful T20I captain Opting to bowl first, India rode on Axar Patel's 3 for 33 but the likes of Cameron Green (52), Tim David's 54 and Daniel Sams' 20-ball 28 propelled Australia to a competitive 186-7. In reply, India were reduced to 30 for 2 with the openers, KL Rahul and Rohit, falling cheaply before half-centurions Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav (who returned with the Player-of-the-Match award for his scintillating 36-ball 69, laced with 5 fours and sixes each) steadied the ship with an impressive 104-run third-wicket stand before Hardik's finishing skills stood out. India will now face South Africa in three T20Is and ODIs, each, before leaving for Australia for the 2022 T20 World Cup.

Watch: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli go bonkers, celebrate wildly after India win T20I series vs Australia

India faced Australia in the series opener of the three-match T20I series on Tuesday evening (September 20) at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. After a disappointing run in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, India were expected to start off with a win in home conditions, however, the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue failed to defend 208/6 and lost the game in the last over by four wickets.

Being asked to bat first, India rode on vice-captain KL Rahul's 35-ball 55, Suryakumar Yadav's 46, and Hardik Pandya's scintillating 30-ball 71 not out to post 208 for 6 in their full quota of overs. In reply, Australia were off to a flier courtesy of makeshift opener Cameron Green's 61 before Matthew Wade's 21-ball 45 not out took his side home with fours wickets and an equal number of balls to spare.

In the post-match press conference, all-rounder Hardik addressed the media and gave a sarcastic reply when asked by a reporter to reveal the 'turning point' of the contest.

"Aap batao, mujhe nahi pata, humko pata hota toh wahi nahi rok dete na. (You tell me, I don't know. Had we known about it, we would've stopped them in the field)", Hardik said in response to the question from a journalist's question; leaving everyone baffled.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-record-highest-t20i-run-chase-vs-india-win-mohali-run-feast-by-4-wickets-518180">Australia record highest T20I run-chase vs India, win Mohali run-feast by 4 wickets</a>

Hardik further asserted, "Dekho sir, pinpoint nahi kar sakte. Unke time pe bhi ek over mein 24-25 run aye, usse kuch farak nahi padta. Bilateral series hai, aur do matches hai usmein koshish karenge kuch achchha karne ki. (Sir, we can't pinpoint on a single over, they also conceded 24-25 runs in an over. We&nbsp;still have two more games in the series and, hence,&nbsp;we will try to make a comeback)."

At the halfway mark in the run-chase, Australia was marching ahead being well-placed at 109-1. However, India reduced them to 145 for 5 in 14.1 overs and were favourites with the Aussies needing 40 off 18 balls. Nonetheless, Bhuvneshwar Kumar leaked 31 runs in his last 12 deliveries whereas Harshal Patel was smacked for 22 runs in the penultimate over as the visitors achieved a 1-0 lead.

At the post-match presentation, captain Rohit pointed out, "I don't think we bowled well. 200 is a good score to defend, and we didn't take our chances in the field. It was a great effort from our batters, but bowlers were not quite there. There are things we need to look at, but it was a great game for us to understand what went wrong. We know this is a high-scoring ground. You can't relax even if you get 200. We took wickets to an extent, but they played really well. They played some extraordinary shots. If I was in that changing room, I would expect to chase that total. You can back yourself to defend 60 runs in the final 4 overs. We were not able to take that extra wicket. That was the turning point, if we would have taken another wicket, things would have been different."

India faced Australia in the series opener of the three-match T20I series on Tuesday evening (September 20) at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. After a disappointing run in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, India were expected to start off with a win in home conditions, however, the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue failed to defend 208/6 and lost the game in the last over by four wickets.

India faced Australia in the series opener of the three-match T20I series on Tuesday evening (September 20) at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. After a disappointing run in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, India were expected to start off with a win in home conditions, however, the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue failed to defend 208/6 and lost the game in the last over by four wickets. Being asked to bat first, India rode on vice-captain KL Rahul's 35-ball 55, Suryakumar Yadav's 46, and Hardik Pandya's scintillating 30-ball 71 not out to post 208 for 6 in their full quota of overs. In reply, Australia were off to a flier courtesy of makeshift opener Cameron Green's 61 before Matthew Wade's 21-ball 45 not out took his side home with fours wickets and an equal number of balls to spare. In the post-match press conference, all-rounder Hardik addressed the media and gave a sarcastic reply when asked by a reporter to reveal the 'turning point' of the contest. "Aap batao, mujhe nahi pata, humko pata hota toh wahi nahi rok dete na. (You tell me, I don't know. Had we known about it, we would've stopped them in the field)", Hardik said in response to the question from a journalist's question; leaving everyone baffled. ALSO READ | Australia record highest T20I run-chase vs India, win Mohali run-feast by 4 wickets Hardik further asserted, "Dekho sir, pinpoint nahi kar sakte. Unke time pe bhi ek over mein 24-25 run aye, usse kuch farak nahi padta. Bilateral series hai, aur do matches hai usmein koshish karenge kuch achchha karne ki. (Sir, we can't pinpoint on a single over, they also conceded 24-25 runs in an over. We still have two more games in the series and, hence, we will try to make a comeback)." At the halfway mark in the run-chase, Australia was marching ahead being well-placed at 109-1. However, India reduced them to 145 for 5 in 14.1 overs and were favourites with the Aussies needing 40 off 18 balls. Nonetheless, Bhuvneshwar Kumar leaked 31 runs in his last 12 deliveries whereas Harshal Patel was smacked for 22 runs in the penultimate over as the visitors achieved a 1-0 lead. At the post-match presentation, captain Rohit pointed out, "I don't think we bowled well. 200 is a good score to defend, and we didn't take our chances in the field. It was a great effort from our batters, but bowlers were not quite there. There are things we need to look at, but it was a great game for us to understand what went wrong. We know this is a high-scoring ground. You can't relax even if you get 200. We took wickets to an extent, but they played really well. They played some extraordinary shots. If I was in that changing room, I would expect to chase that total. You can back yourself to defend 60 runs in the final 4 overs. We were not able to take that extra wicket. That was the turning point, if we would have taken another wicket, things would have been different."

'You tell me, I don't know' - Hardik Pandya tells reporter when asked about 'turning point' in Mohali T20I

Australia produced a fine batting show to beat hosts India by four wickets in the first T20I here on Tuesday. 
Invited to bat, Hardik Pandya (71 not out) and KL Rahul (55) scored scintillating half-centuries to help India post 208 for six. In reply, opener Cameron Green put India on the back foot with his 30-ball 61 before Matthew Wade (45 not out off 21) took the visitors over the line with four balls to spare.

With the win, Australia took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Earlier, Rahul (55 off 35 balls) scored his second consecutive fifty which included four boundaries and three maximums. The in-form Pandya pummelled the visiting bowlers into submission with his unbeaten 30-ball 71. The all-rounder smashed the ball seven times to the fence and five times over it to take India over the 200-run mark.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-aus-hitman-for-a-reason-rohit-sharma-equals-martin-guptills-record-of-most-sixes-in-t20is-518158">India vs Aus: Hitman for a reason! Rohit Sharma equals Martin Guptill's record of most sixes in T20Is</a>

For Australia, medium pacer Nathan Ellis 3/30 was the pick of the bowlers.

Brief Scores: 
India 208/6 in 20 overs (Hardik Pandya 71 not out, KL Rahul 55; Nathan Elis 3/30, Josh Hazlewood 2/39) 
Australia: 211/6 in 19.2 over (Cameron Green 61, Matthew Wade 45 not out; Axar Patel 3/17)

Australia produced a fine batting show to beat hosts India by four wickets in the first T20I here on Tuesday. Invited to bat, Hardik Pandya (71 not out) and KL Rahul (55) scored scintillating half-centuries to help India post 208 for six.

Australia produced a fine batting show to beat hosts India by four wickets in the first T20I here on Tuesday. Invited to bat, Hardik Pandya (71 not out) and KL Rahul (55) scored scintillating half-centuries to help India post 208 for six. In reply, opener Cameron Green put India on the back foot with his 30-ball 61 before Matthew Wade (45 not out off 21) took the visitors over the line with four balls to spare. With the win, Australia took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Earlier, Rahul (55 off 35 balls) scored his second consecutive fifty which included four boundaries and three maximums. The in-form Pandya pummelled the visiting bowlers into submission with his unbeaten 30-ball 71. The all-rounder smashed the ball seven times to the fence and five times over it to take India over the 200-run mark. ALSO READ | India vs Aus: Hitman for a reason! Rohit Sharma equals Martin Guptill's record of most sixes in T20Is For Australia, medium pacer Nathan Ellis 3/30 was the pick of the bowlers. Brief Scores: India 208/6 in 20 overs (Hardik Pandya 71 not out, KL Rahul 55; Nathan Elis 3/30, Josh Hazlewood 2/39) Australia: 211/6 in 19.2 over (Cameron Green 61, Matthew Wade 45 not out; Axar Patel 3/17)

Australia record highest T20I run-chase vs India, win Mohali run-feast by 4 wickets

Rohit Sharma-led India are now focussed on eradicating their flaws and finalising the team combination in their last two T20I series, in the run-up to the T20 World Cup (in Australia). In the three-match T20I series opener versus Australia, being played in Mohali on Tuesday (September 20), Rohit &amp; Co. were asked to bat first.

While Rohit couldn't do much damage with the bat, he departed for a 9-ball 11. Despite his short stay in the middle, Hitman attained a big milestone. Slamming one six in his inning, the 35-year-old Indian captain has now equalled New Zealand opener, Martin Guptill, with most sixes in T20Is (172).&nbsp;

Most sixes in a career:

Martin Guptill (New Zealand) - 172 in 121 games

Rohit Sharma (India) - 172 in 136 matches

Chris Gayle (West Indies) - 124 in 79 matches

Eoin Morgan (England/Ireland)- 120 from 115 matches

Aaron Finch (Australia)- 117 from 92 encounters

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-becomes-third-fastest-to-2000-t20i-runs-during-blistering-knock-vs-australia-in-mohali-518137">KL Rahul becomes third-fastest to 2,000 T20I runs during blistering knock vs Australia in Mohali</a>

After Rohit and Virat Kohli (2) fell in quick succession, KL Rahul's 45-ball 55, Suryakumar Yadav's 46 and Hardik Pandya's scintillating 30-ball 71 propelled India to a mammoth 208/6&nbsp;in 20 overs. After a disappointing run in the Asia Cup, where Men in Blue failed to reach the final, the home side will be desperate to get a winning start in the three-match series versus T20 world champions Australia.

After hosting Australia, India will also play three T20Is and equal number of ODIs versus South Africa at home prior to boarding the flight to Australia for the upcoming T20 WC, which kicks off on October 16.

Rohit Sharma-led India are now focussed on eradicating their flaws and finalising the team combination in their last two T20I series, in the run-up to the T20 World Cup (in Australia).

Rohit Sharma-led India are now focussed on eradicating their flaws and finalising the team combination in their last two T20I series, in the run-up to the T20 World Cup (in Australia). In the three-match T20I series opener versus Australia, being played in Mohali on Tuesday (September 20), Rohit & Co. were asked to bat first. While Rohit couldn't do much damage with the bat, he departed for a 9-ball 11. Despite his short stay in the middle, Hitman attained a big milestone. Slamming one six in his inning, the 35-year-old Indian captain has now equalled New Zealand opener, Martin Guptill, with most sixes in T20Is (172). Most sixes in a career: Martin Guptill (New Zealand) - 172 in 121 games Rohit Sharma (India) - 172 in 136 matches Chris Gayle (West Indies) - 124 in 79 matches Eoin Morgan (England/Ireland)- 120 from 115 matches Aaron Finch (Australia)- 117 from 92 encounters ALSO READ | KL Rahul becomes third-fastest to 2,000 T20I runs during blistering knock vs Australia in Mohali After Rohit and Virat Kohli (2) fell in quick succession, KL Rahul's 45-ball 55, Suryakumar Yadav's 46 and Hardik Pandya's scintillating 30-ball 71 propelled India to a mammoth 208/6 in 20 overs. After a disappointing run in the Asia Cup, where Men in Blue failed to reach the final, the home side will be desperate to get a winning start in the three-match series versus T20 world champions Australia. After hosting Australia, India will also play three T20Is and equal number of ODIs versus South Africa at home prior to boarding the flight to Australia for the upcoming T20 WC, which kicks off on October 16.

India vs Aus: Hitman for a reason! Rohit Sharma equals Martin Guptill's record of most sixes in T20Is

A lot has been said and written about KL Rahul in recent times. Rahul returned to international cricket in mid-August, his first-ever appearance at the highest level since February early this year, and looked ordinary with the bat in the Zimbabwe ODIs and Asia Cup 2022 edition.

While he scored a 41-ball 62 versus Afghanistan in India's inconsequential tie in the Super Four round of the Asia Cup, Rahul's strike rate has remained a hot topic of discission. He tends to take some time before accelerating while playing both for India and his IPL franchise. However, he came to his own in India's three-match T20I series opener versus Australia, in Mohali, on Tuesday evening (September 20).

Being asked to bat first, India lost captain Rohit Sharma (11) and Virat Kohli (2) for cheap before Rahul stitched a handy 68-run third-wicket stand with Suryakumar Yadav (46) and slammed a stylish 45-ball 55, laced with 4 fours and 3 sixes at 157.14. By virtue of this knock, Rahul became the third-quickest to reach 2,000 runs in the format (third Indian overall).

Rahul now has 2,018 runs (counting his latest knock versus the Aussies). He is among the 18 batsmen to be a part of the elusive 2k-run-club&nbsp;in the format. Rohit (3,631), Virat (3,586) and Martin Guptill (3,497) are the leading run-getters in men's T20Is.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-never-see-a-when-a-batter-kl-rahul-on-his-t20i-strike-rate-before-australia-series-opener-517788">'You never see when a batter...' - KL Rahul on his T20I strike rate before Australia series opener</a>

Ahead of the series opener versus Aaron Finch &amp; Co., vice-captain Rahul had spoken about his strike rate issues while addressing the media on Monday (September 19). "Look, obviously something that every player wants to work on. No one is perfect, everybody is working towards something, obviously strike rates are taken on an overall basis. You never see when a batter has played at a certain strike rate, whether it was important to play for him to play at a 200 strike rate or whether the team could still have won with him playing at 120-130. These are the things that no one analyses," KL Rahul told the reporters.

"Yes, it is something that I am working at, the roles that have been defined for each player in the last 10-12 months have been very clear, and everyone is working towards it. And, I am just working towards how I can better myself as an opening batter and how I can have an impact on my team whenever I go out to bat," he added.

A lot has been said and written about KL Rahul in recent times. Rahul returned to international cricket in mid-August, his first-ever appearance at the highest level since February early this year, and looked ordinary with the bat in the Zimbabwe ODIs and Asia Cup 2022 edition.

A lot has been said and written about KL Rahul in recent times. Rahul returned to international cricket in mid-August, his first-ever appearance at the highest level since February early this year, and looked ordinary with the bat in the Zimbabwe ODIs and Asia Cup 2022 edition. While he scored a 41-ball 62 versus Afghanistan in India's inconsequential tie in the Super Four round of the Asia Cup, Rahul's strike rate has remained a hot topic of discission. He tends to take some time before accelerating while playing both for India and his IPL franchise. However, he came to his own in India's three-match T20I series opener versus Australia, in Mohali, on Tuesday evening (September 20). Being asked to bat first, India lost captain Rohit Sharma (11) and Virat Kohli (2) for cheap before Rahul stitched a handy 68-run third-wicket stand with Suryakumar Yadav (46) and slammed a stylish 45-ball 55, laced with 4 fours and 3 sixes at 157.14. By virtue of this knock, Rahul became the third-quickest to reach 2,000 runs in the format (third Indian overall). Rahul now has 2,018 runs (counting his latest knock versus the Aussies). He is among the 18 batsmen to be a part of the elusive 2k-run-club in the format. Rohit (3,631), Virat (3,586) and Martin Guptill (3,497) are the leading run-getters in men's T20Is. ALSO READ | 'You never see when a batter...' - KL Rahul on his T20I strike rate before Australia series opener Ahead of the series opener versus Aaron Finch & Co., vice-captain Rahul had spoken about his strike rate issues while addressing the media on Monday (September 19). "Look, obviously something that every player wants to work on. No one is perfect, everybody is working towards something, obviously strike rates are taken on an overall basis. You never see when a batter has played at a certain strike rate, whether it was important to play for him to play at a 200 strike rate or whether the team could still have won with him playing at 120-130. These are the things that no one analyses," KL Rahul told the reporters. "Yes, it is something that I am working at, the roles that have been defined for each player in the last 10-12 months have been very clear, and everyone is working towards it. And, I am just working towards how I can better myself as an opening batter and how I can have an impact on my team whenever I go out to bat," he added.

KL Rahul becomes third-fastest to 2,000 T20I runs during blistering knock vs Australia in Mohali

Jasprit Bumrah wasn't part of India's dismal run in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, held in the UAE. While the pacer has returned to the Indian team and is part of the main squad for the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, to be held in Australia, the 28-year-old will look to be at his best with the ball after returning to action post his back injury.

Bumrah is part of India's T20I squads for the Australia and South Africa home series. However, the premier pacer wasn't named in Rohit &amp; Co.'s playing XI for the T20I series versus Aaron Finch-led Aussies, in Mohali, on Tuesday evening (September 20). At the coin toss, Finch opted to bowl first and Rohit explained the reason behind Bumrah's absence.

"Bumrah is not playing, he will take a game's break and probably come back in the second and the third game," said Rohit at the toss ceremony. Meanwhile, Dinesh Karthik pipped&nbsp;Rishabh Pant to be named India's wicketkeeper-batter in the&nbsp;XI. It is to be noted that Pant was preferred over DK in India's all-important Asia Cup Super Four encounters versus Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Both, however, played the inconsequential tie against Afghanistan.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rahul-gandhi-will-open-for-india-at-t20-world-cup-says-tv-anchor-as-video-goes-viral-518102">Watch - 'Rahul Gandhi will open for India at T20 World Cup, says tv anchor as video goes viral</a>

Rohit also explained the significance of the home series -- versus the Aussies and SA -- for Team India heading into the T20 WC. "Looking at what happened in the Asia Cup, we had a chance to reflect on where we went wrong. This gives us an opportunity to correct ourselves," revealed Rohit.

Playing XIs

Australia:&nbsp;Aaron Finch(c), Cameron Green, Steven Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis, Tim David, Matthew Wade(w), Pat Cummins, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood

India:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma(c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik(w), Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Umesh Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal

Jasprit Bumrah wasn't part of India's dismal run in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, held in the UAE. While the pacer has returned to the Indian team and is part of the main squad for the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, to be held in Australia, the 28-year-old will look to be at his best with the ball after returning to action post his back injury.

Jasprit Bumrah wasn't part of India's dismal run in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, held in the UAE. While the pacer has returned to the Indian team and is part of the main squad for the T20 World Cup 2022 edition, to be held in Australia, the 28-year-old will look to be at his best with the ball after returning to action post his back injury. Bumrah is part of India's T20I squads for the Australia and South Africa home series. However, the premier pacer wasn't named in Rohit & Co.'s playing XI for the T20I series versus Aaron Finch-led Aussies, in Mohali, on Tuesday evening (September 20). At the coin toss, Finch opted to bowl first and Rohit explained the reason behind Bumrah's absence. "Bumrah is not playing, he will take a game's break and probably come back in the second and the third game," said Rohit at the toss ceremony. Meanwhile, Dinesh Karthik pipped Rishabh Pant to be named India's wicketkeeper-batter in the XI. It is to be noted that Pant was preferred over DK in India's all-important Asia Cup Super Four encounters versus Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Both, however, played the inconsequential tie against Afghanistan. ALSO READ | Watch - 'Rahul Gandhi will open for India at T20 World Cup, says tv anchor as video goes viral Rohit also explained the significance of the home series -- versus the Aussies and SA -- for Team India heading into the T20 WC. "Looking at what happened in the Asia Cup, we had a chance to reflect on where we went wrong. This gives us an opportunity to correct ourselves," revealed Rohit. Playing XIs Australia: Aaron Finch(c), Cameron Green, Steven Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis, Tim David, Matthew Wade(w), Pat Cummins, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood India: Rohit Sharma(c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik(w), Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Umesh Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal

Ind vs Aus, 1st T20I: EXPLAINED! Why Jasprit Bumrah didn't make the cut in India's playing XI

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