The end of the fifth day at the Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad put curtains down on the marquee 2023 Border-Gavaskar series with India winning it (2-1) for the fourth straight time.

The end of the fifth day at the Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad put curtains down on the marquee 2023 Border-Gavaskar series with India winning it (2-1) for the fourth straight time. Continuing their dominance at home the Indian spinners fared the best not only with the ball but also with the bat in hand. In this piece we will look at the top five players from the recently-concluded India vs Australia series. Ravindra Jadeja It’s not easy being Ravindran Jadeja. From remaining out of cricket for more than five months to winning the Player of the Series award for an all-round show upon returning to the side straightaway, only Jadeja could have done it. The left-arm maestro picked 22 wickets and scored 135 runs across four Tests to remain on top of the all-rounder's chart in the ICC rankings. In his first game since August 2022, Jadeja returned with a five-for in the first innings in Nagpur. He mounted pressure on Australia with a fighting 70 in the first innings before picking up two more wickets in the second innings to help India win the Test by an inning and 132 runs. His best performance, however, came in the following Test in Delhi where he picked his career-best figures of seven for 42 in the second innings, finishing with match figures of ten for 110, bagging yet another player of the match award. ALSO READ: BGT 2022/23: Axar Patel attains STAGGERING feat after India beat Australia 2-1 Axar Patel If there was an award for the game-changing inning in a Test, Axar would have won it not once, not twice but thrice, and that too for his batting and not bowling. India’s best player in this Border-Gavaskar series, Axar Patel impressed everyone with his batting display. Rather known and ranked as a specialised spinner, what Axar achieved with the bat in hand even promoted the Aussies to take a leaf out of his book. In Nagpur Axar scored a counter-attacking 84, whereas, in Delhi the left-handed batter completed yet another fifty, hitting 74 in the first innings. After a rare failure in the Indore Test, Axar returned with a 113-ball 79 in India’s first innings in the final Test. What’s exciting about these fifties – Axar scored the majority of these runs while India was struggling to put up runs on the board. Meanwhile, given these scores, Axar was not only India’s second-best batter in the series in terms of runs scored but was also the third-highest run-scorer (264 runs at an average of 88) after Usman Khawaja and Virat Kohli. He didn’t fare any well in bowling though picking up just three wickets. Ravichandran Ashwin There cannot be a discussion of the best players in a series in India without mentioning Ravi Ashwin’s name. The veteran spinner, for the nth time in his Test career, had an impactful series with the ball in hand. The off-spin legend was again the thorn in the flesh of the Aussies as he won the Player of the Series award alongside Jadeja for picking up the most wickets (25) this time. Throughout the series, Ashwin remained on the top of Australia and while he troubled them big time on the rank-turners in the first three Tests, he left an impression with a six-wicket haul in the final Test in Ahmedabad where the pitch refused to assist the spinners. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Reliving India's run in second cycle as they qualify for summit clash Nathan Lyon Called the best overseas spinner to have travelled to India in a very long time by the India captain Rohit Sharma, Nathan Lyon delivered what was expected out of him. Equalled with Jadeja in the wickets tally (22) in this series, Lyon, following a rusty start in the first match, tore into India’s middle-order in the Indore Test with his second eight-wicket haul in an inning in India. Despite being India's nemesis, even in Australia, Lyon got good support from the newcomers in Todd Murphy and Matthew Kuhnemann throughout the series as they returned with 14 and nine wickets, respectively. Meanwhile, with 116 wickets In the Border-Gavaskar series and 482 in Tests, Lyon stays ahead of India’s Ashwin on both lists. Usman Khawaja After warming benches during his previous two India tours, the left-handed Usman Khawaja finally got his turn this time, and he made the most of his chance. In a team full of batting superstars, Usman came good after early jitters in the first Test and remained on top by scoring the most runs among all batters. While Ashwin had his number on most of the occasions, Khawaja shined on two separate instances – one during the first innings in Delhi, where he scored a fighting 81 and then during the final Test in Ahmedabad, where he registered his maiden hundred on the Indian soil, hitting an incredible 180.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: From Axar Patel to Nathan Lyon, here are the top five players of the series

On Monday (March 13), the fifth and final day of the New Zealand-Sri Lanka first Test, in Christchurch, commenced after a rain delay. At stumps on Day 4, all results were possible as New Zealand ended the day's play at 28 for 1 after being set a tricky 285-run target for the hosts. After a rain delayed start, NZ resumed the run-chase and lost Tom Latham and Henry Nicholls soon but Kane Williamson, 121 not out, and Daryl Mitchell's 86-ball 81 propelled the Kiwis to a thrilling two-wicket win on the last ball of the contest.&nbsp;

The match went down to the wire. While a Lankan victory looked out of sorts during Mitchell-Williamson's 142-run fourth-wicket stand, the visitors kept bouncing back in the game. However, Williamson's calculative knock took his side past the finish line courtesy of a timely dive on the last ball with one needed for a memorable triumph. While wickets kept tumbling from the other end, following Mitchell's departure, the former New Zealand captain held his nerve and dived to end Sri Lanka's hopes of reaching the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-when-and-where-will-india-lock-horns-with-australia-to-end-10-year-long-icc-title-drought-571484">WTC final: When and where will India lock horns with Australia to end 10-year-long ICC-title drought</a>

For SL to qualify, they had to hope for India to not win the Ahmedabad Test versus Australia -- which later ended in a tame draw -- and inflict a whitewash over New Zealand. Nonetheless, with their defeat in Christchuch, they were eliminated as Williamson's dive took India to the WTC final. Here's the video of Williamson's dive that set up an Indo-Aus WTC final by eliminating Sri Lanka:

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A Williamson dive that we see, a sprint from an injured Wagner that we don't. What a finish. <a href="https://t.co/Jt6hEsRXV8">pic.twitter.com/Jt6hEsRXV8</a>
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After the Christchurch Test, India and Australia also settled for a tame draw in the fourth and final encounter of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Ahmedabad. Both sides will lock horns in the WTC final on June 07 at The Oval, London.

On Monday (March 13), the fifth and final day of the New Zealand-Sri Lanka first Test, in Christchurch, commenced after a rain delay. At stumps on Day 4, all results were possible as New Zealand ended the day's play at 28 for 1 after being set a tricky 285-run target for the hosts.

On Monday (March 13), the fifth and final day of the New Zealand-Sri Lanka first Test, in Christchurch, commenced after a rain delay. At stumps on Day 4, all results were possible as New Zealand ended the day's play at 28 for 1 after being set a tricky 285-run target for the hosts. After a rain delayed start, NZ resumed the run-chase and lost Tom Latham and Henry Nicholls soon but Kane Williamson, 121 not out, and Daryl Mitchell's 86-ball 81 propelled the Kiwis to a thrilling two-wicket win on the last ball of the contest. The match went down to the wire. While a Lankan victory looked out of sorts during Mitchell-Williamson's 142-run fourth-wicket stand, the visitors kept bouncing back in the game. However, Williamson's calculative knock took his side past the finish line courtesy of a timely dive on the last ball with one needed for a memorable triumph. While wickets kept tumbling from the other end, following Mitchell's departure, the former New Zealand captain held his nerve and dived to end Sri Lanka's hopes of reaching the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Also read: WTC final: When and where will India lock horns with Australia to end 10-year-long ICC-title drought For SL to qualify, they had to hope for India to not win the Ahmedabad Test versus Australia -- which later ended in a tame draw -- and inflict a whitewash over New Zealand. Nonetheless, with their defeat in Christchuch, they were eliminated as Williamson's dive took India to the WTC final. Here's the video of Williamson's dive that set up an Indo-Aus WTC final by eliminating Sri Lanka: A Williamson dive that we see, a sprint from an injured Wagner that we don't. What a finish. pic.twitter.com/Jt6hEsRXV8 — Vinayakk (@vinayakkm) March 13, 2023 × After the Christchurch Test, India and Australia also settled for a tame draw in the fourth and final encounter of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Ahmedabad. Both sides will lock horns in the WTC final on June 07 at The Oval, London.

WATCH: Kane Williamson's timely dive vs Sri Lanka, in Christchurch Test, that propelled India to WTC final

Indian batter Shreyas Iyer has complained of pain in his lower back and has been sent for scans, BCCI said in a statement. Iyer returned from a back injury during the second Test in Delhi having missed the first game in Nagpur alongside missing the white-ball series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand earlier.&nbsp;

As he didn’t come out to bat in his regular number five position on Saturday with Jadeja being sent ahead of him, doubts started getting created on what has happened to Iyer – is he injured or is that a tactical move by India?

The BCCI, however, cleared the air with the following statement, "Shreyas Iyer complained of pain in his lower back following the third day's play. He has gone for scans and the BCCI Medical Team is monitoring him."

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-hits-first-test-hundred-since-november-2019-kisses-locket-and-receives-applauds-watch-571088">Virat Kohli hits first Test hundred since November 2019, kisses locket and receives applauds - WATCH</a>

Going by the statement, it remains unclear if Iyer&nbsp;would return anytime soon to bat in the first innings on day four of the final Ahmedabad Test. Now given that India hasn’t qualified for the WTC final yet, and for them to punch their ticket directly for the finals, they need to win this Test else they’ll have to rely on New Zealand to do the job for them.

While India is looking to cross Australia’s first-inning tally with century-maker Virat Kohli and the man-in-form with bat Axar Patel at the crease as things stand, Iyer’s absence could hamper their flow going forward. For India to pace up the innings and take any good lead on this wicket against Australia considering only one day is left for the result to come out, Iyer’s attacking approach would have made a difference. 
 
Meanwhile, coming back to the ongoing Test, former India captain Virat Kohli completed his 28th Test hundred – first in over three years, and his 75th overall in international cricket.

Indian batter Shreyas Iyer has complained of pain in his lower back and has been sent for scans, BCCI said in a statement. Iyer returned from a back injury during the second Test in Delhi having missed the first game in Nagpur alongside missing the white-ball series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand earlier.

Indian batter Shreyas Iyer has complained of pain in his lower back and has been sent for scans, BCCI said in a statement. Iyer returned from a back injury during the second Test in Delhi having missed the first game in Nagpur alongside missing the white-ball series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand earlier. As he didn’t come out to bat in his regular number five position on Saturday with Jadeja being sent ahead of him, doubts started getting created on what has happened to Iyer – is he injured or is that a tactical move by India? The BCCI, however, cleared the air with the following statement, "Shreyas Iyer complained of pain in his lower back following the third day's play. He has gone for scans and the BCCI Medical Team is monitoring him." ALSO READ: Virat Kohli hits first Test hundred since November 2019, kisses locket and receives applauds - WATCH Going by the statement, it remains unclear if Iyer would return anytime soon to bat in the first innings on day four of the final Ahmedabad Test. Now given that India hasn’t qualified for the WTC final yet, and for them to punch their ticket directly for the finals, they need to win this Test else they’ll have to rely on New Zealand to do the job for them. While India is looking to cross Australia’s first-inning tally with century-maker Virat Kohli and the man-in-form with bat Axar Patel at the crease as things stand, Iyer’s absence could hamper their flow going forward. For India to pace up the innings and take any good lead on this wicket against Australia considering only one day is left for the result to come out, Iyer’s attacking approach would have made a difference. Meanwhile, coming back to the ongoing Test, former India captain Virat Kohli completed his 28th Test hundred – first in over three years, and his 75th overall in international cricket.

IND vs AUS: Shreyas Iyer complains of lower-back pain, unclear if he will bat in Ahmedabad Test or not

The moment that every Indian cricket fan was waiting for for the past three years came well and truly alive on Sunday in Ahmedabad as Virat Kohli completed his 28th Test hundred, his 75th overall in international cricket. In the process, he also equalled Sunil Gavaskar’s tally of scoring eight Test hundreds against Australia, only behind Sachin – who has 11 to his name.

It’s been more than three years since Virat last scored a Test hundred at the Eden Gardens against Bangladesh. Since November 2019, he did come close on a few occasions but could never cross the line. However, after 42 innings, he finally managed to have the monkey off his back much to everyone’s delight.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-pondering-over-resting-babar-azam-mohammad-rizwan-for-afghanistan-new-zealand-t20is-to-manage-workloads-571072">PCB pondering over resting Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan for Afghanistan, New Zealand T20Is to manage workloads</a>

After reaching the milestone, Kohli in a very non-Kohli manner celebrated his century without showing many emotions while he kissed his locket and slightly raised his bat to everyone’s appreciation inside the stadium. The commentators also went gaga over it as they celebrated Kohli’s much-awaited three-figure mark in this format.

YOU CAN WATCH THE VIDEO HERE -&nbsp;

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The Man. The Celebration. 
 
Take a bow, <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> 💯🫡<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/QrL8qbj6s9">pic.twitter.com/QrL8qbj6s9</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1634817970567368705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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While this was his first hundred at the newly-built Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, off 241 balls this was also among his slowest hundreds in Tests – after the Nagpur one against England in 2012 that came off 289 balls. This ton is also his 14th in India and 24th while batting at number four in Tests.

Meanwhile, the former India captain looked composed so far throughout his innings and didn’t give too many chances to the opposition to get him out. Coming to bat just around lunch time on day three after Pujara’s wicket, Kohli first accompanied another century-maker Shubman Gill and was then backed by Ravindra Jadeja and keeper-batter KS Bharat, who also played a handy knock of 44.&nbsp;

However, since crossing that mark, Kohli upped the ante and alongside Axar Patel started playing a bit more attacking cricket keeping one eye on finding the result of the game in their favour.

With the WTC final spot at stake, India need to win this Test and qualify directly else they have to rely on New Zealand to do the job for them.

The moment that every Indian cricket fan was waiting for for the past three years came well and truly alive on Sunday in Ahmedabad as Virat Kohli completed his 28th Test hundred, his 75th overall in international cricket.

The moment that every Indian cricket fan was waiting for for the past three years came well and truly alive on Sunday in Ahmedabad as Virat Kohli completed his 28th Test hundred, his 75th overall in international cricket. In the process, he also equalled Sunil Gavaskar’s tally of scoring eight Test hundreds against Australia, only behind Sachin – who has 11 to his name. It’s been more than three years since Virat last scored a Test hundred at the Eden Gardens against Bangladesh. Since November 2019, he did come close on a few occasions but could never cross the line. However, after 42 innings, he finally managed to have the monkey off his back much to everyone’s delight. ALSO READ: PCB pondering over resting Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan for Afghanistan, New Zealand T20Is to manage workloads After reaching the milestone, Kohli in a very non-Kohli manner celebrated his century without showing many emotions while he kissed his locket and slightly raised his bat to everyone’s appreciation inside the stadium. The commentators also went gaga over it as they celebrated Kohli’s much-awaited three-figure mark in this format. YOU CAN WATCH THE VIDEO HERE - The Man. The Celebration. Take a bow, @imVkohli 💯🫡#INDvAUS #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/QrL8qbj6s9 — BCCI (@BCCI) March 12, 2023 × While this was his first hundred at the newly-built Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, off 241 balls this was also among his slowest hundreds in Tests – after the Nagpur one against England in 2012 that came off 289 balls. This ton is also his 14th in India and 24th while batting at number four in Tests. Meanwhile, the former India captain looked composed so far throughout his innings and didn’t give too many chances to the opposition to get him out. Coming to bat just around lunch time on day three after Pujara’s wicket, Kohli first accompanied another century-maker Shubman Gill and was then backed by Ravindra Jadeja and keeper-batter KS Bharat, who also played a handy knock of 44. However, since crossing that mark, Kohli upped the ante and alongside Axar Patel started playing a bit more attacking cricket keeping one eye on finding the result of the game in their favour. With the WTC final spot at stake, India need to win this Test and qualify directly else they have to rely on New Zealand to do the job for them.

Virat Kohli hits first Test hundred since November 2019, kisses locket and receives applauds - WATCH

On his third tour to India in the past decade, Usman Khawaja finally got his chance this time. Making most of this opportunity&nbsp;now, the left-handed batter completed his maiden Test hundred on the Indian soil during the first innings of the final Test in Ahmedabad. In the process, he did accomplish a few records and even earned praises including one from the former India batter Aakash Chopra.

Cricketer-turned-commentator Chopra - a popular analyst and someone who also runs his YouTube channel, hailed Usman as one of the best openers to travel to India in the past eight years or so. Considering India hadn’t lost a Test series at home since last losing to England in 2012 and that touring teams often have horrid time touring this part of the world especially in Tests, Usman’s hundred in that context looks grander.

Chopra feels the same. He added&nbsp;even though the pitch remained flat during most parts of the first two days, Khawaja’s ability to stand tall against a potent bowling attack that dismantled this Australian team in the first two Tests shouldn’t be discounted and instead be appreciated.&nbsp;

"Usman Khawaja was simply brilliant for his 180. No matter how flat the pitch is, it's never easy to bat for so long as it requires a lot of concentration. His wicket itself was a lapse in concentration, but he is definitely the best overseas opener who has visited Indian shores in the past 7-8 years," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-wi-temba-bavuma-ends-seven-year-wait-for-2nd-test-ton-puts-proteas-in-strong-position-in-jo-burg-570805">SA vs WI: Temba Bavuma ends seven-year wait for 2nd Test ton, puts Proteas in strong position in Jo 'burg</a>

Following Peter Handscomb’s wicket on day one, pair of Khawaja and returning Cameron Green took the attack to the opposition, stitching a mammoth 208-run stand for the fifth wicket. While Khawaja scored 180 – becoming only the second Aussie opener in over 50 years to score 150 plus against India in India in Tests, his partner Green also completed his maiden hundred in this format.

Tipped to be the future of Australian cricket, Green scored 114 off 170 balls.&nbsp;

Showering praises on Green as well, Aakash said there is no doubt that he will be one of the best all-rounders of the game in times to come while&nbsp;he lamented&nbsp;India’s tactics against him – which was disappointing as they didn’t bowl short to him.

"Cameron Green played a special knock and will be one of the best all-rounders the world has ever seen. The one thing that I was disappointed to see was that we didn't even try the short ball trap to Green," Chopra said.

"You could have had fielders on leg side and then from around the wicket could have tried to pin him and induce a false shot. You get a lot of rest as a fast bowler when you have three spinners in the line-up so it could have been tried," he added.

However, as things stand, India at lunch on day three is 129 for one with Shubman Gill playing on 65 while Cheteshwar Pujara on 22.

On his third tour to India in the past decade, Usman Khawaja finally got his chance this time. Making most of this opportunity now, the left-handed batter completed his maiden Test hundred on the Indian soil during the first innings of the final Test in Ahmedabad.

On his third tour to India in the past decade, Usman Khawaja finally got his chance this time. Making most of this opportunity now, the left-handed batter completed his maiden Test hundred on the Indian soil during the first innings of the final Test in Ahmedabad. In the process, he did accomplish a few records and even earned praises including one from the former India batter Aakash Chopra. Cricketer-turned-commentator Chopra - a popular analyst and someone who also runs his YouTube channel, hailed Usman as one of the best openers to travel to India in the past eight years or so. Considering India hadn’t lost a Test series at home since last losing to England in 2012 and that touring teams often have horrid time touring this part of the world especially in Tests, Usman’s hundred in that context looks grander. Chopra feels the same. He added even though the pitch remained flat during most parts of the first two days, Khawaja’s ability to stand tall against a potent bowling attack that dismantled this Australian team in the first two Tests shouldn’t be discounted and instead be appreciated. "Usman Khawaja was simply brilliant for his 180. No matter how flat the pitch is, it's never easy to bat for so long as it requires a lot of concentration. His wicket itself was a lapse in concentration, but he is definitely the best overseas opener who has visited Indian shores in the past 7-8 years," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel. ALSO READ: SA vs WI: Temba Bavuma ends seven-year wait for 2nd Test ton, puts Proteas in strong position in Jo 'burg Following Peter Handscomb’s wicket on day one, pair of Khawaja and returning Cameron Green took the attack to the opposition, stitching a mammoth 208-run stand for the fifth wicket. While Khawaja scored 180 – becoming only the second Aussie opener in over 50 years to score 150 plus against India in India in Tests, his partner Green also completed his maiden hundred in this format. Tipped to be the future of Australian cricket, Green scored 114 off 170 balls. Showering praises on Green as well, Aakash said there is no doubt that he will be one of the best all-rounders of the game in times to come while he lamented India’s tactics against him – which was disappointing as they didn’t bowl short to him. "Cameron Green played a special knock and will be one of the best all-rounders the world has ever seen. The one thing that I was disappointed to see was that we didn't even try the short ball trap to Green," Chopra said. "You could have had fielders on leg side and then from around the wicket could have tried to pin him and induce a false shot. You get a lot of rest as a fast bowler when you have three spinners in the line-up so it could have been tried," he added. However, as things stand, India at lunch on day three is 129 for one with Shubman Gill playing on 65 while Cheteshwar Pujara on 22.

IND vs AUS: Aakash Chopra hails Usman Khawaja, calls him the best opener to tour India in 8 years

A maiden Border-Gavaskar Trophy hundred for opener Shubman Gill powered India to 289 for three at stumps on day three of the final Test in Ahmedabad. Not only him, former India captain Virat Kohli also notched up his first fifty of the series. Skipper Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara also chipped in with handy knocks of 35 and 42, respectively.

India began day three with both openers taking down the lone Aussie seamer Mitchell Starc, who kept bowling defensive line and length early on. Barring odd boundaries around fine leg area, it was Rohit’s trade-mark pull shot off Starc that saw the crowd go crazy. However, for the nth time in this series, Rohit gave away his wicket to Matthew Kuhnemann on 35 after a good start.

Standing tall on the other hand, Gill continued playing his short-arm jabs and kept churning out fours off bad deliveries. His partner Cheteshwar Pujara played a typical Pujara innings, tiring the Aussies in the 40 degree heat at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/daryl-mitchells-102-keep-new-zealand-alive-in-first-test-as-wtc-finals-spot-looms-over-for-india-sri-lanka-570870">Daryl Mitchell's 102 keeps New Zealand alive in first Test as WTC final's spot looms over for India, Sri Lanka</a>

In the meantime, Gill notched up his first Test hundred against Australia and soon after Todd Murphy trapped Pujara in front with a straight one on 42. Then walked down Virat Kohli who looked confident in turning tables around this time.

As both started to look comfortable out there, the experienced Nathan Lyon came up with a beauty of a delivery to dismiss Gill on 128 off 235 balls. Like Pujara, Gill was also found wanting while playing a wrong line as he was caught plumb in front.

For the second time in two Tests, Ravindra Jadeja was sent ahead of batter Shreyas Iyer, and this ploy worked well for India as both Kohli and Jadeja kept rotating strike, further frustrating the Aussies.

Before stumps on day three, Virat also brought up his first fifty, the first since January 2022, much to the delight of everyone present inside the stadium. India ended day three on 289 for three as they still train by 191 runs.

Meanwhile, for India to punch their ticket for the WTC final, they need to beat Australia in this Test or else hope for New Zealand to beat Sri Lanka in at least one match in the home series.

A maiden Border-Gavaskar Trophy hundred for opener Shubman Gill powered India to 289 for three at stumps on day three of the final Test in Ahmedabad. Not only him, former India captain Virat Kohli also notched up his first fifty of the series.

A maiden Border-Gavaskar Trophy hundred for opener Shubman Gill powered India to 289 for three at stumps on day three of the final Test in Ahmedabad. Not only him, former India captain Virat Kohli also notched up his first fifty of the series. Skipper Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara also chipped in with handy knocks of 35 and 42, respectively. India began day three with both openers taking down the lone Aussie seamer Mitchell Starc, who kept bowling defensive line and length early on. Barring odd boundaries around fine leg area, it was Rohit’s trade-mark pull shot off Starc that saw the crowd go crazy. However, for the nth time in this series, Rohit gave away his wicket to Matthew Kuhnemann on 35 after a good start. Standing tall on the other hand, Gill continued playing his short-arm jabs and kept churning out fours off bad deliveries. His partner Cheteshwar Pujara played a typical Pujara innings, tiring the Aussies in the 40 degree heat at the Narendra Modi Stadium. ALSO READ: Daryl Mitchell's 102 keeps New Zealand alive in first Test as WTC final's spot looms over for India, Sri Lanka In the meantime, Gill notched up his first Test hundred against Australia and soon after Todd Murphy trapped Pujara in front with a straight one on 42. Then walked down Virat Kohli who looked confident in turning tables around this time. As both started to look comfortable out there, the experienced Nathan Lyon came up with a beauty of a delivery to dismiss Gill on 128 off 235 balls. Like Pujara, Gill was also found wanting while playing a wrong line as he was caught plumb in front. For the second time in two Tests, Ravindra Jadeja was sent ahead of batter Shreyas Iyer, and this ploy worked well for India as both Kohli and Jadeja kept rotating strike, further frustrating the Aussies. Before stumps on day three, Virat also brought up his first fifty, the first since January 2022, much to the delight of everyone present inside the stadium. India ended day three on 289 for three as they still train by 191 runs. Meanwhile, for India to punch their ticket for the WTC final, they need to beat Australia in this Test or else hope for New Zealand to beat Sri Lanka in at least one match in the home series.

IND vs AUS, 4th Test, day 3: India crawl back into Ahmedabad Test with Shubman Gill's maiden BGT century

Australian captain Pat Cummins’ mother Maria passed away overnight on Thursday after losing battle against prolonged illness. As a mark of respect, the Aussie players will wear black armbands on day two of the fourth Test in Ahmedabad. Cricket Australia broke the news of Cummins’s mother being no more ahead of the start of the day’s play.

"We are deeply saddened at the passing of Maria Cummins overnight. On behalf of Australian Cricket, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Pat, the Cummins family, and their friends. The Australian Men's team will today wear black armbands as a mark of respect," Cricket Australia said in a statement.

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We are deeply saddened at the passing of Maria Cummins overnight. On behalf of Australian Cricket, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Pat, the Cummins family and their friends. The Australian Men's team will today wear black armbands as a mark of respect.
— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/1634029216558874627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The BCCI also shared condolences with the Australian pacer and his family in this dark hour in a tweet saying, "On behalf of Indian Cricket, we express our sadness at the passing away of Pat Cummins's mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family in this difficult period."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/top-players-must-have-played-some-ranji-games-ahead-of-australia-series-says-gambhir-on-indias-batting-woes-570443">Top players must have played some Ranji games ahead of Australia series, says Gambhir on India's batting woes</a>

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On behalf of Indian Cricket, we express our sadness at the passing away of Pat Cummins mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family in this difficult period 🙏
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Meanwhile, after the end of the second Test in Delhi Cummins departed for Sydney to be with his ailing mother. Though he was supposed to return for&nbsp;the following Indore Test, given his mother’s health status then, Cummins stayed home as Steve Smith captained in the third match. The same happened ahead of the ongoing fourth Test in Ahmedabad.

In Pat’s absence, Australia roped in fit-again Mitchell Starc in the XI who proved to be vital in Australia’s quest of making a comeback in the Test series. As Australia won the Indore Test by nine wickets, they booked their ticket in the finals of the World Test Championship to be held in June.

As things stand, Australia are cruising ahead with a rather brilliant start in this innings. The man-in-form, Usman Khawaja notched up his maiden hundred against India in India while all-rounder Cameron Green also looked good, having crossed his first fifty on tour.

However, Pat Cummins is slated to return to India for the three-match ODI series that starts on March 17th in Mumbai.

Australian captain Pat Cummins’ mother Maria passed away overnight on Thursday after losing battle against prolonged illness. As a mark of respect, the Aussie players will wear black armbands on day two of the fourth Test in Ahmedabad.

Australian captain Pat Cummins’ mother Maria passed away overnight on Thursday after losing battle against prolonged illness. As a mark of respect, the Aussie players will wear black armbands on day two of the fourth Test in Ahmedabad. Cricket Australia broke the news of Cummins’s mother being no more ahead of the start of the day’s play. "We are deeply saddened at the passing of Maria Cummins overnight. On behalf of Australian Cricket, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Pat, the Cummins family, and their friends. The Australian Men's team will today wear black armbands as a mark of respect," Cricket Australia said in a statement. We are deeply saddened at the passing of Maria Cummins overnight. On behalf of Australian Cricket, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Pat, the Cummins family and their friends. The Australian Men's team will today wear black armbands as a mark of respect. — Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) March 10, 2023 × The BCCI also shared condolences with the Australian pacer and his family in this dark hour in a tweet saying, "On behalf of Indian Cricket, we express our sadness at the passing away of Pat Cummins's mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family in this difficult period." ALSO READ: Top players must have played some Ranji games ahead of Australia series, says Gambhir on India's batting woes On behalf of Indian Cricket, we express our sadness at the passing away of Pat Cummins mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family in this difficult period 🙏 — BCCI (@BCCI) March 10, 2023 × Meanwhile, after the end of the second Test in Delhi Cummins departed for Sydney to be with his ailing mother. Though he was supposed to return for the following Indore Test, given his mother’s health status then, Cummins stayed home as Steve Smith captained in the third match. The same happened ahead of the ongoing fourth Test in Ahmedabad. In Pat’s absence, Australia roped in fit-again Mitchell Starc in the XI who proved to be vital in Australia’s quest of making a comeback in the Test series. As Australia won the Indore Test by nine wickets, they booked their ticket in the finals of the World Test Championship to be held in June. As things stand, Australia are cruising ahead with a rather brilliant start in this innings. The man-in-form, Usman Khawaja notched up his maiden hundred against India in India while all-rounder Cameron Green also looked good, having crossed his first fifty on tour. However, Pat Cummins is slated to return to India for the three-match ODI series that starts on March 17th in Mumbai.

Pat Cummins' mother Maria loses battle against illness, Aussie players wear black armband in respect

The Indian batters have had their struggle in this ongoing Border-Gavaskar series. Barring Rohit Sharma, who stood out for his maiden hundred against Australia in Tests in the Nagpur game, none of the batters looked comfortable out there. Pin-pointing India’s visible weakness against spin, former opener Gautam Gambhir opined that had some of the star batters played domestic cricket in the lead up to this series, it would have benefited them.

While the top order hasn’t left the mark so far as they would have liked, bowling all-rounders in Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja compensated with their game-changing fifties&nbsp;coming lower down the order in the first two matches. Although Pujara shined with the bat in the second innings in Indore hitting a gritty fifty (59 off 142), that could also not help India as they lost the match by nine wickets inside three days.

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Addressing the elephant in the room in regards to if some of the big names should have played Ranji Trophy matches instead of just attending&nbsp;net sessions before the start of this series, Gambhir said yes, not even 100% but 200%.

“Not 100 percent make that 200 percent. The Indian batters should have played a few Ranji Trophy matches ahead of the Test series against Australia. However, they shouldn't have played those matches just to prepare. It doesn't matter if you conduct 20-day camps or bat in the nets,” Gambhir told Sports Tak.

Though India had claimed the Border-Gavaskar trophy following wins in the opening two Tests, the hosts still haven’t punched their ticket for the finals of the World Test Championship. For them to seal the remaining spot, their batters must take the onus and deliver big in the ongoing final Test.

As things stand Australia are in the driver’s seat after the first day’s play in Ahmedabad with opener Usman Khawaja completing his first hundred on Indian soil. In absence of veteran David Warner, left-handed Khawaja led the charge and made the most of his chance. Returning young all-rounder Cameron Green also hit his maiden Test fifty on this tour.

Meanwhile, India currently lead the four-match Test series 2-1.

The Indian batters have had their struggle in this ongoing Border-Gavaskar series. Barring Rohit Sharma, who stood out for his maiden hundred against Australia in Tests in the Nagpur game, none of the batters looked comfortable out there.

The Indian batters have had their struggle in this ongoing Border-Gavaskar series. Barring Rohit Sharma, who stood out for his maiden hundred against Australia in Tests in the Nagpur game, none of the batters looked comfortable out there. Pin-pointing India’s visible weakness against spin, former opener Gautam Gambhir opined that had some of the star batters played domestic cricket in the lead up to this series, it would have benefited them. While the top order hasn’t left the mark so far as they would have liked, bowling all-rounders in Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja compensated with their game-changing fifties coming lower down the order in the first two matches. Although Pujara shined with the bat in the second innings in Indore hitting a gritty fifty (59 off 142), that could also not help India as they lost the match by nine wickets inside three days. ALSO READ: International cricket must be protected - MCC on growth of franchise-based T20 leagues Addressing the elephant in the room in regards to if some of the big names should have played Ranji Trophy matches instead of just attending net sessions before the start of this series, Gambhir said yes, not even 100% but 200%. “Not 100 percent make that 200 percent. The Indian batters should have played a few Ranji Trophy matches ahead of the Test series against Australia. However, they shouldn't have played those matches just to prepare. It doesn't matter if you conduct 20-day camps or bat in the nets,” Gambhir told Sports Tak. Though India had claimed the Border-Gavaskar trophy following wins in the opening two Tests, the hosts still haven’t punched their ticket for the finals of the World Test Championship. For them to seal the remaining spot, their batters must take the onus and deliver big in the ongoing final Test. As things stand Australia are in the driver’s seat after the first day’s play in Ahmedabad with opener Usman Khawaja completing his first hundred on Indian soil. In absence of veteran David Warner, left-handed Khawaja led the charge and made the most of his chance. Returning young all-rounder Cameron Green also hit his maiden Test fifty on this tour. Meanwhile, India currently lead the four-match Test series 2-1.

Top players must have played some Ranji games ahead of Australia series, says Gambhir on India's batting woes

Cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Sri Lanka are incapable of beating New Zealand in their conditions while backing India to reach the finals of the World Test Championship. With Australia already qualifying for the WTC final after beating India in the Indore Test, Sri Lanka and India are the two teams left fighting for the remaining spot.

For any of them to qualify, there are some stipulations in place. For Sri Lanka to enter the summit clash, they first have to beat the Kiwis 2-0 in the ongoing away series&nbsp;while&nbsp;hoping&nbsp;for Australia to either defeat India in Ahmedabad or play out a draw. Whereas India will have to beat the mighty Aussies in the ongoing Test to play the finals.&nbsp;However, if the opposite happens, i.e. if India loses the final Test, they would then need a favour from New Zealand to hand Sri Lanka a defeat in any of the Tests.

As both matches are currently underway and with Sri Lanka and Australia both looking stronger as things stand, India’s path towards reaching the final doesn't looking as smooth as how Manjrekar feels it is. Speaking during the final Test, Manjrekar said the atmosphere at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium was electric following visits from Prime Ministers of both countries.

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>

Shedding thoughts on which team will join Australia in the WTC finals, Sanjay said,

"It was a brilliant start and we were right there on the ground, experiencing the vibe at the start. There were so many things going for this Test match. It's being played at one of the biggest stadiums in the world. It's a great setting when people are there, every seat was taken. World Test Championship takes for India, on the verge of getting there. I think India will get there. I don't think Sri Lanka are capable of upsetting New Zealand," Manjrekar said.

Claiming that India already has one foot one in the finals and it’s about time before they officially make, Sanjay said

"So I believe, India are already in the final. But, you still have to actually, you know, officially get there. So that tension was there. Plus the series hanging the way it has,&nbsp; Australia making that brilliant comeback in Indore and plus a figure like Narendra Modi at the ground. That buzz was there. Every box was ticked before the start of this Test," he added.

Meanwhile, day one in Christchurch belonged to Sri Lanka who managed to put up a fighting 305 for six in 75 overs. India, on the other hand, picked up huge wicket of Steve Smith post team during final session of day one.

Cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Sri Lanka are incapable of beating New Zealand in their conditions while backing India to reach the finals of the World Test Championship.

Cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Sri Lanka are incapable of beating New Zealand in their conditions while backing India to reach the finals of the World Test Championship. With Australia already qualifying for the WTC final after beating India in the Indore Test, Sri Lanka and India are the two teams left fighting for the remaining spot. For any of them to qualify, there are some stipulations in place. For Sri Lanka to enter the summit clash, they first have to beat the Kiwis 2-0 in the ongoing away series while hoping for Australia to either defeat India in Ahmedabad or play out a draw. Whereas India will have to beat the mighty Aussies in the ongoing Test to play the finals. However, if the opposite happens, i.e. if India loses the final Test, they would then need a favour from New Zealand to hand Sri Lanka a defeat in any of the Tests. As both matches are currently underway and with Sri Lanka and Australia both looking stronger as things stand, India’s path towards reaching the final doesn't looking as smooth as how Manjrekar feels it is. Speaking during the final Test, Manjrekar said the atmosphere at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium was electric following visits from Prime Ministers of both countries. ALSO READ: CLEANED UP! Md Shami rattles Marnus Labuschagne's stumps on Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test - Watch Shedding thoughts on which team will join Australia in the WTC finals, Sanjay said, "It was a brilliant start and we were right there on the ground, experiencing the vibe at the start. There were so many things going for this Test match. It's being played at one of the biggest stadiums in the world. It's a great setting when people are there, every seat was taken. World Test Championship takes for India, on the verge of getting there. I think India will get there. I don't think Sri Lanka are capable of upsetting New Zealand," Manjrekar said. Claiming that India already has one foot one in the finals and it’s about time before they officially make, Sanjay said "So I believe, India are already in the final. But, you still have to actually, you know, officially get there. So that tension was there. Plus the series hanging the way it has, Australia making that brilliant comeback in Indore and plus a figure like Narendra Modi at the ground. That buzz was there. Every box was ticked before the start of this Test," he added. Meanwhile, day one in Christchurch belonged to Sri Lanka who managed to put up a fighting 305 for six in 75 overs. India, on the other hand, picked up huge wicket of Steve Smith post team during final session of day one.

Sanjay Manjrekar plays down Sri Lanka's ability to beat New Zealand, backs India to reach WTC final

India's pace spearhead Mohammed Shami returned to the playing XI for the fourth and final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad and looked out of touch in his first spell. Conceding ten runs in the first over itself that included a four-bye, Shami’s line and length was all but wayward.

Even in the following overs, Shami didn't&nbsp;appear to be in rhythm as Sunil Gavaskar, sitting in the commentary box, slammed the management for resting him for the Indore Test as the reason for the break in his flow here at the Narendra Modi Stadium.&nbsp;Gavaskar said there was no need to rest him as there ample time between both Tests for a bowler to get the required break.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pm-modi-and-his-australian-counterpart-anthony-albanese-meet-ind-aus-players-before-4th-test-570105">WATCH: PM Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese meet Ind-Aus players before 4th Test</a>

"Resting Mohammed Shami was not a smart move. You had 8 days break between the 2nd and the 3rd Test. He bowled military medium in his first two deliveries," Gavaskar said on air for Star Sports during the 4th Test.

Speaking further on Shami’s off-track line and length early on, the former India legend said instead of troubling the batter with the new ball, he made them comfortable by not being on point. Unlike how it happened in the previous three Tests, the pacers failed to break the opening stand this time as it was Ravi Ashwin who got out Travis Head.

"That's how it's got to be. The batter is nervous; he is not yet off the mark. If he sees the ball go harmlessly to the keeper, he gets an opportunity to see what the pitch is doing. He can then mentally start to relax just that little bit," Gavaskar added. "Great bowlers were at you straightaway, from the first ball.

"He is just not getting his line right. Look at how far that went. It's going to be called byes because it hasn't gone away from the marker, which indicates wide. I think you know that Mohammed Shami is the kind of bowler who likes to be in rhythm, may be you shouldn't rest him. I think it's important to get your bowling muscles going, in the gym, you don't get your bowling muscles going," Gavaskar added.

However, Shami returned with a big wicket of Marnus Labuschagne on just three. Before lunch one day one, Australia were two wickets down but looked in a space on a track that surprised Rohit Sharma during the toss.

India's pace spearhead Mohammed Shami returned to the playing XI for the fourth and final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad and looked out of touch in his first spell.

India's pace spearhead Mohammed Shami returned to the playing XI for the fourth and final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad and looked out of touch in his first spell. Conceding ten runs in the first over itself that included a four-bye, Shami’s line and length was all but wayward. Even in the following overs, Shami didn't appear to be in rhythm as Sunil Gavaskar, sitting in the commentary box, slammed the management for resting him for the Indore Test as the reason for the break in his flow here at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Gavaskar said there was no need to rest him as there ample time between both Tests for a bowler to get the required break. ALSO READ: WATCH: PM Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese meet Ind-Aus players before 4th Test "Resting Mohammed Shami was not a smart move. You had 8 days break between the 2nd and the 3rd Test. He bowled military medium in his first two deliveries," Gavaskar said on air for Star Sports during the 4th Test. Speaking further on Shami’s off-track line and length early on, the former India legend said instead of troubling the batter with the new ball, he made them comfortable by not being on point. Unlike how it happened in the previous three Tests, the pacers failed to break the opening stand this time as it was Ravi Ashwin who got out Travis Head. "That's how it's got to be. The batter is nervous; he is not yet off the mark. If he sees the ball go harmlessly to the keeper, he gets an opportunity to see what the pitch is doing. He can then mentally start to relax just that little bit," Gavaskar added. "Great bowlers were at you straightaway, from the first ball. "He is just not getting his line right. Look at how far that went. It's going to be called byes because it hasn't gone away from the marker, which indicates wide. I think you know that Mohammed Shami is the kind of bowler who likes to be in rhythm, may be you shouldn't rest him. I think it's important to get your bowling muscles going, in the gym, you don't get your bowling muscles going," Gavaskar added. However, Shami returned with a big wicket of Marnus Labuschagne on just three. Before lunch one day one, Australia were two wickets down but looked in a space on a track that surprised Rohit Sharma during the toss.

4th Test: 'Wayward' Shami turns heads in commentary box as Indian legend slams call to rest seamer in Indore

With the fourth and final Test between India and Australia set to begin in a couple of days time, Aussie assistant coach Daniel Vettori feels the way the Indian lower order has contributed with the bat in this series so far, the Aussie bowlers must take a note of it&nbsp;and be as effective with the willow in hand in the Ahmedabad Test.&nbsp;

Other than traumatising the Australian batters with the ball in hand, the left-handed bowling pair of Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja further hurt the visitors with fifties in the first two Tests. While Axar Patel scored 84 in the first Test in Nagpur, Jadeja hit a fighting 77 in addition to picking up 12 wickets in the same match. Their 88-run stand for the eighth wicket bailed India out of trouble after they got reduced to 240 for seven in first innings.

Even in the second Test in Delhi, Axar smashed yet another fifty, scoring 74 in India's first innings alongside Ravi Ashwin, who also scored a decent 37. These contributions led to India not only winning the first two Tests within three days, but also saw them retaining&nbsp;the coveted Border-Gavaskar trophy for the straight third time.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-calling-this-tour-a-nightmare-for-the-batters-ponting-backs-virat-kohli-to-bounce-back-soon-569208">IND vs AUS: Calling this tour a nightmare for the batters, Ponting backs Virat Kohli to bounce back soon</a>

On the flip side of it, Australia's lower order struggled big time to put up runs on the board. Other than Cummins' 33 in the first innings of the second Test, none of the tail-enders could make a difference with bat across three Tests.&nbsp;Pointing this out while conversing with the reporters ahead of the start of the final Test, Vettori said it's time the Aussie bowlers collect some courage and deliver with the bat.&nbsp;

"I think Pat (Cummins) did that (batting) exceptionally well in the first innings in Delhi, and I think the lower four have got an understanding of how to do it and how they want to do it. It's just having the courage to actually take it out there," Vettori told news.com.au.

"I think we all understand that defence is not necessarily a way through that situation because of how much the ball is turning and how good the bowlers are, and finding your scoring areas," he added.

Citing example of Umesh Yadav's short 13-ball 17-run knock in which he smoked two sixes and a four during the first innings in Indore, Vettori feels there's nothing that's stopping the Australian bowlers from walking out and doing so.

"Even you see an innings like Umesh Yadav, I know it's on the back of probably having that lisence (to go for the big hits), but that can be such a difference maker in the scheme of things. We've got to push our lower four to have the confidence to actually take the game on," Vettori added.

With the fourth and final Test between India and Australia set to begin in a couple of days time, Aussie assistant coach Daniel Vettori feels the way the Indian lower order has contributed with the bat in this series so far, the Aussie bowlers must take a note of it and be as effective with the willow in hand in the Ahmedabad Test.

With the fourth and final Test between India and Australia set to begin in a couple of days time, Aussie assistant coach Daniel Vettori feels the way the Indian lower order has contributed with the bat in this series so far, the Aussie bowlers must take a note of it and be as effective with the willow in hand in the Ahmedabad Test. Other than traumatising the Australian batters with the ball in hand, the left-handed bowling pair of Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja further hurt the visitors with fifties in the first two Tests. While Axar Patel scored 84 in the first Test in Nagpur, Jadeja hit a fighting 77 in addition to picking up 12 wickets in the same match. Their 88-run stand for the eighth wicket bailed India out of trouble after they got reduced to 240 for seven in first innings. Even in the second Test in Delhi, Axar smashed yet another fifty, scoring 74 in India's first innings alongside Ravi Ashwin, who also scored a decent 37. These contributions led to India not only winning the first two Tests within three days, but also saw them retaining the coveted Border-Gavaskar trophy for the straight third time. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Calling this tour a nightmare for the batters, Ponting backs Virat Kohli to bounce back soon On the flip side of it, Australia's lower order struggled big time to put up runs on the board. Other than Cummins' 33 in the first innings of the second Test, none of the tail-enders could make a difference with bat across three Tests. Pointing this out while conversing with the reporters ahead of the start of the final Test, Vettori said it's time the Aussie bowlers collect some courage and deliver with the bat. "I think Pat (Cummins) did that (batting) exceptionally well in the first innings in Delhi, and I think the lower four have got an understanding of how to do it and how they want to do it. It's just having the courage to actually take it out there," Vettori told news.com.au. "I think we all understand that defence is not necessarily a way through that situation because of how much the ball is turning and how good the bowlers are, and finding your scoring areas," he added. Citing example of Umesh Yadav's short 13-ball 17-run knock in which he smoked two sixes and a four during the first innings in Indore, Vettori feels there's nothing that's stopping the Australian bowlers from walking out and doing so. "Even you see an innings like Umesh Yadav, I know it's on the back of probably having that lisence (to go for the big hits), but that can be such a difference maker in the scheme of things. We've got to push our lower four to have the confidence to actually take the game on," Vettori added.

IND vs AUS: Inspired by India's lower order, Daniel Vettori urges bowlers to contribute with bat in final Test

It's been some time since Virat Kohli last hit a hundred in the Test format, but for someone like Ricky Ponting, nothing worries him about the India legend. Against Afghanistan in the Asia Cup last year Virat ended his century drought in international cricket and&nbsp;despite hitting a couple more hundreds in the white-ball format prior to this series,&nbsp;he hasn't looked comfortable replicating his same form in Tests. Speaking of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series itself, Kohli has just scored 111 runs across three Tests, let alone being a threat to the opposition in home conditions.&nbsp;

Talking about Kohli, Ponting said he's not bothered about Virat's form as he knows he will bounce back. Admitting a batter is as aware of his poor form as those who are watching and writing about him is, Ponting believes Kohli will find a way back soon.

"For Kohli, I have said that over and over, champion players always find a way. He might be in a bit of a drought at the moment and might be not scoring runs which we all expect him to score but he is a realist as well. When you are a batsman and you are struggling and not scoring runs, you are pretty aware of that yourself. I am not concerned about this because I am confident he will bounce back," Ponting said on ICC Review.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-bgt-202223-steve-smith-set-to-lead-in-final-test-in-pat-cumminss-absence-569184">India vs Australia, BGT 2022/23: Steve Smith set to lead in final Test in Pat Cummins's absence</a>

Speaking about Australia's big win in the Indore Test and how with that they sealed&nbsp;their qualification in the finals of the World Test Championship, Ponting said what they achieved after being down badly in the first two Tests calls for appreciation.&nbsp;

Opening up about the pitches that were used during this series and how the batters from both teams have fared on them, Ponting admits it's all but incredibly difficult for anyone to score runs on such tracks,&nbsp;and it's not just because of the turn, but because of the uneven bounce that has caused more trouble.

"I am not looking at anybody's form in the series because for batters it has been an absolute nightmare. Australia have done a remarkable job by turning around those first two Test matches and coming back to win the third. We all know batting has been so incredibly difficult. And it has not been because of the turn, but also the uneven bounce which makes you lose trust in the wicket and if that happens you are guessing all the time which makes batting really difficult," he added.

The fourth and final Test begins in Ahmedabad on March 9th.&nbsp;

It's been some time since Virat Kohli last hit a hundred in the Test format, but for someone like Ricky Ponting, nothing worries him about the India legend. Against Afghanistan in the Asia Cup last year Virat ended his century drought in international cricket and despite hitting a couple more hundreds in the white-ball format prior to this series, he hasn't looked comfortable replicating his same form in Tests.

It's been some time since Virat Kohli last hit a hundred in the Test format, but for someone like Ricky Ponting, nothing worries him about the India legend. Against Afghanistan in the Asia Cup last year Virat ended his century drought in international cricket and despite hitting a couple more hundreds in the white-ball format prior to this series, he hasn't looked comfortable replicating his same form in Tests. Speaking of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series itself, Kohli has just scored 111 runs across three Tests, let alone being a threat to the opposition in home conditions. Talking about Kohli, Ponting said he's not bothered about Virat's form as he knows he will bounce back. Admitting a batter is as aware of his poor form as those who are watching and writing about him is, Ponting believes Kohli will find a way back soon. "For Kohli, I have said that over and over, champion players always find a way. He might be in a bit of a drought at the moment and might be not scoring runs which we all expect him to score but he is a realist as well. When you are a batsman and you are struggling and not scoring runs, you are pretty aware of that yourself. I am not concerned about this because I am confident he will bounce back," Ponting said on ICC Review. ALSO READ: India vs Australia, BGT 2022/23: Steve Smith set to lead in final Test in Pat Cummins's absence Speaking about Australia's big win in the Indore Test and how with that they sealed their qualification in the finals of the World Test Championship, Ponting said what they achieved after being down badly in the first two Tests calls for appreciation. Opening up about the pitches that were used during this series and how the batters from both teams have fared on them, Ponting admits it's all but incredibly difficult for anyone to score runs on such tracks, and it's not just because of the turn, but because of the uneven bounce that has caused more trouble. "I am not looking at anybody's form in the series because for batters it has been an absolute nightmare. Australia have done a remarkable job by turning around those first two Test matches and coming back to win the third. We all know batting has been so incredibly difficult. And it has not been because of the turn, but also the uneven bounce which makes you lose trust in the wicket and if that happens you are guessing all the time which makes batting really difficult," he added. The fourth and final Test begins in Ahmedabad on March 9th.

IND vs AUS: Calling this tour a nightmare for the batters, Ponting backs Virat Kohli to bounce back soon

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting feels David Warner missed out on a chance of retiring from Tests, if at all it was on his mind, on a high. Ponting feels struggling Warner should have hanged his boots from this format following the final home Test against South Africa at the SCG early this year, after he had scored a double hundred in his previous match in Melbourne that also happened to be his 100th Test.

Nursing an injury he sustained during the Delhi Test, Warner is currently home and will not return for the final Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, scheduled to take place in Ahmedabad on March 9th.

Speaking on the ICC Review Podcast, Ponting said he thought about this scenario a little while back and felt Warner would now probably have to wait for another 12 months for an opportunity to say goodbye to this format in front of his home crowd.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-matthew-hayden-slams-australia-for-dropping-head-from-first-test-568723">Ind vs Aus: Matthew Hayden slams Australia for dropping Travis Head from first Test</a>

"Look, I was on radio a couple of days ago, back here in Australia, and I thought the absolute best time for Davey to retire, if he was thinking about it at all, was after the Sydney Test match here in Australia," Ponting told the ICC Review podcast.

"He'd just played his 100th Test in Melbourne, and obviously got 200 in the first innings down there. And to bow out in front of his home crowd is obviously the way that every player would like to finish their careers. Who knows now that opportunity might not come around again for Davey, you know. That's nearly another 12 months away," Ponting added.

Warner, 36, clearly struggles to put runs on the board in away conditions, especially in India and England (where he averages 26.04 from 13 Tests).

Despite such mediocre numbers, Ponting still feels Warner will play in the WTC final, scheduled for June 7th at the Oval in London against either of India or Sri Lanka. The three-time ICC World Cup winner, Ponting is of the further opinion that WTC final will further determine if Warner is ready and is in form to play the Ashes or not.

"I think they'll definitely want to play him in the World Test Championship match. They have got some really big decisions to make, leading into the Ashes as well. A bit like some of the selection issues they had coming to India,” Ponting said. "They're probably going to have similar things to think about when they get to the UK because David's record in the UK is not as strong as it is in some other places around the world."

Warner&nbsp;will, however, return for the ODI series against India that begins on March 17th in Mumbai.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting feels David Warner missed out on a chance of retiring from Tests, if at all it was on his mind, on a high. Ponting feels struggling Warner should have hanged his boots from this format following the final home Test against South Africa at the SCG early this year, after he had scored a double hundred in his previous match in Melbourne that also happened to be his 100th Test.

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting feels David Warner missed out on a chance of retiring from Tests, if at all it was on his mind, on a high. Ponting feels struggling Warner should have hanged his boots from this format following the final home Test against South Africa at the SCG early this year, after he had scored a double hundred in his previous match in Melbourne that also happened to be his 100th Test. Nursing an injury he sustained during the Delhi Test, Warner is currently home and will not return for the final Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, scheduled to take place in Ahmedabad on March 9th. Speaking on the ICC Review Podcast, Ponting said he thought about this scenario a little while back and felt Warner would now probably have to wait for another 12 months for an opportunity to say goodbye to this format in front of his home crowd. ALSO READ: Ind vs Aus: Matthew Hayden slams Australia for dropping Travis Head from first Test "Look, I was on radio a couple of days ago, back here in Australia, and I thought the absolute best time for Davey to retire, if he was thinking about it at all, was after the Sydney Test match here in Australia," Ponting told the ICC Review podcast. "He'd just played his 100th Test in Melbourne, and obviously got 200 in the first innings down there. And to bow out in front of his home crowd is obviously the way that every player would like to finish their careers. Who knows now that opportunity might not come around again for Davey, you know. That's nearly another 12 months away," Ponting added. Warner, 36, clearly struggles to put runs on the board in away conditions, especially in India and England (where he averages 26.04 from 13 Tests). Despite such mediocre numbers, Ponting still feels Warner will play in the WTC final, scheduled for June 7th at the Oval in London against either of India or Sri Lanka. The three-time ICC World Cup winner, Ponting is of the further opinion that WTC final will further determine if Warner is ready and is in form to play the Ashes or not. "I think they'll definitely want to play him in the World Test Championship match. They have got some really big decisions to make, leading into the Ashes as well. A bit like some of the selection issues they had coming to India,” Ponting said. "They're probably going to have similar things to think about when they get to the UK because David's record in the UK is not as strong as it is in some other places around the world." Warner will, however, return for the ODI series against India that begins on March 17th in Mumbai.

'If at all David Warner was thinking about Test retirement, he should have done it after SCG game’ - Ponting

Clinical behind the wickets in the recently-concluded Indore Test that Australia won by nine wickets, keeper Alex Carey is keen on being equally effective with the bat in hand in the final Test in Ahmedabad, which is scheduled to start on March 9th. The left-handed Carey earned praises from head coach Andrew McDonald, who believes Australia was in control of the game from ball one at the Holkar Stadium.

Carey, who stumped India’s captain Rohit Sharma in the first innings in the previous Test and conceded only three byes throughout the game, told reporters on Sunday that before travelling to India he actually spoke with some of the past stumpers taking notes of how to make the most of his chance on the Indian tracks.

"I speak to guys regularly who've played for Australia in terms of (Brad) Haddin and (Adam) Gilchrist and Ian Healy's always in the corner there," Carey told reporters on Sunday, as quoted by the Reuters. "I think our training wickets have been really difficult as well so it's been nice to actually stand in a training wicket and keep to our bowlers. You don't always do that in Australia, the nets are a bit shorter, and you probably go about your business more standing back," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-matthew-hayden-slams-australia-for-dropping-head-from-first-test-568723">Ind vs Aus: Matthew Hayden slams Australia for dropping Travis Head from first Test</a>

Despite winning the Indore Test, Carey believes Australia’s batting hasn’t been up to the mark and has lagged behind in comparison to India’s batting that clearly has dominated so far in the Border-Gavaskar series.

Admitting to have not contributed enough with the bat and considering the series is also on line in the final Test, Carey looks confident in turning the tables around and give Aussie tail something to fight for.

"We know that we haven't given enough at the tail there," Carey said. "We also understand that India's batting line-up's very, very strong. We'll have those conversations about how we can navigate and try to get 10-15 runs each more."

Although India had already retained the marquee Border-Gavaskar series following a win in the Delhi Test, they still haven’t secured their place in the finals of the World Test Championship; however, Australia has punched their ticket with a big win in the previous Test and will look to spoil India’s plans with yet another win under Steven Smith in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

Clinical behind the wickets in the recently-concluded Indore Test that Australia won by nine wickets, keeper Alex Carey is keen on being equally effective with the bat in hand in the final Test in Ahmedabad, which is scheduled to start on March 9th.

Clinical behind the wickets in the recently-concluded Indore Test that Australia won by nine wickets, keeper Alex Carey is keen on being equally effective with the bat in hand in the final Test in Ahmedabad, which is scheduled to start on March 9th. The left-handed Carey earned praises from head coach Andrew McDonald, who believes Australia was in control of the game from ball one at the Holkar Stadium. Carey, who stumped India’s captain Rohit Sharma in the first innings in the previous Test and conceded only three byes throughout the game, told reporters on Sunday that before travelling to India he actually spoke with some of the past stumpers taking notes of how to make the most of his chance on the Indian tracks. "I speak to guys regularly who've played for Australia in terms of (Brad) Haddin and (Adam) Gilchrist and Ian Healy's always in the corner there," Carey told reporters on Sunday, as quoted by the Reuters. "I think our training wickets have been really difficult as well so it's been nice to actually stand in a training wicket and keep to our bowlers. You don't always do that in Australia, the nets are a bit shorter, and you probably go about your business more standing back," he added. ALSO READ: Ind vs Aus: Matthew Hayden slams Australia for dropping Travis Head from first Test Despite winning the Indore Test, Carey believes Australia’s batting hasn’t been up to the mark and has lagged behind in comparison to India’s batting that clearly has dominated so far in the Border-Gavaskar series. Admitting to have not contributed enough with the bat and considering the series is also on line in the final Test, Carey looks confident in turning the tables around and give Aussie tail something to fight for. "We know that we haven't given enough at the tail there," Carey said. "We also understand that India's batting line-up's very, very strong. We'll have those conversations about how we can navigate and try to get 10-15 runs each more." Although India had already retained the marquee Border-Gavaskar series following a win in the Delhi Test, they still haven’t secured their place in the finals of the World Test Championship; however, Australia has punched their ticket with a big win in the previous Test and will look to spoil India’s plans with yet another win under Steven Smith in Ahmedabad.

IND vs AUS: 'Clinical' with gloves, Alex Carey wants to be as effective with the bat in final Test

Following the third Test in Indore where Australia walked away with a nine-wicket win, stand-in captain Steve Smith said his run as the skipper ends here as Pat Cummins will now take over the reins heading into the fourth Test.

"My time is done. It's Pat's team now," Smith said after leading Australia to its second win on Indian soil under his captaincy.

Meanwhile, it was after the end of the Delhi Test when Cummins flew home to be with his ailing mother&nbsp;and was said to be returning before the start of the Indore game. That eventually didn’t happen as Smith led in his absence;&nbsp;and now as per the latest reports, he could well lead the side in the Ahmedabad Test also as Cummins is likely to stay back and spend some more time with his mother.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-mohammed-shami-set-to-return-for-final-test-in-ahmedabad-as-india-eye-spot-in-wtc-final-568603">IND vs AUS: Mohammed Shami set to return for final Test in Ahmedabad as India eye spot in WTC final</a>

As reported in the Times of India (TOI), the Australian head coach Andrew McDonald is in touch with Cummins and is also keeping a tab on his status ahead of the final Test that begins in five days'&nbsp;time. McDonald said while Pat is very much invested in what’s happening here in India, for him to stay home in Sydney with his mother is what is required now.

"He's obviously dealing with what he's dealing with at home but he's still so invested in this group," McDonald told reporters on Saturday. "Our thoughts are still with him and his family at this difficult time.

"We're in constant contact with him daily, so at the moment he's not here and the test match is a few days away, so we'll discuss with Pat on a daily basis," the coach added.

Indore win seals Australia’s place in the WTC final

After winning the third Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, Australia qualified for the finals of the WTC that will take place at the Oval in London on June 7th. For India to now qualify for the finals, they must beat the touring side in the final Test, or even if they lose or the match is drawn, they then must hope for New Zealand to win their home two-match Test series against Sri Lanka to ensure India is staying ahead on the points tally.

Following the third Test in Indore where Australia walked away with a nine-wicket win, stand-in captain Steve Smith said his run as the skipper ends here as Pat Cummins will now take over the reins heading into the fourth Test.

Following the third Test in Indore where Australia walked away with a nine-wicket win, stand-in captain Steve Smith said his run as the skipper ends here as Pat Cummins will now take over the reins heading into the fourth Test. "My time is done. It's Pat's team now," Smith said after leading Australia to its second win on Indian soil under his captaincy. Meanwhile, it was after the end of the Delhi Test when Cummins flew home to be with his ailing mother and was said to be returning before the start of the Indore game. That eventually didn’t happen as Smith led in his absence; and now as per the latest reports, he could well lead the side in the Ahmedabad Test also as Cummins is likely to stay back and spend some more time with his mother. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Mohammed Shami set to return for final Test in Ahmedabad as India eye spot in WTC final As reported in the Times of India (TOI), the Australian head coach Andrew McDonald is in touch with Cummins and is also keeping a tab on his status ahead of the final Test that begins in five days' time. McDonald said while Pat is very much invested in what’s happening here in India, for him to stay home in Sydney with his mother is what is required now. "He's obviously dealing with what he's dealing with at home but he's still so invested in this group," McDonald told reporters on Saturday. "Our thoughts are still with him and his family at this difficult time. "We're in constant contact with him daily, so at the moment he's not here and the test match is a few days away, so we'll discuss with Pat on a daily basis," the coach added. Indore win seals Australia’s place in the WTC final After winning the third Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, Australia qualified for the finals of the WTC that will take place at the Oval in London on June 7th. For India to now qualify for the finals, they must beat the touring side in the final Test, or even if they lose or the match is drawn, they then must hope for New Zealand to win their home two-match Test series against Sri Lanka to ensure India is staying ahead on the points tally.

Pat Cummins set to stay home with ailing mother as Steve Smith likely to lead side in final Test: Reports

Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami is all set to return to playing XI for the final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad as India eye a slot in the finals of the World Test Championship (WTC). Shami was rested for the third Test in Indore as part of the workload management drill by the BCCI and team management for the key players who are in the scheme of things for the 50-over World Cup.

Shami and Mohammed Siraj both of whom played in the first two Tests in Nagpur and Delhi and are also part of the ODI series that starts from March 17th in Mumbai, probably won’t play together in the final Test as Siraj is now expected to be rested for the Ahmedabad game. Umesh Yadav, who was picked in the playing XI in the third Test, is likely to retain his place for the deciding game.

As India currently lead the four-match series 2-1, having lost the previous match at the Holkar Stadium by nine wickets on a wicket that ICC rated ‘poor’, they will aim to win the final Test and qualify directly for the finals of WTC for the second time. As of now, only Australia has qualified for the WTC final, which is scheduled to take place at the Oval in London on June 7th.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-tendulkar-to-gilchrist-heres-how-top-players-paid-tribute-to-shane-warne-on-his-death-anniversary-568525">From Tendulkar to Gilchrist, here's how top players paid tribute to Shane Warne on his death anniversary</a>

As reported by the PTI, following the drama surrounding the Indore pitch, the Gujarat State Association is unlikely to put its reputation on the line by preparing a similar surface as the one used in Indore.&nbsp;A&nbsp;source in the Association has told PTI that they haven’t received any instructions on how the wicket should play for the final match as they are likely to go ahead with the normal pitch.

"We haven't received any instructions from the Indian team management and our local curators are preparing a normal track as we have always done through the season," a state association source told PTI. "In fact, last Ranji game over here in January, Railways scored 500 plus (508) batting first, and Gujarat, although had innings defeat, scored 200 plus in both innings. It won't be too different this time," the source added.

Meanwhile, the last time a Test match took place at the Narendra Modi Stadium between India and England in 2021, it ended in two days.

Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami is all set to return to playing XI for the final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad as India eye a slot in the finals of the World Test Championship (WTC).

Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami is all set to return to playing XI for the final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad as India eye a slot in the finals of the World Test Championship (WTC). Shami was rested for the third Test in Indore as part of the workload management drill by the BCCI and team management for the key players who are in the scheme of things for the 50-over World Cup. Shami and Mohammed Siraj both of whom played in the first two Tests in Nagpur and Delhi and are also part of the ODI series that starts from March 17th in Mumbai, probably won’t play together in the final Test as Siraj is now expected to be rested for the Ahmedabad game. Umesh Yadav, who was picked in the playing XI in the third Test, is likely to retain his place for the deciding game. As India currently lead the four-match series 2-1, having lost the previous match at the Holkar Stadium by nine wickets on a wicket that ICC rated ‘poor’, they will aim to win the final Test and qualify directly for the finals of WTC for the second time. As of now, only Australia has qualified for the WTC final, which is scheduled to take place at the Oval in London on June 7th. ALSO READ: From Tendulkar to Gilchrist, here's how top players paid tribute to Shane Warne on his death anniversary As reported by the PTI, following the drama surrounding the Indore pitch, the Gujarat State Association is unlikely to put its reputation on the line by preparing a similar surface as the one used in Indore. A source in the Association has told PTI that they haven’t received any instructions on how the wicket should play for the final match as they are likely to go ahead with the normal pitch. "We haven't received any instructions from the Indian team management and our local curators are preparing a normal track as we have always done through the season," a state association source told PTI. "In fact, last Ranji game over here in January, Railways scored 500 plus (508) batting first, and Gujarat, although had innings defeat, scored 200 plus in both innings. It won't be too different this time," the source added. Meanwhile, the last time a Test match took place at the Narendra Modi Stadium between India and England in 2021, it ended in two days.

IND vs AUS: Mohammed Shami set to return for final Test in Ahmedabad as India eye spot in WTC final

Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has slammed the Indore pitch for failing to provide a fair contest between bat and ball. After the ICC on Friday rated the surface used for the third Test between India and Australia as poor for the similar reasons mentioned above, Gavaskar tore into the thought process behind asking for such pitches for a Test match.

Following an embarrassing defeat on day three of the third Test, Indian captain Rohit Sharma defended the pitch that was turning square in the first session of day one saying they only asked the curators to make sure turners, and that India should have applied themselves better on those tracks instead of complaining about it.

On the flip side of this whole discussion on the pitches that are used so far in this marquee series, Gavaskar said like how it happened in the past during the famous England series in 2012, India could fall prey to its own trap if they continue to go ahead with a similar kind of pitch in the fourth Test in Ahmedabad.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-icc-rates-indore-pitch-poor-after-third-test-ended-inside-three-days-at-holkar-stadium-568245">IND vs AUS: ICC rates Indore pitch 'poor' after third Test ends inside three days at Holkar Stadium</a>

"I think there has to be a little more thought on that. This pitch has backfired in 2012-13 when Graeme Swann and Monty Panesar spun England to a win. I don’t think it’s a great idea to have pitches of this quality," Gavaskar told India Today after the end of the third Test in Indore.

Gavaskar, who was the first Indian batter to complete 10,000 Tests runs having faced some of the greatest bowlers the game has seen, suggested that the ideal surface for a Test match must be good for batting and bowling on the first two days, and then from day three onwards it should be assisting the spinners – not like how it was here in Indore where it was turning square from the ball one.

Further expressing his concerns on what kind of pitch will be on offer in the final Test that begins on March 9th, Gavaskar said,

"You want to have pitches where there is a good balance between bat and ball. You want to have a pitch where for the first couple of days, the new-ball bowlers can get some help and the batters can play through the line and score runs. And then from Day 3 and 4, the ball is going to turn a little bit. I don’t know what’s going to happen in Ahmedabad. If the pitch in Ahmedabad is a raging turner, then India might go on to win but once again the pitch might get demerit points," Sunil Gavaskar added.

The series currently stands at 2-1 in favour of India.&nbsp;

Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has slammed the Indore pitch for failing to provide a fair contest between bat and ball. After the ICC on Friday rated the surface used for the third Test between India and Australia as poor for the similar reasons mentioned above, Gavaskar tore into the thought process behind asking for such pitches for a Test match.

Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has slammed the Indore pitch for failing to provide a fair contest between bat and ball. After the ICC on Friday rated the surface used for the third Test between India and Australia as poor for the similar reasons mentioned above, Gavaskar tore into the thought process behind asking for such pitches for a Test match. Following an embarrassing defeat on day three of the third Test, Indian captain Rohit Sharma defended the pitch that was turning square in the first session of day one saying they only asked the curators to make sure turners, and that India should have applied themselves better on those tracks instead of complaining about it. On the flip side of this whole discussion on the pitches that are used so far in this marquee series, Gavaskar said like how it happened in the past during the famous England series in 2012, India could fall prey to its own trap if they continue to go ahead with a similar kind of pitch in the fourth Test in Ahmedabad. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: ICC rates Indore pitch 'poor' after third Test ends inside three days at Holkar Stadium "I think there has to be a little more thought on that. This pitch has backfired in 2012-13 when Graeme Swann and Monty Panesar spun England to a win. I don’t think it’s a great idea to have pitches of this quality," Gavaskar told India Today after the end of the third Test in Indore. Gavaskar, who was the first Indian batter to complete 10,000 Tests runs having faced some of the greatest bowlers the game has seen, suggested that the ideal surface for a Test match must be good for batting and bowling on the first two days, and then from day three onwards it should be assisting the spinners – not like how it was here in Indore where it was turning square from the ball one. Further expressing his concerns on what kind of pitch will be on offer in the final Test that begins on March 9th, Gavaskar said, "You want to have pitches where there is a good balance between bat and ball. You want to have a pitch where for the first couple of days, the new-ball bowlers can get some help and the batters can play through the line and score runs. And then from Day 3 and 4, the ball is going to turn a little bit. I don’t know what’s going to happen in Ahmedabad. If the pitch in Ahmedabad is a raging turner, then India might go on to win but once again the pitch might get demerit points," Sunil Gavaskar added. The series currently stands at 2-1 in favour of India.

IND vs AUS: Indore pitch receives further criticism from Sunil Gavaskar following ICC hammering

Nathan Lyon is the best overseas spinner to travel to India and achieve so much, reckons Indian captain Rohit Sharma following the Indore Test. For the third time in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, a Test match ended inside three days as Australia on Friday chased a moderate target of 76 with nine wickets in hand. With this win, they not only avoided the possibility of a series whitewash, but also punched their ticket for the finals of the World Test Championship.

Speaking to the media after the match, Rohit showered praise&nbsp;on Nathan Lyon, who for the second time in his career picked up an eight-wicket haul in an innings in India. During the second innings, Lyon produced the figures of eight for 63, accounting for almost everyone from top to bottom. Already under pressure with a deficit of nearly 100 runs after the end of Australia's first innings, the Indian batters tried taking the attack to the opposition but failed in their attempt big time.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-cricketers-did-not-rohit-sharma-on-ex-players-rant-on-indore-test-pitch-after-indias-defeat-568136">'Former cricketers did not...': Rohit Sharma on ex-players' rant on Indore Test pitch after India's defeat</a>

Starting with the openers Shubman Gill and Rohit, Lyon deceived them with the angle before trapping Ravindra Jadeja right in front of the wickets. He then picked up keeper KS Bharat before getting the fish in Cheteshwar Pujara. It was about time before he ran through the tail and wrapped up India’s second innings on a mere 163.

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Meanwhile, when asked about how he would rate Nathan Lyon following his match-winning spell in Indore, Rohit said,

“Lyon should be at the top in my opinion. I have not played guys like Murali and Warner. Among the current crop he would be my number one overseas bowler to come and play here in India," Rohit Sharma said. "He has got so much consistency in his line and length. When someone is bowling with that accuracy you have to try and do something different to score runs.”

Earlier, it was during the Bengaluru Test in 2017 when Lyon picked up his first eight-wicket haul (8 for 50) against India in India. As of now, with 19 wickets in three Tests, Lyon is second on the list with most wickets in this series while Jadeja sits at the top with 21 scalps to his name.

The marquee four-match series currently stands at 2-1 in favour of India with one match left in Ahmedabad scheduled to begin on March 9th.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Nathan Lyon is the best overseas spinner to travel to India and achieve so much, reckons Indian captain Rohit Sharma following the Indore Test. For the third time in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, a Test match ended inside three days as Australia on Friday chased a moderate target of 76 with nine wickets in hand.

Nathan Lyon is the best overseas spinner to travel to India and achieve so much, reckons Indian captain Rohit Sharma following the Indore Test. For the third time in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, a Test match ended inside three days as Australia on Friday chased a moderate target of 76 with nine wickets in hand. With this win, they not only avoided the possibility of a series whitewash, but also punched their ticket for the finals of the World Test Championship. Speaking to the media after the match, Rohit showered praise on Nathan Lyon, who for the second time in his career picked up an eight-wicket haul in an innings in India. During the second innings, Lyon produced the figures of eight for 63, accounting for almost everyone from top to bottom. Already under pressure with a deficit of nearly 100 runs after the end of Australia's first innings, the Indian batters tried taking the attack to the opposition but failed in their attempt big time. ALSO READ: 'Former cricketers did not...': Rohit Sharma on ex-players' rant on Indore Test pitch after India's defeat Starting with the openers Shubman Gill and Rohit, Lyon deceived them with the angle before trapping Ravindra Jadeja right in front of the wickets. He then picked up keeper KS Bharat before getting the fish in Cheteshwar Pujara. It was about time before he ran through the tail and wrapped up India’s second innings on a mere 163. 🐐#INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/P5hVqfk74I — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) March 2, 2023 × Meanwhile, when asked about how he would rate Nathan Lyon following his match-winning spell in Indore, Rohit said, “Lyon should be at the top in my opinion. I have not played guys like Murali and Warner. Among the current crop he would be my number one overseas bowler to come and play here in India," Rohit Sharma said. "He has got so much consistency in his line and length. When someone is bowling with that accuracy you have to try and do something different to score runs.” Earlier, it was during the Bengaluru Test in 2017 when Lyon picked up his first eight-wicket haul (8 for 50) against India in India. As of now, with 19 wickets in three Tests, Lyon is second on the list with most wickets in this series while Jadeja sits at the top with 21 scalps to his name. The marquee four-match series currently stands at 2-1 in favour of India with one match left in Ahmedabad scheduled to begin on March 9th. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

IND vs AUS: Nathan Lyon is the best overseas spinner I have faced in India, says Rohit Sharma

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has come down hard on the Indore pitch used during&nbsp;the third Test between India and Australia, by rating it ‘poor’. This decision came hours after the third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series ended inside three days with Australia winning it by nine wickets. Although the previous two Tests also got wrapped up well before stumps on day three, this Indore pitch has received three demerit points as the match referee Chris Broad feels ‘the pitch that was very dry didn’t provide the right balance between bat and ball.’

Broad after consulting captains of both teams – Rohit Sharma and Steve Smith submitted his report to the apex body and mentioned that this surface was not suitable for a Test match as it had uneven bounce throughout the game.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-nathan-lyon-is-the-best-overseas-spinner-i-have-faced-in-india-rohit-sharma-568203">IND vs AUS: Nathan Lyon is the best overseas spinner I have faced in India: Rohit Sharma</a>

Speaking on the same, Chris Broad said, “The pitch, which was very dry, did not provide a balance between bat and ball, favouring spinners from the start.

"The fifth ball of the match broke through the pitch surface and continued to occasionally break the surface providing little or no seam movement and there was excessive and uneven bounce throughout the match.”

As a result, the Indore pitch will receive three demerit points while the BCCI will have a two-week window to appeal against the sanction. As per ICC’s Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process, a venue will be suspended from hosting an international match for one year if it accumulates five or more demerit points over a rolling period of five years.

Meanwhile, the spinners from both teams found great purchase off the pitch as out of the 31 wickets that fell across four innings, 26 of them went to the spinners and just four to the pacers. While for India, Jadeja picked five wickets and Ashwin returned with three, Australia’s veteran spinner Nathan Lyon picked up his second eighth-wicket haul (8 for 63 in the second innings) in Tests, ending the match with a total of 11 wickets to his name.

Following this Test, the series stands at 2-1 in favour of India with the final match scheduled to take place at Ahmedabad on March 9th.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has come down hard on the Indore pitch used during the third Test between India and Australia, by rating it ‘poor’. This decision came hours after the third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series ended inside three days with Australia winning it by nine wickets.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has come down hard on the Indore pitch used during the third Test between India and Australia, by rating it ‘poor’. This decision came hours after the third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series ended inside three days with Australia winning it by nine wickets. Although the previous two Tests also got wrapped up well before stumps on day three, this Indore pitch has received three demerit points as the match referee Chris Broad feels ‘the pitch that was very dry didn’t provide the right balance between bat and ball.’ Broad after consulting captains of both teams – Rohit Sharma and Steve Smith submitted his report to the apex body and mentioned that this surface was not suitable for a Test match as it had uneven bounce throughout the game. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Nathan Lyon is the best overseas spinner I have faced in India: Rohit Sharma Speaking on the same, Chris Broad said, “The pitch, which was very dry, did not provide a balance between bat and ball, favouring spinners from the start. "The fifth ball of the match broke through the pitch surface and continued to occasionally break the surface providing little or no seam movement and there was excessive and uneven bounce throughout the match.” As a result, the Indore pitch will receive three demerit points while the BCCI will have a two-week window to appeal against the sanction. As per ICC’s Pitch and Outfield Monitoring Process, a venue will be suspended from hosting an international match for one year if it accumulates five or more demerit points over a rolling period of five years. Meanwhile, the spinners from both teams found great purchase off the pitch as out of the 31 wickets that fell across four innings, 26 of them went to the spinners and just four to the pacers. While for India, Jadeja picked five wickets and Ashwin returned with three, Australia’s veteran spinner Nathan Lyon picked up his second eighth-wicket haul (8 for 63 in the second innings) in Tests, ending the match with a total of 11 wickets to his name. Following this Test, the series stands at 2-1 in favour of India with the final match scheduled to take place at Ahmedabad on March 9th.

IND vs AUS: ICC rates Indore pitch 'poor' after third Test ends inside three days at Holkar Stadium

Mitchell Starc has declared himself ‘fit-enough’ to be considered for selection for the third Test in Indore that begins on March 1st. Out with a broken finger since playing in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa last year, Starc can’t wait to getting back to the field having already missed first two Tests in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series. In the absence of the regular skipper, Pat Cummins, who flew home to be with his ailing mother, Starc’s presence in the XI would boost the confidence in the Aussie camp. However, the seamer, in his latest discussion with SEN Cricket, admitted that he is not 100% fit but enough to get going at the Holkar Stadium.

The left-arm pacer said his recovery took longer than what he would have liked, and that he remained patient with the same.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-prepares-a-blueprint-for-inducting-women-umpires-into-top-panels-reports-566299">ICC prepares a blueprint for inducting women umpires into top panels: Reports</a>

"It's all right, it's good enough. Good to go, that'll do for selection. It's a Test match, so it'll be good. The progress was slower than what I would have liked, but I am quite patient in that regard, so it is still progressing, but it has progressed enough to be comfortable playing, Hopefully, I can play a role with this team," Mitchell Starc told SEN Cricket.

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Mitchell Starc is getting it to reverse in Indore. Great signs for Australia to have him back even if Cam Green, who is also back, might not particularly appreciate the first clip <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvAus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvAus</a> <a href="https://t.co/cT2HujCvbg">pic.twitter.com/cT2HujCvbg</a>
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Starc said even ahead of the Delhi Test he was physically and mentally ready to play but it’s good that he didn’t because that bought him extra time to work on his fitness and get accustomed to the discomfort of the injured finger.

"The fact that I was not required last week gave me an opportunity for another week to prepare and progress, and get accustomed to the discomfort. I certainly felt that I was ready to go physically and mentally before the last Test itself," he added.

Meanwhile, not only Cummins, Australia will also miss the services of opener David Warner, who got out ruled out due to concussion and injury to his left arm, and Ashton Agar, who also flew home to take part in Sheffield Shield game for Western Australia. Whereas, Cameron Green is declared fit and Mitchell Swepson, who also went home following the first Test for the birth of his first child, has returned for the remainder of Tests.

Australia trails the marquee four-match series 0-2 with two matches more to be played.

Mitchell Starc has declared himself ‘fit-enough’ to be considered for selection for the third Test in Indore that begins on March 1st. Out with a broken finger since playing in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa last year, Starc can’t wait to getting back to the field having already missed first two Tests in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series.

Mitchell Starc has declared himself ‘fit-enough’ to be considered for selection for the third Test in Indore that begins on March 1st. Out with a broken finger since playing in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa last year, Starc can’t wait to getting back to the field having already missed first two Tests in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series. In the absence of the regular skipper, Pat Cummins, who flew home to be with his ailing mother, Starc’s presence in the XI would boost the confidence in the Aussie camp. However, the seamer, in his latest discussion with SEN Cricket, admitted that he is not 100% fit but enough to get going at the Holkar Stadium. The left-arm pacer said his recovery took longer than what he would have liked, and that he remained patient with the same. ALSO READ: ICC prepares a blueprint for inducting women umpires into top panels: Reports "It's all right, it's good enough. Good to go, that'll do for selection. It's a Test match, so it'll be good. The progress was slower than what I would have liked, but I am quite patient in that regard, so it is still progressing, but it has progressed enough to be comfortable playing, Hopefully, I can play a role with this team," Mitchell Starc told SEN Cricket. Mitchell Starc is getting it to reverse in Indore. Great signs for Australia to have him back even if Cam Green, who is also back, might not particularly appreciate the first clip #IndvAus pic.twitter.com/cT2HujCvbg — Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) February 27, 2023 × Starc said even ahead of the Delhi Test he was physically and mentally ready to play but it’s good that he didn’t because that bought him extra time to work on his fitness and get accustomed to the discomfort of the injured finger. "The fact that I was not required last week gave me an opportunity for another week to prepare and progress, and get accustomed to the discomfort. I certainly felt that I was ready to go physically and mentally before the last Test itself," he added. Meanwhile, not only Cummins, Australia will also miss the services of opener David Warner, who got out ruled out due to concussion and injury to his left arm, and Ashton Agar, who also flew home to take part in Sheffield Shield game for Western Australia. Whereas, Cameron Green is declared fit and Mitchell Swepson, who also went home following the first Test for the birth of his first child, has returned for the remainder of Tests. Australia trails the marquee four-match series 0-2 with two matches more to be played.

IND vs AUS: Almost fit-enough Mitchell Starc raring to hit deck in Indore Test

Since the time Shubman Gill scored his maiden ODI double hundred against New Zealand early this year, he’s been everywhere except in the playing XI against Australia in the Test series. Rather confused with the management’s call to play struggling KL Rahul over Gill, the fans were left wondering for the answers. Sourav Ganguly, one of India’s greatest captains and an ex-BCCI President recently spoke on this matter and said though there is no doubt that Gill is a tremendous batter and that’s why he’s playing all the formats, he still has to wait for his turn in Tests.

Having led teams across formats during his time, Ganguly understands the selection process better than many other; and on that he said when Gill’s time will come, he would get a lot of chances.

"I am sure when his time comes, he will also get a lot of opportunities," Ganguly said. "I think the selectors, the captain and the coach think of him and rate him very highly. That's why he is playing ODIs and T20Is, and he has performed as well,” Ganguly said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

"But at the present moment, perhaps message from team management is that he has to wait," Dada, as Ganguly’s fans used to call him, added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-almost-fit-enough-mitchell-starc-raring-to-hit-deck-in-indore-test-566319">IND vs AUS: Almost fit-enough Mitchell Starc raring to hit deck in Indore Test</a>

Warming the benches in the first two Tests with the team deciding to go ahead with KL Rahul as the opener, Gill will probably get into contention for the third Test that begins on March 1st in Indore.

Meanwhile, in both Nagpur and Delhi, openers from both teams struggled to get going barring the India captain Rohit Sharma, who scored a match-winning hundred in the first innings of Nagpur Test. More so, that after Rohit, who is leading the runs chart in the Border-Gavaskar series, bowling all-rounder Axar Patel is second on the list. Other than them, the performer with the bat had been Ravindra Jadeja, who scored 77 in Nagpur.

Talking about playing spin on such tracks where matches got finished inside three days on both occasions, Ganguly said,

"These are very tough wickets. I saw in the first two Tests and it's not easy, boss," Ganguly said. "Playing Ashwin, Jadeja, Lyon and the new guy, Todd Murphy, it is never easy with odd ball turning square. There is unevenness, there is everything happening for spinners," Ganguly added.

Since the time Shubman Gill scored his maiden ODI double hundred against New Zealand early this year, he’s been everywhere except in the playing XI against Australia in the Test series.

Since the time Shubman Gill scored his maiden ODI double hundred against New Zealand early this year, he’s been everywhere except in the playing XI against Australia in the Test series. Rather confused with the management’s call to play struggling KL Rahul over Gill, the fans were left wondering for the answers. Sourav Ganguly, one of India’s greatest captains and an ex-BCCI President recently spoke on this matter and said though there is no doubt that Gill is a tremendous batter and that’s why he’s playing all the formats, he still has to wait for his turn in Tests. Having led teams across formats during his time, Ganguly understands the selection process better than many other; and on that he said when Gill’s time will come, he would get a lot of chances. "I am sure when his time comes, he will also get a lot of opportunities," Ganguly said. "I think the selectors, the captain and the coach think of him and rate him very highly. That's why he is playing ODIs and T20Is, and he has performed as well,” Ganguly said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. "But at the present moment, perhaps message from team management is that he has to wait," Dada, as Ganguly’s fans used to call him, added. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Almost fit-enough Mitchell Starc raring to hit deck in Indore Test Warming the benches in the first two Tests with the team deciding to go ahead with KL Rahul as the opener, Gill will probably get into contention for the third Test that begins on March 1st in Indore. Meanwhile, in both Nagpur and Delhi, openers from both teams struggled to get going barring the India captain Rohit Sharma, who scored a match-winning hundred in the first innings of Nagpur Test. More so, that after Rohit, who is leading the runs chart in the Border-Gavaskar series, bowling all-rounder Axar Patel is second on the list. Other than them, the performer with the bat had been Ravindra Jadeja, who scored 77 in Nagpur. Talking about playing spin on such tracks where matches got finished inside three days on both occasions, Ganguly said, "These are very tough wickets. I saw in the first two Tests and it's not easy, boss," Ganguly said. "Playing Ashwin, Jadeja, Lyon and the new guy, Todd Murphy, it is never easy with odd ball turning square. There is unevenness, there is everything happening for spinners," Ganguly added.

'When his time will come I am sure he will get lots of opportunities,' says Sourav Ganguly on Shubman Gill

Australian middle-order batter Travis Head said being dropped for the opening Test in India came as a surprise after "robust" conversations with the selectors, and he was ready to play anywhere in the line-up after being recalled. The 29-year-old aggressive left-hander was left out of the team for the first Test of the four-match series in Nagpur after struggling against spin on the tours of Pakistan and Sri Lanka. But the move came under fire from former players including Steve Waugh and Matthew Hayden.

"It was something that I didn't expect coming here," Head told reporters in New Delhi. "The conversations were robust. Everyone has different opinions. I respect the coaching staff and selectors and I have a strong relationship with them.

"I think that's what made the conversations the way they went, because there's respect that goes both ways and we were able to voice our opinions.

"I woke up the next morning and I'm still on tour playing for Australia, I still get to do what I love to do. I'd love to be competing and playing but there's another way I can support the guys... I still feel like I'm in a great space."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-what-future-holds-for-chennai-super-kings-after-ms-dhoni-leaves-who-will-take-forward-his-legacy-565804">Explained: What future holds for Chennai Super Kings after Dhoni? Who will take forward his legacy?</a>

Head, who scored three half-centuries in Australia's recent home series against South Africa and also impressed against the West Indies, was recalled for the second test in the Indian capital.

Australia went on to lose by six wickets to go 2-0 down in the series but Head scored 12 before top-scoring for his team with 43 in the second innings after being promoted to open the batting with David Warner substituted after suffering a concussion.

"It was a small sample piece, but over here small sample pieces can be a little bit of gold to hopefully push on for the next two tests," Head said. "After missing out in the first Test, I'd bat anywhere that the team needed me to get a game."

The third test begins in Indore on March 1, with the final match in Ahmedabad. The two teams then face off in three one-day internationals beginning March 17.

Australian middle-order batter Travis Head said being dropped for the opening Test in India came as a surprise after "robust" conversations with the selectors, and he was ready to play anywhere in the line-up after being recalled.

Australian middle-order batter Travis Head said being dropped for the opening Test in India came as a surprise after "robust" conversations with the selectors, and he was ready to play anywhere in the line-up after being recalled. The 29-year-old aggressive left-hander was left out of the team for the first Test of the four-match series in Nagpur after struggling against spin on the tours of Pakistan and Sri Lanka. But the move came under fire from former players including Steve Waugh and Matthew Hayden. "It was something that I didn't expect coming here," Head told reporters in New Delhi. "The conversations were robust. Everyone has different opinions. I respect the coaching staff and selectors and I have a strong relationship with them. "I think that's what made the conversations the way they went, because there's respect that goes both ways and we were able to voice our opinions. "I woke up the next morning and I'm still on tour playing for Australia, I still get to do what I love to do. I'd love to be competing and playing but there's another way I can support the guys... I still feel like I'm in a great space." ALSO READ: Explained: What future holds for Chennai Super Kings after Dhoni? Who will take forward his legacy? Head, who scored three half-centuries in Australia's recent home series against South Africa and also impressed against the West Indies, was recalled for the second test in the Indian capital. Australia went on to lose by six wickets to go 2-0 down in the series but Head scored 12 before top-scoring for his team with 43 in the second innings after being promoted to open the batting with David Warner substituted after suffering a concussion. "It was a small sample piece, but over here small sample pieces can be a little bit of gold to hopefully push on for the next two tests," Head said. "After missing out in the first Test, I'd bat anywhere that the team needed me to get a game." The third test begins in Indore on March 1, with the final match in Ahmedabad. The two teams then face off in three one-day internationals beginning March 17.

IND vs AUS: Shocked with his omission in 1st Test, Travis Head ready to bat anywhere in remaining matches

The former Australian batter and a very good player of spin bowling, Michael Hussey has urged the struggling Aussies to pull off a Rohit Sharma on how to tackle spin in the remaining two Tests. Australia has conceded the Border-Gavaskar series within six days this time, having lost the first two Tests inside three days each. Such is the despair that of the 40 wickets that had fallen across all four innings, 32 of those have gone to the India spinners.

Looking dejected against the Indian spin trio of Ravindra Jadeja, Ravi Ashwin and Axar Patel - who is even yet to shine with the ball, Australia will be keen on finding the right answers to remain the contest.

Hussey, who had his share of ups and downs against spin bowling on the sub-continent tracks in the past, advised if Australians could only learn by observing how Rohit had batted so far in the series, they could actually benefit themselves and can avoid the whitewash, which would further dent their chances of directly qualifying for the WTC finals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-what-future-holds-for-chennai-super-kings-after-ms-dhoni-leaves-who-will-take-forward-his-legacy-565804">Explained: What future holds for Chennai Super Kings after Dhoni? Who will take forward his legacy?</a>

Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma is currently the leading run-getter in the series (183) having scored a match-winning hundred (120) in the first innings of the Nagpur Test. To put this in perspective, no other batter scored a hundred while Axar and Jadeja have come close with 84 and 70, respectively.

“Obviously, the Australians can take a leaf out of Rohit Sharma’s book and have a look at the way he has batted so far. The way Rohit has gone about his job is certainly a good way to tackle spin and score runs in such conditions. The Indian batsmen have grown up playing on such pitches and so are more used to them. But it’s not really possible to bat exactly like how he (Rohit) has been doing. For instance, I couldn’t bat like Matthew Hayden," said Hussey, as quoted by the Telegraph.

During the second match in Delhi, especially in the second innings, most of the Aussie batters got out playing the sweep shot. Commenting on the same, Hussey said instead of playing just one pre-decided shot, every player must concentrate on playing as per their strengths and that is where the result will come from.

“So, the focus of the Australian batsmen should be on gauging how best each one of them can score runs. Each one has a different method of batting. So, some should look to hit the boundaries and be more aggressive, while some should look to play the anchor role. Batsmen need to focus on their strengths and the strokes that yield them runs instead of everyone trying one particular shot,” Hussey said.

The third Test will start in Indore from March 1st.

The former Australian batter and a very good player of spin bowling, Michael Hussey has urged the struggling Aussies to pull off a Rohit Sharma on how to tackle spin in the remaining two Tests.

The former Australian batter and a very good player of spin bowling, Michael Hussey has urged the struggling Aussies to pull off a Rohit Sharma on how to tackle spin in the remaining two Tests. Australia has conceded the Border-Gavaskar series within six days this time, having lost the first two Tests inside three days each. Such is the despair that of the 40 wickets that had fallen across all four innings, 32 of those have gone to the India spinners. Looking dejected against the Indian spin trio of Ravindra Jadeja, Ravi Ashwin and Axar Patel - who is even yet to shine with the ball, Australia will be keen on finding the right answers to remain the contest. Hussey, who had his share of ups and downs against spin bowling on the sub-continent tracks in the past, advised if Australians could only learn by observing how Rohit had batted so far in the series, they could actually benefit themselves and can avoid the whitewash, which would further dent their chances of directly qualifying for the WTC finals. ALSO READ: Explained: What future holds for Chennai Super Kings after Dhoni? Who will take forward his legacy? Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma is currently the leading run-getter in the series (183) having scored a match-winning hundred (120) in the first innings of the Nagpur Test. To put this in perspective, no other batter scored a hundred while Axar and Jadeja have come close with 84 and 70, respectively. “Obviously, the Australians can take a leaf out of Rohit Sharma’s book and have a look at the way he has batted so far. The way Rohit has gone about his job is certainly a good way to tackle spin and score runs in such conditions. The Indian batsmen have grown up playing on such pitches and so are more used to them. But it’s not really possible to bat exactly like how he (Rohit) has been doing. For instance, I couldn’t bat like Matthew Hayden," said Hussey, as quoted by the Telegraph. During the second match in Delhi, especially in the second innings, most of the Aussie batters got out playing the sweep shot. Commenting on the same, Hussey said instead of playing just one pre-decided shot, every player must concentrate on playing as per their strengths and that is where the result will come from. “So, the focus of the Australian batsmen should be on gauging how best each one of them can score runs. Each one has a different method of batting. So, some should look to hit the boundaries and be more aggressive, while some should look to play the anchor role. Batsmen need to focus on their strengths and the strokes that yield them runs instead of everyone trying one particular shot,” Hussey said. The third Test will start in Indore from March 1st.

Michael Hussey urges Australia to take a leaf out of Rohit Sharma's book on how to tackle spin

Australian captain Pat Cummins will miss the third Test against India in Indore as he is&nbsp;staying back with his ailing mother who is currently in palliative care. In his absence, former skipper Steve Smith will leave the side in the third Test that begins on March 1st. Earlier, following the second Test in Delhi, Cummins flew home to be with his ill mother and vowed to return in time for the Indore match. However, he has now released a statement saying he’s staying back with his family in this hour and has thanked Cricket Australia for supporting him.

"I have decided against returning to India at this time as my mother is ill and in palliative care. I feel I am best being here with my family. I appreciate the overwhelming support I have received from Cricket Australia and my teammates. Thanks for your understanding," Pat Cummins said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mcc-take-steps-towards-normalising-mankad-at-all-age-group-levels-says-the-bowler-is-not-the-villain-here-565326">MCC take steps towards normalising 'Mankad' at all age group levels, says the bowler is not the villain here</a>

Meanwhile, not only Cummins, Australia will also miss the services of injured players in opener David Warner and fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, both of whom boarded the same flight back home with Pat. While David suffered concussion and an elbow fracture during the Delhi Test, Hazlewood was benched since the beginning of the tour as he continues to recover from the Achilles problem.

While Cricket Australia hasn’t named any replacement for Cummins, fit now Mitchell Starc is likely to take his place in the team for the upcoming Test. Whereas, Mitchell Swepson, who went home after the end of Nagpur match for the birth of his first child, will also be available for selection.

Struggling Australia to avoid series whitewash

To say that Aussies have struggled against the spin on this tour would be an understatement. Of the 40 wickets that have fallen across two Tests, 32 of them have gone to the spinners with Ravindra Jadeja coming out to be the biggest threat. While he contributed big time with both bat and ball in the first Test by scoring 70 and picking up a five-for in the first innings, he picked his career-best figures of seven for 42 in the second innings of the Delhi Test.

Now for Australia to avoid getting in a situation where they could be out of the race for a spot in the World Test Championship finals, they have to ensure they are at least winning one game in the remaining two Tests. Under Smith, they will fancy their chances of making a return in the Border-Gavaskar series.

Australian captain Pat Cummins will miss the third Test against India in Indore as he is staying back with his ailing mother who is currently in palliative care.

Australian captain Pat Cummins will miss the third Test against India in Indore as he is staying back with his ailing mother who is currently in palliative care. In his absence, former skipper Steve Smith will leave the side in the third Test that begins on March 1st. Earlier, following the second Test in Delhi, Cummins flew home to be with his ill mother and vowed to return in time for the Indore match. However, he has now released a statement saying he’s staying back with his family in this hour and has thanked Cricket Australia for supporting him. "I have decided against returning to India at this time as my mother is ill and in palliative care. I feel I am best being here with my family. I appreciate the overwhelming support I have received from Cricket Australia and my teammates. Thanks for your understanding," Pat Cummins said in a statement. ALSO READ: MCC take steps towards normalising 'Mankad' at all age group levels, says the bowler is not the villain here Meanwhile, not only Cummins, Australia will also miss the services of injured players in opener David Warner and fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, both of whom boarded the same flight back home with Pat. While David suffered concussion and an elbow fracture during the Delhi Test, Hazlewood was benched since the beginning of the tour as he continues to recover from the Achilles problem. While Cricket Australia hasn’t named any replacement for Cummins, fit now Mitchell Starc is likely to take his place in the team for the upcoming Test. Whereas, Mitchell Swepson, who went home after the end of Nagpur match for the birth of his first child, will also be available for selection. Struggling Australia to avoid series whitewash To say that Aussies have struggled against the spin on this tour would be an understatement. Of the 40 wickets that have fallen across two Tests, 32 of them have gone to the spinners with Ravindra Jadeja coming out to be the biggest threat. While he contributed big time with both bat and ball in the first Test by scoring 70 and picking up a five-for in the first innings, he picked his career-best figures of seven for 42 in the second innings of the Delhi Test. Now for Australia to avoid getting in a situation where they could be out of the race for a spot in the World Test Championship finals, they have to ensure they are at least winning one game in the remaining two Tests. Under Smith, they will fancy their chances of making a return in the Border-Gavaskar series.

IND vs AUS: Cummins to stay back in Australia with ailing mother, Steve Smith named captain for Indore Test

India is clearly on top of the mighty Aussies in the ongoing Test series and is looking strong in their quest of clean-sweeping them as well. With the hosts already retaining the Border-Gavaskar series, there is still much to look forward to in the remaining two Tests. Now with the 50-over series also in sight, the ODI-bound players have already started their training. While many of those selected for the three-match ODIs are part of the Test team, the ones who are not including Hardik Pandya, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Umran Malik among others will head to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for a fitness and skill camp.

As reported by the Times of India (TOI), Chahal and Umran have already reached the NCA while Hardik, who was busy with his wedding functions, will join the fellow squad members including Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-glenn-maxwell-named-as-australia-announce-strong-16-man-squad-for-india-odis-564968">David Warner, Glenn Maxwell named as Australia announce strong 16-man squad for India ODIs</a>

"Fast bowler Umran Malik and senior leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal are already in Bengaluru for some quality net sessions before the ODI leg starts in Mumbai from March 17. They would be doing their fitness programmes as well as bowling full tilt under the supervision of NCA coaches," a BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity as quoted by the Times of India.

Meanwhile, the three-match ODI series will begin on March 17th with the first match slated to take place in Mumbai while Vizag (on the 19th) and Chennai (22nd) will host the remaining two games.

Here’s India’s squad for Australia ODIs –

Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, K L Rahul, Ishan Kishan (wk), Hardik Pandya (Vice-captain), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umran Malik, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Jaydev Unadkat

India eye whitewash in BGT

India is currently 2-0 up in the four-match series with the third Test scheduled to start on March 1st in Indore. Brimming with confidence, the Indian team ended the Aussies’ hopes of retaining the Border-Gavaskar series within six days only as both Tests finished within&nbsp;three days each. Of the 40 wickets that fell, 32 went to the spinners which&nbsp;also saw Ravindra Jadeja pick his career-best figures of seven for 42 in the second innings of the Delhi Test. Ravi Ashwin and Axar Patel also made inroads with their performances from both bat and ball. While captain Rohit Sharma is leading the runs chart so far, thanks to his match-winning maiden Border-Gavaskar series hundred (120) in the Nagpur match.

India is clearly on top of the mighty Aussies in the ongoing Test series and is looking strong in their quest of clean-sweeping them as well. With the hosts already retaining the Border-Gavaskar series, there is still much to look forward to in the remaining two Tests.

India is clearly on top of the mighty Aussies in the ongoing Test series and is looking strong in their quest of clean-sweeping them as well. With the hosts already retaining the Border-Gavaskar series, there is still much to look forward to in the remaining two Tests. Now with the 50-over series also in sight, the ODI-bound players have already started their training. While many of those selected for the three-match ODIs are part of the Test team, the ones who are not including Hardik Pandya, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Umran Malik among others will head to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for a fitness and skill camp. As reported by the Times of India (TOI), Chahal and Umran have already reached the NCA while Hardik, who was busy with his wedding functions, will join the fellow squad members including Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar. ALSO READ: David Warner, Glenn Maxwell named as Australia announce strong 16-man squad for India ODIs "Fast bowler Umran Malik and senior leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal are already in Bengaluru for some quality net sessions before the ODI leg starts in Mumbai from March 17. They would be doing their fitness programmes as well as bowling full tilt under the supervision of NCA coaches," a BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity as quoted by the Times of India. Meanwhile, the three-match ODI series will begin on March 17th with the first match slated to take place in Mumbai while Vizag (on the 19th) and Chennai (22nd) will host the remaining two games. Here’s India’s squad for Australia ODIs – Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, K L Rahul, Ishan Kishan (wk), Hardik Pandya (Vice-captain), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umran Malik, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Jaydev Unadkat India eye whitewash in BGT India is currently 2-0 up in the four-match series with the third Test scheduled to start on March 1st in Indore. Brimming with confidence, the Indian team ended the Aussies’ hopes of retaining the Border-Gavaskar series within six days only as both Tests finished within three days each. Of the 40 wickets that fell, 32 went to the spinners which also saw Ravindra Jadeja pick his career-best figures of seven for 42 in the second innings of the Delhi Test. Ravi Ashwin and Axar Patel also made inroads with their performances from both bat and ball. While captain Rohit Sharma is leading the runs chart so far, thanks to his match-winning maiden Border-Gavaskar series hundred (120) in the Nagpur match.

ODI-bound players including Hardik Pandya, Yuzvendra Chahal to train in NCA ahead of Australia One-Dayers

The Australian selectors went full throttle in naming a strong 16-man squad for the ODI series against India that begins on March 17th in Mumbai. While injured Glenn Maxwell makes his long-awaited return to the ODI team, Mitchell Marsh and seamer Jhye Richardson have also been named. Captain Pat Cummins would lead from the front, whereas, Josh Hazlewood is left out on precautionary grounds, keeping in mind the upcoming Ashes in England, Aussie chief selector George Bailey said. Other than the white-ball regulars, veteran opener David Warner and Ashton Agar – both of whom flew home mid-way into the Border-Gavaskar series, have also been named.

"It would be great for Josh to be part of this series but we have taken a conservative view ahead of a very important winter in England of which he will be an integral part," Cricket Australia’s chief selector George Bailey said.

As Australia suffered enough humiliation&nbsp;for their below-par performance in the two Tests played so far, compensating in the 50-over format given this is the World Cup year, could be the way forward. Sounding confident in preparing the players for the mega event later this year in India only, Bailey was happy to have some of the match-winners in Maxwell and Marsh back in the squad.

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While stylish all-rounder Maxwell suffered a freak injury in November last year that kept him out of action since Mitchell Marsh also didn’t play for the Aussies following undergoing ankle surgery in the same month. Out-of-favour fast bowler Richardson had also spent a long time on the sidelines since playing his last international game in Sri Lanka in 2022. Having missed more matches than he had played, this India ODIs could give him a good chance to get back into the groove.

"With the World Cup just over seven months away, these matches in India are an important step in our preparation," Bailey said. "Glenn, Mitchell, and Jhye are all important players in what we think the squad might look like come October."

While Mumbai (17th) will host the first One-Dayer, Vizag (19th) and Chennai (22nd) will host the remaining two games.

Here’s Australia’s 16-man squad for India ODIs –

Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Jhye Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa

The Australian selectors went full throttle in naming a strong 16-man squad for the ODI series against India that begins on March 17th in Mumbai. While injured Glenn Maxwell makes his long-awaited return to the ODI team, Mitchell Marsh and seamer Jhye Richardson have also been named.

The Australian selectors went full throttle in naming a strong 16-man squad for the ODI series against India that begins on March 17th in Mumbai. While injured Glenn Maxwell makes his long-awaited return to the ODI team, Mitchell Marsh and seamer Jhye Richardson have also been named. Captain Pat Cummins would lead from the front, whereas, Josh Hazlewood is left out on precautionary grounds, keeping in mind the upcoming Ashes in England, Aussie chief selector George Bailey said. Other than the white-ball regulars, veteran opener David Warner and Ashton Agar – both of whom flew home mid-way into the Border-Gavaskar series, have also been named. "It would be great for Josh to be part of this series but we have taken a conservative view ahead of a very important winter in England of which he will be an integral part," Cricket Australia’s chief selector George Bailey said. As Australia suffered enough humiliation for their below-par performance in the two Tests played so far, compensating in the 50-over format given this is the World Cup year, could be the way forward. Sounding confident in preparing the players for the mega event later this year in India only, Bailey was happy to have some of the match-winners in Maxwell and Marsh back in the squad. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Former Aussie great comes down hard on Daniel Vettori, questions his role in the team While stylish all-rounder Maxwell suffered a freak injury in November last year that kept him out of action since Mitchell Marsh also didn’t play for the Aussies following undergoing ankle surgery in the same month. Out-of-favour fast bowler Richardson had also spent a long time on the sidelines since playing his last international game in Sri Lanka in 2022. Having missed more matches than he had played, this India ODIs could give him a good chance to get back into the groove. "With the World Cup just over seven months away, these matches in India are an important step in our preparation," Bailey said. "Glenn, Mitchell, and Jhye are all important players in what we think the squad might look like come October." While Mumbai (17th) will host the first One-Dayer, Vizag (19th) and Chennai (22nd) will host the remaining two games. Here’s Australia’s 16-man squad for India ODIs – Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Jhye Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa

David Warner, Glenn Maxwell named as Australia announce strong 16-man squad for India ODIs

Former Aussie great Geoff Lawson didn’t mince his words while questioning Daniel Vettori’s role in the team as&nbsp;Australia got humiliated in the first two Tests against India, going down in both matches inside three days by huge margins. Vettori, regarded as one of the best left-arm spinners ever, is travelling with the team as the assistant coach. Geoff, while speaking with SEN Radio recently, came down hard on the New Zealander saying if the Australian batters are failing so much again the spin and their spinners are struggling to pick Indian wickets on regular intervals, then what is Vettori there for.

Off the 40 Australian wickets that have fallen across four innings, 32 out of those have gone to spinners. In the first and even in the second Test, returning star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja produced match-winning spells including his career-best of seven for 42 in the second innings of Delhi Test.

Already upset with Australia’s woeful performance on this tour, Lawson pinpointed towards Vettori, whom he doesn’t think have done enough to bail Australia out of trouble.

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"The man who's probably not copping as much as he should is Daniel Vettori, who is one of the great left-arm orthodox bowlers in the world, but he should be advising on how we're going to bowl and how we're going to play against that sort of bowling," Lawson said on SEN Radio lately.

Urging the former Kiwi captain to provide vital inputs on how to tackle the spin web laid by the Indian trio of Ashwin, Jadeja and Axar, Dawson said, "He seems to have escaped a bit of attention here because when I see shots of the dressing room I think, 'What's Vettori's input here, he's the man who was a great slow ball'. He should perhaps be having more input than most."

Meanwhile, having already lost the Border-Gavaskar series 0-2, Australia still has the spot in the final of the World Test Championship to play for. For them to be the sure-starter for June 7th event at the Oval in London, they have to avoid suffering a series whitewash in addition to hoping the New Zealand doesn’t face slump against Sri Lanka in their home two-match Test series.

The third Test will begin on March 1st at the Holkar stadium in Indore.

Former Aussie great Geoff Lawson didn’t mince his words while questioning Daniel Vettori’s role in the team as Australia got humiliated in the first two Tests against India, going down in both matches inside three days by huge margins.

Former Aussie great Geoff Lawson didn’t mince his words while questioning Daniel Vettori’s role in the team as Australia got humiliated in the first two Tests against India, going down in both matches inside three days by huge margins. Vettori, regarded as one of the best left-arm spinners ever, is travelling with the team as the assistant coach. Geoff, while speaking with SEN Radio recently, came down hard on the New Zealander saying if the Australian batters are failing so much again the spin and their spinners are struggling to pick Indian wickets on regular intervals, then what is Vettori there for. Off the 40 Australian wickets that have fallen across four innings, 32 out of those have gone to spinners. In the first and even in the second Test, returning star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja produced match-winning spells including his career-best of seven for 42 in the second innings of Delhi Test. Already upset with Australia’s woeful performance on this tour, Lawson pinpointed towards Vettori, whom he doesn’t think have done enough to bail Australia out of trouble. ALSO READ: Ben Stokes hints at cutting short IPL 2023 stint with CSK to prepare for home Ashes "The man who's probably not copping as much as he should is Daniel Vettori, who is one of the great left-arm orthodox bowlers in the world, but he should be advising on how we're going to bowl and how we're going to play against that sort of bowling," Lawson said on SEN Radio lately. Urging the former Kiwi captain to provide vital inputs on how to tackle the spin web laid by the Indian trio of Ashwin, Jadeja and Axar, Dawson said, "He seems to have escaped a bit of attention here because when I see shots of the dressing room I think, 'What's Vettori's input here, he's the man who was a great slow ball'. He should perhaps be having more input than most." Meanwhile, having already lost the Border-Gavaskar series 0-2, Australia still has the spot in the final of the World Test Championship to play for. For them to be the sure-starter for June 7th event at the Oval in London, they have to avoid suffering a series whitewash in addition to hoping the New Zealand doesn’t face slump against Sri Lanka in their home two-match Test series. The third Test will begin on March 1st at the Holkar stadium in Indore.

IND vs AUS: Former Aussie great comes down hard on Daniel Vettori, questions his role in the team

In what is termed as one of the greatest on-field rivalries in world cricket, India vs Australia always sets the stage on fire – be it men’s or women’s cricket. While the men's&nbsp;teams are busy fighting it out in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series in India, their women&nbsp;counterparts will be contesting in the first semi final of the Women’s T20 World Cup in South Africa. Although India-Australia facing off in a semis clash in a T20 World Cup in South Africa looks like a déjà-vu, the stakes are surely different this time. Not only the fans, but the Australian women’s team opener Beth Mooney also feels the same, who remains aware of the Indian challenge that awaits them.

During the 2020 T20 World Cup final, Australia beat India by 85 runs, ending their hopes of winning the T20 trophy for the first time. However, this time, the much-improved Indian team will pose threat to Australia’s long-standing domination in this format and Mooney thinks likewise. As Australia chases their hat-trick of T20 WC titles this time and their sixth overall, they would begin as favourites against India on Thursday.

However, having played against the Harmanpreet Kaur-led team in the past on several occasions, Mooney said the Australians aren’t taking their opponents lightly, and instead are expecting the contest to be neck-to-neck. &nbsp;

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"I'm expecting it to be a huge contest, they've (India) pushed us significantly in the last few years, and they have a bunch of match winners in that line-up as well. We're not expecting it to be easy by any means, whether it's with a bat or the ball, but we certainly know the style of play they've come at us with in the past and they know ours pretty well, too. There won't be any surprises I don't think come Thursday afternoon," Mooney said ahead of the India-Australia semi final clash.

Talking about India’s Renuka Singh, who happens to be India's best bowler during this World Cup, Mooney said if Australia could nullify her effect, they would be in a better position throughout.

"She (Renuka) is certainly one we'll have a look at as batting unit as to how we can nullify her threat because I think she's been pretty incredible this T20 World Cup," Mooney said. "If we can nullify that as early as possible, then that will hopefully set us up for a big total. We don't take anyone in that Indian team lightly. We've got to have really clear, clinical plans against them, whether it's with the bat or the ball."

The Newlands in Cape Town will host the first semi final that begins at 6:30 PM IST.

In what is termed as one of the greatest on-field rivalries in world cricket, India vs Australia always sets the stage on fire – be it men’s or women’s cricket. While the men's teams are busy fighting it out in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series in India, their women counterparts will be contesting in the first semi final of the Women’s T20 World Cup in South Africa.

In what is termed as one of the greatest on-field rivalries in world cricket, India vs Australia always sets the stage on fire – be it men’s or women’s cricket. While the men's teams are busy fighting it out in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series in India, their women counterparts will be contesting in the first semi final of the Women’s T20 World Cup in South Africa. Although India-Australia facing off in a semis clash in a T20 World Cup in South Africa looks like a déjà-vu, the stakes are surely different this time. Not only the fans, but the Australian women’s team opener Beth Mooney also feels the same, who remains aware of the Indian challenge that awaits them. During the 2020 T20 World Cup final, Australia beat India by 85 runs, ending their hopes of winning the T20 trophy for the first time. However, this time, the much-improved Indian team will pose threat to Australia’s long-standing domination in this format and Mooney thinks likewise. As Australia chases their hat-trick of T20 WC titles this time and their sixth overall, they would begin as favourites against India on Thursday. However, having played against the Harmanpreet Kaur-led team in the past on several occasions, Mooney said the Australians aren’t taking their opponents lightly, and instead are expecting the contest to be neck-to-neck. ALSO READ: WATCH: Babar Azam, Azhar Ali or you? Who is a better captain? Sarfaraz Ahmed gives hilarious response "I'm expecting it to be a huge contest, they've (India) pushed us significantly in the last few years, and they have a bunch of match winners in that line-up as well. We're not expecting it to be easy by any means, whether it's with a bat or the ball, but we certainly know the style of play they've come at us with in the past and they know ours pretty well, too. There won't be any surprises I don't think come Thursday afternoon," Mooney said ahead of the India-Australia semi final clash. Talking about India’s Renuka Singh, who happens to be India's best bowler during this World Cup, Mooney said if Australia could nullify her effect, they would be in a better position throughout. "She (Renuka) is certainly one we'll have a look at as batting unit as to how we can nullify her threat because I think she's been pretty incredible this T20 World Cup," Mooney said. "If we can nullify that as early as possible, then that will hopefully set us up for a big total. We don't take anyone in that Indian team lightly. We've got to have really clear, clinical plans against them, whether it's with the bat or the ball." The Newlands in Cape Town will host the first semi final that begins at 6:30 PM IST.

Women's T20 WC: Australian opener Beth Mooney wary of India challenge as semis clash looms

Following departures of Australian&nbsp;captain Pat Cummins, injured David Warner and Josh Hazlewood, another Aussie has joined the list in out-of-favour spinner Ashton Agar. Australia got decimated in the first two Tests in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, losing both matches inside three days. As they now prepare to lift them up and get going in their quest to remain in race for the World Test Championship final, Australia will be an option less with Agar flying home to take part in the domestic tournament for Western Australia. As per the latest reports, no replacement or addition has been made to the touring squad ahead of the third Test that begins on March 1st in Indore.

While Cummins is believed to be rejoining the team ahead of the third Test, Agar will return to India for the ODI series scheduled to start on March 17th in Mumbai. In the meantime, Agar will play the Sheffield Shield game slated for March 2nd and will also feature for WA in their 50-over Marsh Cup final on March 8th.

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The slow-left arm orthodox&nbsp;was picked in Australia’s original squad for four Tests but didn’t play a single game so far. While the management decided to go ahead with debutant Todd Murphy in the first Test, they brought in another newcomer Matthew Kuhnemann for the next match&nbsp;– who replaced Mitchell Swepson, who had headed home for the birth of his first child. In all of this, Agar was left behind on the bench and wasn’t considered for selection.

Tony Dodemaide, one of Australia's selectors on the tour, commented on this whole episode and said Agar didn’t shy away from training and putting in all the hard yards, and that the management backs him for coming good.

"He (Agar) has been very open with us and he has absolutely worked his backside off in order to get it right, to put himself up and be an option. We absolutely acknowledge that there's been no lack of effort from Ashton," Tony Dodemaide told reporters on Wednesday in Delhi.

Swepson set to return, Green declared fit

As mentioned above, Swepson had headed home ahead of the second Test but is now all set to return for the remainder of the series. Whereas, injured and out all-rounder Cameron Green is also declared 100% and will return to the XI for the Indore game. Mitchell Starc, who also didn’t feature in any of the matches played so far, could also be roped into the team.

Following departures of Australian captain Pat Cummins, injured David Warner and Josh Hazlewood, another Aussie has joined the list in out-of-favour spinner Ashton Agar.

Following departures of Australian captain Pat Cummins, injured David Warner and Josh Hazlewood, another Aussie has joined the list in out-of-favour spinner Ashton Agar. Australia got decimated in the first two Tests in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, losing both matches inside three days. As they now prepare to lift them up and get going in their quest to remain in race for the World Test Championship final, Australia will be an option less with Agar flying home to take part in the domestic tournament for Western Australia. As per the latest reports, no replacement or addition has been made to the touring squad ahead of the third Test that begins on March 1st in Indore. While Cummins is believed to be rejoining the team ahead of the third Test, Agar will return to India for the ODI series scheduled to start on March 17th in Mumbai. In the meantime, Agar will play the Sheffield Shield game slated for March 2nd and will also feature for WA in their 50-over Marsh Cup final on March 8th. ALSO READ: 'Can we leave KL Rahul alone?': Harbhajan Singh backs under-fire Indian opener amid severe criticism The slow-left arm orthodox was picked in Australia’s original squad for four Tests but didn’t play a single game so far. While the management decided to go ahead with debutant Todd Murphy in the first Test, they brought in another newcomer Matthew Kuhnemann for the next match – who replaced Mitchell Swepson, who had headed home for the birth of his first child. In all of this, Agar was left behind on the bench and wasn’t considered for selection. Tony Dodemaide, one of Australia's selectors on the tour, commented on this whole episode and said Agar didn’t shy away from training and putting in all the hard yards, and that the management backs him for coming good. "He (Agar) has been very open with us and he has absolutely worked his backside off in order to get it right, to put himself up and be an option. We absolutely acknowledge that there's been no lack of effort from Ashton," Tony Dodemaide told reporters on Wednesday in Delhi. Swepson set to return, Green declared fit As mentioned above, Swepson had headed home ahead of the second Test but is now all set to return for the remainder of the series. Whereas, injured and out all-rounder Cameron Green is also declared 100% and will return to the XI for the Indore game. Mitchell Starc, who also didn’t feature in any of the matches played so far, could also be roped into the team.

IND vs AUS: Another setback for Australia as out-of-favour spinner heads home mid-way, to return for ODIs

Former Australian legend Adam Gilchrist has come out in support of spin bowling all-rounder Ashton Agar, who despite getting named in the original squad for the India series, is yet to play a match. Ahead of the start of the first Test in Nagpur, there were talks of either of Agar or Mitchell Swepson playing second fiddle to veteran spinner Nathan Lyon. That situation escalated quickly after Australia’s assessment of Nagpur’s pitch that prompted them to give the Baggy Green to Todd Murphy – who even picked seven wickets in an innings on debut. As Australia got floored in the first Test inside three days, several changes were expected in the XI including the addition of an extra spinner.

Much to everyone’s expectation that also happened, but there was a twist in the tale. Instead of playing the already available left-arm orthodox spinner in Agar in the following Test in Delhi, the Australian selectors roped in Queensland spinner Matthew Kuhnemann, who replaced Swepson in the squad, leaving out Agar from the playing XI. Even with three spinners&nbsp;in Lyon, Murphy and Kuhnemann, Australia failed to turn the tables around as they lost the second Test as well by six wickets inside three days only.

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Meanwhile, Gilchrist looked disappointed with the selectors’ decision to make Kuhnemann play ahead of experienced Ashton Agar, calling it as an ‘insult’ to the all-rounder. Speaking with the Australian radio channel SEN, the former legend said, “...but it’s a pretty big insult that I know from touring and being on a lot of tours, you felt that if you’re picked on the tour in a broader squad - unless it’s a pretty extreme like for like that has to come in - you generally expected the guys that were first reserves to step in."

Gilly, as most cricket fans would call him, added saying that such omissions often come as a blow for the player.

“So that’s a bit of a body blow for him I would imagine. I haven’t spoken to him, it’ll be interesting to see what he does, whether he’s brought into contention,” Gilchrist further added.

Talking about Australia’s dismal show with both bat and ball across both Tests, having conceded the marquee Border-Gavaskar series for the third straight time, Gilchrist admitted he believed this Aussie team has the right tools to beat India in India this time but is rather surprised with how things have panned out so far.

“I backed this team to win over there, I thought they had all the tools and the mindset and the experience to get it done," Gilchrist added. “But it’s been a bit surprising as to how it’s unravelled pretty quick.”

Meanwhile, Australia will play the third Test in Indore starting March 1st.

Former Australian legend Adam Gilchrist has come out in support of spin bowling all-rounder Ashton Agar, who despite getting named in the original squad for the India series, is yet to play a match.

Former Australian legend Adam Gilchrist has come out in support of spin bowling all-rounder Ashton Agar, who despite getting named in the original squad for the India series, is yet to play a match. Ahead of the start of the first Test in Nagpur, there were talks of either of Agar or Mitchell Swepson playing second fiddle to veteran spinner Nathan Lyon. That situation escalated quickly after Australia’s assessment of Nagpur’s pitch that prompted them to give the Baggy Green to Todd Murphy – who even picked seven wickets in an innings on debut. As Australia got floored in the first Test inside three days, several changes were expected in the XI including the addition of an extra spinner. Much to everyone’s expectation that also happened, but there was a twist in the tale. Instead of playing the already available left-arm orthodox spinner in Agar in the following Test in Delhi, the Australian selectors roped in Queensland spinner Matthew Kuhnemann, who replaced Swepson in the squad, leaving out Agar from the playing XI. Even with three spinners in Lyon, Murphy and Kuhnemann, Australia failed to turn the tables around as they lost the second Test as well by six wickets inside three days only. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Pat Cummins to fly home mid-way into India series, Josh Hazlewood also ruled out Meanwhile, Gilchrist looked disappointed with the selectors’ decision to make Kuhnemann play ahead of experienced Ashton Agar, calling it as an ‘insult’ to the all-rounder. Speaking with the Australian radio channel SEN, the former legend said, “...but it’s a pretty big insult that I know from touring and being on a lot of tours, you felt that if you’re picked on the tour in a broader squad - unless it’s a pretty extreme like for like that has to come in - you generally expected the guys that were first reserves to step in." Gilly, as most cricket fans would call him, added saying that such omissions often come as a blow for the player. “So that’s a bit of a body blow for him I would imagine. I haven’t spoken to him, it’ll be interesting to see what he does, whether he’s brought into contention,” Gilchrist further added. Talking about Australia’s dismal show with both bat and ball across both Tests, having conceded the marquee Border-Gavaskar series for the third straight time, Gilchrist admitted he believed this Aussie team has the right tools to beat India in India this time but is rather surprised with how things have panned out so far. “I backed this team to win over there, I thought they had all the tools and the mindset and the experience to get it done," Gilchrist added. “But it’s been a bit surprising as to how it’s unravelled pretty quick.” Meanwhile, Australia will play the third Test in Indore starting March 1st.

IND vs AUS: Adam Gilchrist backs out-of-favour Ashton Agar, says his treatment is 'insulting'

Australian&nbsp;captain Pat Cummins will fly home mid-way into the India Test series&nbsp;due to an illness in the family but will return to lead the team for the Indore match&nbsp;that begins on March 1st. Cummins will leave for Sydney in between of the second and third Test, as first reported in the Australian media. During the second Test in Delhi that India won by six wickets, Cummins didn’t bowl in the second innings but returned with figures of one for 41 in the first innings. With the bat in hand, he scored 33 in the first innings while he got out on a first-ball duck to Ravindra Jadeja in the next innings.

Australia suffered two massive defeats in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series. First&nbsp;they lost the Nagpur Test by an innings and 132 runs, and then they got floored in the Delhi game inside three days losing&nbsp;the second Test by six wickets. Not only did they lose the chance of winning a Test series in India for the first time since 2004, but they also failed to retain the Border-Gavaskar trophy&nbsp;for the third straight time, having lost the previous two editions at home in 2018 and 2020.

Meanwhile, two successive losses have also dent Australia’s points percentage on the World Test Championship standings as their PCT has now dropped to 66.67 from 70.83. However, they still remain on the top of the table with India inching closer - who are currently placed second, as their PCT has increased to 64.06.

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While for India to directly qualify for the finals of the 2023 WTC, they either have to beat Australia by margins of 3-0, 3-1 or best whitewash them 4-0. Whereas, for Australia to remain in race for the summit clash, they have to avoid any of the above-mentioned outcome and try and win at least one of the remaining two games in addition to hoping that New Zealand doesn’t lose their home Test series against Sri Lanka.

Josh Hazlewood out of India Tests -

Other than Cummins, senior pacer Josh Hazlewood will also be flying to Australia as he got ruled out of the remaining two Tests, as confirmed by head coach Andrew Mcdonald.

Meanwhile, Cameron Green and Mitchell Starc are declared fit and would remain in contention for selection for the next Test in Indore.&nbsp;

Here’s Australia’s squad for the remaining two Tests against India –

Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Peter Handscomb, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Kuhnemann, David Warner

Australian captain Pat Cummins will fly home mid-way into the India Test series due to an illness in the family but will return to lead the team for the Indore match that begins on March 1st.

Australian captain Pat Cummins will fly home mid-way into the India Test series due to an illness in the family but will return to lead the team for the Indore match that begins on March 1st. Cummins will leave for Sydney in between of the second and third Test, as first reported in the Australian media. During the second Test in Delhi that India won by six wickets, Cummins didn’t bowl in the second innings but returned with figures of one for 41 in the first innings. With the bat in hand, he scored 33 in the first innings while he got out on a first-ball duck to Ravindra Jadeja in the next innings. Australia suffered two massive defeats in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series. First they lost the Nagpur Test by an innings and 132 runs, and then they got floored in the Delhi game inside three days losing the second Test by six wickets. Not only did they lose the chance of winning a Test series in India for the first time since 2004, but they also failed to retain the Border-Gavaskar trophy for the third straight time, having lost the previous two editions at home in 2018 and 2020. Meanwhile, two successive losses have also dent Australia’s points percentage on the World Test Championship standings as their PCT has now dropped to 66.67 from 70.83. However, they still remain on the top of the table with India inching closer - who are currently placed second, as their PCT has increased to 64.06. ALSO READ: Here's how can India qualify for the finals of 2023 World Test Championship; have a look at latest standings While for India to directly qualify for the finals of the 2023 WTC, they either have to beat Australia by margins of 3-0, 3-1 or best whitewash them 4-0. Whereas, for Australia to remain in race for the summit clash, they have to avoid any of the above-mentioned outcome and try and win at least one of the remaining two games in addition to hoping that New Zealand doesn’t lose their home Test series against Sri Lanka. Josh Hazlewood out of India Tests - Other than Cummins, senior pacer Josh Hazlewood will also be flying to Australia as he got ruled out of the remaining two Tests, as confirmed by head coach Andrew Mcdonald. Meanwhile, Cameron Green and Mitchell Starc are declared fit and would remain in contention for selection for the next Test in Indore. Here’s Australia’s squad for the remaining two Tests against India – Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Peter Handscomb, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Kuhnemann, David Warner

IND vs AUS: Pat Cummins to fly home mid-way into India series, Josh Hazlewood also ruled out