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<p>The wait for an ICC trophy continues as yet another Indian team failed to cross the line. This time, it was against Australia in the second World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the Oval in London, where Rohit Sharma-led Indian team came second, losing by a huge margin of 209 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After another painful defeat in an ICC Final, Rohit, who was part of the 2013 Champions Trophy campaign in England – the last when India won an all-team tournament, said while he laments his side's performance across the past five days, he still feels proud of the team for making it to their second successive final, which in itself is no small achievement.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-crowned-world-test-champions-after-beating-india-by-210-runs-at-oval-603140">Australia crowned World Test Champions after beating India by 209 runs at Oval</a></p>

<p>Speaking to the post-match presenter after the match that ended inside the first session on day five, Rohit backed his call to put Australia into bat first in those conditions but feels the bowling let the side down considering the overall picture. The Indian captain didn’t shy from giving credit where its due as he praised the pair of Steve Smith and Travis Head, who scored respective hundreds in the first innings.</p>

<p>“I thought we started well with winning the toss, putting them to bat in those conditions. We bowled well in the first session, and then we let ourselves down with how we bowled. Got to give credit to the Australian batters. Head came in and played really well along with Steven Smith. That just took us off guard a little bit,” Rohit said.</p>

<p>While the Indian team didn’t bring their A-game this time against the mighty Aussies, Rohit feels what this squad achieved over the past two years is incredible in many ways, adding he is proud of this team irrespective of the result.</p>

<p>“We've worked hard for all those four years. Playing two finals is honestly a good achievement for us. But we'd like to go a mile ahead as well. You can't take the credit away from what we've done in those last two years to come here. Great effort from the entire unit,” the Indian Test captain added.</p>

<h2>India suffers a similar fate once again!</h2>

<p>It’s been a decade since an Indian team won an ICC trophy, having lost on several occasions across formats in the past ten years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in this one-off final, Australia had the upper hand after scoring 469 in the first innings and dismissing India on 296 in theirs. A strong batting show in the second inning saw them giving India a huge total of 444 to win the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following a decent start in the fourth innings, India failed to maximize the chances as they gave away wickets, resulting in losing their second straight WTC Final.</p>

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The wait for an ICC trophy continues as yet another Indian team failed to cross the line. This time, it was against Australia in the second World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the Oval in London, where Rohit Sharma-led Indian team came second, losing by a huge margin of 209 runs.

The wait for an ICC trophy continues as yet another Indian team failed to cross the line. This time, it was against Australia in the second World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the Oval in London, where Rohit Sharma-led Indian team came second, losing by a huge margin of 209 runs. After another painful defeat in an ICC Final, Rohit, who was part of the 2013 Champions Trophy campaign in England – the last when India won an all-team tournament, said while he laments his side's performance across the past five days, he still feels proud of the team for making it to their second successive final, which in itself is no small achievement. ALSO READ: Australia crowned World Test Champions after beating India by 209 runs at Oval Speaking to the post-match presenter after the match that ended inside the first session on day five, Rohit backed his call to put Australia into bat first in those conditions but feels the bowling let the side down considering the overall picture. The Indian captain didn’t shy from giving credit where its due as he praised the pair of Steve Smith and Travis Head, who scored respective hundreds in the first innings. “I thought we started well with winning the toss, putting them to bat in those conditions. We bowled well in the first session, and then we let ourselves down with how we bowled. Got to give credit to the Australian batters. Head came in and played really well along with Steven Smith. That just took us off guard a little bit,” Rohit said. While the Indian team didn’t bring their A-game this time against the mighty Aussies, Rohit feels what this squad achieved over the past two years is incredible in many ways, adding he is proud of this team irrespective of the result. “We've worked hard for all those four years. Playing two finals is honestly a good achievement for us. But we'd like to go a mile ahead as well. You can't take the credit away from what we've done in those last two years to come here. Great effort from the entire unit,” the Indian Test captain added. India suffers a similar fate once again! It’s been a decade since an Indian team won an ICC trophy, having lost on several occasions across formats in the past ten years. Meanwhile, in this one-off final, Australia had the upper hand after scoring 469 in the first innings and dismissing India on 296 in theirs. A strong batting show in the second inning saw them giving India a huge total of 444 to win the match. Following a decent start in the fourth innings, India failed to maximize the chances as they gave away wickets, resulting in losing their second straight WTC Final. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Reaching two finals is a good achievement, proud of this team', says Rohit Sharma after India lost WTC Final

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<p>Has there been a better replacement for a first-team player (Josh Hazlewood here) in Test cricket than Scott Boland? The lanky Victorian almost sealed the deal for the Aussies on day five of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India with his stunning spell. During the first hour of play, Boland dismissed Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja in the space of three balls to put India on the backfoot.</p>

<p>Boland, who got picked over regular seamer Hazlewood on precautionary grounds for this one-off Test, did wonders for his team by picking three wickets so far in the final innings at the Oval. After getting rid of dangerous Shubman Gill on Saturday, Boland took no time in sending the star pair of Kohli and Jadeja back to the hut.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-never-expected-that-ravi-shastri-laments-poor-shot-selection-from-cheteshwar-pujara-on-day-4-603081">WTC Final: 'Never expected that...:' Ravi Shastri laments poor shot selection from Cheteshwar Pujara on day 4</a></p>

<p>Smartly setting up Kohli early on day five, Boland first bowled a couple of usual inswingers and then pitched one on the fifth stump knowing Kohli’s weakness of chasing that – which eventually happened, and as he edged it with the hard hands, it went straight to the slip cordon where Steve Smith plucked a stunning catch to send the former Indian captain packing.</p>

<p>There was utter silence in the ground as hopes of thousands of Indian fans shattered in front of their eyes.</p>

<h2><strong>WATCH THE VIDEO HERE –</strong></h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="de">Virat Kohli - Wicket - Australia vs India via <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@icc</a> <a href="https://t.co/UHsY5JyxG2">https://t.co/UHsY5JyxG2</a></p>
— 𝗚𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝗼𝗱𝗵𝗶 (@GautamSodhi1) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamSodhi1/status/1667847001600577537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Coming in next was star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Boland came around the wicket to him, only to wrap him up in two balls. Jadeja left the first one but couldn’t stop himself from trying to put bat to ball on the second fullish delivery, resulting in him nicking one to the keeper Alex Carey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Boland, who already looked threatening with his tight line and lengths, made all the difference across two innings.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, India was in a decent position at stumps on day four, with scorecard reading 164 for three, with 280 runs needed to win.</p>

<p>After making most of the lead in the second innings, Australian batters struggled to score freely but still stood ahead with each run scored. Declaring on 270 for eight, Australia gave India a daunting target of 444 – a total that has never been chased in Test history.</p>

<p>The Indian openers came up with an attacking approach but couldn’t continue for long as they lost Gill and Rohit inside 100 runs. Cheteshwar Pujara also departed early by playing a poor shot, with Indian team left with Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane to build a partnership.</p>

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Has there been a better replacement for a first-team player (Josh Hazlewood here) in Test cricket than Scott Boland? The lanky Victorian almost sealed the deal for the Aussies on day five of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India with his stunning spell.

Has there been a better replacement for a first-team player (Josh Hazlewood here) in Test cricket than Scott Boland? The lanky Victorian almost sealed the deal for the Aussies on day five of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India with his stunning spell. During the first hour of play, Boland dismissed Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja in the space of three balls to put India on the backfoot. Boland, who got picked over regular seamer Hazlewood on precautionary grounds for this one-off Test, did wonders for his team by picking three wickets so far in the final innings at the Oval. After getting rid of dangerous Shubman Gill on Saturday, Boland took no time in sending the star pair of Kohli and Jadeja back to the hut. ALSO READ: WTC Final: 'Never expected that...:' Ravi Shastri laments poor shot selection from Cheteshwar Pujara on day 4 Smartly setting up Kohli early on day five, Boland first bowled a couple of usual inswingers and then pitched one on the fifth stump knowing Kohli’s weakness of chasing that – which eventually happened, and as he edged it with the hard hands, it went straight to the slip cordon where Steve Smith plucked a stunning catch to send the former Indian captain packing. There was utter silence in the ground as hopes of thousands of Indian fans shattered in front of their eyes. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE – Virat Kohli - Wicket - Australia vs India via @icc https://t.co/UHsY5JyxG2 — 𝗚𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝗼𝗱𝗵𝗶 (@GautamSodhi1) June 11, 2023 × Coming in next was star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Boland came around the wicket to him, only to wrap him up in two balls. Jadeja left the first one but couldn’t stop himself from trying to put bat to ball on the second fullish delivery, resulting in him nicking one to the keeper Alex Carey. Boland, who already looked threatening with his tight line and lengths, made all the difference across two innings. Meanwhile, India was in a decent position at stumps on day four, with scorecard reading 164 for three, with 280 runs needed to win. After making most of the lead in the second innings, Australian batters struggled to score freely but still stood ahead with each run scored. Declaring on 270 for eight, Australia gave India a daunting target of 444 – a total that has never been chased in Test history. The Indian openers came up with an attacking approach but couldn’t continue for long as they lost Gill and Rohit inside 100 runs. Cheteshwar Pujara also departed early by playing a poor shot, with Indian team left with Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane to build a partnership. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WTC Final, Day 5: WATCH – Scott Boland produces stunning spell to dismiss Virat Kohli, Jadeja in one over

<p>Indian batsman Shubman Gill was out to a controversial decision by TV umpire on day 4 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final. India were cruising along nicely in pursuit of 444-run target with 41 runs on the board in just seven overs when he edged a ball by Scott Boland to slips where Cameron Green caught it.</p>

<p>The decision was referred to the TV umpire who gave it out but, it seemed that Green had grassed the ball before scooping it. The batsman&nbsp;and&nbsp;skipper Rohit Sharma&nbsp;were not pleased at all with the decision but Gill had to depart. The youngster, however, didn't hold back and tweeted a photo of Green where the ball could be&nbsp;seen touching the ground. Have a look at the tweet here:</p>

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— Shubman Gill (@ShubmanGill) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShubmanGill/status/1667581278365929472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>No soft signal given</strong></h2>

<p>The controversial decision also didn't include a soft signal by on-field umpires with the International Cricket Council's (ICC) updating playing conditions in May. As per the changes, the on-field umpires would now have to consult the TV umpire while taking a decision.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-ravindra-jadeja-bowls-cameron-green-after-outfoxing-him-to-leave-ball-watch-602969">Ravindra Jadeja bowls Cameron Green after outfoxing him to leave ball - WATCH</a></p>

<p>"The on-field umpires will consult with the TV umpire before any decisions are taken," the ICC had confirmed while announcing the change in May.</p>

<p>The ongoing WTC Final is the second Test without soft signal with the one off England vs Ireland Test being the first one.</p>

<h2><strong>India cruise along to set up thrilling final day</strong></h2>

<p>Despite Gill's wicket, India didn't take foot off the pedal and kept scoring at brisk pace. In the process, Rohit Sharma (43) and Cheteshwar Pujara (27) lost their wickets but India managed to put 164 runs on the board. Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane added unbeaten 71 runs for the fourth wicket and finished on 44 not out &amp; 20 not out, respectively.</p>

<p>Australia need seven more wickets in maximum 90 overs on day 5 while India need to score 280 runs as they aim to chase down the highest successful fourth-innings total in a Test match.</p>

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Indian batsman Shubman Gill was out to a controversial decision by TV umpire on day 4 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final. India were cruising along nicely in pursuit of 444-run target with 41 runs on the board in just seven overs when he edged a ball by Scott Boland to slips where Cameron Green caught it.

Indian batsman Shubman Gill was out to a controversial decision by TV umpire on day 4 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final. India were cruising along nicely in pursuit of 444-run target with 41 runs on the board in just seven overs when he edged a ball by Scott Boland to slips where Cameron Green caught it. The decision was referred to the TV umpire who gave it out but, it seemed that Green had grassed the ball before scooping it. The batsman and skipper Rohit Sharma were not pleased at all with the decision but Gill had to depart. The youngster, however, didn't hold back and tweeted a photo of Green where the ball could be seen touching the ground. Have a look at the tweet here: 🔎🔎🤦🏻‍♂️ pic.twitter.com/pOnHYfgb6L — Shubman Gill (@ShubmanGill) June 10, 2023 × No soft signal given The controversial decision also didn't include a soft signal by on-field umpires with the International Cricket Council's (ICC) updating playing conditions in May. As per the changes, the on-field umpires would now have to consult the TV umpire while taking a decision. Also Read: Ravindra Jadeja bowls Cameron Green after outfoxing him to leave ball - WATCH "The on-field umpires will consult with the TV umpire before any decisions are taken," the ICC had confirmed while announcing the change in May. The ongoing WTC Final is the second Test without soft signal with the one off England vs Ireland Test being the first one. India cruise along to set up thrilling final day Despite Gill's wicket, India didn't take foot off the pedal and kept scoring at brisk pace. In the process, Rohit Sharma (43) and Cheteshwar Pujara (27) lost their wickets but India managed to put 164 runs on the board. Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane added unbeaten 71 runs for the fourth wicket and finished on 44 not out & 20 not out, respectively. Australia need seven more wickets in maximum 90 overs on day 5 while India need to score 280 runs as they aim to chase down the highest successful fourth-innings total in a Test match. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: Shubman Gill tweets to show disappointment after being given out on day 4

<p>On Day 3 of the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval, Indian batsman Ajinkya Rahane made a remarkable comeback. After being dropped from the Sri Lanka Test series in March 2022, Rahane played his first match for India and emerged as the highest scorer for his team in London.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite concerns about India's performance, Rahane's knock of 89, along with the support of Shardul Thakur, helped the team avoid a follow-on. During his innings, former Australia coach Justin Langer revealed an interesting detail about the role of Steve Waugh in Rahane's calm and composed approach.</p>

<p>Langer shared a conversation he had with Steve Waugh during the Border-Gavaskar Test series in 2021/22. Waugh, the former Australian captain, disclosed that he had been having conversations with Rahane, possibly mentoring him leading up to that series. Langer, who was the head coach of Australia at the time, found this revelation unsettling because it foreshadowed the nightmare he experienced later in the series. Rahane, despite leading an injury-plagued and Kohli-less Indian side, inspired a remarkable comeback with a century in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.</p>

<h2>What Justin Langer said</h2>

<p>Langer recalled, "Before the series started, Steve Waugh, my hero, called me and honestly admitted that he was in contact with Rahane and mentoring him prior to the series. As the iceman, Steve Waugh's calmness was evident in Rahane's performance during that series. When I learned about their conversations, it raised red flags for me."</p>

<p>In the absence of Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane led the Indian side to a resounding 2-1 victory in the 2021 Border-Gavaskar Trophy . In the Boxing Day Test, Rahane scored a century and emerged as the Player of the Match.</p>

<h2>Ajinkya Rahane in the WTC</h2>

<p>Although Rahane fell short of a well-deserved century on Friday when Pat Cummins dismissed him for 89 off 129 balls, his performance was sensational considering his absence from the team for nearly 18 months and uncertainty about his future. Starting at 71 for 4 in 18.2 overs, Rahane's innings helped revive India, taking them to a total of 296 runs. Australia have a lead of 296 runs ahead of Day 4.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


On Day 3 of the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval, Indian batsman Ajinkya Rahane made a remarkable comeback. After being dropped from the Sri Lanka Test series in March 2022, Rahane played his first match for India and emerged as the highest scorer for his team in London.

On Day 3 of the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval, Indian batsman Ajinkya Rahane made a remarkable comeback. After being dropped from the Sri Lanka Test series in March 2022, Rahane played his first match for India and emerged as the highest scorer for his team in London. Despite concerns about India's performance, Rahane's knock of 89, along with the support of Shardul Thakur, helped the team avoid a follow-on. During his innings, former Australia coach Justin Langer revealed an interesting detail about the role of Steve Waugh in Rahane's calm and composed approach. Langer shared a conversation he had with Steve Waugh during the Border-Gavaskar Test series in 2021/22. Waugh, the former Australian captain, disclosed that he had been having conversations with Rahane, possibly mentoring him leading up to that series. Langer, who was the head coach of Australia at the time, found this revelation unsettling because it foreshadowed the nightmare he experienced later in the series. Rahane, despite leading an injury-plagued and Kohli-less Indian side, inspired a remarkable comeback with a century in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. What Justin Langer said Langer recalled, "Before the series started, Steve Waugh, my hero, called me and honestly admitted that he was in contact with Rahane and mentoring him prior to the series. As the iceman, Steve Waugh's calmness was evident in Rahane's performance during that series. When I learned about their conversations, it raised red flags for me." In the absence of Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane led the Indian side to a resounding 2-1 victory in the 2021 Border-Gavaskar Trophy . In the Boxing Day Test, Rahane scored a century and emerged as the Player of the Match. Ajinkya Rahane in the WTC Although Rahane fell short of a well-deserved century on Friday when Pat Cummins dismissed him for 89 off 129 balls, his performance was sensational considering his absence from the team for nearly 18 months and uncertainty about his future. Starting at 71 for 4 in 18.2 overs, Rahane's innings helped revive India, taking them to a total of 296 runs. Australia have a lead of 296 runs ahead of Day 4.

WTC Final: Ex-Australia coach on his chat with Steve Waugh about Ajinkya Rahane

<p>With no rain interruption for the fourth straight day at the Oval in London, cricket made headlines during the World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and Australia. With India currently reeling at 164 for three after stumps on day four, they need another 280 runs to win the match and lift maiden WTC trophy.</p>

<p>The day began with world number one batter Marnus Labuschagne and Cameron Green taking strides. After a few misses, Umesh Yadav finally picked the big wicket of Marnus, caught at slip on 41. Keeper-batter Alex Carey joined Green in the middle, and the pair started churning out some runs.</p>

<p>Defensive tactics from Rohit Sharma saw Australia making most of the chances as the game looked like drifting away from India with each run scored.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-ravindra-jadeja-bowls-cameron-green-after-outfoxing-him-to-leave-ball-watch-602969">WTC Final: Ravindra Jadeja bowls Cameron Green after outfoxing him to leave ball - WATCH</a></p>

<p>Ravindra Jadeja broke the partnership by dismissing Green, bowled on 25, only for seamer Mitchell Starc to come and take control of the proceedings.</p>

<p>After taking his time in the middle, Starc and Carey built a partnership, with Carey completing a brave fifty. Starc also contributed with a superb 41, considering the game situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian team then managed to pick a few more wickets as Australia declared 270 for eight, giving India a target of 444.</p>

<p>Realising this number has never been chased in Test history, Indian openers knew they had to play responsibly. Much to everyone’s delight, they did, but that didn’t last for long as Scott Boland removed Gill caught in the slip cordon by Green.</p>

<p>Though replays suggested the ball might have touched the ground, the lack of evidence and removal of the soft signal rule meant the third umpire’s call stayed – which was out.</p>

<p>Rohit, who looked good early on, departed to Nathan Lyon trapped in front. Before Cheteshwar Pujara and star batter Virat Kohli could think about turning things around, a sluggish shot off Pat Cummins resulted in Pujara edging straight to the keeper. India looked in deep trouble.</p>

<p>The vintage pair of Ajinkya Rahane and Kohli saved the sinking ship, as Australia looked clueless in the final hour. Both stood tall as India scored 164 for three, needing another 280 runs to win the Test and create history.</p>

<p>Virat Kohli remains unbeaten on 44, while Rahane on 20 off 59 balls. For Australia, Cummins, Boland and Lyon picked a wicket each.</p>

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With no rain interruption for the fourth straight day at the Oval in London, cricket made headlines during the World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and Australia.

With no rain interruption for the fourth straight day at the Oval in London, cricket made headlines during the World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and Australia. With India currently reeling at 164 for three after stumps on day four, they need another 280 runs to win the match and lift maiden WTC trophy. The day began with world number one batter Marnus Labuschagne and Cameron Green taking strides. After a few misses, Umesh Yadav finally picked the big wicket of Marnus, caught at slip on 41. Keeper-batter Alex Carey joined Green in the middle, and the pair started churning out some runs. Defensive tactics from Rohit Sharma saw Australia making most of the chances as the game looked like drifting away from India with each run scored. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Ravindra Jadeja bowls Cameron Green after outfoxing him to leave ball - WATCH Ravindra Jadeja broke the partnership by dismissing Green, bowled on 25, only for seamer Mitchell Starc to come and take control of the proceedings. After taking his time in the middle, Starc and Carey built a partnership, with Carey completing a brave fifty. Starc also contributed with a superb 41, considering the game situation. Indian team then managed to pick a few more wickets as Australia declared 270 for eight, giving India a target of 444. Realising this number has never been chased in Test history, Indian openers knew they had to play responsibly. Much to everyone’s delight, they did, but that didn’t last for long as Scott Boland removed Gill caught in the slip cordon by Green. Though replays suggested the ball might have touched the ground, the lack of evidence and removal of the soft signal rule meant the third umpire’s call stayed – which was out. Rohit, who looked good early on, departed to Nathan Lyon trapped in front. Before Cheteshwar Pujara and star batter Virat Kohli could think about turning things around, a sluggish shot off Pat Cummins resulted in Pujara edging straight to the keeper. India looked in deep trouble. The vintage pair of Ajinkya Rahane and Kohli saved the sinking ship, as Australia looked clueless in the final hour. Both stood tall as India scored 164 for three, needing another 280 runs to win the Test and create history. Virat Kohli remains unbeaten on 44, while Rahane on 20 off 59 balls. For Australia, Cummins, Boland and Lyon picked a wicket each. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WTC Final, Day 4: Kohli, Rahane stand tall as India need 280 runs to lift trophy

<p>After three days of play at the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, Australia are clearly ahead with a lead of 296 runs in the second innings and six wickets left. Nothing has gone right for India in the Test except winning the toss on day 1. India skipper Rohit Sharma chose to bowl after winning the toss but couldn't take advantage of overcast conditions on the first day.</p>

<p>Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali is also of opinion that India failed to capitalize and lost the game worrying about the first two hours of the match. He also said that the bowling was also not up to the Test match standard and more IPL like.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-justin-langer-recalls-why-his-chat-with-steve-waugh-about-ajinkya-rahane-raised-red-flags-stst-602809">WTC Final: Ex-Australia coach on his chat with Steve Waugh about Ajinkya Rahane</a></p>

<p>"India lost the match the moment they chose to bowl worrying about the first two hours. And the kind of bowling that was on display was just like IPL. By lunch, the Indian bowlers appeared so happy as if they'd won the match. All India can do now is hope to get them out cheaply and hope for a miracle in the fourth innings. During the 120 overs that India fielded, I could see only 2-3 players being fit - Rahane, Kohli and Jadeja. The rest looked tired," said the former Pakistan batter on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p>Ali, who played 19 Test and 50 ODIs for Pakistan, also criticized India coach Rahul Dravid, calling him a legend batsman but 'zero' as a coach.</p>

<p>"I am a huge Rahul Dravid fan, have always been and will remain. He is a class player, a legend. But as a coach, he is absolutely zero. You prepared turning pitches on India. Just answer me this. When India travelled to Australia, were there similar wickets? They had bouncy pitches, right? God knows what he was thinking. Jab upar wala akal baant raha tha toh pata nahi kaha pahaado ke peeche chhupe huye thhe (God knows where was he hiding when god was distributing brains)," added Ali.</p>

<p>Notably, India got out on 296 in reply of the Australia's first innings total of 469. Australia then scored 123 runs for the loss of four wickets in their second innings by the end of play on day 3.</p>

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After three days of play at the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, Australia are clearly ahead with a lead of 296 runs in the second innings and six wickets left.

After three days of play at the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, Australia are clearly ahead with a lead of 296 runs in the second innings and six wickets left. Nothing has gone right for India in the Test except winning the toss on day 1. India skipper Rohit Sharma chose to bowl after winning the toss but couldn't take advantage of overcast conditions on the first day. Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali is also of opinion that India failed to capitalize and lost the game worrying about the first two hours of the match. He also said that the bowling was also not up to the Test match standard and more IPL like. Also Read: WTC Final: Ex-Australia coach on his chat with Steve Waugh about Ajinkya Rahane "India lost the match the moment they chose to bowl worrying about the first two hours. And the kind of bowling that was on display was just like IPL. By lunch, the Indian bowlers appeared so happy as if they'd won the match. All India can do now is hope to get them out cheaply and hope for a miracle in the fourth innings. During the 120 overs that India fielded, I could see only 2-3 players being fit - Rahane, Kohli and Jadeja. The rest looked tired," said the former Pakistan batter on his YouTube channel. Ali, who played 19 Test and 50 ODIs for Pakistan, also criticized India coach Rahul Dravid, calling him a legend batsman but 'zero' as a coach. "I am a huge Rahul Dravid fan, have always been and will remain. He is a class player, a legend. But as a coach, he is absolutely zero. You prepared turning pitches on India. Just answer me this. When India travelled to Australia, were there similar wickets? They had bouncy pitches, right? God knows what he was thinking. Jab upar wala akal baant raha tha toh pata nahi kaha pahaado ke peeche chhupe huye thhe (God knows where was he hiding when god was distributing brains)," added Ali. Notably, India got out on 296 in reply of the Australia's first innings total of 469. Australia then scored 123 runs for the loss of four wickets in their second innings by the end of play on day 3. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: Former Pak batter calls Rahul Dravid 'zero' and 'brainless' as India coach

<p>India bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur, who played a gem of a knock of 51 runs on day 3 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, has called the Oval pitch under-prepared. Shardul was one of the many batsmen who copped many a blow on the body while batting.</p>

<p>The all-rounder, who added 109 runs for the seventh wicket with Ajinkya Rahane, said the ball bounced from good length area and it is not easy for batsmen to adjust and leave balls from that area immediately.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think there is an area from where the ball is coming up, there is a little grass around the crack and the length is such that batsmen can't leave the deliveries easily. You have to play committedly because we saw today many balls kept down and I mean that is an area of good length, and I mean, that area is at a good length, a little short of length. So that's the area where the batsmen can't immediately see and leave the ball. You have to play it. And if it bounces from there – then good luck for the batsmen. It was bouncing from the other end too – but from a bit behind, so the batsmen were getting time to adjust, I think only Virat got the bounce from further on – but for all the rest, it bounced from behind," said Shardul after the end of play on day 3.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-india-or-franchise-cricket-fuming-ravi-shastri-wants-players-to-decided-their-priority-602892">India or franchise cricket,' fuming Ravi Shastri wants players to decide their priority</a></p>

<p>Notably, India bowler Mohammed Siraj had troubled Australia's Marnus Labuschagne on day 1 of the Test while India's Virat Kohli had gotten out to a ball which bounced more than expected.</p>

<p>Apart from Shardul, Ajinkya Rahane was also troubled with the uncharacteristic bounce of the Oval pitch. As for the match, Australia bowled India out for 296 in the first innings after scoring 469 in their first innings. Australia, by the end of play on day 3, had taken a lead of 296 runs, having scored 123/4 in their second innings.</p>

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India bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur, who played a gem of a knock of 51 runs on day 3 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, has called the Oval pitch under-prepared.

India bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur, who played a gem of a knock of 51 runs on day 3 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, has called the Oval pitch under-prepared. Shardul was one of the many batsmen who copped many a blow on the body while batting. The all-rounder, who added 109 runs for the seventh wicket with Ajinkya Rahane, said the ball bounced from good length area and it is not easy for batsmen to adjust and leave balls from that area immediately. "I think there is an area from where the ball is coming up, there is a little grass around the crack and the length is such that batsmen can't leave the deliveries easily. You have to play committedly because we saw today many balls kept down and I mean that is an area of good length, and I mean, that area is at a good length, a little short of length. So that's the area where the batsmen can't immediately see and leave the ball. You have to play it. And if it bounces from there – then good luck for the batsmen. It was bouncing from the other end too – but from a bit behind, so the batsmen were getting time to adjust, I think only Virat got the bounce from further on – but for all the rest, it bounced from behind," said Shardul after the end of play on day 3. Also Read: India or franchise cricket,' fuming Ravi Shastri wants players to decide their priority Notably, India bowler Mohammed Siraj had troubled Australia's Marnus Labuschagne on day 1 of the Test while India's Virat Kohli had gotten out to a ball which bounced more than expected. Apart from Shardul, Ajinkya Rahane was also troubled with the uncharacteristic bounce of the Oval pitch. As for the match, Australia bowled India out for 296 in the first innings after scoring 469 in their first innings. Australia, by the end of play on day 3, had taken a lead of 296 runs, having scored 123/4 in their second innings. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: 'Good luck for the batsmen...:' Shardul Thakur on Oval pitch after scoring 50 on day 3

<p>Former India coach Ravi Shastri is not pleased at all with the performance of Indian batsmen in the first innings of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia where they conceded a 173-run lead.</p>

<p>It was India's top order specifically with which Shastri was miffed and said that the players need to set their priorities right and forget WTC Final if their preference lies with franchise cricket.</p>

<p>“You must set your priorities, right? What is the priority? India or franchise cricket? You have to decide that. If you say franchise cricket, then forget this (WTC final). If this is important, then as the custodian of the sport, the BCCI are the bosses. There should be a clause in the IPL contract that if they need a player out of the IPL in the interest of India, they have the right to do it,” said Shastri while talking to Star Sports.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-mitchell-starc-warns-india-ahead-of-potential-big-total-says-we-will-keep-batting-for-now-602826">Mitchell Starc warns India ahead of potential big total, says 'we will keep batting for now'</a></p>

<p>The former India coach also suggested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to put in a clause in the IPL contracts to ask franchises to release a player if needed for the national duty.</p>

<p>“First, put the clause and then ask the franchises to decide how much they want to invest. That is very important. You are the custodian of the sport. You control cricket in the country," he said.</p>

<p>India's top order comprises skipper Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Chesteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli. Apart from Pujara, who played country cricket before the WTC Final, all three batsmen played in the IPL for their respective franchise with Gill and Kohli being in sublime form.</p>

<p>The batsmen, however, couldn't replicate their form in red-ball cricket as all four could only score a total of 56 runs in India's first innings score of 296 runs. Australia, after scoring 469 in their first innings, got a lead of 173 runs and stretched their lead of 296 by the end of day 3.</p>

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Former India coach Ravi Shastri is not pleased at all with the performance of Indian batsmen in the first innings of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia where they conceded a 173-run lead.

Former India coach Ravi Shastri is not pleased at all with the performance of Indian batsmen in the first innings of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia where they conceded a 173-run lead. It was India's top order specifically with which Shastri was miffed and said that the players need to set their priorities right and forget WTC Final if their preference lies with franchise cricket. “You must set your priorities, right? What is the priority? India or franchise cricket? You have to decide that. If you say franchise cricket, then forget this (WTC final). If this is important, then as the custodian of the sport, the BCCI are the bosses. There should be a clause in the IPL contract that if they need a player out of the IPL in the interest of India, they have the right to do it,” said Shastri while talking to Star Sports. Also Read: Mitchell Starc warns India ahead of potential big total, says 'we will keep batting for now' The former India coach also suggested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to put in a clause in the IPL contracts to ask franchises to release a player if needed for the national duty. “First, put the clause and then ask the franchises to decide how much they want to invest. That is very important. You are the custodian of the sport. You control cricket in the country," he said. India's top order comprises skipper Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Chesteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli. Apart from Pujara, who played country cricket before the WTC Final, all three batsmen played in the IPL for their respective franchise with Gill and Kohli being in sublime form. The batsmen, however, couldn't replicate their form in red-ball cricket as all four could only score a total of 56 runs in India's first innings score of 296 runs. Australia, after scoring 469 in their first innings, got a lead of 173 runs and stretched their lead of 296 by the end of day 3. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: 'India or franchise cricket,' fuming Ravi Shastri wants players to decide their priority

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<p>Steve Smith’s love affair of piling up runs and runs together, especially at the Oval in London, continues even in the ongoing WTC Final against India. The greatest Test batter of this age and time, as also called the same by India great Virat Kohli, Smith hit his third hundred at the venue in his sixth innings, and alongside Travis Head – who also slammed his maiden ton on the English soil, scoring 163, Australia find them in a strong position in this one-off Test.</p>

<p>Stranded on 95 after stumps on day one, Smith required just two deliveries off his pads on day two to reach the milestone, and the Aussie batter was nothing but grateful about that. After the end of the second day’s play, Smith addressed the media and showered praises on Head, that partnership and how much he enjoys batting at the Kennington Oval.</p>

<p>"I quite like it for English conditions and the way the ball bounces over here. It obviously worked when I was here last time. And yeah, just the positions I get myself into, it doesn't mean I'm going to do it all the time. I may revert back to old styles at certain periods when I feel it's necessary, but on this surface and with the bowlers I was coming up against, I felt that was the right way forward," Smith said after completing his 31st Test hundred, most by any of the Fab Four.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-day-3-preview-rahane-bharat-must-save-indias-sinking-ship-as-oz-eye-big-lead-in-2nd-innings-602384">WTC Final, Day 3: Preview - Rahane, Bharat must save India's sinking ship as Oz eye big lead in 2nd innings</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, after Australia got reduced to 76 for three at one stage, it was a mountainous 285-run stand between the two that helped Australia put 469 on the board in the first innings. While Smith headlined for completing his 31st Test hundred, Travis Head hogged the limelight for his brilliant 163.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Obviously, a really good partnership with Travis, who batted beautifully in that middle session yesterday. I thought the way he took the game on, put the pressure back on their bowlers, got them off their lengths, which I think helped me at the other end as well. Yeah, set us up for a nice inning," Smudge, as fans often call him, added.</p>

<h2>Smith shares plans on how to dismiss India soon</h2>

<p>India find them in hot waters after losing five wickets for 151 runs at the stumps on day two. With them being 318 runs behind and considering Rahane and Bharat are the last-recognised batters at the crease, India are less likely to fancy their chances of a turnaround rightaway unless a miracle happens.</p>

<p>Talking about that length on the off stump that troubled most batters in this Test, Smith said,</p>

<p>"The length at off stump I think is important. We've obviously seen a bit of variable bounce and some seam movement. So, if we're challenging the top of the stumps as much as possible, I think that's the quickest way home. You can certainly get the outside edge from there if it seams away and bounces or takes off, which a couple have. And then pads and stumps are in play with the ones that shoot low or seam back. So, it's about as simple as we need to keep it, I think,” Smith added.</p>

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Steve Smith’s love affair of piling up runs and runs together, especially at the Oval in London, continues even in the ongoing WTC Final against India. The greatest Test batter of this age and time, as also called the same by India great Virat Kohli, Smith hit his third hundred at the venue in his sixth innings, and alongside Travis Head – who also slammed his maiden ton on the English soil, scoring 163, Australia find them in a strong position in this one-off Test.

Steve Smith’s love affair of piling up runs and runs together, especially at the Oval in London, continues even in the ongoing WTC Final against India. The greatest Test batter of this age and time, as also called the same by India great Virat Kohli, Smith hit his third hundred at the venue in his sixth innings, and alongside Travis Head – who also slammed his maiden ton on the English soil, scoring 163, Australia find them in a strong position in this one-off Test. Stranded on 95 after stumps on day one, Smith required just two deliveries off his pads on day two to reach the milestone, and the Aussie batter was nothing but grateful about that. After the end of the second day’s play, Smith addressed the media and showered praises on Head, that partnership and how much he enjoys batting at the Kennington Oval. "I quite like it for English conditions and the way the ball bounces over here. It obviously worked when I was here last time. And yeah, just the positions I get myself into, it doesn't mean I'm going to do it all the time. I may revert back to old styles at certain periods when I feel it's necessary, but on this surface and with the bowlers I was coming up against, I felt that was the right way forward," Smith said after completing his 31st Test hundred, most by any of the Fab Four. ALSO READ: WTC Final, Day 3: Preview - Rahane, Bharat must save India's sinking ship as Oz eye big lead in 2nd innings Meanwhile, after Australia got reduced to 76 for three at one stage, it was a mountainous 285-run stand between the two that helped Australia put 469 on the board in the first innings. While Smith headlined for completing his 31st Test hundred, Travis Head hogged the limelight for his brilliant 163. "Obviously, a really good partnership with Travis, who batted beautifully in that middle session yesterday. I thought the way he took the game on, put the pressure back on their bowlers, got them off their lengths, which I think helped me at the other end as well. Yeah, set us up for a nice inning," Smudge, as fans often call him, added. Smith shares plans on how to dismiss India soon India find them in hot waters after losing five wickets for 151 runs at the stumps on day two. With them being 318 runs behind and considering Rahane and Bharat are the last-recognised batters at the crease, India are less likely to fancy their chances of a turnaround rightaway unless a miracle happens. Talking about that length on the off stump that troubled most batters in this Test, Smith said, "The length at off stump I think is important. We've obviously seen a bit of variable bounce and some seam movement. So, if we're challenging the top of the stumps as much as possible, I think that's the quickest way home. You can certainly get the outside edge from there if it seams away and bounces or takes off, which a couple have. And then pads and stumps are in play with the ones that shoot low or seam back. So, it's about as simple as we need to keep it, I think,” Smith added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WTC Final: Steve 'Super' Smith continues his love affair of batting at the Oval, praises partnership with Head

<p>Ajinkya Rahane and KS Bharat would need to shoulder some responsibility early on day three if India were to avoid the follow-on in the first innings of the ongoing WTC Final against Australia. After the Indian team got reduced to 151 for five at stumps the previous day, tensions rose in the dressing room, with the remaining batters needing to score at least a hundred more runs to help India gain a little momentum.</p>

<p>The India team lost early wickets in their first innings, with Shubman Gill and Chesteshwar Pujara suffering the same fate of not reading the line of the ball properly and getting out clean bowled without even offering a shot. Captain Rohit Sharma had his counterpart Pat Cummins trapping him in front, while Mitchell Starc got the big fish Virat Kohli off a stunning bouncer that was well-caught by Steve Smith at second slip.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-aussies-stamp-authority-at-oval-as-indias-top-order-fails-to-deliver-602296">WTC Final: Aussies stamp authority at Oval as India's top order fails to deliver</a></p>

<p>Ravindra Jadeja and Ajinkya Rahane stitched a 71-run stand for the fifth wicket before Nathan Lyon struck gold and got rid of the dangerous-looking Jadeja on 48.</p>

<h2>How can Rahane, Bharat save India’s sinking ship?</h2>

<p>It’s not the right time to think about miracles happening in the first hour on day three. Though at most venues in the world, especially in the SENA countries, the third-day pitch is presumed to be best for batting, Indian batters still want to put in hard yards and not think about easy runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Rahane, everyone expects more leaves than plays, while with Bharat, even the Indian fans are unsure what version of him will take the field on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For best, India can avoid losing wickets in the first 10 overs, and upon settling down a bit, they can take the attack to the opposition. With a lot riding on the back of these batters, making the most out of this chance will help India enter the contest again.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though the potent Aussie bowling attack is likely to keep Indian batters quiet; however, if the Indian team manages to score at least 150 more runs, which would be 300 in total, their chances of putting pressure back on the Oz increases.</p>

<p>But, if the opposite happens and the Australian attack dismisses the Indian team anything under 70 runs more, they will have their noses in front, and they are likely to bat again in the third innings instead of giving the follow-on.</p>

<p>With that happening, India will be staring at another ICC tournament final loss.</p>

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Ajinkya Rahane and KS Bharat would need to shoulder some responsibility early on day three if India were to avoid the follow-on in the first innings of the ongoing WTC Final against Australia.

Ajinkya Rahane and KS Bharat would need to shoulder some responsibility early on day three if India were to avoid the follow-on in the first innings of the ongoing WTC Final against Australia. After the Indian team got reduced to 151 for five at stumps the previous day, tensions rose in the dressing room, with the remaining batters needing to score at least a hundred more runs to help India gain a little momentum. The India team lost early wickets in their first innings, with Shubman Gill and Chesteshwar Pujara suffering the same fate of not reading the line of the ball properly and getting out clean bowled without even offering a shot. Captain Rohit Sharma had his counterpart Pat Cummins trapping him in front, while Mitchell Starc got the big fish Virat Kohli off a stunning bouncer that was well-caught by Steve Smith at second slip. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Aussies stamp authority at Oval as India's top order fails to deliver Ravindra Jadeja and Ajinkya Rahane stitched a 71-run stand for the fifth wicket before Nathan Lyon struck gold and got rid of the dangerous-looking Jadeja on 48. How can Rahane, Bharat save India’s sinking ship? It’s not the right time to think about miracles happening in the first hour on day three. Though at most venues in the world, especially in the SENA countries, the third-day pitch is presumed to be best for batting, Indian batters still want to put in hard yards and not think about easy runs. With Rahane, everyone expects more leaves than plays, while with Bharat, even the Indian fans are unsure what version of him will take the field on Friday. For best, India can avoid losing wickets in the first 10 overs, and upon settling down a bit, they can take the attack to the opposition. With a lot riding on the back of these batters, making the most out of this chance will help India enter the contest again. Though the potent Aussie bowling attack is likely to keep Indian batters quiet; however, if the Indian team manages to score at least 150 more runs, which would be 300 in total, their chances of putting pressure back on the Oz increases. But, if the opposite happens and the Australian attack dismisses the Indian team anything under 70 runs more, they will have their noses in front, and they are likely to bat again in the third innings instead of giving the follow-on. With that happening, India will be staring at another ICC tournament final loss. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WTC Final, Day 3: Preview - Rahane, Bharat must save India's sinking ship as Oz eye big lead in 2nd innings

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<p>An ICC Hall of Famer and former Australia captain Ricky Ponting explained where India went&nbsp;wrong with their bowling plan in the first innings against Australia. Contrary to how they bowled in the first session on day one – keeping the Aussie top order quiet with sharp and wicket-taking lines, the Indian bowlers went wayward with their lengths in the first hour on day two, bowling too short.</p>

<p>As a result, they failed to put any pressure on the pair of Travis Head and Steve Smith. Smith, who remained unbeaten on 95 after stumps on day one, needed two deliveries off his pads to churn that for boundaries and bring up his 31st Test hundred. Head, who resumed his innings in his 140s, scored a few fours off odd bouncers to further derail India’s quest to gain momentum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although he got out of a leg-side bouncer from Siraj, Ponting feels, with the Indian bowlers choosing to bowl that line and length, it hampered their chance of making the most out of the first hour in these seaming conditions.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-steve-super-smith-continues-his-love-affair-of-batting-at-the-oval-praises-partnership-with-head-602401">WTC Final: Steve 'Super' Smith continues his love affair of batting at the Oval, praises partnership with Head</a></p>

<p>"I think where they let themselves down was in the first hour yesterday and bowling too short," Ponting told the ICC. "With the wicket conditions, the overhead conditions they had and the brand-new Dukes ball, they had to bowl fuller and get the ball driven back down the ground.</p>

<p>"They needed to have Australia four or five down at lunch, and they only had them two down which was a pretty good result (for Australia)," Punter added.</p>

<h2>Rahul-Rohit plan failed</h2>

<p>Being the captain himself, Ponting knows what happens behind the camera as he elaborated on the same. He said ahead of Wednesday’s start, he saw Rahul Dravid - India’s head coach having a deep discussion with Rohit, and though their plan worked in the first hour on day one, it all fell apart as Australia’s innings progressed.</p>

<p>Ponting added if India wanted to go ahead with the four-pacer attack, pitching up to the batters in these conditions should have been priority regardless of the match situation.</p>

<p>"I know the captain wears the brunt of it (criticism), but I know it’s not only his decision," Ponting noted. "I saw Rahul Dravid and him out (Rohit) in the middle yesterday morning and they had a long discussion about what they wanted to do at the toss."</p>

<p>"If they wanted to bowl first, I think they had to play the four seamers. So far you would say it hasn’t paid off — but there is a long way to go and we probably shouldn’t be too quick to judge," Ponting added.</p>

<p>As things stand, Australia scored 469 in the first innings, and India are reeling at 151 for five, 318 runs behind.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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An ICC Hall of Famer and former Australia captain Ricky Ponting explained where India went wrong with their bowling plan in the first innings against Australia. Contrary to how they bowled in the first session on day one – keeping the Aussie top order quiet with sharp and wicket-taking lines, the Indian bowlers went wayward with their lengths in the first hour on day two, bowling too short.

An ICC Hall of Famer and former Australia captain Ricky Ponting explained where India went wrong with their bowling plan in the first innings against Australia. Contrary to how they bowled in the first session on day one – keeping the Aussie top order quiet with sharp and wicket-taking lines, the Indian bowlers went wayward with their lengths in the first hour on day two, bowling too short. As a result, they failed to put any pressure on the pair of Travis Head and Steve Smith. Smith, who remained unbeaten on 95 after stumps on day one, needed two deliveries off his pads to churn that for boundaries and bring up his 31st Test hundred. Head, who resumed his innings in his 140s, scored a few fours off odd bouncers to further derail India’s quest to gain momentum. Although he got out of a leg-side bouncer from Siraj, Ponting feels, with the Indian bowlers choosing to bowl that line and length, it hampered their chance of making the most out of the first hour in these seaming conditions. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Steve 'Super' Smith continues his love affair of batting at the Oval, praises partnership with Head "I think where they let themselves down was in the first hour yesterday and bowling too short," Ponting told the ICC. "With the wicket conditions, the overhead conditions they had and the brand-new Dukes ball, they had to bowl fuller and get the ball driven back down the ground. "They needed to have Australia four or five down at lunch, and they only had them two down which was a pretty good result (for Australia)," Punter added. Rahul-Rohit plan failed Being the captain himself, Ponting knows what happens behind the camera as he elaborated on the same. He said ahead of Wednesday’s start, he saw Rahul Dravid - India’s head coach having a deep discussion with Rohit, and though their plan worked in the first hour on day one, it all fell apart as Australia’s innings progressed. Ponting added if India wanted to go ahead with the four-pacer attack, pitching up to the batters in these conditions should have been priority regardless of the match situation. "I know the captain wears the brunt of it (criticism), but I know it’s not only his decision," Ponting noted. "I saw Rahul Dravid and him out (Rohit) in the middle yesterday morning and they had a long discussion about what they wanted to do at the toss." "If they wanted to bowl first, I think they had to play the four seamers. So far you would say it hasn’t paid off — but there is a long way to go and we probably shouldn’t be too quick to judge," Ponting added. As things stand, Australia scored 469 in the first innings, and India are reeling at 151 for five, 318 runs behind. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WTC Final: Ricky Ponting explains where India went wrong with their bowling plan in first innings

WTC 2023 Final live streaming, IND vs AUS: Australia and India will lock horns in the World Test Championship final. The IND vs AUS WTC 2023 final will begin on June 7 at The Oval, London.

WTC 2023 Final live streaming, IND vs AUS: Australia and India will lock horns in the World Test Championship final. The IND vs AUS WTC 2023 final will begin on June 7 at The Oval, London. The highly anticipated match will start at 03:30 PM IST. On May 28, ICC confirmed that both teams finalised their 15-player squads for the final and revealed their reserved players. Rohit Sharma will lead a star-studded lineup in the finals. ICC has also realised a list of broadcasters for the final match. The introduction of digital streaming platforms has brought a revolution in the way people watch sports. Nowadays, cricket boards separately sell digital rights for live broadcasting. For example, Reliance streamed all the matches of the Indian Premier League 2023 live on Jio TV for free. FanCode, SonyLIV and Disney+ Hotstar have also become popular OTT platforms to live stream sports events. Here's everything you need to know about the apps that will live stream the World Test Championship 2023 final. WTC 2023 Final live streaming, IND vs AUS: App For Live Streaming In India, Star Sports Network has purchased the rights to broadcast the World Test Championship final in India. While the WTC 2023 IND vs AUS will be available for live streaming on seven Star Sports Channels, Disney+ Hotstar is the OTT app which will live telecast the final. The live telecast of the IND vs AUS WTC 2023 final on Hotstar is also available in the United States, Canada, and Singapore. Here's a list of apps that will live stream the IND vs AUS WTC 2023 final in various countries. ALSO READ | IND vs AUS full squad, captain, date, time, live of World Test Championship final Territory TV Broadcaster Digital Streaming India Star Sports 1 Star Sports 1 HD Star Sports 1 Hindi Star Sports 1 Hindi HD Star Sports 1 Tamil Star Sports 1 Telugu Star Sports 1 Kannada Disney+Hotstar Bangladesh Gazi TV Rabbitholebd Afghanistan RTA Sport Rtssport.live New Zealand Sky Sports skysportnow Sub Saharan Africa Supersport DStv UK & ROI SKY Sports Cricket Sky Go & Now USA Willow Hotstar, ESPN+ Canada Willow Hotstar Singapore Hotstar Australia Fox Sports Kayo, ICC.tv Caribbean Flow Sports Flow Sports Fiji Papua New Guinea Solomons Samoa Cook Islands Vanuatu American Samoa Kiribati Tuvalu Niue Tokelau Tahiti New Caledonia French Polynesia Wallis and Futuna Tonga and Nauru TVWAN, TVWAN Action (Digicel) Pakistan Yupp TV Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Maldives Star Sports 1 Yupp TV UAE Etisalat - CricLife Switch TV Rest Of the World ICC.tv WTC 2023 Final Radio Broadcaster Here are the details of the Radio broadcasters who will broadcast the WTC 2023 final in various countries. Radio Radio Broadcaster UK & ROI BBC India All India Radio New Zealand NZME Radio UAE TALK FM 100.3 Australia Australian Broadcasting Corporation How to watch WTC 2023 final live in India Disney+ Hotstar will live broadcast the WTC 2023 final in India. The subscription for Disney+ Hotstar Premium is ₹1,499/year, and Disney+ Hotsatr Super is ₹899/year. Those who wish to watch the match live on the app can buy the subscription directly from their website. You can also buy the subscription using Jio and Airtel prepaid plans for any Jio or Airtel retail store.

WTC 2023 Final live streaming: App to watch World Test Championship final IND vs AUS LIVE stream in India

<p>The Kennington Oval in London is perhaps the best batting track in the UK given its record, and considering the same, the former India bowler Harbhajan Singh feels the Indian batters will enjoy scoring runs on day two of the ongoing World Test Championship Final against Australia.</p>

<p>After asking Australia to bat first under an overcast sky, new-ball bowlers made early inroads, as Siraj picked Usman Khawaja on zero. After David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne weathered the storm, both departed in quick intervals, leaving Australia reeling at 76 for three at one stage.</p>

<p>Following that, it was all about the Australian batters. Pair of Travis Head and Steve Smith stitched a 251-run stand for the fourth wicket as left-handed Head completed his maiden hundred on English soil. After hard-fought two sessions, the day ended with Australia hitting 327 for three.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-indias-bowling-coach-explains-why-ravi-ashwin-was-dropped-for-the-aussie-tie-602053">WTC Final: India's bowling coach explains WHY Ravi Ashwin was dropped for the Aussie tie</a></p>

<p>With the Oval wicket getting better to bat on with each passing session, Harbhajan feels after India wrap up Australia's first inning, the batters will enjoy striking the ball on day two. Though the new ball did a lot of talking for the Indian bowlers during the first hour on day one, Harbhajan opines that in-form Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli will not be bothered come their turn.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Oval is perhaps the best pitch to bat on in England, and it will be better to bat on as the game goes on. I don't think India will have any difficulties batting on this wicket. Gill and Kohli are in good form, the weather has opened up, and there is not much cloud cover as well," Harbhajan said while speaking on his YouTube channel.</p>

<h2>Considering the conditions, not playing Ashwin was a right call</h2>

<p>There was a lot of buzz all over internet after Rohit Sharma named the playing XI, and Ravi Ashwin's name was nowhere to be found. With the ranked number one Test bowler not getting picked and India also leaking runs throughout the day one, the Indian team had to bear the brunt of it.</p>

<p>Speaking on the same, Harbhajan said, "Only the toss went in India's favour, after that it was all Australia. India did not have a grip on the game in any of the sessions. Considering the conditions, the team selection was right, but it did not pan out as hoped. The lines kept getting wider, and the length also kept dropping."&nbsp;</p>

<p>A veteran with over 400 Test wickets to his name, Harbhajan also picked Indian bowlers' inability to make the most of the conditions given how the ball was behaving early on, saying,</p>

<p>"The Australian batters were comfortably playing on the back foot. India did not make the most of the new ball. There was a lot of carry on offer, and the ball beat the edge a couple of times as well, but that does not matter unless it results in a wicket. It was not one bowler who made the mistake, all four seamers made the same mistake," Harbhajan concluded.</p>

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The Kennington Oval in London is perhaps the best batting track in the UK given its record, and considering the same, the former India bowler Harbhajan Singh feels the Indian batters will enjoy scoring runs on day two of the ongoing World Test Championship Final against Australia.

The Kennington Oval in London is perhaps the best batting track in the UK given its record, and considering the same, the former India bowler Harbhajan Singh feels the Indian batters will enjoy scoring runs on day two of the ongoing World Test Championship Final against Australia. After asking Australia to bat first under an overcast sky, new-ball bowlers made early inroads, as Siraj picked Usman Khawaja on zero. After David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne weathered the storm, both departed in quick intervals, leaving Australia reeling at 76 for three at one stage. Following that, it was all about the Australian batters. Pair of Travis Head and Steve Smith stitched a 251-run stand for the fourth wicket as left-handed Head completed his maiden hundred on English soil. After hard-fought two sessions, the day ended with Australia hitting 327 for three. ALSO READ: WTC Final: India's bowling coach explains WHY Ravi Ashwin was dropped for the Aussie tie With the Oval wicket getting better to bat on with each passing session, Harbhajan feels after India wrap up Australia's first inning, the batters will enjoy striking the ball on day two. Though the new ball did a lot of talking for the Indian bowlers during the first hour on day one, Harbhajan opines that in-form Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli will not be bothered come their turn. "The Oval is perhaps the best pitch to bat on in England, and it will be better to bat on as the game goes on. I don't think India will have any difficulties batting on this wicket. Gill and Kohli are in good form, the weather has opened up, and there is not much cloud cover as well," Harbhajan said while speaking on his YouTube channel. Considering the conditions, not playing Ashwin was a right call There was a lot of buzz all over internet after Rohit Sharma named the playing XI, and Ravi Ashwin's name was nowhere to be found. With the ranked number one Test bowler not getting picked and India also leaking runs throughout the day one, the Indian team had to bear the brunt of it. Speaking on the same, Harbhajan said, "Only the toss went in India's favour, after that it was all Australia. India did not have a grip on the game in any of the sessions. Considering the conditions, the team selection was right, but it did not pan out as hoped. The lines kept getting wider, and the length also kept dropping." A veteran with over 400 Test wickets to his name, Harbhajan also picked Indian bowlers' inability to make the most of the conditions given how the ball was behaving early on, saying, "The Australian batters were comfortably playing on the back foot. India did not make the most of the new ball. There was a lot of carry on offer, and the ball beat the edge a couple of times as well, but that does not matter unless it results in a wicket. It was not one bowler who made the mistake, all four seamers made the same mistake," Harbhajan concluded. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WTC Final, Day 2: Harbhajan Singh backs Indian batters to come good on Oval track after Aussie onslaught

<p>The only thing that made headlines on day one of the World Test Championship Final was the absence of Ravichandran Ashwin for India against Aussies. The ranked number one Test bowler in the world failed to find a place in the final XI as captain Rohit Sharma picked seam-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur ahead of him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After winning the toss, India elected to bowl first, and following the first session, where the Indian bowlers made the ball do all the talking, Australian batters dominated the remaining two sessions, piling up runs at will. While veteran Steve Smith remained unbeaten on 95 after the days' play, Travis Head found form and slammed his first hundred on the English soil, scoring 146*.</p>

<p>It's fair to say India missed Ashwin in the middle overs, as Jadeja alone failed to create any pressure on day one surface. Paras Mhambrey - India's bowling coach, addressed the issue during the presser and explained why India decided against playing Ashwin for this one-off WTC Final 2023.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-day-2-preview-following-troubled-start-clueless-indian-team-to-aim-for-comeback-601982">WTC Final, Day 2 - Preview: Following troubled start, clueless Indian team to aim for comeback</a></p>

<p>Paras revealed India clearly went for horses for courses strategy, as looking at the overhead conditions and the green, bouncy track on offer, bowling first and picking an extra seamer than playing two spinners looked like the right decision.</p>

<p>"It is always a very difficult decision to drop a champion bowler like him. Looking at the conditions in the morning, we thought an additional seamer would be beneficial," Paras said after stumps on day one.</p>

<p>"It has also worked in the past for us. Seamers have done well out here for us. You can always look back and say that additional spinner would have been beneficial, but we took the call looking at the conditions," he added.</p>

<h2>Communicating with them ain't easy, but they understand overall picture&nbsp;</h2>

<p>When asked about how the coaches or the captain explain their call to bench a particular player, Paras detailed, saying,</p>

<p>"When team discussion happens, we talk about composition over a period of days. We trained here for three-four days before the game, and seeing the wicket, conversations happen with players. The players also understand that (the importance of team combination)," he added.</p>

<p>Addressing the situation in which India find themselves, with Australia being 327 for three as things stand, Paras feels the new ball will do something for India come day two as they have a chance to make a comeback in the Test.</p>

<p>"The second new ball did a bit. The morning session will be important. The wicket played better than our expectations in the last two sessions today,” Paras added.</p>

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The only thing that made headlines on day one of the World Test Championship Final was the absence of Ravichandran Ashwin for India against Aussies. The ranked number one Test bowler in the world failed to find a place in the final XI as captain Rohit Sharma picked seam-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur ahead of him.

The only thing that made headlines on day one of the World Test Championship Final was the absence of Ravichandran Ashwin for India against Aussies. The ranked number one Test bowler in the world failed to find a place in the final XI as captain Rohit Sharma picked seam-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur ahead of him. After winning the toss, India elected to bowl first, and following the first session, where the Indian bowlers made the ball do all the talking, Australian batters dominated the remaining two sessions, piling up runs at will. While veteran Steve Smith remained unbeaten on 95 after the days' play, Travis Head found form and slammed his first hundred on the English soil, scoring 146*. It's fair to say India missed Ashwin in the middle overs, as Jadeja alone failed to create any pressure on day one surface. Paras Mhambrey - India's bowling coach, addressed the issue during the presser and explained why India decided against playing Ashwin for this one-off WTC Final 2023. ALSO READ: WTC Final, Day 2 - Preview: Following troubled start, clueless Indian team to aim for comeback Paras revealed India clearly went for horses for courses strategy, as looking at the overhead conditions and the green, bouncy track on offer, bowling first and picking an extra seamer than playing two spinners looked like the right decision. "It is always a very difficult decision to drop a champion bowler like him. Looking at the conditions in the morning, we thought an additional seamer would be beneficial," Paras said after stumps on day one. "It has also worked in the past for us. Seamers have done well out here for us. You can always look back and say that additional spinner would have been beneficial, but we took the call looking at the conditions," he added. Communicating with them ain't easy, but they understand overall picture When asked about how the coaches or the captain explain their call to bench a particular player, Paras detailed, saying, "When team discussion happens, we talk about composition over a period of days. We trained here for three-four days before the game, and seeing the wicket, conversations happen with players. The players also understand that (the importance of team combination)," he added. Addressing the situation in which India find themselves, with Australia being 327 for three as things stand, Paras feels the new ball will do something for India come day two as they have a chance to make a comeback in the Test. "The second new ball did a bit. The morning session will be important. The wicket played better than our expectations in the last two sessions today,” Paras added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WTC Final: India's bowling coach explains WHY Ravi Ashwin was dropped for the Aussie tie

<p>India and Australia are set to face off each other in the second edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final from Wednesday in England and the conditions in London are playing on the mind of both teams' skippers to decided their best XI.</p>

<p>While Australia skipper Pat Cummins all but confirmed Australia's XI with 'no surprises,' India skipper Rohit Sharma, along with the team management, is going to wait till the toss and pick their best XI depending on the conditions prevalent at the time .</p>

<p>With KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant out with injury and fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya not in the squad, India's batting looks a bit thin which means Ravindra Jadeja might be a surety in the squad. Ravi Ashwin, in that case, may or may not play, given the weather conditions in England do not require more than one spinner in the playing XI often.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-icc-prepares-back-up-pitch-at-oval-amid-fear-of-protest-from-climate-activist-group-just-stop-oil-601502">WTC Final: ICC prepares back-up pitch at Oval amid fear of protest from climate activist group Just Stop Oil</a></p>

<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma, however, said on the eve of the Test that he's going to wait till the final day to take a call on the XI.</p>

<p>"Yeah, see, I've not said that Ashwin is not going to play. We'll wait until tomorrow - because one thing I have seen here - the pitch actually changes quite a bit from day to day. Today it's looking the way it is. Tomorrow it might be slightly different, who knows. So the message to the boys has been very clear, all 15 must be ready to play at any point in time. And we'll see the conditions tomorrow as well and make that decision as to who gets into that playing 11," Rohit said on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Rohit also added that the he'll go and have a look at the pitch and consider all the factors like slowness, wear and tear, reverse and others before taking the final call.</p>

<p>"I'll go and have a look at the pitch. But yeah, it looks a bit of help for the seamers definitely. With the overhead conditions as well, it's going to assist seamers a fair bit. I don't know how drastically the pitch changes quite a bit in this part of the world. Like, when we played the last test match here in Oval, it looked very similar to this. And then as the game went on, as the day went on, it got better and better, slower and slower. And the reverse swing came into play as well on day 5th. So, yeah, we're going to consider all of those factors and see what will be the right combination for us to go," added the skipper.</p>

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India and Australia are set to face off each other in the second edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final from Wednesday in England and the conditions in London are playing on the mind of both teams' skippers to decided their best XI.

India and Australia are set to face off each other in the second edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final from Wednesday in England and the conditions in London are playing on the mind of both teams' skippers to decided their best XI. While Australia skipper Pat Cummins all but confirmed Australia's XI with 'no surprises,' India skipper Rohit Sharma, along with the team management, is going to wait till the toss and pick their best XI depending on the conditions prevalent at the time . With KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant out with injury and fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya not in the squad, India's batting looks a bit thin which means Ravindra Jadeja might be a surety in the squad. Ravi Ashwin, in that case, may or may not play, given the weather conditions in England do not require more than one spinner in the playing XI often. Also Read: WTC Final: ICC prepares back-up pitch at Oval amid fear of protest from climate activist group Just Stop Oil India skipper Rohit Sharma, however, said on the eve of the Test that he's going to wait till the final day to take a call on the XI. "Yeah, see, I've not said that Ashwin is not going to play. We'll wait until tomorrow - because one thing I have seen here - the pitch actually changes quite a bit from day to day. Today it's looking the way it is. Tomorrow it might be slightly different, who knows. So the message to the boys has been very clear, all 15 must be ready to play at any point in time. And we'll see the conditions tomorrow as well and make that decision as to who gets into that playing 11," Rohit said on Tuesday. Rohit also added that the he'll go and have a look at the pitch and consider all the factors like slowness, wear and tear, reverse and others before taking the final call. "I'll go and have a look at the pitch. But yeah, it looks a bit of help for the seamers definitely. With the overhead conditions as well, it's going to assist seamers a fair bit. I don't know how drastically the pitch changes quite a bit in this part of the world. Like, when we played the last test match here in Oval, it looked very similar to this. And then as the game went on, as the day went on, it got better and better, slower and slower. And the reverse swing came into play as well on day 5th. So, yeah, we're going to consider all of those factors and see what will be the right combination for us to go," added the skipper. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: 'Ashwin is not going to play...:' Skipper Rohit Sharma opens up on India's Playing XI vs Australia

<p>The World Test Championship (WTC) Final between Australia and India got underway at the Oval in London with India winning the toss and electing to field first on a lively pitch. The players of both teams as well as the umpires were seen wearing black bands as they stepped out to take the field.</p>

<p>The bands are in solidarity with the victims of a horrific train crash that happened in the Indian state of Odisha. The accident, in which, three trains were involved, saw close to 300 people losing their lives and nearly 800 getting injured. The accident happened five days ago on June 2, 2023.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Team India and Australia wearing black bands and observes a minute of silence for the victims of train tragedy in Orissa. <a href="https://t.co/UX4eWmiGVM">pic.twitter.com/UX4eWmiGVM</a></p>
— Pari (@BluntIndianGal) <a href="https://twitter.com/BluntIndianGal/status/1666376369020993536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Preparation to face&nbsp;Just Stop Oil</h2>

<p>As the match gets going, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has prepared for the eventuality of a protest&nbsp;by climate activist group Just Stop Oil hitting the game.</p>

<p>The move from the ICC comes as a guard for a worst-case scenario where the game and the strip used could be&nbsp;targetted by the activists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just Stop Oil is a coalition of environmental groups which are fighting to raise awareness about climate change at various sporting events in the UK. Protests have earlier hit the World Snooker Championship and Premier League football, to name a few. The ICC, in case the disruption hits, wants to guard the pitch which has been tended over the days for the WTC Final and decided to prepare a backup pitch.</p>

<p>The ICC has also altered its playing conditions for the final by adding a clause for the use of another pitch in case the one in&nbsp;use gets damaged or is dangerous to play on. The ICC, however, will assess the existing pitch first to see if repairs can be done and if the match can get&nbsp;started from the point it was stopped without affecting any of the participating teams.</p>

<p>The new pitch will be used only if the original one can't be repaired. Although, if it is not possible to use the substitute pitch as well, the match will then be abandoned and would be deemed a no-result.&nbsp;<strong><i>&nbsp;</i></strong></p>

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The World Test Championship (WTC) Final between Australia and India got underway at the Oval in London with India winning the toss and electing to field first on a lively pitch.

The World Test Championship (WTC) Final between Australia and India got underway at the Oval in London with India winning the toss and electing to field first on a lively pitch. The players of both teams as well as the umpires were seen wearing black bands as they stepped out to take the field. The bands are in solidarity with the victims of a horrific train crash that happened in the Indian state of Odisha. The accident, in which, three trains were involved, saw close to 300 people losing their lives and nearly 800 getting injured. The accident happened five days ago on June 2, 2023. Team India and Australia wearing black bands and observes a minute of silence for the victims of train tragedy in Orissa. pic.twitter.com/UX4eWmiGVM — Pari (@BluntIndianGal) June 7, 2023 × Preparation to face Just Stop Oil As the match gets going, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has prepared for the eventuality of a protest by climate activist group Just Stop Oil hitting the game. The move from the ICC comes as a guard for a worst-case scenario where the game and the strip used could be targetted by the activists. Just Stop Oil is a coalition of environmental groups which are fighting to raise awareness about climate change at various sporting events in the UK. Protests have earlier hit the World Snooker Championship and Premier League football, to name a few. The ICC, in case the disruption hits, wants to guard the pitch which has been tended over the days for the WTC Final and decided to prepare a backup pitch. The ICC has also altered its playing conditions for the final by adding a clause for the use of another pitch in case the one in use gets damaged or is dangerous to play on. The ICC, however, will assess the existing pitch first to see if repairs can be done and if the match can get started from the point it was stopped without affecting any of the participating teams. The new pitch will be used only if the original one can't be repaired. Although, if it is not possible to use the substitute pitch as well, the match will then be abandoned and would be deemed a no-result. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: Why are India and Australia players wearing black bands?

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC), amid the protest by Just Stop Oil activists at the sporting events in the UK, has been preparing a back-up pitch at the Oval in London. The ground is set to host the World Test Championship (WTC) Final from June 7, Wednesday, between India and Australia.</p>

<p>The move from the ICC comes as a guard to a worst-case scenario where the game and the strip used could be&nbsp;targetted by the activists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just Stop Oil is a coalition of environmental groups which are fighting to raise awareness about climate change as various sporting events in the UK. There protests have hit the World Snooker Championship and Premier League football to name a few. The ICC, in case the disruption hits, wants to guard the pitch which has been tended over the days for the WTC Final and decided to prepare a back-up pitch.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-rohit-sharma-clears-intent-ahead-of-aussie-showdown-says-i-want-to-win-the-championship-601409">Rohit Sharma clears intent ahead of Aussie showdown, says 'I want to win the championship'</a></p>

<p>The protesting group caused a delay to England's team bus last week&nbsp;while they were en route stadium on the first morning of the one-off Test against Ireland. Australia, one of the two WTC finalists, also faced a delay after being stuck in traffic on Monday morning while traveling to the Oval for training.</p>

<p>The ICC has also altered its playing conditions for the final by adding a clause for the use of another pitch in case the one is use gets damaged or is dangerous to play on. The ICC, however, will assess the existing pitch first to see if the repairs can be done and the match can get&nbsp;started from the point it was stopped without affecting any of the participating teams.</p>

<p>The new pitch will be used only if the original one can't be repaired. Although, if it is not possible to use the substitute pitch as well, the match will then be abandoned and would be deemed a no-result.<br />
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The International Cricket Council (ICC), amid the protest by Just Stop Oil activists at the sporting events in the UK, has been preparing a back-up pitch at the Oval in London.

The International Cricket Council (ICC), amid the protest by Just Stop Oil activists at the sporting events in the UK, has been preparing a back-up pitch at the Oval in London. The ground is set to host the World Test Championship (WTC) Final from June 7, Wednesday, between India and Australia. The move from the ICC comes as a guard to a worst-case scenario where the game and the strip used could be targetted by the activists. Just Stop Oil is a coalition of environmental groups which are fighting to raise awareness about climate change as various sporting events in the UK. There protests have hit the World Snooker Championship and Premier League football to name a few. The ICC, in case the disruption hits, wants to guard the pitch which has been tended over the days for the WTC Final and decided to prepare a back-up pitch. Also Read: Rohit Sharma clears intent ahead of Aussie showdown, says 'I want to win the championship' The protesting group caused a delay to England's team bus last week while they were en route stadium on the first morning of the one-off Test against Ireland. Australia, one of the two WTC finalists, also faced a delay after being stuck in traffic on Monday morning while traveling to the Oval for training. The ICC has also altered its playing conditions for the final by adding a clause for the use of another pitch in case the one is use gets damaged or is dangerous to play on. The ICC, however, will assess the existing pitch first to see if the repairs can be done and the match can get started from the point it was stopped without affecting any of the participating teams. The new pitch will be used only if the original one can't be repaired. Although, if it is not possible to use the substitute pitch as well, the match will then be abandoned and would be deemed a no-result. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: ICC prepares back-up pitch at Oval amid fear of protest from climate activist group Just Stop Oil

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<p>The stage is set - the battle lines are drawn, as India and Australia gear up for the coveted World Test Championship (WTC) Final to be played at the Kia Oval in London on June 7th. Having played earlier this year in the Border-Gavaskar series, India came on the top for the fourth straight time, gaining an psychological advantage over the mighty Aussies.</p>

<h2>What’s happening in India’s camp?</h2>

<p>The Indian dressing room has a flare about itself with a few superstar names, match-winners and young guns ready to take down any opposition on its day. With the blend of veterans, youngsters and players returning to the Test setup after a considerable gap, this Indian team, unlike previous times, look more balanced.</p>

<p>Though nine of the eleven players are sure-starters, the fight for the two spots has kept both camps on their feet. India is likely to start with Ishan Kishan as the keeper-batter and Umesh as the third seamer alongside Shami, Siraj and two spinners in Jadeja and Ashwin.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The countdown has begun for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC23</a> Final ⏳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/7E120W5cV0">pic.twitter.com/7E120W5cV0</a></p>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-concerned-about-test-crickets-future-wishes-for-its-survival-with-one-eye-on-wtc-final-600987">Steve Smith concerned about Test cricket's future, wishes for its survival with one eye on WTC Final</a></p>

<p>Besides, anyone of Shardul, Jaydev Unadkat and KS Bharat can be a surprise entrant into the XI – given what the coach and the captain think about the conditions and pitch on the D-day.</p>

<p>With Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Ravindra Jadeja in good touch with the bat, chances of India dictating terms early on are high if batted first. If they bowl first, the fearsome duo of Shami and Siraj will trouble the mighty Aussies, with Umesh chipping in anytime when asked.</p>

<h2>Unfazed Aussies ready for another shot at glory</h2>

<p>Having last won an ICC trophy two years ago in Dubai in the shortest format, Australia will be ready to have an ICC Test title this time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia’s star-studded XI is almost certain, as all departments well locked with tailor-made players for this format. Though David Warner’s history in England keeps them worried, Steve Smith’s past record in the UK, will have them walk with pride and confidence.</p>

<p>In Cameron Green and Travis Head, the Oz have their hands full regarding the middle-order slots.</p>

<p>Coming to the bowling attack, Hazlewood’s absence could hurt them, but with Starc, captain Cummins, Lyon and domestic giant Scott Boland, they will remain unfazed by India’s latest success over in this format.</p>

<h3>Result Prediction –</h3>

<p>Though both teams have the ultimate glory to play for, Australia ‘s better record at the Oval will give them an edge over the Indian unit – making Pat Cummins-led side slight favourites to win.</p>

<p><strong>India's Predicted XI -</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra Jadeja, Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravi Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav and Mohammed Siraj</p>

<p><strong>Australia's Predicted XI -</strong></p>

<p>David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon&nbsp;</p>

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The stage is set - the battle lines are drawn, as India and Australia gear up for the coveted World Test Championship (WTC) Final to be played at the Kia Oval in London on June 7th.

The stage is set - the battle lines are drawn, as India and Australia gear up for the coveted World Test Championship (WTC) Final to be played at the Kia Oval in London on June 7th. Having played earlier this year in the Border-Gavaskar series, India came on the top for the fourth straight time, gaining an psychological advantage over the mighty Aussies. What’s happening in India’s camp? The Indian dressing room has a flare about itself with a few superstar names, match-winners and young guns ready to take down any opposition on its day. With the blend of veterans, youngsters and players returning to the Test setup after a considerable gap, this Indian team, unlike previous times, look more balanced. Though nine of the eleven players are sure-starters, the fight for the two spots has kept both camps on their feet. India is likely to start with Ishan Kishan as the keeper-batter and Umesh as the third seamer alongside Shami, Siraj and two spinners in Jadeja and Ashwin. The countdown has begun for #WTC23 Final ⏳#TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/7E120W5cV0 — BCCI (@BCCI) June 5, 2023 × ALSO READ: Steve Smith concerned about Test cricket's future, wishes for its survival with one eye on WTC Final Besides, anyone of Shardul, Jaydev Unadkat and KS Bharat can be a surprise entrant into the XI – given what the coach and the captain think about the conditions and pitch on the D-day. With Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and Ravindra Jadeja in good touch with the bat, chances of India dictating terms early on are high if batted first. If they bowl first, the fearsome duo of Shami and Siraj will trouble the mighty Aussies, with Umesh chipping in anytime when asked. Unfazed Aussies ready for another shot at glory Having last won an ICC trophy two years ago in Dubai in the shortest format, Australia will be ready to have an ICC Test title this time. Australia’s star-studded XI is almost certain, as all departments well locked with tailor-made players for this format. Though David Warner’s history in England keeps them worried, Steve Smith’s past record in the UK, will have them walk with pride and confidence. In Cameron Green and Travis Head, the Oz have their hands full regarding the middle-order slots. Coming to the bowling attack, Hazlewood’s absence could hurt them, but with Starc, captain Cummins, Lyon and domestic giant Scott Boland, they will remain unfazed by India’s latest success over in this format. Result Prediction – Though both teams have the ultimate glory to play for, Australia ‘s better record at the Oval will give them an edge over the Indian unit – making Pat Cummins-led side slight favourites to win. India's Predicted XI - Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra Jadeja, Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravi Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav and Mohammed Siraj Australia's Predicted XI - David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WTC Final 2023: India vs Australia - Match Preview and Result Prediction

<p>No. 1 ranked India are set to lock horns with Australia in the forthcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final versus Australia at The Oval, London on June 07. Being without an ICC title since 2013, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will be eager to lift their first-ever major title in the upcoming clash. However, it won't be an easy task versus&nbsp;Pat Cummins-led Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the WTC finale, India have plenty of injury concerns, with several key players, such as Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. out of action. Thus, former Australian opener Matthew Hayden made his pick for India's wicketkeeper-batter slot for the marquee finale. He feels India should go ahead with uncapped player Ishan Kishan instead of KS Bharat in Pant's absence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to PTI, Hayden suggested, "One of the big losses to Indian cricket right now is Rishabh Pant. If I was an Indian selector, I certainly go with the more dynamic wicketkeeper batter Ishan Kishan, he also adds that bit of swagger to the batting lineup and in the fielding unit as well."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-former-aussie-opener-matthew-hayden-decodes-reason-for-indias-icc-title-drought-since-2013-599171">WTC Final: Former Aussie opener Matthew Hayden decodes reason for India's ICC title drought since 2013</a></strong></p>

<p>Ishan has not yet made his Test debut. He was in the squad in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia, held in India, but didn't get a game. Bharat made his debut and did a decent job behind the stumps -- albeit with a few fumbles -- and looked promising with the bat with a best of 44. While Ishan is a like-for-like replacement for Pant, with both the southpaws being aggressive with the bat, Bharat is more of a steady batter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will be interesting to see if Rohit &amp; Co. opt for Ishan and drop Bharat for the mega finale. Further, Hayden also said that India should play both R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the playing XI.</p>

<p>In this regard, he said, "What works for India is two spinners. It doesn't work for Australia, apart from the outrageous turners that we saw in India during the Border-Gavaskar trophy."</p>

<p>''I know the Australian combination will always want to have three quicks. Obviously, Nathan Lyon is our spinner and Cameron Green can play as an all-rounder. I mean, that's, that's how important Cameron Green is. That's a powerful and important role that he plays as an all-rounder. So it's great to have him in form,'' Hayden added.</p>

<p><strong>India's final squad for the WTC summit clash</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Ishan Kishan (wk)</p>

<p><strong>Reserve players:&nbsp;</strong>Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Suryakumar Yadav</p>

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No. 1 ranked India are set to lock horns with Australia in the forthcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final versus Australia at The Oval, London on June 07.

No. 1 ranked India are set to lock horns with Australia in the forthcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final versus Australia at The Oval, London on June 07. Being without an ICC title since 2013, Rohit Sharma & Co. will be eager to lift their first-ever major title in the upcoming clash. However, it won't be an easy task versus Pat Cummins-led Australia. Ahead of the WTC finale, India have plenty of injury concerns, with several key players, such as Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. out of action. Thus, former Australian opener Matthew Hayden made his pick for India's wicketkeeper-batter slot for the marquee finale. He feels India should go ahead with uncapped player Ishan Kishan instead of KS Bharat in Pant's absence. Speaking to PTI, Hayden suggested, "One of the big losses to Indian cricket right now is Rishabh Pant. If I was an Indian selector, I certainly go with the more dynamic wicketkeeper batter Ishan Kishan, he also adds that bit of swagger to the batting lineup and in the fielding unit as well." Also read: WTC Final: Former Aussie opener Matthew Hayden decodes reason for India's ICC title drought since 2013 Ishan has not yet made his Test debut. He was in the squad in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia, held in India, but didn't get a game. Bharat made his debut and did a decent job behind the stumps -- albeit with a few fumbles -- and looked promising with the bat with a best of 44. While Ishan is a like-for-like replacement for Pant, with both the southpaws being aggressive with the bat, Bharat is more of a steady batter. It will be interesting to see if Rohit & Co. opt for Ishan and drop Bharat for the mega finale. Further, Hayden also said that India should play both R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the playing XI. In this regard, he said, "What works for India is two spinners. It doesn't work for Australia, apart from the outrageous turners that we saw in India during the Border-Gavaskar trophy." ''I know the Australian combination will always want to have three quicks. Obviously, Nathan Lyon is our spinner and Cameron Green can play as an all-rounder. I mean, that's, that's how important Cameron Green is. That's a powerful and important role that he plays as an all-rounder. So it's great to have him in form,'' Hayden added. India's final squad for the WTC summit clash Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Ishan Kishan (wk) Reserve players: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Suryakumar Yadav WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

India should go ahead with Ishan Kishan in Rishabh Pant's absence in WTC Final, says former Aussie opener

<p>India are set to lock horns with Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, which commences on June 07 (Wednesday) at The Oval, London. In the inaugural WTC cycle, Virat Kohli-led India dominated almost every series and qualified for the final where they lost to New Zealand by eight wickets. This time around, the No. 1 ranked Indian team will aim to go past their opposition and end their ten-year-long ICC title drought.</p>

<p>Ahead of the marquee battle between India and Australia, Virat Kohli is on the cusp of achieving some big milestones if he gets going in the forthcoming WTC summit clash. If the 34-year-old Kohli gets going in the mega clash and scores a ton, it will be his 29th in the longest format. Thus, he will equal Sir Don Bradman's tally.</p>

<p>Among the active cricketers, Kohli only be behind Australia's Steve Smith&nbsp;(30 tons) and join&nbsp;former England skipper Joe Root&nbsp;with 29 tons each.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-the-wtc-final-will-mean-everything-to-us-indian-captain-rohit-sharma-ahead-of-australia-tie-601217"><strong>'Winning the WTC final will mean everything to us': Indian captain Rohit Sharma ahead of Australia tie</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Kohli eyes head coach Dravid's record</strong></h2>

<p>In addition, Kohli has a chance to go past head coach Rahul Dravid.&nbsp;In 24 Tests against the Aussies, he has&nbsp;1,979 runs at an average of 48.26. If he scores 188 more, Kohli will surpass&nbsp;Dravid's tally against Australia&nbsp;(who ended his career with 2,166 runs after Sachin Tendulkar's 3630&nbsp;and VVS Laxman's 2434).</p>

<p>Lastly, Kohli will also take over Virender Sehwag's run-tally in whites (8,586) with 170, or more, runs in the WTC final. At present, he has&nbsp;8416 runs in 108 Tests.&nbsp;Thus, he has a chance to become India's&nbsp;fifth-highest run-getter in Tests.&nbsp;Tendulkar (15,921), Dravid (13,288), Sunil Gavaskar (10,122), and Laxman (8,781) lead the list followed by Sehwag.</p>

<p>In his last Test inning, which came against Australia in the final match of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy at home, Kohli returned with a sublime 186&nbsp;in March. Thus, India will hope for another daddy hundred from him in the WTC final showdown versus Pat Cummins &amp; Co.</p>

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India are set to lock horns with Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, which commences on June 07 (Wednesday) at The Oval, London. In the inaugural WTC cycle, Virat Kohli-led India dominated almost every series and qualified for the final where they lost to New Zealand by eight wickets.

India are set to lock horns with Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, which commences on June 07 (Wednesday) at The Oval, London. In the inaugural WTC cycle, Virat Kohli-led India dominated almost every series and qualified for the final where they lost to New Zealand by eight wickets. This time around, the No. 1 ranked Indian team will aim to go past their opposition and end their ten-year-long ICC title drought. Ahead of the marquee battle between India and Australia, Virat Kohli is on the cusp of achieving some big milestones if he gets going in the forthcoming WTC summit clash. If the 34-year-old Kohli gets going in the mega clash and scores a ton, it will be his 29th in the longest format. Thus, he will equal Sir Don Bradman's tally. Among the active cricketers, Kohli only be behind Australia's Steve Smith (30 tons) and join former England skipper Joe Root with 29 tons each. Also Read: 'Winning the WTC final will mean everything to us': Indian captain Rohit Sharma ahead of Australia tie Kohli eyes head coach Dravid's record In addition, Kohli has a chance to go past head coach Rahul Dravid. In 24 Tests against the Aussies, he has 1,979 runs at an average of 48.26. If he scores 188 more, Kohli will surpass Dravid's tally against Australia (who ended his career with 2,166 runs after Sachin Tendulkar's 3630 and VVS Laxman's 2434). Lastly, Kohli will also take over Virender Sehwag's run-tally in whites (8,586) with 170, or more, runs in the WTC final. At present, he has 8416 runs in 108 Tests. Thus, he has a chance to become India's fifth-highest run-getter in Tests. Tendulkar (15,921), Dravid (13,288), Sunil Gavaskar (10,122), and Laxman (8,781) lead the list followed by Sehwag. In his last Test inning, which came against Australia in the final match of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy at home, Kohli returned with a sublime 186 in March. Thus, India will hope for another daddy hundred from him in the WTC final showdown versus Pat Cummins & Co. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Ind vs Aus, WTC Final: Virat Kohli on the cusp to equal Don Bradman's record, go past Rahul Dravid's feat

<p>India will face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London on Wednesday (June 07). After losing the inaugural WTC finale, to New Zealand, India will be eager to get past the finish line this time around and win the coveted Test mace. India have not won an ICC title since 2013 and, hence, will be desperate to break their ten-year-long title drought.</p>

<p>Ahead of the summit clash, Indian captain Rohit opened up on playing at a neutral venue, facing arch-rivals Australia and the importance of winning the mega finale.</p>

<p>"It (a neutral venue) is something different for both teams. No home support, although I think we usually get a bit more support anywhere we play," Rohit told the reporters with a smile. "But no, it's always been nice, coming and playing at neutral venues for us."</p>

<p>On facing Australia, Rohit told, "It's not just the two or three years of rivalry. There's so much history behind the two teams taking on each other. So that is what makes it more exciting, not just for the players but also for the people who are watching from all parts of the world."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-will-win-on-day-5-of-wtc-final-vs-australia-ab-de-villiers-makes-bold-prediction-601158">India will win on Day 5 of WTC final vs Australia: AB de Villiers makes bold prediction</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'Winning the WTC final will mean everything to us'</strong></h2>

<p>In 2021, Virat Kohli-led India lost the inaugural WTC final to eventual winners New Zealand despite dominating the entire cycle. In the second cycle, India had to work hard to enter&nbsp;the final and will be determined to get past the Aussies. Captain Rohit emphasised how big it would be if India emerge victorious in the WTC final.</p>

<p>'It'll mean everything to us. This is the ultimate format, the most challenging format. So to come out on top in this particular format will be great because it's not the effort for a month or two, it's the effort that we put in for the last few years," Hitman concluded.</p>

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India will face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London on Wednesday (June 07). After losing the inaugural WTC finale, to New Zealand, India will be eager to get past the finish line this time around and win the coveted Test mace.

India will face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London on Wednesday (June 07). After losing the inaugural WTC finale, to New Zealand, India will be eager to get past the finish line this time around and win the coveted Test mace. India have not won an ICC title since 2013 and, hence, will be desperate to break their ten-year-long title drought. Ahead of the summit clash, Indian captain Rohit opened up on playing at a neutral venue, facing arch-rivals Australia and the importance of winning the mega finale. "It (a neutral venue) is something different for both teams. No home support, although I think we usually get a bit more support anywhere we play," Rohit told the reporters with a smile. "But no, it's always been nice, coming and playing at neutral venues for us." On facing Australia, Rohit told, "It's not just the two or three years of rivalry. There's so much history behind the two teams taking on each other. So that is what makes it more exciting, not just for the players but also for the people who are watching from all parts of the world." Also Read: India will win on Day 5 of WTC final vs Australia: AB de Villiers makes bold prediction 'Winning the WTC final will mean everything to us' In 2021, Virat Kohli-led India lost the inaugural WTC final to eventual winners New Zealand despite dominating the entire cycle. In the second cycle, India had to work hard to enter the final and will be determined to get past the Aussies. Captain Rohit emphasised how big it would be if India emerge victorious in the WTC final. 'It'll mean everything to us. This is the ultimate format, the most challenging format. So to come out on top in this particular format will be great because it's not the effort for a month or two, it's the effort that we put in for the last few years," Hitman concluded. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Winning the WTC final will mean everything to us': Indian captain Rohit Sharma ahead of Australia tie

<p>India are set to take on Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2021-23 final, which kicks off on Wednesday (June 07) at The Oval, London. While Virat Kohli-led India dominated the inaugural WTC cycle and entered the final, they lost to New Zealand by eight wickets in the summit clash. Thus, Rohit Sharma's India will be eager to get past the finish line in the second cycle.</p>

<p>Ahead of facing Pat Cummins-led Australia, who are one spot below No. 1 ranked India,&nbsp;veteran off-spinner R Ashwin revealed that head coach Rahul Dravid's speech after India's three-wicket win over Bangladesh in the Dhaka Test, in late 2022, will be the highlight for him in this current WTC cycle. Unlike the first cycle, India did not dominate to reach the final but was made to work hard. They had to whitewash hosts Bangladesh in a two-match series, held last December but were staring at defeat in the final Test.</p>

<p>Dismissing Bangladesh for 227 in the first essay, KL Rahul &amp; Co. made 314 and then bundled out the Bangla Tigers for 231. In pursuit of 145, India was 74 for 7 before Shreyas Iyer (29 not out) and R Ashwin's (42*) unbeaten 71-run eighth-wicket stand took India to a 2-0 victory. Ashwin recalled Dravid's speech after the win and told the ICC, "We’ve had our moments in this last cycle, especially where we could have been knocked out quite a few times and have just held tight. I think the moment of the WTC, I don’t know irrespective of what happens in this game, would be Rahul (Dravid) bhai’s speech after the Bangladesh Test that we had at Mirpur."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-former-england-spinner-names-india-and-australias-x-factor-for-mega-clash-600873">WTC Final: Former England spinner names India and Australia's X-factor for mega clash</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'I think WTC final&nbsp;could be lucky number two for us'</strong></h2>

<p>He opined, "I think we were just going to be knocked out of the WTC race in that particular Test, so we finished the game and I came out and was really pumped up, I don’t think we expected... nobody expected us to win, even inside the dressing room. Rahul just said, ‘It was a great game of cricket and Ash, we were never in doubt’. That is probably the moment of the WTC cycle as far as I’m concerned.</p>

<p>“Like he (Dravid) said, we were never in doubt, even though we went through the ride. I think in the last cycle we really quite dominated and got into the Final. This time we’ve had our ups and downs, and that’s probably why I think this particular game could be lucky number two for us," Ashwin concluded.</p>


India are set to take on Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2021-23 final, which kicks off on Wednesday (June 07) at The Oval, London. While Virat Kohli-led India dominated the inaugural WTC cycle and entered the final, they lost to New Zealand by eight wickets in the summit clash.

India are set to take on Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2021-23 final, which kicks off on Wednesday (June 07) at The Oval, London. While Virat Kohli-led India dominated the inaugural WTC cycle and entered the final, they lost to New Zealand by eight wickets in the summit clash. Thus, Rohit Sharma's India will be eager to get past the finish line in the second cycle. Ahead of facing Pat Cummins-led Australia, who are one spot below No. 1 ranked India, veteran off-spinner R Ashwin revealed that head coach Rahul Dravid's speech after India's three-wicket win over Bangladesh in the Dhaka Test, in late 2022, will be the highlight for him in this current WTC cycle. Unlike the first cycle, India did not dominate to reach the final but was made to work hard. They had to whitewash hosts Bangladesh in a two-match series, held last December but were staring at defeat in the final Test. Dismissing Bangladesh for 227 in the first essay, KL Rahul & Co. made 314 and then bundled out the Bangla Tigers for 231. In pursuit of 145, India was 74 for 7 before Shreyas Iyer (29 not out) and R Ashwin's (42*) unbeaten 71-run eighth-wicket stand took India to a 2-0 victory. Ashwin recalled Dravid's speech after the win and told the ICC, "We’ve had our moments in this last cycle, especially where we could have been knocked out quite a few times and have just held tight. I think the moment of the WTC, I don’t know irrespective of what happens in this game, would be Rahul (Dravid) bhai’s speech after the Bangladesh Test that we had at Mirpur." Also Read: WTC Final: Former England spinner names India and Australia's X-factor for mega clash 'I think WTC final could be lucky number two for us' He opined, "I think we were just going to be knocked out of the WTC race in that particular Test, so we finished the game and I came out and was really pumped up, I don’t think we expected... nobody expected us to win, even inside the dressing room. Rahul just said, ‘It was a great game of cricket and Ash, we were never in doubt’. That is probably the moment of the WTC cycle as far as I’m concerned. “Like he (Dravid) said, we were never in doubt, even though we went through the ride. I think in the last cycle we really quite dominated and got into the Final. This time we’ve had our ups and downs, and that’s probably why I think this particular game could be lucky number two for us," Ashwin concluded.

Rahul Dravid's speech will be this WTC cycle's moment, says R Ashwin ahead of Australia finale

<p>Ahead of No. 1 ranked India's upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final versus Australia, former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lavished praise on Rohit Sharma's batting in Tests. The veteran opined that the Indian captain's batting in the purest format of the game has become almost faultless in recent times.</p>

<p>Ever since Rohit was promoted as a Test opener&nbsp;in late 2019, he has cemented his spot in the red-ball format with five hundreds and a double ton. Even in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India, the Hitman ended as his side's third-highest run-getter with a best of 120 in the series opener. He has scored 650 runs at 34.21 in 11 Tests versus the Aussies and, hence, will be eager to get going this time around as well.</p>

<h2><strong>'Test cricket seems to be the most exciting format for Rohit Sharma'</strong></h2>

<p>Ahead of India's marquee finale, Manjrekar told on the Star Sports show&nbsp;<em>Game Plan</em>, "Keep his IPL form (in the 2023 edition, he ended with 332 runs in 16 matches) aside because he looked out of form in the last IPL as well but we saw the amazing batting he did in the first Test match against Australia. I believe the stage of his career Rohit Sharma is in, Test cricket seems to be the most exciting format for him just like it has always been for Virat Kohli."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-ricky-ponting-names-two-indian-batters-who-would-be-major-threat-to-australia-599127"><strong>WTC Final | Ricky Ponting names two Indian batters who would be major threat to Australia</strong></a></p>

<p>Manjrekar claimed that&nbsp;Rohit's batting is almost faultless right now but spoke about his knack for getting out on the pull shot; one of his favourite strokes. "His batting has become almost faultless in Test cricket at the moment. There is just one problem we have seen in Test matches - he gets out while playing the pull shot at times. They have bowled him a short ball and kept a fielder there. That is an instinctive shot," he asserted.</p>

<p>Manjrekar further added, "If you see in ODI cricket, his pull shot is extremely interesting. His backlift doesn't come from the top, so he can play the ball down. He has a very low back lift, he just picks up the ball and the bat then goes behind his back in the follow-through to give the power."</p>

<p>In the inaugural WTC final, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team lost to New Zealand by eight wickets and, hence, Rohit &amp; Co. will be desperate to get their hands on the coveted Test mace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The match will kick off on June 07 at The Oval, London. The last time Rohit played in England, during the 2021 summer, he ended up scoring an impressive&nbsp;127 at the same venue,&nbsp;his first overseas ton in whites.</p>

<p><strong>India's final squad for WTC final</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Ishan Kishan (wk)</p>

<p><strong>Standby players:&nbsp;</strong>Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Suryakumar Yadav</p>

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Ahead of No. 1 ranked India's upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final versus Australia, former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lavished praise on Rohit Sharma's batting in Tests.

Ahead of No. 1 ranked India's upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final versus Australia, former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lavished praise on Rohit Sharma's batting in Tests. The veteran opined that the Indian captain's batting in the purest format of the game has become almost faultless in recent times. Ever since Rohit was promoted as a Test opener in late 2019, he has cemented his spot in the red-ball format with five hundreds and a double ton. Even in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India, the Hitman ended as his side's third-highest run-getter with a best of 120 in the series opener. He has scored 650 runs at 34.21 in 11 Tests versus the Aussies and, hence, will be eager to get going this time around as well. 'Test cricket seems to be the most exciting format for Rohit Sharma' Ahead of India's marquee finale, Manjrekar told on the Star Sports show Game Plan, "Keep his IPL form (in the 2023 edition, he ended with 332 runs in 16 matches) aside because he looked out of form in the last IPL as well but we saw the amazing batting he did in the first Test match against Australia. I believe the stage of his career Rohit Sharma is in, Test cricket seems to be the most exciting format for him just like it has always been for Virat Kohli." Also read: WTC Final | Ricky Ponting names two Indian batters who would be major threat to Australia Manjrekar claimed that Rohit's batting is almost faultless right now but spoke about his knack for getting out on the pull shot; one of his favourite strokes. "His batting has become almost faultless in Test cricket at the moment. There is just one problem we have seen in Test matches - he gets out while playing the pull shot at times. They have bowled him a short ball and kept a fielder there. That is an instinctive shot," he asserted. Manjrekar further added, "If you see in ODI cricket, his pull shot is extremely interesting. His backlift doesn't come from the top, so he can play the ball down. He has a very low back lift, he just picks up the ball and the bat then goes behind his back in the follow-through to give the power." In the inaugural WTC final, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team lost to New Zealand by eight wickets and, hence, Rohit & Co. will be desperate to get their hands on the coveted Test mace. The match will kick off on June 07 at The Oval, London. The last time Rohit played in England, during the 2021 summer, he ended up scoring an impressive 127 at the same venue, his first overseas ton in whites. India's final squad for WTC final Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Ishan Kishan (wk) Standby players: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Suryakumar Yadav WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

WTC Final: Rohit's Test batting has become almost faultless, opines Manjrekar ahead of mega clash

<p>No. 1 ranked Rohit Sharma-led Team India will face Australia in the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London on June 07. The match will present India with another opportunity to end their ten-year-long ICC title drought. Since their 2013 Champions Trophy triumph, under MS Dhoni's leadership, India have not won an ICC title. Since then, they have ended as runners-up thrice (in the 2014 T20 World Cup, 2017 Champions Trophy and 2021 WTC final) and ended as semi-finalists on four occasions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus, India will be eager to lay their&nbsp;hands on their first ICC trophy since 2013 when they face second-ranked Australia in the second WTC final. Ahead of the match, the former Aussie opener decoded the reason behind India's struggles in winning an ICC event since 2013.&nbsp;Speaking to PTI, Hayden said that India's title drought is down to a mindset issue.</p>

<h2><strong>'It has to be a question of....'</strong></h2>

<p>"It's certainly not a question of skill. So, it has to be a question of just the opportunity and the mindset going in. I mean, cricket is life here, it is the DNA of sport and has no other competitors," Hayden said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-ricky-ponting-names-two-indian-batters-who-would-be-major-threat-to-australia-599127">WTC Final | Ricky Ponting names two Indian batters who would be major threat to Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>Further, Hayden also spoke about the pressure Indian players deal with and said, "In Australia, I could walk down the street and largely be unrecognised, especially with this terrible beard and hat on (laughs). But it's also got great competitive sports besides cricket. Rugby, football, our water sports, surfing, and outdoor sports. Here in India, it's very insular and there's a lot of pressure." He added, "It's the same with Pakistan cricket as well. There is one sport and it is cricket, so it's a mindset thing."</p>

<p>Hayden advised the Indian team to focus on the process and not think&nbsp;about the outcomes. "Being cautious about looking for the scoreboard and looking for the titles and just playing and being a part of the process, something when you look at franchise setups, Gujarat Titans have done really well this year and CSK have done very well. Mumbai Indians as well believe in a certain process. So, that would be my advice to Indian cricket to forget the outcomes, but buy into the process,"&nbsp;Hayden added.</p>

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No. 1 ranked Rohit Sharma-led Team India will face Australia in the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London on June 07. The match will present India with another opportunity to end their ten-year-long ICC title drought.

No. 1 ranked Rohit Sharma-led Team India will face Australia in the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London on June 07. The match will present India with another opportunity to end their ten-year-long ICC title drought. Since their 2013 Champions Trophy triumph, under MS Dhoni's leadership, India have not won an ICC title. Since then, they have ended as runners-up thrice (in the 2014 T20 World Cup, 2017 Champions Trophy and 2021 WTC final) and ended as semi-finalists on four occasions. Thus, India will be eager to lay their hands on their first ICC trophy since 2013 when they face second-ranked Australia in the second WTC final. Ahead of the match, the former Aussie opener decoded the reason behind India's struggles in winning an ICC event since 2013. Speaking to PTI, Hayden said that India's title drought is down to a mindset issue. 'It has to be a question of....' "It's certainly not a question of skill. So, it has to be a question of just the opportunity and the mindset going in. I mean, cricket is life here, it is the DNA of sport and has no other competitors," Hayden said. Also Read: WTC Final | Ricky Ponting names two Indian batters who would be major threat to Australia Further, Hayden also spoke about the pressure Indian players deal with and said, "In Australia, I could walk down the street and largely be unrecognised, especially with this terrible beard and hat on (laughs). But it's also got great competitive sports besides cricket. Rugby, football, our water sports, surfing, and outdoor sports. Here in India, it's very insular and there's a lot of pressure." He added, "It's the same with Pakistan cricket as well. There is one sport and it is cricket, so it's a mindset thing." Hayden advised the Indian team to focus on the process and not think about the outcomes. "Being cautious about looking for the scoreboard and looking for the titles and just playing and being a part of the process, something when you look at franchise setups, Gujarat Titans have done really well this year and CSK have done very well. Mumbai Indians as well believe in a certain process. So, that would be my advice to Indian cricket to forget the outcomes, but buy into the process," Hayden added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

WTC Final: Former Aussie opener Matthew Hayden decodes reason for India's ICC title drought since 2013