Australian batting maestro Steve Smith on Friday roared back to form with his 27th Test century in the ongoing third Test against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Smith nullified the threat posed by the Indian bowlers on a flat Sydney track as he played some delightful strokes to find his form back. After completing a fantastic knock of 131, Smith said that this knock should keep a few of his critics quiet. &nbsp;

Smith, who had scores of 1, 1*, 8, 0 against India in the first two Tests, found his mojo back as he played with intent on Day 1 before continuing his strokes on the second day of the Sydney Test. Smith, who has been troubled by Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in the series, took on the Indian bowlers as he quickly settled at the crease. &nbsp;

After his 27th Test ton, Smith revealed that he was reading about himself and his batting form over the last couple of weeks and was looking to shut his critics. Smith went through a lean patch after scoring consecutive centuries in the ODI series against India. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sydney-test-smiths-27th-test-ton-gills-class-steal-thunders-as-day-2-ends-in-balance-355357" hreflang="en">Sydney Test: Smith's 27th Test ton, Gill's class steal thunders as Day 2 ends in balance</a>

Smith now jointly holds the record of scoring most number of Test centuries against India along with the likes of Ricky Ponting, Viv Richards and Sir Gary Sobers.&nbsp;

"I'm reading lots of things people say about out of form, but think there's a difference between out of form and out of runs so it was just nice to score a few and maybe keep a few people quiet," Smith told the broadcasters during the innings break.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-becomes-first-player-to-smash-100-international-sixes-against-australia-355335" hreflang="en">Rohit Sharma becomes first player to smash 100 international sixes against Australia</a>

Smith, with Marnus Labuschagne, stitched a 100-run partnership for the third wicket before batting with the middle-order and Australian tail. He was the last Australian batsmen to get out in the first innings, that too after a sensational piece of fielding by Ravindra Jadeja.&nbsp;

Australia posted 338 on board with India replying back with 96/2 at the end of Day 2’s play.&nbsp;

Australian batting maestro Steve Smith on Friday roared back to form with his 27th Test century in the ongoing third Test against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Australian batting maestro Steve Smith on Friday roared back to form with his 27th Test century in the ongoing third Test against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Smith nullified the threat posed by the Indian bowlers on a flat Sydney track as he played some delightful strokes to find his form back. After completing a fantastic knock of 131, Smith said that this knock should keep a few of his critics quiet. Smith, who had scores of 1, 1*, 8, 0 against India in the first two Tests, found his mojo back as he played with intent on Day 1 before continuing his strokes on the second day of the Sydney Test. Smith, who has been troubled by Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in the series, took on the Indian bowlers as he quickly settled at the crease. After his 27th Test ton, Smith revealed that he was reading about himself and his batting form over the last couple of weeks and was looking to shut his critics. Smith went through a lean patch after scoring consecutive centuries in the ODI series against India. ALSO READ: Sydney Test: Smith's 27th Test ton, Gill's class steal thunders as Day 2 ends in balance Smith now jointly holds the record of scoring most number of Test centuries against India along with the likes of Ricky Ponting, Viv Richards and Sir Gary Sobers. "I'm reading lots of things people say about out of form, but think there's a difference between out of form and out of runs so it was just nice to score a few and maybe keep a few people quiet," Smith told the broadcasters during the innings break. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma becomes first player to smash 100 international sixes against Australia Smith, with Marnus Labuschagne, stitched a 100-run partnership for the third wicket before batting with the middle-order and Australian tail. He was the last Australian batsmen to get out in the first innings, that too after a sensational piece of fielding by Ravindra Jadeja. Australia posted 338 on board with India replying back with 96/2 at the end of Day 2’s play.

'Will keep a few people quiet': Steve Smith shuts down critics with 27th Test century

The Day 2 of the ongoing third Test between Australia and India at the Sydney Cricket Ground witnessed some breathtaking display of cricket from both the sides. While Australia, batting first, got to a great position after a fine century from talisman Steve Smith, Indians bounced back strong with a solid opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill as they day ended in balance. &nbsp;

Australia started the day strongly as Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith continued their partnership with some great display of batting. While Labuschagne was unfortunate to miss out on his fifth Test century as he was dismissed for 91 by Ravindra Jadeja, Smith went on to register his 27th Test century. &nbsp;

Smith was the last Australian player to be dismissed, after a spellbinding direct hit from the deep by Ravindra Jadeja, as the former Aussie skipper watches wickets tumble from the other end before getting out. Australia ended up with 338 runs on board.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-becomes-first-player-to-smash-100-international-sixes-against-australia-355335" hreflang="en">Rohit Sharma becomes first player to smash 100 international sixes against Australia</a>

For India, Ravindra Jadeja picked up four wickets while Jasprit Bumrah and debutant Navdeep Saini scalped two each. Mohammed Siraj ended up with a wicket under his belt.&nbsp;

Indian openers Rohit and Gill had a fine start as they stitched a crucial partnership of 70 runs off 27 overs before Rohit pushed a fuller delivery by Hazlewood too hard as the Aussie bowler took a sharp catch off his own bowling. Gill departed soon after completing his maiden half-century in international cricket. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bairstow-hails-kallis-as-fantastic-addition-for-england-355321" hreflang="en">Bairstow hails Kallis as 'fantastic addition' for England</a>

At the end of Day 2, veteran batsmen Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara were at the crease for India and would be looking to score big in what has been a batting-friendly track at the Sydney Cricket Ground. &nbsp;

The Day 2 of the ongoing third Test between Australia and India at the Sydney Cricket Ground witnessed some breathtaking display of cricket from both the sides. While Australia, batting first, got to a great position after a fine century from talisman Steve Smith, Indians bounced back strong with a solid opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill as they day ended in balance.

The Day 2 of the ongoing third Test between Australia and India at the Sydney Cricket Ground witnessed some breathtaking display of cricket from both the sides. While Australia, batting first, got to a great position after a fine century from talisman Steve Smith, Indians bounced back strong with a solid opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill as they day ended in balance. Australia started the day strongly as Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith continued their partnership with some great display of batting. While Labuschagne was unfortunate to miss out on his fifth Test century as he was dismissed for 91 by Ravindra Jadeja, Smith went on to register his 27th Test century. Smith was the last Australian player to be dismissed, after a spellbinding direct hit from the deep by Ravindra Jadeja, as the former Aussie skipper watches wickets tumble from the other end before getting out. Australia ended up with 338 runs on board. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma becomes first player to smash 100 international sixes against Australia For India, Ravindra Jadeja picked up four wickets while Jasprit Bumrah and debutant Navdeep Saini scalped two each. Mohammed Siraj ended up with a wicket under his belt. Indian openers Rohit and Gill had a fine start as they stitched a crucial partnership of 70 runs off 27 overs before Rohit pushed a fuller delivery by Hazlewood too hard as the Aussie bowler took a sharp catch off his own bowling. Gill departed soon after completing his maiden half-century in international cricket. ALSO READ: Bairstow hails Kallis as 'fantastic addition' for England At the end of Day 2, veteran batsmen Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara were at the crease for India and would be looking to score big in what has been a batting-friendly track at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Sydney Test: Smith's 27th Test ton, Gill's class steal thunders as Day 2 ends in balance

The Indian cricket team was off to a fine start in the first innings of the third Test match against Australia in Sydney with openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill providing a solid start to the visitors. The duo stitched a 70-run opening stand before Rohit was dismissed for 26 by Josh Hazlewood. However, before his dismissal, Rohit achieved a rare feat in international cricket as he became the first-ever batsman to score 100 international sixes against Australia. &nbsp;

Rohit, who is regarded as one of the finest batsmen, danced down the track to dispatch a Nathan Lyon delivery over the long-on boundary and became the first batsman in history to smash 100 international sixes against Australia. &nbsp;

<h2>Most sixes against Australia in international cricket &nbsp;</h2>

ROHIT SHARMA - 100* &nbsp;

Eon Morgan - 63 &nbsp;

B McCullum - 61 &nbsp;

Sachin Tendulkar - 60&nbsp;

MS Dhoni - 60&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/smith-smacks-27th-test-century-as-india-trail-australia-by-312-355313" hreflang="en">Smith smacks 27th Test century as India trail Australia by 312</a>

However, Rohit, despite getting a good start, couldn’t make it count and was dismissed by Hazlewood after playing a lose straight push. The Aussie pacer held on to a good catch in his follow-through to complete the dismissal. &nbsp;

Rohit’s opening partner Gill soon followed the Hitman soon after completing his maiden half-century in Test cricket.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, India ended Day 2 at 98/2 with Cheteshwar Pujara and skipper Ajinkya Rahane unbeaten for India. The visitors still trail by 242 runs and would be hoping to score big when they take the field on Day 3 of the Sydney Test. &nbsp;

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Batting first, Australia posted 338 runs courtesy a fine century by Steve Smith – his 27th in Test cricket as the Aussie star starts the new year with a bang.&nbsp;

The Indian cricket team was off to a fine start in the first innings of the third Test match against Australia in Sydney with openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill providing a solid start to the visitors.

The Indian cricket team was off to a fine start in the first innings of the third Test match against Australia in Sydney with openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill providing a solid start to the visitors. The duo stitched a 70-run opening stand before Rohit was dismissed for 26 by Josh Hazlewood. However, before his dismissal, Rohit achieved a rare feat in international cricket as he became the first-ever batsman to score 100 international sixes against Australia. Rohit, who is regarded as one of the finest batsmen, danced down the track to dispatch a Nathan Lyon delivery over the long-on boundary and became the first batsman in history to smash 100 international sixes against Australia. Most sixes against Australia in international cricket ROHIT SHARMA - 100* Eon Morgan - 63 B McCullum - 61 Sachin Tendulkar - 60 MS Dhoni - 60 ALSO READ: Smith smacks 27th Test century as India trail Australia by 312 However, Rohit, despite getting a good start, couldn’t make it count and was dismissed by Hazlewood after playing a lose straight push. The Aussie pacer held on to a good catch in his follow-through to complete the dismissal. Rohit’s opening partner Gill soon followed the Hitman soon after completing his maiden half-century in Test cricket. Meanwhile, India ended Day 2 at 98/2 with Cheteshwar Pujara and skipper Ajinkya Rahane unbeaten for India. The visitors still trail by 242 runs and would be hoping to score big when they take the field on Day 3 of the Sydney Test. ALSO READ: From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 Batting first, Australia posted 338 runs courtesy a fine century by Steve Smith – his 27th in Test cricket as the Aussie star starts the new year with a bang.

Rohit Sharma becomes first player to smash 100 international sixes against Australia

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday wrote to Cricket Australia (CA) as the Indian cricket board look for relaxation in hard quarantine protocols of Brisbane for the fourth and final Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. &nbsp;

BCCI reminded the Australian board that they are done with strict isolation. According to a PTI report, a top BCCI executive has written to CA head Earl Eddings as the board reminded him of the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the two board on the modalities of the tour which never had a specification of two hard quarantine in separate cities.&nbsp;

The Brisbane Test is scheduled to start on January 15 and the strict quarantine rules, as of now, will restrict the players to just their hotel rooms after the end of day’s play.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-missing-my-dad-mohammed-siraj-on-getting-emotional-during-indian-national-anthem-355142" hreflang="en">'Was missing my dad': Mohammed Siraj on getting emotional during Indian national anthem</a>

"The discussions are still on but today BCCI has formally sent a letter seeking relaxation of hard quarantine for its players if they are to have the match in Brisbane," a senior BCCI official told PTI.&nbsp;

"The MoU that was signed never mentioned about two hard quarantines. India have done one hard quarantine in Sydney (practice and back to hotel room)," he added.&nbsp;

The BCCI has made a simple demand that players want to be with each other inside the hotel bio-bubble as they did in the IPL.&nbsp;

"The BCCI's demand is simple. The players want to mingle with each other inside the hotel bio-bubble like they did in the IPL. They want to have their meals together inside the hotel and also have team meetings together. That's not a big demand," he informed.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-absolutely-fine-sourav-ganguly-discharged-from-hospital-after-treatment-for-cardiac-arrest-355097" hreflang="en">'I am absolutely fine': Sourav Ganguly discharged from hospital after treatment for cardiac arrest</a>

Cricket Australia’s communication has stated that players can be with each other but only those residing on the same floor. Hence, players from two different floors cannot come in contact with each other.&nbsp;

"The BCCI has told CA that the relaxation of the quarantine rules should be given in writing. During India's hard quarantine in Sydney after reaching from UAE, there used to be police personnel in each floor ensuring that there is no breach of bio-safety protocols.&nbsp;

"Hopefully, nothing of that sort will happen if the team travels to Brisbane. All we want is IPL style bio-bubble."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, if the Queensland authorities don’t ease down the quarantine rules, the fourth Test could be played in Sydney.&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday wrote to Cricket Australia (CA) as the Indian cricket board look for relaxation in hard quarantine protocols of Brisbane for the fourth and final Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday wrote to Cricket Australia (CA) as the Indian cricket board look for relaxation in hard quarantine protocols of Brisbane for the fourth and final Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. BCCI reminded the Australian board that they are done with strict isolation. According to a PTI report, a top BCCI executive has written to CA head Earl Eddings as the board reminded him of the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the two board on the modalities of the tour which never had a specification of two hard quarantine in separate cities. The Brisbane Test is scheduled to start on January 15 and the strict quarantine rules, as of now, will restrict the players to just their hotel rooms after the end of day’s play. ALSO READ: 'Was missing my dad': Mohammed Siraj on getting emotional during Indian national anthem "The discussions are still on but today BCCI has formally sent a letter seeking relaxation of hard quarantine for its players if they are to have the match in Brisbane," a senior BCCI official told PTI. "The MoU that was signed never mentioned about two hard quarantines. India have done one hard quarantine in Sydney (practice and back to hotel room)," he added. The BCCI has made a simple demand that players want to be with each other inside the hotel bio-bubble as they did in the IPL. "The BCCI's demand is simple. The players want to mingle with each other inside the hotel bio-bubble like they did in the IPL. They want to have their meals together inside the hotel and also have team meetings together. That's not a big demand," he informed. ALSO READ: 'I am absolutely fine': Sourav Ganguly discharged from hospital after treatment for cardiac arrest Cricket Australia’s communication has stated that players can be with each other but only those residing on the same floor. Hence, players from two different floors cannot come in contact with each other. "The BCCI has told CA that the relaxation of the quarantine rules should be given in writing. During India's hard quarantine in Sydney after reaching from UAE, there used to be police personnel in each floor ensuring that there is no breach of bio-safety protocols. "Hopefully, nothing of that sort will happen if the team travels to Brisbane. All we want is IPL style bio-bubble." Meanwhile, if the Queensland authorities don’t ease down the quarantine rules, the fourth Test could be played in Sydney.

AUS vs IND: BCCI formally writes to Cricket Australia about Brisbane's hard quarantine

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj on Thursday got emotional as the Indian national anthem boomed at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground ahead of the third Test. Siraj was seen wiping off his tears as both the teams lined up for their respective national anthem. After the end of day’s play, Siraj revealed why he got emotional as he said that he was missing his father, who had passed away around a week after the Indian team landed in Australia. &nbsp;

Siraj, who had the option of heading home to be with his family, stayed with the team in a bid to serve his nation, which was his father’s dream as well. Siraj, who made his debut in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, said his father always wanted me to play Test cricket and would have been proud today.&nbsp;

“I was missing my dad during the national anthem. My dad always wanted me to play Test cricket and he would have been really proud to see me in whites for India,” Siraj told reporters in a virtual press conference after the end of Day 1’s play in Sydney.&nbsp;

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Mohammed Siraj on why he got so emotional while the National Anthem was being played at the SCG.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/zo0Wc8h14A">pic.twitter.com/zo0Wc8h14A</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1347121794264678400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/labuschagne-pucovski-half-centuries-give-australia-edge-on-day-1-of-sydney-test-355087" hreflang="en">Labuschagne, Pucovski half-centuries give Australia edge on Day 1 of Sydney Test</a>

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Even if there's little or no crowd to cheer you on, no better motivation than playing for India. As a legend once said "You don't play for the crowd, you play for the country." 🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/qAwIyiUrSI">pic.twitter.com/qAwIyiUrSI</a>
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I just want certain people to remember this picture. He is <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SirajMohammed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SirajMohammed</a> and this is what the national anthem means to him <a href="https://t.co/eJi9Xeww8E">pic.twitter.com/eJi9Xeww8E</a>
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India on Thursday toiled hard against Australia in what was Day 1 of the third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. On a flat track, the Indian bowlers kept their bowling tight but Australia ended up with 166/2 at stumps. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammed-siraj-gets-teary-eyed-during-national-anthem-before-sydney-test-355074" hreflang="en">Watch: Mohammed Siraj gets teary-eyed during national anthem before Sydney Test</a>

Navdeep Saini made his Test debut for India and Siraj, who was placed at mid-on, was seen talking to the debutant despite being just one Test old. The bonding shows the unity in the Indian team.&nbsp;

“Navdeep Saini and I have played a lot for India A. I was just telling him to focus on his bowling just like India A days and bowl consistent line and lengths,” Siraj said. &nbsp;

Rishabh Pant dropped two catches, both of Will Pucovski, which proved costly as the Aussie Test debutant went on to register a half-century. However, Siraj was not focusing on dropped chances and rather said that they, as a team know how to move quickly from an incident.&nbsp;

“Dropped catches are part of cricket. Obviously, a bowler gets irked after dropped catches but we are a team and know how to move on from an incident quickly,” Siraj said.&nbsp;

When asked what will be India’s plan on Day 2 of the Sydney Test, Siraj said the bowling unit is focusing on putting pressure on the Aussies by bowling tight. &nbsp;

“We are trying to build pressure by bowling consistent line and lenghts. If we can bowl tight and build presure with dot balls then it can help us,” Siraj said.&nbsp;

The Day 2 of India vs Australia third Test will start early at 4:30 AM IST.&nbsp;

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj on Thursday got emotional as the Indian national anthem boomed at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground ahead of the third Test. Siraj was seen wiping off his tears as both the teams lined up for their respective national anthem.

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj on Thursday got emotional as the Indian national anthem boomed at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground ahead of the third Test. Siraj was seen wiping off his tears as both the teams lined up for their respective national anthem. After the end of day’s play, Siraj revealed why he got emotional as he said that he was missing his father, who had passed away around a week after the Indian team landed in Australia. Siraj, who had the option of heading home to be with his family, stayed with the team in a bid to serve his nation, which was his father’s dream as well. Siraj, who made his debut in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, said his father always wanted me to play Test cricket and would have been proud today. “I was missing my dad during the national anthem. My dad always wanted me to play Test cricket and he would have been really proud to see me in whites for India,” Siraj told reporters in a virtual press conference after the end of Day 1’s play in Sydney. Mohammed Siraj on why he got so emotional while the National Anthem was being played at the SCG.#TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/zo0Wc8h14A — BCCI (@BCCI) January 7, 2021 × ALSO READ: Labuschagne, Pucovski half-centuries give Australia edge on Day 1 of Sydney Test Even if there's little or no crowd to cheer you on, no better motivation than playing for India. As a legend once said "You don't play for the crowd, you play for the country." 🇮🇳 #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/qAwIyiUrSI — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) January 7, 2021 × I just want certain people to remember this picture. He is #SirajMohammed and this is what the national anthem means to him pic.twitter.com/eJi9Xeww8E — Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) January 7, 2021 × India on Thursday toiled hard against Australia in what was Day 1 of the third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. On a flat track, the Indian bowlers kept their bowling tight but Australia ended up with 166/2 at stumps. ALSO READ: Watch: Mohammed Siraj gets teary-eyed during national anthem before Sydney Test Navdeep Saini made his Test debut for India and Siraj, who was placed at mid-on, was seen talking to the debutant despite being just one Test old. The bonding shows the unity in the Indian team. “Navdeep Saini and I have played a lot for India A. I was just telling him to focus on his bowling just like India A days and bowl consistent line and lengths,” Siraj said. Rishabh Pant dropped two catches, both of Will Pucovski, which proved costly as the Aussie Test debutant went on to register a half-century. However, Siraj was not focusing on dropped chances and rather said that they, as a team know how to move quickly from an incident. “Dropped catches are part of cricket. Obviously, a bowler gets irked after dropped catches but we are a team and know how to move on from an incident quickly,” Siraj said. When asked what will be India’s plan on Day 2 of the Sydney Test, Siraj said the bowling unit is focusing on putting pressure on the Aussies by bowling tight. “We are trying to build pressure by bowling consistent line and lenghts. If we can bowl tight and build presure with dot balls then it can help us,” Siraj said. The Day 2 of India vs Australia third Test will start early at 4:30 AM IST.

'Was missing my dad': Mohammed Siraj on getting emotional during Indian national anthem

Australia on Thursday ended Day 1 of the third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground on high as the hosts posted 166/2 with star batsmen Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne well settled&nbsp;at the crease.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In what was a rain-hit start to the first day of the Sydney Test, Australia won the toss and opted to bat first. The Sydney pitch, which has a tinge of grass, looked great for batting but also assisted the seamers early on.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Continuing his great start in the Test arena, Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj, who made his Test debut in Melbourne,&nbsp;dismissed Aussie opener, David Warner, for five as the southpaw edged one straight to&nbsp;Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara in the slip cordon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammed-siraj-gets-teary-eyed-during-national-anthem-before-sydney-test-355074" hreflang="en">Watch: Mohammed Siraj gets teary-eyed during national anthem before Sydney Test</a>

However, as the pitch settled, it became easier for the batsmen with debutant Will&nbsp;Pucovski&nbsp;and Marnus Labuschagne stitching a 100-run stand for the hosts. While&nbsp;Pucovski&nbsp;was dropped twice by Rishabh Pant, the elegant batsman went on to register his maiden half-century to become the 82nd&nbsp;Australian to score a fifty in Test debut. The youngster was trapped plumb by another debutant Navdeep Saini as the quick, angled-in delivery did the job for the visitors.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Steve Smith, who is going through a lean patch, played with intent and ended the day on 31 with Labuschagne scoring an unbeaten 67 to end the day.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-have-to-look-at-his-record-tom-moody-on-steve-smith-bouncing-back-in-form-354910" hreflang="en">'You have to look at his record': Tom Moody on Steve Smith bouncing back in form</a>

Indian bowlers bowled well but the dropped catches and a flat and&nbsp;slowish&nbsp;Sydney track didn’t help their case much.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I'm good, nice to spend a bit of time out there, nice to stitch in a partnership with Marnus. I wanted to put him (Ashwin) under a little bit of pressure which I haven't done this series. Was just trying to hold the grip a bit tighter, I've been struggling, so I was getting into good positions today. Was good to get a couple of boundaries early. Marnus played well, hopefully, we go along well tomorrow,” said Smith at the end of Day 1 in Sydney.&nbsp;

With an early start set for Friday, India would be looking to pick some quick wickets and put pressure on the Aussies. Whereas Australia would be hoping that Smith and Labuschagne&nbsp;register a big partnership.&nbsp;

Australia on Thursday ended Day 1 of the third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground on high as the hosts posted 166/2 with star batsmen Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne well settled at the crease.

Australia on Thursday ended Day 1 of the third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground on high as the hosts posted 166/2 with star batsmen Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne well settled at the crease. In what was a rain-hit start to the first day of the Sydney Test, Australia won the toss and opted to bat first. The Sydney pitch, which has a tinge of grass, looked great for batting but also assisted the seamers early on. Continuing his great start in the Test arena, Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj, who made his Test debut in Melbourne, dismissed Aussie opener, David Warner, for five as the southpaw edged one straight to Cheteshwar Pujara in the slip cordon. ALSO READ: Watch: Mohammed Siraj gets teary-eyed during national anthem before Sydney Test However, as the pitch settled, it became easier for the batsmen with debutant Will Pucovski and Marnus Labuschagne stitching a 100-run stand for the hosts. While Pucovski was dropped twice by Rishabh Pant, the elegant batsman went on to register his maiden half-century to become the 82nd Australian to score a fifty in Test debut. The youngster was trapped plumb by another debutant Navdeep Saini as the quick, angled-in delivery did the job for the visitors. Steve Smith, who is going through a lean patch, played with intent and ended the day on 31 with Labuschagne scoring an unbeaten 67 to end the day. ALSO READ: 'You have to look at his record': Tom Moody on Steve Smith bouncing back in form Indian bowlers bowled well but the dropped catches and a flat and slowish Sydney track didn’t help their case much. “I'm good, nice to spend a bit of time out there, nice to stitch in a partnership with Marnus. I wanted to put him (Ashwin) under a little bit of pressure which I haven't done this series. Was just trying to hold the grip a bit tighter, I've been struggling, so I was getting into good positions today. Was good to get a couple of boundaries early. Marnus played well, hopefully, we go along well tomorrow,” said Smith at the end of Day 1 in Sydney. With an early start set for Friday, India would be looking to pick some quick wickets and put pressure on the Aussies. Whereas Australia would be hoping that Smith and Labuschagne register a big partnership.

Labuschagne, Pucovski half-centuries give Australia edge on Day 1 of Sydney Test

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj on Thursday got emotional and teary-eyed when the Indian national anthem was being played at the Sydney Cricket Ground before the start of third Test’s play. Siraj, who made his Test debut in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, was seen wiping his tears rolling down his face. Whereas Jasprit Bumrah was seen trying to lighten him up in what was a heartfelt moment. &nbsp;

Siraj, who lost his father around a week after Team India landed in Australia for the gruelling tour, has had a brilliant start to his Test career as he picked up five wickets in his debut match. And on Day 1 of the Sydney Test, Siraj dismissed star opener, David Warner, for cheap as he forced the Aussie opener to edge one to Cheteshwar Pujara in the slip cordon.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-have-to-look-at-his-record-tom-moody-on-steve-smith-bouncing-back-in-form-354910" hreflang="en">'You have to look at his record': Tom Moody on Steve Smith bouncing back in form</a>

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Playing a Test match is the pinnacle of this sport... 
 
Mohammed Siraj had to wipe away tears during the national anthem 🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/J5z1FHDtmp">pic.twitter.com/J5z1FHDtmp</a>
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Mohammad Siraj wiping tears away during the national anthem ❤<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Az78qumI6L">pic.twitter.com/Az78qumI6L</a>
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Siraj is living his Dream. Took a wicket like Warner in different circumstances is not an easy task.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/siraj?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#siraj</a> <a href="https://t.co/6deNEV4ONO">pic.twitter.com/6deNEV4ONO</a>
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Mohammed Siraj In Tears While Singing Indian National Anthem <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mohammadsiraj?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mohammadsiraj</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianCricketTeam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianCricketTeam</a> <a href="https://t.co/xgJihOsI8k">pic.twitter.com/xgJihOsI8k</a> <a href="https://t.co/MMozz09VPA">pic.twitter.com/MMozz09VPA</a>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-captaincy-feats-against-australia-unlikely-to-be-emulated-soon-ravi-shastri-354856" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli's captaincy feats against Australia unlikely to be emulated soon: Ravi Shastri</a>

With his superb debut, Siraj became the first Indian debutant to pick five wickets in a Test match as he ended with a match haul of five wickets for 77 runs.&nbsp;

Mohammed Shami was the last Indian bowler to pick at least five wickets in Test debut in November 2013. Shami achieved the feat against West Indies in Kolkata.&nbsp;

This is not the first time Siraj got emotional during the Indian national anthem while representing India. Siraj was also seen getting emotional when he made his T20I debut for India against New Zealand in Rajkot in the year 2017. Siraj replaced Ashish Nehra in the playing XI and the youngster was seen wiping off his tears at the end of the national anthem.&nbsp;

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj on Thursday got emotional and teary-eyed when the Indian national anthem was being played at the Sydney Cricket Ground before the start of third Test’s play.

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj on Thursday got emotional and teary-eyed when the Indian national anthem was being played at the Sydney Cricket Ground before the start of third Test’s play. Siraj, who made his Test debut in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, was seen wiping his tears rolling down his face. Whereas Jasprit Bumrah was seen trying to lighten him up in what was a heartfelt moment. Siraj, who lost his father around a week after Team India landed in Australia for the gruelling tour, has had a brilliant start to his Test career as he picked up five wickets in his debut match. And on Day 1 of the Sydney Test, Siraj dismissed star opener, David Warner, for cheap as he forced the Aussie opener to edge one to Cheteshwar Pujara in the slip cordon. ALSO READ: 'You have to look at his record': Tom Moody on Steve Smith bouncing back in form Playing a Test match is the pinnacle of this sport... Mohammed Siraj had to wipe away tears during the national anthem 🇮🇳#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/J5z1FHDtmp — Cricket on BT Sport (@btsportcricket) January 6, 2021 × Mohammad Siraj wiping tears away during the national anthem ❤#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/Az78qumI6L — Wisden India (@WisdenIndia) January 7, 2021 × Siraj is living his Dream. Took a wicket like Warner in different circumstances is not an easy task.#AUSvsIND #siraj pic.twitter.com/6deNEV4ONO — Sujal Jaiswal (@sujal_jaiswal16) January 7, 2021 × Mohammed Siraj In Tears While Singing Indian National Anthem #AUSvIND #mohammadsiraj #TeamIndia #IndianCricketTeam pic.twitter.com/xgJihOsI8k pic.twitter.com/MMozz09VPA — iamfarhanqkhan007 (@iamfrhanqkhan21) January 7, 2021 × ALSO READ: Virat Kohli's captaincy feats against Australia unlikely to be emulated soon: Ravi Shastri With his superb debut, Siraj became the first Indian debutant to pick five wickets in a Test match as he ended with a match haul of five wickets for 77 runs. Mohammed Shami was the last Indian bowler to pick at least five wickets in Test debut in November 2013. Shami achieved the feat against West Indies in Kolkata. This is not the first time Siraj got emotional during the Indian national anthem while representing India. Siraj was also seen getting emotional when he made his T20I debut for India against New Zealand in Rajkot in the year 2017. Siraj replaced Ashish Nehra in the playing XI and the youngster was seen wiping off his tears at the end of the national anthem.

Watch: Mohammed Siraj gets teary-eyed during national anthem before Sydney Test

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday announced the playing XI for the third Test against Australia, scheduled to start from January 7 at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney. Mayank Agarwal has been dropped from the side with Rohit Sharma replacing the opener in the playing XI. Whereas pacer Navdeep Saini has been handed Test debut as he replaces an injured Umesh Yadav in the side.

<h2>Team India XI vs Australia for Sydney Test:&nbsp;</h2>

Ajinkya Rahane (C), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja,&nbsp;Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Navdeep Saini

Mayank Agarwal, who has looked out of form, has been replaced by veteran Rohit as he takes the place in the playing XI. Rohit will also be deputy to captain Rahane for the remaining two Test matches. Navdeep Saini, who has had a tremendous rise in world cricket, gets his Test debut in Sydney after impressing for India in the limited-overs format.

Umesh Yadav, who was ruled out of the Test series due to calf injury, was replaced by Saini in the line-up.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-announces-decade-awards-from-kohli-smith-to-perry-heres-complete-list-of-winners-352996" hreflang="en">ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners</a>

"It's unfortunate that Umesh got injured, we will surely miss him and Shami. But this gives an opportunity to others. I'm really happy the way Siraj stood up in the last game," said Rahane in the pre-match press conference on Wednesday.

"We're all happy to have Rohit Sharma back. He brings a lot of experience to the side. He has been batting really well in the nets. He has been opening for us so he will definitely bat at the top of the order," the Indian captain added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-india-boxing-day-test-declared-possible-covid-hotspot-354763" hreflang="en">Australia-India Boxing Day Test declared possible Covid hotspot</a>

Interestingly, India will go with their third new opening pair for the Sydney Test. India opened with Prithvi Shaw and Mayank Agarwal in Adelaide, they went with Shubman Gill and Mayank Agarwal in Melbourne. Now, the visitors have decided to pair Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill in the XI.&nbsp;

India, after losing the Adelaide Test, bounced back strong in the series by winning the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne by eight wickets. While India don't have a strong record in Sydney, they have come agonisingly close of winning Test matches in Sydney, only to lose out of the win by narrow margins - the latest being in 2019.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday announced the playing XI for the third Test against Australia, scheduled to start from January 7 at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday announced the playing XI for the third Test against Australia, scheduled to start from January 7 at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney. Mayank Agarwal has been dropped from the side with Rohit Sharma replacing the opener in the playing XI. Whereas pacer Navdeep Saini has been handed Test debut as he replaces an injured Umesh Yadav in the side. Team India XI vs Australia for Sydney Test: Ajinkya Rahane (C), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Navdeep Saini Mayank Agarwal, who has looked out of form, has been replaced by veteran Rohit as he takes the place in the playing XI. Rohit will also be deputy to captain Rahane for the remaining two Test matches. Navdeep Saini, who has had a tremendous rise in world cricket, gets his Test debut in Sydney after impressing for India in the limited-overs format. Umesh Yadav, who was ruled out of the Test series due to calf injury, was replaced by Saini in the line-up. ALSO READ: ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners "It's unfortunate that Umesh got injured, we will surely miss him and Shami. But this gives an opportunity to others. I'm really happy the way Siraj stood up in the last game," said Rahane in the pre-match press conference on Wednesday. "We're all happy to have Rohit Sharma back. He brings a lot of experience to the side. He has been batting really well in the nets. He has been opening for us so he will definitely bat at the top of the order," the Indian captain added. ALSO READ: Australia-India Boxing Day Test declared possible Covid hotspot Interestingly, India will go with their third new opening pair for the Sydney Test. India opened with Prithvi Shaw and Mayank Agarwal in Adelaide, they went with Shubman Gill and Mayank Agarwal in Melbourne. Now, the visitors have decided to pair Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill in the XI. India, after losing the Adelaide Test, bounced back strong in the series by winning the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne by eight wickets. While India don't have a strong record in Sydney, they have come agonisingly close of winning Test matches in Sydney, only to lose out of the win by narrow margins - the latest being in 2019.

India announce playing XI for Sydney Test vs Australia; Rohit Sharma, Navdeep Saini start

A spectator at Australia's showpiece Boxing Day Test against India has tested positive for coronavirus, authorities said Wednesday, warning fans seated nearby that they must get tested and isolate.&nbsp;

State health authorities said the man in his thirties was not infectious while at the famed Melbourne Cricket Ground on the second day of play "but there is potential he acquired the virus while there" or at a nearby shopping centre.&nbsp;

"The MCG is being investigated as a potential source for the infection," Victoria's Department of Health said.

"We're encouraging anyone who was in The Great Southern Stand, zone 5 of the MCG between 12.30pm and 3.30pm on 27 December, to get tested and isolate until they receive a negative result."&nbsp;

The Boxing Day Test is a centrepiece of Australia's sporting calendar and just under 30,000 people attended this year, well short of capacity. &nbsp;

Despite having been largely free of Covid-19, Australia is currently battling to bring a cluster of cases under control and hoping aggressive testing and contact tracing can help avoid full-scale lockdowns.&nbsp;

The news comes on the eve of the third Test between Australia and India, which has caused some controversy by being played in Sydney, the epicentre of a recent outbreak.

The number of spectators has been restricted to 25 percent of seating capacity in order to make sure it does not become a mass spreading event.&nbsp;

Authorities in New South Wales said the revelation from Melbourne was "obviously influencing our thinking" about how the Sydney Test would proceed, without elaborating.

India's tour Down Under has been beset with Covid-19 related problems.&nbsp;

Five players were criticised for seemingly breaching the team's biosecurity bubble by going out to a restaurant.&nbsp;

And there are still questions about whether the two teams will have to quarantine before the final Test in Brisbane next week.&nbsp;

A spectator at Australia's showpiece Boxing Day Test against India has tested positive for coronavirus, authorities said Wednesday, warning fans seated nearby that they must get tested and isolate.

A spectator at Australia's showpiece Boxing Day Test against India has tested positive for coronavirus, authorities said Wednesday, warning fans seated nearby that they must get tested and isolate. State health authorities said the man in his thirties was not infectious while at the famed Melbourne Cricket Ground on the second day of play "but there is potential he acquired the virus while there" or at a nearby shopping centre. "The MCG is being investigated as a potential source for the infection," Victoria's Department of Health said. "We're encouraging anyone who was in The Great Southern Stand, zone 5 of the MCG between 12.30pm and 3.30pm on 27 December, to get tested and isolate until they receive a negative result." The Boxing Day Test is a centrepiece of Australia's sporting calendar and just under 30,000 people attended this year, well short of capacity. Despite having been largely free of Covid-19, Australia is currently battling to bring a cluster of cases under control and hoping aggressive testing and contact tracing can help avoid full-scale lockdowns. The news comes on the eve of the third Test between Australia and India, which has caused some controversy by being played in Sydney, the epicentre of a recent outbreak. The number of spectators has been restricted to 25 percent of seating capacity in order to make sure it does not become a mass spreading event. Authorities in New South Wales said the revelation from Melbourne was "obviously influencing our thinking" about how the Sydney Test would proceed, without elaborating. India's tour Down Under has been beset with Covid-19 related problems. Five players were criticised for seemingly breaching the team's biosecurity bubble by going out to a restaurant. And there are still questions about whether the two teams will have to quarantine before the final Test in Brisbane next week.

Australia-India Boxing Day Test declared possible Covid hotspot

The Indian cricket team is looking to win back-to-back Test series on Australian soil with the four-Test series against Australia firmly locked at 1-1. India, in the 2018/19 tour of Australia, became the first Asian side to defeat Australia in Australia as the Virat Kohli-led visitors won the series 2-1. In 2016/17, when Australia visited India, the hosts won the series 2-1.

The head coach of the Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri has said that he can't see the feat of winning against Australia, both at home and away, by the Indian team led by Kohli emulated by any other Indian captain for a very long time.&nbsp;

India defeated Australia 2-1 after terrific batting display by the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara whereas Kohli led the side with passion and aggression to match the Aussie side on their home soil.

"The satisfaction gained in registering India's first series win in Australia after 71 years of heartbreak was immense," Shastri says in the book 'India's 71-Year Test: The Journey to Triumph in Australia' which is the latest in a series of publications from the Bradman Museum.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-fan-who-attended-the-ind-vs-aus-boxing-day-test-at-mcg-tests-positive-for-covid-19-354850" hreflang="en">A fan who attended the IND vs AUS Boxing Day Test at MCG, tests positive for COVID-19</a>

"I can't see Virat's feat of winning against Australia both at home and away being emulated by another Indian captain for a very long time.

"The great thing about success in Australia is that it doesn't come easily.

Shastri added that sportspersons command respect when they win the hard away while adding this is why this Indian team commands respect from the Aussies after humbling them with fast-bowling resources.

"As a professional sportsperson, you know that when you win the hard way, you command respect.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-ind-tensions-broil-over-team-india-brisbane-boycott-reports-354805" hreflang="en">AUS vs IND: Tensions broil over Team India Brisbane boycott reports</a>

"Indian teams have done well in Australia since the turn of the (21st) century, but didn't have the depth of fast-bowling resources.

"That's why this Indian team commanded respect from the hard-to-please Aussies like few others in the past."

India and Australia are set to lock horns in the third Test in Sydney, scheduled to start from January 7.

The Indian cricket team is looking to win back-to-back Test series on Australian soil with the four-Test series against Australia firmly locked at 1-1. India, in the 2018/19 tour of Australia, became the first Asian side to defeat Australia in Australia as the Virat Kohli-led visitors won the series 2-1.

The Indian cricket team is looking to win back-to-back Test series on Australian soil with the four-Test series against Australia firmly locked at 1-1. India, in the 2018/19 tour of Australia, became the first Asian side to defeat Australia in Australia as the Virat Kohli-led visitors won the series 2-1. In 2016/17, when Australia visited India, the hosts won the series 2-1. The head coach of the Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri has said that he can't see the feat of winning against Australia, both at home and away, by the Indian team led by Kohli emulated by any other Indian captain for a very long time. India defeated Australia 2-1 after terrific batting display by the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara whereas Kohli led the side with passion and aggression to match the Aussie side on their home soil. "The satisfaction gained in registering India's first series win in Australia after 71 years of heartbreak was immense," Shastri says in the book 'India's 71-Year Test: The Journey to Triumph in Australia' which is the latest in a series of publications from the Bradman Museum. ALSO READ: A fan who attended the IND vs AUS Boxing Day Test at MCG, tests positive for COVID-19 "I can't see Virat's feat of winning against Australia both at home and away being emulated by another Indian captain for a very long time. "The great thing about success in Australia is that it doesn't come easily. Shastri added that sportspersons command respect when they win the hard away while adding this is why this Indian team commands respect from the Aussies after humbling them with fast-bowling resources. "As a professional sportsperson, you know that when you win the hard way, you command respect. ALSO READ: AUS vs IND: Tensions broil over Team India Brisbane boycott reports "Indian teams have done well in Australia since the turn of the (21st) century, but didn't have the depth of fast-bowling resources. "That's why this Indian team commanded respect from the hard-to-please Aussies like few others in the past." India and Australia are set to lock horns in the third Test in Sydney, scheduled to start from January 7.

Virat Kohli's captaincy feats against Australia unlikely to be emulated soon: Ravi Shastri

With reports surfacing that India are discontent at the prospect of being forced into hard quarantine for the fourth Test against Australia in Brisbane, Australian captain Tim Paine reckoned that the controversial build-up could raise tensions on the field during the third Test match in Sydney.&nbsp;

Paine conceded that reports stating that India might not turn up to play at the Gabba has started to annoy some of the Aussie players and could result in a high-tension match when the third Test starts at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday.

"I think there`s a bit of tension starting to boil under the surface with a lot of unnamed sources coming out from their camp saying where they want to play the fourth test and where they don`t want to go," Paine said in his pre-match news conference.

"I think it`s starting to grind a few people, so we`ll see how it goes."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/quarantine-is-challenging-when-life-in-sydney-is-normal-india-captain-ajinkya-rahane-354796" hreflang="en">Quarantine is challenging when life in Sydney is normal: India captain Ajinkya Rahane</a>

India have officially made no statement about the issue and on Monday, Cricket Australia boss Nick Hockley said the fourth Test is scheduled to be played in Brisbane and he has heard nothing from the Indian camp about the quarantine protocols.

However, Indian captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday said that quarantine was "challenging" when life outside in Sydney was "normal". When asked about a potential Brisbane boycott, Rahane evaded the question and said that the "BCCI and team management" will take a final call.&nbsp;

"Quarantine life is definitely a challenge, especially we know that in Australia, in Sydney especially, the life is normal," he told reporters.

"The players are stuck in the room, which is okay. We know how to handle it, we are prepared for any kind of situation. We are not at all annoyed. We know what`s our priority here.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-announce-playing-xi-for-sydney-test-vs-australia-rohit-sharma-navdeep-saini-start-354769" hreflang="en">India announce playing XI for Sydney Test vs Australia; Rohit Sharma, Navdeep Saini start</a>

"We are here to play cricket and we just want to do that. Starting from tomorrow, start well in the test match and, as a team, as a unit, we are just focused on playing some good cricket."

On the other hand, Paine said Australia would play the fourth Test anywhere in the world, even Mumbai."When you hear things like that coming, particularly from India, who we know hold a lot of power in world cricket, it`s likely that it could happen," he said.

"But we`re not too fussed. We`re not buying into where the test is being played. As far as we`re aware it is at the Gabba, but as I said in the team meeting the other day, we couldn`t care less.

"If you rang us up and said it`s in Mumbai tomorrow, we`d get on a plane and we`d go and play it. That`s the way we are looking at it."

The four-Test series is nicely locked at 1-1 after India made a cracking comeback in the Boxing Day Test. Both India and Australia would be looking to win the Sydney Test and take an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.

With reports surfacing that India are discontent at the prospect of being forced into hard quarantine for the fourth Test against Australia in Brisbane, Australian captain Tim Paine reckoned that the controversial build-up could raise tensions on the field during the third Test match in Sydney.

With reports surfacing that India are discontent at the prospect of being forced into hard quarantine for the fourth Test against Australia in Brisbane, Australian captain Tim Paine reckoned that the controversial build-up could raise tensions on the field during the third Test match in Sydney. Paine conceded that reports stating that India might not turn up to play at the Gabba has started to annoy some of the Aussie players and could result in a high-tension match when the third Test starts at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday. "I think there`s a bit of tension starting to boil under the surface with a lot of unnamed sources coming out from their camp saying where they want to play the fourth test and where they don`t want to go," Paine said in his pre-match news conference. "I think it`s starting to grind a few people, so we`ll see how it goes." ALSO READ: Quarantine is challenging when life in Sydney is normal: India captain Ajinkya Rahane India have officially made no statement about the issue and on Monday, Cricket Australia boss Nick Hockley said the fourth Test is scheduled to be played in Brisbane and he has heard nothing from the Indian camp about the quarantine protocols. However, Indian captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday said that quarantine was "challenging" when life outside in Sydney was "normal". When asked about a potential Brisbane boycott, Rahane evaded the question and said that the "BCCI and team management" will take a final call. "Quarantine life is definitely a challenge, especially we know that in Australia, in Sydney especially, the life is normal," he told reporters. "The players are stuck in the room, which is okay. We know how to handle it, we are prepared for any kind of situation. We are not at all annoyed. We know what`s our priority here. ALSO READ: India announce playing XI for Sydney Test vs Australia; Rohit Sharma, Navdeep Saini start "We are here to play cricket and we just want to do that. Starting from tomorrow, start well in the test match and, as a team, as a unit, we are just focused on playing some good cricket." On the other hand, Paine said Australia would play the fourth Test anywhere in the world, even Mumbai."When you hear things like that coming, particularly from India, who we know hold a lot of power in world cricket, it`s likely that it could happen," he said. "But we`re not too fussed. We`re not buying into where the test is being played. As far as we`re aware it is at the Gabba, but as I said in the team meeting the other day, we couldn`t care less. "If you rang us up and said it`s in Mumbai tomorrow, we`d get on a plane and we`d go and play it. That`s the way we are looking at it." The four-Test series is nicely locked at 1-1 after India made a cracking comeback in the Boxing Day Test. Both India and Australia would be looking to win the Sydney Test and take an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.

AUS vs IND: Tensions broil over Team India Brisbane boycott reports

Indian captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday tried to play down the quarantine controversy as he stated that Indian contingent is "not annoyed" with the stringent bio-secure protocols but accepted that it was "challenging" to be confined to their hotel when life outside seems to be "normal".&nbsp;

There have been reports that the Indian team has been unhappy with quarantine protocols in Sydney, where they have been confined to the hotel with stricter rules set to follow ahead of the fourth Test in Brisbane.&nbsp;

"We are not at all annoyed but yes there are some challenges in quarantine as life in Sydney is completely normal. We are not at all annoyed and we know what's our priority here," the Indian captain made it clear while fielding a series of questions on the eve of the third Test on Wednesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-announce-playing-xi-for-sydney-test-vs-australia-rohit-sharma-navdeep-saini-start-354769" hreflang="en">India announce playing XI for Sydney Test vs Australia; Rohit Sharma, Navdeep Saini start</a>

There have been unconfirmed reports that Indian team is trying to pull out of Brisbane Test and make the last match of the series played at the Sydney Cricket Ground as well. However, Rahane said that as players, they are focused on the game and the BCCI and team management will take a call on the venue of the fourth and final Test.

"We all are prepared and we want to play some good cricket. We know that life in Sydney is normal but players are stuck in their rooms which is okay. We know how to handle it and we are prepared for any kind of situation.&nbsp;

"It's about being in the moment and playing some good cricket," said India's hero of eight-wicket victory in Melbourne.&nbsp;

ÁLSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-india-boxing-day-test-declared-possible-covid-hotspot-354763" hreflang="en">Australia-India Boxing Day Test declared possible Covid hotspot</a>

"First thing first, we are not complaining about anything and we are just focussed on the game. Just want to start well.

"We as players are just focussing on this Test match and management, they will take the decision. For us, it's all about giving our best on the field. Test match is starting tomorrow and we want to do well as a team and win the Test match," said the non-controversial team leader.&nbsp;

According to reports, the BCCI and CA are in discussion on possible relaxation of quarantine protocols players can get in Queensland. A call on the fourth Test is likely to be taken during the Sydney Test, starting from January 7.

Indian captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday tried to play down the quarantine controversy as he stated that Indian contingent is "not annoyed" with the stringent bio-secure protocols but accepted that it was "challenging" to be confined to their hotel when life outside seems to be "normal".

Indian captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday tried to play down the quarantine controversy as he stated that Indian contingent is "not annoyed" with the stringent bio-secure protocols but accepted that it was "challenging" to be confined to their hotel when life outside seems to be "normal". There have been reports that the Indian team has been unhappy with quarantine protocols in Sydney, where they have been confined to the hotel with stricter rules set to follow ahead of the fourth Test in Brisbane. "We are not at all annoyed but yes there are some challenges in quarantine as life in Sydney is completely normal. We are not at all annoyed and we know what's our priority here," the Indian captain made it clear while fielding a series of questions on the eve of the third Test on Wednesday. ALSO READ: India announce playing XI for Sydney Test vs Australia; Rohit Sharma, Navdeep Saini start There have been unconfirmed reports that Indian team is trying to pull out of Brisbane Test and make the last match of the series played at the Sydney Cricket Ground as well. However, Rahane said that as players, they are focused on the game and the BCCI and team management will take a call on the venue of the fourth and final Test. "We all are prepared and we want to play some good cricket. We know that life in Sydney is normal but players are stuck in their rooms which is okay. We know how to handle it and we are prepared for any kind of situation. "It's about being in the moment and playing some good cricket," said India's hero of eight-wicket victory in Melbourne. ÁLSO READ: Australia-India Boxing Day Test declared possible Covid hotspot "First thing first, we are not complaining about anything and we are just focussed on the game. Just want to start well. "We as players are just focussing on this Test match and management, they will take the decision. For us, it's all about giving our best on the field. Test match is starting tomorrow and we want to do well as a team and win the Test match," said the non-controversial team leader. According to reports, the BCCI and CA are in discussion on possible relaxation of quarantine protocols players can get in Queensland. A call on the fourth Test is likely to be taken during the Sydney Test, starting from January 7.

Quarantine is challenging when life in Sydney is normal: India captain Ajinkya Rahane

Australia and India resume their "arm-wrestle" Test series at 1-1 Thursday after a build-up marred by a coronavirus outbreak in Sydney and concerns over a potential biosecurity breach by the Indian team.

The four-Test series is finely poised after India, crushed by eight wickets in Adelaide -- where they fell for their record low of 36 -- emphatically bounced back in Melbourne.

Spearheaded by stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane, who is deputising during Virat Kohli's paternity leave, they levelled the series with their own eight-wicket win.

"The first two Tests have been tough cricket, it's 1-1 and that probably shows how close the series is," said Australia coach Justin Langer, describing the series as an "arm-wrestle".

"We are very, very determined to get out of the blocks hard on Thursday."

The series has also been eventful off the field with Sydney, which has raced to contain a new Covid-19 cluster, only confirmed as host of the third Test after the Melbourne game.

The Sydney Cricket Ground has slashed its available capacity from 50 to 25 percent -- about 10,000 fans -- after a public backlash over the potential health risks.

Separately, five Indian players were spotted dining inside a Melbourne restaurant, in apparent contravention of biosecurity protocols.

Australian officials have also played down reports claiming India are not keen on having the final Test in Brisbane, due to stricter quarantine arrangements there.

<h2>- Warner set for return -</h2>

The weather could affect plans for both teams, with showers forecast for Thursday and Friday.

Run-shy Australia are set to make at least one change, with David Warner expected to return after missing the first two Tests with a groin strain, while fellow opener Joe Burns has been dumped.

Warner's opening partner is still unknown. Will Pucovski has been given the all-clear from a concussion and could make his debut, although Marcus Harris is also waiting in the wings.

If either play, Matthew Wade would drop back to number five with Travis Head facing the axe.

"There's loyalty to all our players. And whatever way we go -- the hardest thing is... it's so hard to fit seven or eight into six," said Langer, when asked about Head.

But he stressed his batsmen must start putting more runs on the board, with the team failing to go past 200 during the series.

"We're addressing the issues. I think we got 200 in that second innings (in Melbourne), but any time you're not scoring over 200, you're looking at ways to improve." &nbsp;

<h2>- 'Five good days' -</h2>

After Melbourne, India coach Ravi Shastri hailed the team's turnaround as one of the great comebacks of all time, but the euphoria was short-lived.

Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Prithvi Shaw and Navdeep Saini were all seen dining in a Melbourne restaurant, in what looked like a biosecurity breach.

But India's cricket board has taken no action so far, and after the entire touring party tested negative for the coronavirus on Sunday, the five seem to be clear to play.

That would see Gill, who was highly impressive on debut in Melbourne, pad up again, while the explosive Pant will once more keep wicket.

Sharma only joined the team last week after a late injury-enforced arrival. But he was immediately made vice-captain, suggesting he too will play, potentially in place of the under-performing Mayank Agarwal.

There will be a new-look attack with Umesh Yadav out of the series after hurting his calf and T. Natarajan called up as a replacement. India were already without injured regulars Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma.

Despite this, Shastri said last week they planned to stick with a five-bowler strategy.

He added that the key to their comeback in Melbourne was forgetting what happened in Adelaide, a trait they will take into Sydney.

"To beat a team like Australia, especially in Australia, there is no point having one good day or two good days," he said.

"You have got to have five good days if you have to beat them, as simple as that."

Australia and India resume their "arm-wrestle" Test series at 1-1 Thursday after a build-up marred by a coronavirus outbreak in Sydney and concerns over a potential biosecurity breach by the Indian team.

Australia and India resume their "arm-wrestle" Test series at 1-1 Thursday after a build-up marred by a coronavirus outbreak in Sydney and concerns over a potential biosecurity breach by the Indian team. The four-Test series is finely poised after India, crushed by eight wickets in Adelaide -- where they fell for their record low of 36 -- emphatically bounced back in Melbourne. Spearheaded by stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane, who is deputising during Virat Kohli's paternity leave, they levelled the series with their own eight-wicket win. "The first two Tests have been tough cricket, it's 1-1 and that probably shows how close the series is," said Australia coach Justin Langer, describing the series as an "arm-wrestle". "We are very, very determined to get out of the blocks hard on Thursday." The series has also been eventful off the field with Sydney, which has raced to contain a new Covid-19 cluster, only confirmed as host of the third Test after the Melbourne game. The Sydney Cricket Ground has slashed its available capacity from 50 to 25 percent -- about 10,000 fans -- after a public backlash over the potential health risks. Separately, five Indian players were spotted dining inside a Melbourne restaurant, in apparent contravention of biosecurity protocols. Australian officials have also played down reports claiming India are not keen on having the final Test in Brisbane, due to stricter quarantine arrangements there. - Warner set for return - The weather could affect plans for both teams, with showers forecast for Thursday and Friday. Run-shy Australia are set to make at least one change, with David Warner expected to return after missing the first two Tests with a groin strain, while fellow opener Joe Burns has been dumped. Warner's opening partner is still unknown. Will Pucovski has been given the all-clear from a concussion and could make his debut, although Marcus Harris is also waiting in the wings. If either play, Matthew Wade would drop back to number five with Travis Head facing the axe. "There's loyalty to all our players. And whatever way we go -- the hardest thing is... it's so hard to fit seven or eight into six," said Langer, when asked about Head. But he stressed his batsmen must start putting more runs on the board, with the team failing to go past 200 during the series. "We're addressing the issues. I think we got 200 in that second innings (in Melbourne), but any time you're not scoring over 200, you're looking at ways to improve." - 'Five good days' - After Melbourne, India coach Ravi Shastri hailed the team's turnaround as one of the great comebacks of all time, but the euphoria was short-lived. Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Prithvi Shaw and Navdeep Saini were all seen dining in a Melbourne restaurant, in what looked like a biosecurity breach. But India's cricket board has taken no action so far, and after the entire touring party tested negative for the coronavirus on Sunday, the five seem to be clear to play. That would see Gill, who was highly impressive on debut in Melbourne, pad up again, while the explosive Pant will once more keep wicket. Sharma only joined the team last week after a late injury-enforced arrival. But he was immediately made vice-captain, suggesting he too will play, potentially in place of the under-performing Mayank Agarwal. There will be a new-look attack with Umesh Yadav out of the series after hurting his calf and T. Natarajan called up as a replacement. India were already without injured regulars Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma. Despite this, Shastri said last week they planned to stick with a five-bowler strategy. He added that the key to their comeback in Melbourne was forgetting what happened in Adelaide, a trait they will take into Sydney. "To beat a team like Australia, especially in Australia, there is no point having one good day or two good days," he said. "You have got to have five good days if you have to beat them, as simple as that."

Australia, India resume 'arm-wrestle' as Covid dominates Test build-up

Australia coach Justin Langer on Tuesday said David Warner was "very, very, very likely" to play the third Test against India, with Will Pucovski shaping as his opening partner after being given the all-clear from a concussion.

Warner missed the first two Tests with a groin injury, but looks almost certain to return for Thursday's crucial clash in Sydney, with the four-Test series locked at 1-1.

"He looks like he's moving pretty well. He's very determined to play," said Langer. "I'd say he's looking very, very, very likely to play the Test match."

But he added: "He's going to be playing through pain though. It's not so much in the muscle but in the tendon area."

Joe Burns opened with Matthew Wade in the opening two Tests in Adelaide and Melbourne, but after a run of poor scores has been axed.

It opens the door for Pucovski to make his debut after Langer said an independent neurologist had cleared him of any lingering damage after the latest in a series of concussions.

"Will has still got a few boxes to tick today then we weigh up whether this Test match is right, or the next Test match is right. Time will tell," said Langer.

Pucovski, 21, has a long history of being hit on the helmet, and has also dealt with mental health issues.

But Langer said his mind has been put at ease by the neurologists' all-clear on Monday.

"The real heartening thing for him is that while he's had a few concussions in the past ... it's not necessarily going to have any long-term impact on him," he said.&nbsp;

"And I think when you can put your mind at rest with that then that's a real positive for him.

"He's in a great frame of mind, he's incredibly positive about playing cricket, he's trained hard this week and, as he and I have discussed a number of times, the only way to get back on the horse is to get back on the horse," he added.

If Pucovski plays, Wade will almost certainly drop back to his more accustomed number five position with allrounder Cameron Green retained at six.

That would likely see Travis Head dropped.

Australia coach Justin Langer on Tuesday said David Warner was "very, very, very likely" to play the third Test against India, with Will Pucovski shaping as his opening partner after being given the all-clear from a concussion.

Australia coach Justin Langer on Tuesday said David Warner was "very, very, very likely" to play the third Test against India, with Will Pucovski shaping as his opening partner after being given the all-clear from a concussion. Warner missed the first two Tests with a groin injury, but looks almost certain to return for Thursday's crucial clash in Sydney, with the four-Test series locked at 1-1. "He looks like he's moving pretty well. He's very determined to play," said Langer. "I'd say he's looking very, very, very likely to play the Test match." But he added: "He's going to be playing through pain though. It's not so much in the muscle but in the tendon area." Joe Burns opened with Matthew Wade in the opening two Tests in Adelaide and Melbourne, but after a run of poor scores has been axed. It opens the door for Pucovski to make his debut after Langer said an independent neurologist had cleared him of any lingering damage after the latest in a series of concussions. "Will has still got a few boxes to tick today then we weigh up whether this Test match is right, or the next Test match is right. Time will tell," said Langer. Pucovski, 21, has a long history of being hit on the helmet, and has also dealt with mental health issues. But Langer said his mind has been put at ease by the neurologists' all-clear on Monday. "The real heartening thing for him is that while he's had a few concussions in the past ... it's not necessarily going to have any long-term impact on him," he said. "And I think when you can put your mind at rest with that then that's a real positive for him. "He's in a great frame of mind, he's incredibly positive about playing cricket, he's trained hard this week and, as he and I have discussed a number of times, the only way to get back on the horse is to get back on the horse," he added. If Pucovski plays, Wade will almost certainly drop back to his more accustomed number five position with allrounder Cameron Green retained at six. That would likely see Travis Head dropped.

Langer says Warner 'very likely' to play through pain

The Indian cricket team will be looking to end a 42-year wait when they take the field at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 7 for the third Test against Australia. India's last win in Sydney came back in 1978 when a Bishan Bedi-led side defeated Australia by an innings and two runs. However, since then India have had a long wait to taste victory in Sydney.&nbsp;

Out of 12 matches played in Sydney, India have won only one while losing six. India came agonisingly close of winning the Sydney Test in the 2018/19 tour but was left disappointed by rain gods as they forced a draw.

England, Pakistan and West Indies are the only sides to register more than a win in Sydney against Australia with Pakistan being the only Asian team to win 2 Test matches in Sydney.

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<h2>'So close in 2019'</h2>

In 2019, India were on the verge of winning the Sydney Test after Cheteshwar Pujara and Rishabh Pant centuries helped the visitors post a mammoth 622/7 (decl.) before bundling out the hosts for 300. After enforcing the follow on, the last two days of the Sydney Test was rain-marred which also saved the Australians from a humiliation.

<h2>'Win in 1978 unforgettable'</h2>

Whereas talking about the famous win in Sydney back in 1978, Bhagwath Chandrashekhar and Bishan Bedi picked up four and three wickets respectively in the first innings to dismiss Australia for 131 in the first innings.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australians-are-bad-losers-former-india-spinner-tears-apart-hosts-over-bio-bubble-controversy-354405" hreflang="en">'Australians are bad losers' - Former India spinner tears apart hosts over bio-bubble controversy</a>

India posted 396/8 (decl.) after Gundappa Vishwanath played a masterful knock of 79 along with Karsan Ghavri's 64 to bolster the momentum.&nbsp;

Australia, despite half-centuries from Gary Cosier and Peter Tooney couldn't climb the mountainous target and surrendered in front of the Indian bowling attack with Erapalli Prasanna picking four wickets while Ghavri, Bedi and Chandrashekhar scalped two wickets each.&nbsp;

But with the focus completely shifting to the Sydney Test, after a controversy-filled week, India would be hoping to get their long-due win in Sydney.&nbsp;

India vs Australia, Sydney Test is set to commence from January 7. 
&nbsp;

The Indian cricket team will be looking to end a 42-year wait when they take the field at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 7 for the third Test against Australia.

The Indian cricket team will be looking to end a 42-year wait when they take the field at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 7 for the third Test against Australia. India's last win in Sydney came back in 1978 when a Bishan Bedi-led side defeated Australia by an innings and two runs. However, since then India have had a long wait to taste victory in Sydney. Out of 12 matches played in Sydney, India have won only one while losing six. India came agonisingly close of winning the Sydney Test in the 2018/19 tour but was left disappointed by rain gods as they forced a draw. England, Pakistan and West Indies are the only sides to register more than a win in Sydney against Australia with Pakistan being the only Asian team to win 2 Test matches in Sydney. ALSO READ: Australia, India resume 'arm-wrestle' as Covid dominates Test build-up 'So close in 2019' In 2019, India were on the verge of winning the Sydney Test after Cheteshwar Pujara and Rishabh Pant centuries helped the visitors post a mammoth 622/7 (decl.) before bundling out the hosts for 300. After enforcing the follow on, the last two days of the Sydney Test was rain-marred which also saved the Australians from a humiliation. 'Win in 1978 unforgettable' Whereas talking about the famous win in Sydney back in 1978, Bhagwath Chandrashekhar and Bishan Bedi picked up four and three wickets respectively in the first innings to dismiss Australia for 131 in the first innings. ALSO READ: 'Australians are bad losers' - Former India spinner tears apart hosts over bio-bubble controversy India posted 396/8 (decl.) after Gundappa Vishwanath played a masterful knock of 79 along with Karsan Ghavri's 64 to bolster the momentum. Australia, despite half-centuries from Gary Cosier and Peter Tooney couldn't climb the mountainous target and surrendered in front of the Indian bowling attack with Erapalli Prasanna picking four wickets while Ghavri, Bedi and Chandrashekhar scalped two wickets each. But with the focus completely shifting to the Sydney Test, after a controversy-filled week, India would be hoping to get their long-due win in Sydney. India vs Australia, Sydney Test is set to commence from January 7.

Focus on Ajinkya Rahane & Co. as India look to end 42-year wait in Sydney

Steve Smith dominated Test cricket in the last decade but for the Aussie batsman, the last few Test matches have been nothing short of nightmare. Smith, in the ongoing Test series against India, has registered scores of 1, 1*, 0 and 8 as he witnesses a lean patch in his formidable batting career.&nbsp;

With Australia hoping that Smith returns back to his best in the last two Tests against Australia, head coach Justin Langer said that that it is about time Smith returns back to form while adding he never coaches the star Aussie batsman.&nbsp;

Langer said that Smith coaches himself while adding that he is going to work it and get out of the lean patch he is facing in his illustrious Test career.

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Smith, who has had a superb record against India, suffered a dip in form after consecutive centuries in the three-match ODI series against India. With Australia looking to bounce back in the series after losing out in the Boxing Day Test, the hosts would be looking towards their talisman - Smith - for big runs.

Langer, in the virtual press conference, said "Imagine how good we will be when he does start batting - that's how I look at it. He hasn't had the best of series so far. He will be the first to admit that. My gosh, what I know about great players, the longer they miss out, the sooner they are coming good again. That puts a big smile on my face. How do you coach Steve? I don't coach Steve Smith. Steve Smith coaches himself and I am sure he is going to work it out."

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Langer added, "Steve is always hitting a lot of balls. He did a lot leading up to it [MCG Test] but, again, there is nothing, even for the greatest of players, there is nothing that replaces time in the middle. And we know what a great problem solver he is, we know what a great player he is."

Australia, after winning the Adelaide Test in sensational fashion, was brought back to the earth by a resilient Indian team as they won the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets to equalise the series 1-1. But now both India and Australia would be eyeing an unassailable 2-1 lead in Sydney.

Steve Smith dominated Test cricket in the last decade but for the Aussie batsman, the last few Test matches have been nothing short of nightmare. Smith, in the ongoing Test series against India, has registered scores of 1, 1*, 0 and 8 as he witnesses a lean patch in his formidable batting career.

Steve Smith dominated Test cricket in the last decade but for the Aussie batsman, the last few Test matches have been nothing short of nightmare. Smith, in the ongoing Test series against India, has registered scores of 1, 1*, 0 and 8 as he witnesses a lean patch in his formidable batting career. With Australia hoping that Smith returns back to his best in the last two Tests against Australia, head coach Justin Langer said that that it is about time Smith returns back to form while adding he never coaches the star Aussie batsman. Langer said that Smith coaches himself while adding that he is going to work it and get out of the lean patch he is facing in his illustrious Test career. ALSO READ: Australia, India resume 'arm-wrestle' as Covid dominates Test build-up Smith, who has had a superb record against India, suffered a dip in form after consecutive centuries in the three-match ODI series against India. With Australia looking to bounce back in the series after losing out in the Boxing Day Test, the hosts would be looking towards their talisman - Smith - for big runs. Langer, in the virtual press conference, said "Imagine how good we will be when he does start batting - that's how I look at it. He hasn't had the best of series so far. He will be the first to admit that. My gosh, what I know about great players, the longer they miss out, the sooner they are coming good again. That puts a big smile on my face. How do you coach Steve? I don't coach Steve Smith. Steve Smith coaches himself and I am sure he is going to work it out." ALSO READ: 'Australians are bad losers' - Former India spinner tears apart hosts over bio-bubble controversy Langer added, "Steve is always hitting a lot of balls. He did a lot leading up to it [MCG Test] but, again, there is nothing, even for the greatest of players, there is nothing that replaces time in the middle. And we know what a great problem solver he is, we know what a great player he is." Australia, after winning the Adelaide Test in sensational fashion, was brought back to the earth by a resilient Indian team as they won the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets to equalise the series 1-1. But now both India and Australia would be eyeing an unassailable 2-1 lead in Sydney.

Steve Smith coaches himself: Justin Langer confident of star batsman returning to form

India's injury worries continue to grow as star batsman KL Rahul was ruled out of the remainder of the Test series against Australia with a sprained left wrist ahead of the third Test, scheduled to start on January 7 in Sydney.&nbsp;

Rahul hurt himself while batting in the nets at the Melbourne Cricket Ground during a practice session on Saturday after the visitors won the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India said Rahul will "not be available for the remaining two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as he will need about three weeks time to recover completely and regain full strength".

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<h2>BCCI statement on KL Rahul:</h2>

"KL Rahul sprained his left wrist while batting in the nets at the MCG during Team India’s practice session on Saturday. The wicketkeeper-batsman will not be available for the remaining two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as he will need about three weeks time to recover completely and regain full strength.

"He will now return to India and head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further rehabilitation of his injury."

The 28-year-old, who has featured for India in 26 Tests, was left out of the first two Tests and will now be heading to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru to recover and be fit in time for the England series.

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It is a major setback for India who started the four-Test series without leading pacer Ishant Sharma. Since then, India have lost the likes of Virat Kohli (paternity leave), Umesh Yadav (calf injury) and Mohammed Shami (fractured arm).&nbsp;

While Rohit Sharma is all set to feature in the Sydney Test, Rahul was also in contention to be in the playing XI.&nbsp;

With the series locked at 1-1, both India and Australia will be desperate to take a lead in Sydney in a bid to have an upper hand in the fourth and final Test at The Gabba in Brisbane.

India's injury worries continue to grow as star batsman KL Rahul was ruled out of the remainder of the Test series against Australia with a sprained left wrist ahead of the third Test, scheduled to start on January 7 in Sydney.

India's injury worries continue to grow as star batsman KL Rahul was ruled out of the remainder of the Test series against Australia with a sprained left wrist ahead of the third Test, scheduled to start on January 7 in Sydney. Rahul hurt himself while batting in the nets at the Melbourne Cricket Ground during a practice session on Saturday after the visitors won the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets. The Board of Control for Cricket in India said Rahul will "not be available for the remaining two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as he will need about three weeks time to recover completely and regain full strength". ALSO READ: Australia, India resume 'arm-wrestle' as Covid dominates Test build-up BCCI statement on KL Rahul: "KL Rahul sprained his left wrist while batting in the nets at the MCG during Team India’s practice session on Saturday. The wicketkeeper-batsman will not be available for the remaining two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as he will need about three weeks time to recover completely and regain full strength. "He will now return to India and head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further rehabilitation of his injury." The 28-year-old, who has featured for India in 26 Tests, was left out of the first two Tests and will now be heading to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru to recover and be fit in time for the England series. ALSO READ: Pakistan in trouble after Williamson's 238 gives New Zealand huge lead It is a major setback for India who started the four-Test series without leading pacer Ishant Sharma. Since then, India have lost the likes of Virat Kohli (paternity leave), Umesh Yadav (calf injury) and Mohammed Shami (fractured arm). While Rohit Sharma is all set to feature in the Sydney Test, Rahul was also in contention to be in the playing XI. With the series locked at 1-1, both India and Australia will be desperate to take a lead in Sydney in a bid to have an upper hand in the fourth and final Test at The Gabba in Brisbane.

Another injury for Team India! KL Rahul ruled out of Test series vs Australia

With the Indian team facing plenty of criticism from the Australian media after five players were placed in isolation for an alleged bio-secure bubble breach in Melbourne, former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha has lashed out at the Australian media as he said that they are trying to unsettle the Indian team after losing the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets.

Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Prithvi Shaw and Navdeep Saini were asked to isolate after photographs and video of them dining at an indoor restaurant went viral on social media. However, the BCCI has continued to back its players. But some of the reactions coming in from Australian media and a handful of Australian politician have irked Ojha.

"Everybody knows Australians are bad losers. They are not able to take it (MCG defeat) despite five of our main players missing. Indian team is doing so well. They never expected the Indian team to win. They thought they could win, they were taken by surprise," Pragyan Ojha said on Sports Today.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-trolling-pakistan-team-new-zealand-fans-take-hilarious-dig-at-australias-steve-smith-and-joe-burns-354391" hreflang="en">After trolling Pakistan team, New Zealand fans take hilarious dig at Australia's Steve Smith and Joe Burns</a>

"I feel it's a big gimmick to take the pressure off Australia and try to get under the skin of the Indians. They don't know we exactly know what they are trying to do. The Indian team is relaxed, they know what to do and focused on the last 2 Tests," he added.

Meanwhile, the entire Indian contingent tested negative for the coronavirus and all the players left for Sydney from Melbourne on Monday.

"Rohit Sharma, he has had a 14-day hard quarantine, before that training at the NCA. I am very sure he is not a fool to come and just breach the protocols. Yes, at times, things look different. I am very sure, they know what the protocols are and they follow them," said Ojha speaking about the whole controversy.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/statement-portrays-indians-in-poor-light-bcci-rethinking-playing-in-brisbane-after-ros-bates-comments-354367" hreflang="en">'Statement portrays Indians in poor light' - BCCI rethinking playing in Brisbane after Ros Bates' comments</a>

"The bottom line is Australians are bad losers," he concluded.

With the four-match Test series firmly locked at 1-1, the third Test between India and Australia is set to start from January 7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

With the Indian team facing plenty of criticism from the Australian media after five players were placed in isolation for an alleged bio-secure bubble breach in Melbourne, former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha has lashed out at the Australian media as he said that they are trying to unsettle the Indian team after losing the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets.

With the Indian team facing plenty of criticism from the Australian media after five players were placed in isolation for an alleged bio-secure bubble breach in Melbourne, former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha has lashed out at the Australian media as he said that they are trying to unsettle the Indian team after losing the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets. Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Prithvi Shaw and Navdeep Saini were asked to isolate after photographs and video of them dining at an indoor restaurant went viral on social media. However, the BCCI has continued to back its players. But some of the reactions coming in from Australian media and a handful of Australian politician have irked Ojha. "Everybody knows Australians are bad losers. They are not able to take it (MCG defeat) despite five of our main players missing. Indian team is doing so well. They never expected the Indian team to win. They thought they could win, they were taken by surprise," Pragyan Ojha said on Sports Today. ALSO READ: After trolling Pakistan team, New Zealand fans take hilarious dig at Australia's Steve Smith and Joe Burns "I feel it's a big gimmick to take the pressure off Australia and try to get under the skin of the Indians. They don't know we exactly know what they are trying to do. The Indian team is relaxed, they know what to do and focused on the last 2 Tests," he added. Meanwhile, the entire Indian contingent tested negative for the coronavirus and all the players left for Sydney from Melbourne on Monday. "Rohit Sharma, he has had a 14-day hard quarantine, before that training at the NCA. I am very sure he is not a fool to come and just breach the protocols. Yes, at times, things look different. I am very sure, they know what the protocols are and they follow them," said Ojha speaking about the whole controversy. ALSO READ: 'Statement portrays Indians in poor light' - BCCI rethinking playing in Brisbane after Ros Bates' comments "The bottom line is Australians are bad losers," he concluded. With the four-match Test series firmly locked at 1-1, the third Test between India and Australia is set to start from January 7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

'Australians are bad losers' - Former India spinner tears apart hosts over bio-bubble controversy

It seems like the comments made by Queensland's Health Shadow Minister Ros Bates' regarding quarantine guideline set for the fourth Test in Brisbane has caused a bit of turbulence in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) as the Indian board feels that the team's image has been shown in poor light by the Australia authorities and media.

After such comments, the BCCI is rethinking if it should turn the Border-Gavaskar Trophy into a three-match series and end the series with the Pink Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), scheduled to start on January 7.

A BCCI official, speaking to ANI, said that the comments from Bates should have been avoided with both BCCI standing united with Cricket Australia to ensure that the tour goes ahead without any hitch. The official said that it is hurtful if a public representative doesn't want the team to go and play while adding that the hosts are propagating a view that the Indian team doesn't wish to follow the rules.

"The statement made by the public representative portrays Indians in poor light and let me assure you, we do not want to do anything other than to abide by the rules, and Rohit Sharma`s strict quarantine is a case in point. To try and propagate a view that we don't wish to follow the rules is unacceptable and the tone and tenor, in which it was said seemed rife with hostility and bordered on racism. It is, therefore, not a surprise that a rethink is on the cards.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-boss-says-india-fine-with-strict-quarantine-for-brisbane-test-as-visitors-test-negative-for-virus-354353" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia boss says India fine with strict quarantine for Brisbane Test as visitors test negative for virus</a>

"If a representative of the public does not want us there, it is hurtful and the last thing we want is to upset the Australian fans who have given us so much love and support over the years. We do not wish to make it difficult for them or for Cricket Australia," the official said.

With reports surfacing that Indian team isn't too keen on hard quarantine ahead of Brisbane Test, Bates said: "If the Indians don`t want to play by the rules, don`t come."

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Today I was asked about reports the Indian Cricket Team wants quarantine restrictions eased just for them, ahead of the upcoming Gabba Test. My response 👇 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiavsAustralia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiavsAustralia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CricketAus</a> <a href="https://t.co/MV7W0rIntM">pic.twitter.com/MV7W0rIntM</a>
— Ros Bates MP (@Ros_Bates_MP) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ros_Bates_MP/status/1345572787004481537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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She had put out the statement on social media as well and her sentiments were echoed by Queensland`s Shadow Sports Minister Tim Mander.&nbsp;

"If the Indian cricket team wants to spit the dummy and disregard quarantine guidelines in Brisbane for the fourth Test, then they shouldn`t come," Mander said, as reported by Fox Sports.

"The same rules must apply for everyone. Simple," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-boss-says-india-fine-with-strict-quarantine-for-brisbane-test-as-visitors-test-negative-for-virus-354353" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia boss says India fine with strict quarantine for Brisbane Test as visitors test negative for virus</a>

However, Cricket Australia boss Nick Hockley on Monday said that the BCCI is fully supportive of guidelines set by the Queensland government.

"We`ve had nothing formal from the BCCI to suggest anything other than they are supportive. We speak to our counterparts in the BCCI daily and we have clarified in the last 24 hours what the precise requirements are in Brisbane," cricket.com.au quoted Hockley as saying.

"There has been some reporting that players will be confined to their rooms -- that`s not the case. Typically for a Test match, players arrive at the ground between 8 am and 9 am and they are there until 6 or 7 pm at night, and then it`s back to the hotel to rest and recuperate and they will be able to mix within their groups. So everyone`s fully across that, and supportive," he added.

Earlier, the Indian contingent in Australia tested negative for the coronavirus after controversial weeks on Australian soil.

"Playing members of the Indian Cricket Team and support staff underwent an RT-PCR Test for Covid-19 on January 3, 2021. All tests have returned negative results," the BCCI said.

(With ANI inputs)

It seems like the comments made by Queensland's Health Shadow Minister Ros Bates' regarding quarantine guideline set for the fourth Test in Brisbane has caused a bit of turbulence in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) as the Indian board feels that the team's image has been shown in poor light by the Australia authorities and media.

It seems like the comments made by Queensland's Health Shadow Minister Ros Bates' regarding quarantine guideline set for the fourth Test in Brisbane has caused a bit of turbulence in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) as the Indian board feels that the team's image has been shown in poor light by the Australia authorities and media. After such comments, the BCCI is rethinking if it should turn the Border-Gavaskar Trophy into a three-match series and end the series with the Pink Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), scheduled to start on January 7. A BCCI official, speaking to ANI, said that the comments from Bates should have been avoided with both BCCI standing united with Cricket Australia to ensure that the tour goes ahead without any hitch. The official said that it is hurtful if a public representative doesn't want the team to go and play while adding that the hosts are propagating a view that the Indian team doesn't wish to follow the rules. "The statement made by the public representative portrays Indians in poor light and let me assure you, we do not want to do anything other than to abide by the rules, and Rohit Sharma`s strict quarantine is a case in point. To try and propagate a view that we don't wish to follow the rules is unacceptable and the tone and tenor, in which it was said seemed rife with hostility and bordered on racism. It is, therefore, not a surprise that a rethink is on the cards. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia boss says India fine with strict quarantine for Brisbane Test as visitors test negative for virus "If a representative of the public does not want us there, it is hurtful and the last thing we want is to upset the Australian fans who have given us so much love and support over the years. We do not wish to make it difficult for them or for Cricket Australia," the official said. With reports surfacing that Indian team isn't too keen on hard quarantine ahead of Brisbane Test, Bates said: "If the Indians don`t want to play by the rules, don`t come." Today I was asked about reports the Indian Cricket Team wants quarantine restrictions eased just for them, ahead of the upcoming Gabba Test. My response 👇 #Cricket #IndiavsAustralia @ICC @CricketAus pic.twitter.com/MV7W0rIntM — Ros Bates MP (@Ros_Bates_MP) January 3, 2021 × She had put out the statement on social media as well and her sentiments were echoed by Queensland`s Shadow Sports Minister Tim Mander. "If the Indian cricket team wants to spit the dummy and disregard quarantine guidelines in Brisbane for the fourth Test, then they shouldn`t come," Mander said, as reported by Fox Sports. "The same rules must apply for everyone. Simple," he added. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia boss says India fine with strict quarantine for Brisbane Test as visitors test negative for virus However, Cricket Australia boss Nick Hockley on Monday said that the BCCI is fully supportive of guidelines set by the Queensland government. "We`ve had nothing formal from the BCCI to suggest anything other than they are supportive. We speak to our counterparts in the BCCI daily and we have clarified in the last 24 hours what the precise requirements are in Brisbane," cricket.com.au quoted Hockley as saying. "There has been some reporting that players will be confined to their rooms -- that`s not the case. Typically for a Test match, players arrive at the ground between 8 am and 9 am and they are there until 6 or 7 pm at night, and then it`s back to the hotel to rest and recuperate and they will be able to mix within their groups. So everyone`s fully across that, and supportive," he added. Earlier, the Indian contingent in Australia tested negative for the coronavirus after controversial weeks on Australian soil. "Playing members of the Indian Cricket Team and support staff underwent an RT-PCR Test for Covid-19 on January 3, 2021. All tests have returned negative results," the BCCI said. (With ANI inputs)

'Statement portrays Indians in poor light' - BCCI rethinking playing in Brisbane after Ros Bates' comments

Cricket Australia boss Nick Hockley on Monday dismissed reports that the Indian cricket team is weighing a boycott of the fourth and final Test of the tour, in Brisbane, over strict quarantine concerns.

Australian media had earlier reported that the visiting Indian team would refuse to travel to Brisbane if they are to undergo another spell of hard quarantine in the Queensland state.

<h2>BCCI "fully supportive" of quarantine requirements in Brisbane: Cricket Australia boss Nick Hockley</h2>

Hockley said that the BCCI was “fully across (and) supportive” of quarantine requirements in Queensland.

“We speak to our counterparts at the BCCI daily,” he told reporters in Sydney on Monday.

“We’ve had nothing formal from the BCCI to suggest anything other than they’re supportive ... Both teams have wanted to play the schedule as we’ve set out.”

The third Test of the four-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy is set to commence at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday after Cricket Australia decided not to move the match in the wake of a fresh outbreak of coronavirus in the city.

Queensland has shut its border with New South Wales but agreed to allow the players travel to Brisbane for the final Test, on January 15, given they undergo strict biosecurity protocols.

However, the BCCI, officially, is yet to publicly support or comment about the Brisbane quarantine plan.

<h2>Indian contingent test negative for COVID-19</h2>

Meanwhile, the Indian cricket team, including the five players who had breached the safety protocols, tested negative for the virus after undergoing RT-PCR tests.&nbsp;

The players and support staff have been embroiled in controversy ever since five of its members - Rohit Sharma, Prithvi Shaw, Shubman Gill, Navdeep Saini and Rishabh Pant - were accused of breaching the bio-bubble after they were pictured having food indoors at a restaurant in Melbourne on New Year's Day, which is against the protocols set in place by Cricket Australia for this series.

According to CA's bio-secure protocols, players are allowed to sit outside but not dine inside restaurants.

The five players were put in isolation but will travel together with the team to Sydney on January 4.

"Playing members of the Indian Cricket Team and support staff underwent an RT-PCR Test for Covid-19 on January 3, 2021. All tests have returned negative results," the BCCI said in a statement.

The third match in Sydney is set to start from January 7 with the series between India and Australia firmly locked at 1-1.

Cricket Australia boss Nick Hockley on Monday dismissed reports that the Indian cricket team is weighing a boycott of the fourth and final Test of the tour, in Brisbane, over strict quarantine concerns.

Cricket Australia boss Nick Hockley on Monday dismissed reports that the Indian cricket team is weighing a boycott of the fourth and final Test of the tour, in Brisbane, over strict quarantine concerns. Australian media had earlier reported that the visiting Indian team would refuse to travel to Brisbane if they are to undergo another spell of hard quarantine in the Queensland state. BCCI "fully supportive" of quarantine requirements in Brisbane: Cricket Australia boss Nick Hockley Hockley said that the BCCI was “fully across (and) supportive” of quarantine requirements in Queensland. “We speak to our counterparts at the BCCI daily,” he told reporters in Sydney on Monday. “We’ve had nothing formal from the BCCI to suggest anything other than they’re supportive ... Both teams have wanted to play the schedule as we’ve set out.” The third Test of the four-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy is set to commence at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday after Cricket Australia decided not to move the match in the wake of a fresh outbreak of coronavirus in the city. Queensland has shut its border with New South Wales but agreed to allow the players travel to Brisbane for the final Test, on January 15, given they undergo strict biosecurity protocols. However, the BCCI, officially, is yet to publicly support or comment about the Brisbane quarantine plan. Indian contingent test negative for COVID-19 Meanwhile, the Indian cricket team, including the five players who had breached the safety protocols, tested negative for the virus after undergoing RT-PCR tests. The players and support staff have been embroiled in controversy ever since five of its members - Rohit Sharma, Prithvi Shaw, Shubman Gill, Navdeep Saini and Rishabh Pant - were accused of breaching the bio-bubble after they were pictured having food indoors at a restaurant in Melbourne on New Year's Day, which is against the protocols set in place by Cricket Australia for this series. According to CA's bio-secure protocols, players are allowed to sit outside but not dine inside restaurants. The five players were put in isolation but will travel together with the team to Sydney on January 4. "Playing members of the Indian Cricket Team and support staff underwent an RT-PCR Test for Covid-19 on January 3, 2021. All tests have returned negative results," the BCCI said in a statement. The third match in Sydney is set to start from January 7 with the series between India and Australia firmly locked at 1-1.

Cricket Australia boss says India fine with strict quarantine for Brisbane Test as visitors test negative for virus

Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne, ahead of the third Test against India, said that Aussie batsmen must balance aggression with discipline in a bid to fight back in the four-Test series, which is locked firmly at 1-1.&nbsp;

Australia have failed to surpass 200 in either Test so far, against a well-oiled Indian attack which has troubled the hosts on their own soil.

While key batsman Steve Smith has struggled to break the shackle with his willow, other batsmen including Labuschagne have also battled for runs. After dominating Pakistan and New Zealand bowlers on Australian soil, Labuschagne lauded the Indian bowlers but said the hosts need to rise to the challenge.

“They’ve been very disciplined in their bowling and in their plans, with both spin and pace, I think they’ve really held that straight line,” said Labuschagne, who was dismissed for 48 and 28 in the second test in Melbourne.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-a-bit-baggy-and-green-ben-stokes-hilarious-reaction-on-receiving-team-of-the-decade-cap-icc-responds-353671" hreflang="en">'It's a bit BAGGY and GREEN': Ben Stokes' hilarious reaction on receiving Team of the Decade cap; ICC responds</a>

“They’ve made us face a lot of balls for ... a strike rate of about two runs an over.

“We need to be very disciplined. And we also need to come up with ways to put them under pressure.

“For us, it’s just making sure we keep finding ways to score ... It doesn’t have to be pretty, but we just got to keep grinding and keep fighting away and if we do get in, we’ve got to make sure we get those big scores.”

After Australia won the series opener in historic fashion in Adelaide, India bounced back with an eight-wicket win in Melbourne with Sydney Test starting on January 7. For Australia, veteran batsman David Warner returns to the squad in place of Joe Burns, who has been off-form for a few months now.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-a-bit-baggy-and-green-ben-stokes-hilarious-reaction-on-receiving-team-of-the-decade-cap-icc-responds-353671" hreflang="en">'It's a bit BAGGY and GREEN': Ben Stokes' hilarious reaction on receiving Team of the Decade cap; ICC responds</a>

“Someone with over 7,000 test runs and averaging near-on 50, he’s a superb player,” said Labuschagne.

“I think he’s in that top calibre of player ... Just his energy that he will bring around the group and his energy in the field will be terrific.”

Earlier on Friday, the BCCI announced the Indian squad wherein Rohit Sharma was named as the vice-captain of the side with Ajinkya Rahane leading Team India in the last two Tests against Australia. 
&nbsp;

Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne, ahead of the third Test against India, said that Aussie batsmen must balance aggression with discipline in a bid to fight back in the four-Test series, which is locked firmly at 1-1.

Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne, ahead of the third Test against India, said that Aussie batsmen must balance aggression with discipline in a bid to fight back in the four-Test series, which is locked firmly at 1-1. Australia have failed to surpass 200 in either Test so far, against a well-oiled Indian attack which has troubled the hosts on their own soil. While key batsman Steve Smith has struggled to break the shackle with his willow, other batsmen including Labuschagne have also battled for runs. After dominating Pakistan and New Zealand bowlers on Australian soil, Labuschagne lauded the Indian bowlers but said the hosts need to rise to the challenge. “They’ve been very disciplined in their bowling and in their plans, with both spin and pace, I think they’ve really held that straight line,” said Labuschagne, who was dismissed for 48 and 28 in the second test in Melbourne. ALSO READ: 'It's a bit BAGGY and GREEN': Ben Stokes' hilarious reaction on receiving Team of the Decade cap; ICC responds “They’ve made us face a lot of balls for ... a strike rate of about two runs an over. “We need to be very disciplined. And we also need to come up with ways to put them under pressure. “For us, it’s just making sure we keep finding ways to score ... It doesn’t have to be pretty, but we just got to keep grinding and keep fighting away and if we do get in, we’ve got to make sure we get those big scores.” After Australia won the series opener in historic fashion in Adelaide, India bounced back with an eight-wicket win in Melbourne with Sydney Test starting on January 7. For Australia, veteran batsman David Warner returns to the squad in place of Joe Burns, who has been off-form for a few months now. ALSO READ: 'It's a bit BAGGY and GREEN': Ben Stokes' hilarious reaction on receiving Team of the Decade cap; ICC responds “Someone with over 7,000 test runs and averaging near-on 50, he’s a superb player,” said Labuschagne. “I think he’s in that top calibre of player ... Just his energy that he will bring around the group and his energy in the field will be terrific.” Earlier on Friday, the BCCI announced the Indian squad wherein Rohit Sharma was named as the vice-captain of the side with Ajinkya Rahane leading Team India in the last two Tests against Australia.

'Very disciplined' - Marnus Labuschagne lauds Indian bowlers but wants Aussies to 'grind' for runs

Thangarasu Natarajan, who was a sensation in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, on Friday was included in the Indian squad for the last two Tests against Australia as the 29-year-old replaced an injured Umesh Yadav in the team. Natarajan started India’s tour of Australia as a net bowler and now is part of the Test squad after earning maiden caps for India in T20Is and ODIs against the Aussies.&nbsp;

Natarajan could potentially go onto make his Test debut and become the only player to earn national caps in all three formats of the game, in the same series, despite not being in the original squad. However, as per reports, Shardul Thakur, who replaced the injured Mohammed Shami in the squad, is ahead in the pecking order to be in the Indian playing XI.&nbsp;

One of the most inspiring stories of the year 2020, Natarajan touched new heights with his sensational bowling displays in IPL 2020 for Sunrisers Hyderabad where he scalped 16 wickets with an economy rate of 8.02. His ability to bowl yorkers at will earned him plaudits from all corners.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-announce-squad-for-last-two-test-vs-australia-rohit-sharma-appointed-vice-captain-353820" hreflang="en">India announce squad for last two Test vs Australia, Rohit Sharma appointed vice-captain</a>

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T. Natarajan has been included in the Test squad as a replacement for Umesh Yadav. 
 
What a way to start 2021! 🧡 Wishing Umesh a speedy recovery 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OrangeArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OrangeArmy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeepRising?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeepRising</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Natarajan_91?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Natarajan_91</a> <a href="https://t.co/5AFLjNmHTk">pic.twitter.com/5AFLjNmHTk</a>
— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) <a href="https://twitter.com/SunRisers/status/1344928286116220928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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NEWS: T Natarajan to replace Umesh Yadav in India’s Test squad. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> 
 
Details 👉 <a href="https://t.co/JeZLOQaER3">https://t.co/JeZLOQaER3</a> <a href="https://t.co/G9oXK5MQUE">pic.twitter.com/G9oXK5MQUE</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1344925524318068738?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, on Friday, Umesh Yadav, who was ruled out of the Test series due to a calf injury, was blessed with a baby girl as the Indian pacer starts the new year on a great personal note.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-announces-decade-awards-from-kohli-smith-to-perry-heres-complete-list-of-winners-352996" hreflang="en">ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners</a>

<h2>BCCI Statement on Indian Test squad for last two Tests vs Australia:&nbsp;</h2>

"Umesh Yadav sustained a strain in his left calf muscle on Day 3 of the second Border-Gavaskar Test in Melbourne. He underwent scans later in the day. The fast bowler will not recover completely ahead of the remaining two Test matches and has been ruled out of the series.

The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named T Natarajan as Yadav’s replacement. Ahead of the Boxing Day Test, Shardul Thakur was added to the Test squad as Mohd. Shami's replacement after the senior fast bowler suffered a hairline fracture in his right forearm. Both Shami and Umesh Yadav will head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further rehabilitation of their injuries."

Team India Test squad: Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Jasprit Bumrah, Navdeep Saini, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, T Natarajan

Thangarasu Natarajan, who was a sensation in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, on Friday was included in the Indian squad for the last two Tests against Australia as the 29-year-old replaced an injured Umesh Yadav in the team.

Thangarasu Natarajan, who was a sensation in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, on Friday was included in the Indian squad for the last two Tests against Australia as the 29-year-old replaced an injured Umesh Yadav in the team. Natarajan started India’s tour of Australia as a net bowler and now is part of the Test squad after earning maiden caps for India in T20Is and ODIs against the Aussies. Natarajan could potentially go onto make his Test debut and become the only player to earn national caps in all three formats of the game, in the same series, despite not being in the original squad. However, as per reports, Shardul Thakur, who replaced the injured Mohammed Shami in the squad, is ahead in the pecking order to be in the Indian playing XI. One of the most inspiring stories of the year 2020, Natarajan touched new heights with his sensational bowling displays in IPL 2020 for Sunrisers Hyderabad where he scalped 16 wickets with an economy rate of 8.02. His ability to bowl yorkers at will earned him plaudits from all corners. ALSO READ: India announce squad for last two Test vs Australia, Rohit Sharma appointed vice-captain T. Natarajan has been included in the Test squad as a replacement for Umesh Yadav. What a way to start 2021! 🧡 Wishing Umesh a speedy recovery 💪#AUSvIND #OrangeArmy #KeepRising @Natarajan_91 pic.twitter.com/5AFLjNmHTk — SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) January 1, 2021 × NEWS: T Natarajan to replace Umesh Yadav in India’s Test squad. #TeamIndia #AUSvIND Details 👉 https://t.co/JeZLOQaER3 pic.twitter.com/G9oXK5MQUE — BCCI (@BCCI) January 1, 2021 × Meanwhile, on Friday, Umesh Yadav, who was ruled out of the Test series due to a calf injury, was blessed with a baby girl as the Indian pacer starts the new year on a great personal note. ALSO READ: ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners BCCI Statement on Indian Test squad for last two Tests vs Australia: "Umesh Yadav sustained a strain in his left calf muscle on Day 3 of the second Border-Gavaskar Test in Melbourne. He underwent scans later in the day. The fast bowler will not recover completely ahead of the remaining two Test matches and has been ruled out of the series. The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named T Natarajan as Yadav’s replacement. Ahead of the Boxing Day Test, Shardul Thakur was added to the Test squad as Mohd. Shami's replacement after the senior fast bowler suffered a hairline fracture in his right forearm. Both Shami and Umesh Yadav will head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further rehabilitation of their injuries." Team India Test squad: Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Jasprit Bumrah, Navdeep Saini, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, T Natarajan

T Natarajan named in Indian Test squad vs Australia, replaces injured Umesh Yadav

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday announced the Indian squad for the last two Tests against Australia, scheduled to be played in Melbourne and Brisbane respectively. While Ajinkya Rahane continues to lead the side in the absence of Virat Kohli whereas Rohit Sharma has been named as the vice-captain of the Test squad, replacing Cheteshwar Pujara who deputised Rahane in the Boxing Day Test.<o:p></o:p>

Thangarasu Natarajan and Shardul Thakur have also been added to the Indian Test squad with the duo competing for the third pacer’s spot in the Indian playing XI along with Navdeep Saini. <o:p></o:p>

Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul, Pujara, Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill, Wriddhiman Saha, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin and Mohammed Siraj continue to be in the squad for the last two Tests against Australia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yearender-2020-how-sportspersons-set-social-media-on-fire-in-coronavirus-hit-year-353667" hreflang="en">Yearender 2020: How sportspersons set social media on fire in coronavirus-hit year</a>

Rohit Sharma’s promotion for the vice-captain of the Indian team suggests that the Hitman in all likelihood will start for the visitors in the third Test, scheduled to start on January 7 in Sydney. <o:p></o:p>

India and Australia are firmly locked 1-1 in the four-match Test series. While Australia won the first Test in Adelaide by eight wickets, India bounced back in Melbourne to win the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets to level the series.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-announces-decade-awards-from-kohli-smith-to-perry-heres-complete-list-of-winners-352996" hreflang="en">ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">BCCI statement on Indian Test squad for last two Tests vs Australia: <o:p></o:p></h2>

"Umesh Yadav sustained a strain in his left calf muscle on Day 3 of the second Border-Gavaskar Test in Melbourne. He underwent scans later in the day. The fast bowler will not recover completely ahead of the remaining two Test matches and has been ruled out of the series.<o:p></o:p>

"The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named T Natarajan as Yadav’s replacement. Ahead of the Boxing Day Test, Shardul Thakur was added to the Test squad as Mohd. Shami's replacement after the senior fast bowler suffered a hairline fracture in his right forearm. Both Shami and Umesh Yadav will head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further rehabilitation of their injuries."

Team India Test squad: Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Jasprit Bumrah, Navdeep Saini, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, T Natarajan<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday announced the Indian squad for the last two Tests against Australia, scheduled to be played in Melbourne and Brisbane respectively.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday announced the Indian squad for the last two Tests against Australia, scheduled to be played in Melbourne and Brisbane respectively. While Ajinkya Rahane continues to lead the side in the absence of Virat Kohli whereas Rohit Sharma has been named as the vice-captain of the Test squad, replacing Cheteshwar Pujara who deputised Rahane in the Boxing Day Test. Thangarasu Natarajan and Shardul Thakur have also been added to the Indian Test squad with the duo competing for the third pacer’s spot in the Indian playing XI along with Navdeep Saini. Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul, Pujara, Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill, Wriddhiman Saha, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin and Mohammed Siraj continue to be in the squad for the last two Tests against Australia. ALSO READ: Yearender 2020: How sportspersons set social media on fire in coronavirus-hit year Rohit Sharma’s promotion for the vice-captain of the Indian team suggests that the Hitman in all likelihood will start for the visitors in the third Test, scheduled to start on January 7 in Sydney. India and Australia are firmly locked 1-1 in the four-match Test series. While Australia won the first Test in Adelaide by eight wickets, India bounced back in Melbourne to win the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets to level the series. ALSO READ: ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners BCCI statement on Indian Test squad for last two Tests vs Australia: "Umesh Yadav sustained a strain in his left calf muscle on Day 3 of the second Border-Gavaskar Test in Melbourne. He underwent scans later in the day. The fast bowler will not recover completely ahead of the remaining two Test matches and has been ruled out of the series. "The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named T Natarajan as Yadav’s replacement. Ahead of the Boxing Day Test, Shardul Thakur was added to the Test squad as Mohd. Shami's replacement after the senior fast bowler suffered a hairline fracture in his right forearm. Both Shami and Umesh Yadav will head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further rehabilitation of their injuries." Team India Test squad: Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Jasprit Bumrah, Navdeep Saini, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, T Natarajan

India announce squad for last two Test vs Australia, Rohit Sharma appointed vice-captain

The Australian batting unit has been central to widespread criticism for their poor run with the willow in the ongoing four-match Test series against India, which is locked at 1-1 after the conclusion of first two Test. The form of Aussie batters has irked former captain Ricky Ponting as he said the hosts haven’t shown enough intent in the Border-Gavaskar series.

While discussing the first two Tests on the ‘Unplayable Podcast’, Ponting said that lack of drives and pull shots from the Australian batsman haven’t helped their cause with the hosts desperately looking to win the series after losing it last time in 2018-19.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-should-be-ready-to-go-warner-may-play-the-third-test-even-if-he-is-not-100-fit-353609" hreflang="en">'He should be ready to go': Warner may play the third Test even if he is not 100% fit</a>

“I can count on one hand in Two Test matches how many pull shots have been played, how many drives down the ground have you seen? You can’t tell me there haven’t been short balls bowled or full balls bowled. There have been enough,” said Ponting.

Ponting further took a sly jibe at the Aussie batsmen as he said that the likes of Shubman Gill and Ajinkya Rahane played more pull shots than the hosts have played in the first two Tests.

“We saw today, I know it was a small total and it is easier to go and play your shots, but Shubman Gill &amp; Ajinkya Rahane played more good pull shots than I think Australia have played in the two Tests. For Indian batsmen to do that against our attack &amp; for ours to not, it’ll be a cop-out to just say their bowlers were good,” Ponting further said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-ajinkya-rahane-gets-his-name-engraved-mcg-honours-board-for-2nd-time-353455" hreflang="en">India's Ajinkya Rahane gets his name engraved MCG honours board for 2nd time</a>

Notably, this is the first time since 1988 that a single Australian player failed to score a half-century in a home Test match.

India and Australia will next lock horns in the third Test, scheduled to start from January 7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground. 
&nbsp;

The Australian batting unit has been central to widespread criticism for their poor run with the willow in the ongoing four-match Test series against India, which is locked at 1-1 after the conclusion of first two Test.

The Australian batting unit has been central to widespread criticism for their poor run with the willow in the ongoing four-match Test series against India, which is locked at 1-1 after the conclusion of first two Test. The form of Aussie batters has irked former captain Ricky Ponting as he said the hosts haven’t shown enough intent in the Border-Gavaskar series. While discussing the first two Tests on the ‘Unplayable Podcast’, Ponting said that lack of drives and pull shots from the Australian batsman haven’t helped their cause with the hosts desperately looking to win the series after losing it last time in 2018-19. ALSO READ: 'He should be ready to go': Warner may play the third Test even if he is not 100% fit “I can count on one hand in Two Test matches how many pull shots have been played, how many drives down the ground have you seen? You can’t tell me there haven’t been short balls bowled or full balls bowled. There have been enough,” said Ponting. Ponting further took a sly jibe at the Aussie batsmen as he said that the likes of Shubman Gill and Ajinkya Rahane played more pull shots than the hosts have played in the first two Tests. “We saw today, I know it was a small total and it is easier to go and play your shots, but Shubman Gill & Ajinkya Rahane played more good pull shots than I think Australia have played in the two Tests. For Indian batsmen to do that against our attack & for ours to not, it’ll be a cop-out to just say their bowlers were good,” Ponting further said. ALSO READ: India's Ajinkya Rahane gets his name engraved MCG honours board for 2nd time Notably, this is the first time since 1988 that a single Australian player failed to score a half-century in a home Test match. India and Australia will next lock horns in the third Test, scheduled to start from January 7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

'I can count on one hand...' - Ricky Ponting left fuming over Australian batsmen's shot selection in Test series

David Warner's return will provide the Australians much-needed confidence for the third Test match, however, his fitness is still in doubt and the assistant coach Andrew McDonald on Thursday said that the opener will play against India even if he is not 100 per cent fit.

“That’s a real, clear option. He may not be 100 per cent fit -- who is coming off an injury? You never know until you get out there,” McDonald said during a virtual press conference.

“Look, if he’s 90-95% fit and the conversation is that he’s fit enough to be able to go out there and perform his duties for the team, then I’m sure that’ll be a conversation the coach has with the player.

Warner sustained a groin muscle tear during the ODI series against the Men in Blue and will return to bolster Australia's batting order.&nbsp;

“Most times Justin (Langer) is pretty open with the players in terms of giving them accountability around that.”Warner has been named in the squad along with Victorian young gun Will Pucovski for the third Test as Australia look to bounce back from the eight-wicket loss in the Boxing Day Test here.McDonald said Warner is optimistic about making a comeback in Sydney.

“He’s (Warner) very optimistic that he should be ready to go, which is great news for us. We are really excited to have him back.

“I’m sure that he’s excited to come back into the group as well. There’s nothing worse than being injured when you are at the top of your game as David has been over a period of time.”Pucovski, too, is set for a potential debut after the youngster suffered a concussion in the first warm-up match against the Indians earlier this month.

“He will be put through tests whatever it needs to be put through to make himself available for selection to potentially open the batting. So it’s good to have a little bit of depth out there.”One of the biggest setbacks for the Aussies so far has been a rare slump in form for batting mainstay Steve Smith, who has so far scored only 10 runs in four innings in the series.

“I wouldn’t be too quick to be judging Steve Smith not looking good in the middle. He looks pretty solid and hitting the ball well at the nets,” McDonald said.

The third Test will be played from January 7-11 at the Sydney Cricket ground.&nbsp;

David Warner's return will provide the Australians much-needed confidence for the third Test match, however, his fitness is still in doubt and the assistant coach Andrew McDonald on Thursday said that the opener will play against India even if he is not 100 per cent fit.

David Warner's return will provide the Australians much-needed confidence for the third Test match, however, his fitness is still in doubt and the assistant coach Andrew McDonald on Thursday said that the opener will play against India even if he is not 100 per cent fit. “That’s a real, clear option. He may not be 100 per cent fit -- who is coming off an injury? You never know until you get out there,” McDonald said during a virtual press conference. “Look, if he’s 90-95% fit and the conversation is that he’s fit enough to be able to go out there and perform his duties for the team, then I’m sure that’ll be a conversation the coach has with the player. Warner sustained a groin muscle tear during the ODI series against the Men in Blue and will return to bolster Australia's batting order. “Most times Justin (Langer) is pretty open with the players in terms of giving them accountability around that.”Warner has been named in the squad along with Victorian young gun Will Pucovski for the third Test as Australia look to bounce back from the eight-wicket loss in the Boxing Day Test here.McDonald said Warner is optimistic about making a comeback in Sydney. “He’s (Warner) very optimistic that he should be ready to go, which is great news for us. We are really excited to have him back. “I’m sure that he’s excited to come back into the group as well. There’s nothing worse than being injured when you are at the top of your game as David has been over a period of time.”Pucovski, too, is set for a potential debut after the youngster suffered a concussion in the first warm-up match against the Indians earlier this month. “He will be put through tests whatever it needs to be put through to make himself available for selection to potentially open the batting. So it’s good to have a little bit of depth out there.”One of the biggest setbacks for the Aussies so far has been a rare slump in form for batting mainstay Steve Smith, who has so far scored only 10 runs in four innings in the series. “I wouldn’t be too quick to be judging Steve Smith not looking good in the middle. He looks pretty solid and hitting the ball well at the nets,” McDonald said. The third Test will be played from January 7-11 at the Sydney Cricket ground.

'He should be ready to go': Warner may play the third Test even if he is not 100% fit

With Rohit Sharma joining Team India’s training session on Thursday, debates and discussions are taking place on who the Hitman will replace in the playing XI for the third Test against Australia, scheduled to start from January 7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has opined on his options of Indian openers in the New Year’s Test at the SCG.&nbsp;

Rohit’s availability and Umesh Yadav’s injury have complicated the selection for Team India in the third Test. Gavaskar, when asked about his preferred choice of openers for the third Test, said that he would keep Mayank Agarwal in the playing XI and pair him up with Rohit Sharma. The Little Master added that Shubman Gill, who impressed everyone in his Test debut, should be moved to number five to accommodate Rohit at the top and replace Hanuma Vihari.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/umesh-yadav-ruled-out-of-australia-tour-due-to-calf-injury-353571" hreflang="en">Umesh Yadav ruled out of Australia tour due to calf injury</a>

“I would be keeping Mayank Agarwal. I know he’s not looked good but he’s a quality player. I would keep him in the side and open the batting with Rohit,” Gavaskar told Sanjay Manjrekar on Sony Sports Network.

Gavaskar further said, "Despite the fact that Shubman Gill has looked so good at the top, I’d look to bat him at No.5. I’m not too sure, that with his approach he would be too successful at the opening position also at the U19 level he was batting down the order so I think for Shubman Gill no.5 would be the ideal position. The rest of the team should remain same and obviously if Gill bats at five, Vihari goes out automatically.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-kane-williamson-overtakes-smith-kohli-as-top-test-batsman-ajinkya-rahane-enters-top-10-353560" hreflang="en">ICC Rankings: Kane Williamson overtakes Smith, Kohli as top Test batsman; Ajinkya Rahane enters Top 10</a>

Moreover, the third Test will be hosted by Sydney Cricket Ground despite a fresh COVID-19 cluster in the city. Cricket Australia are hopeful of having crowds at 50 per cent capacity.&nbsp;

The four-Test series is firmly locked at 1-1 after India bounced back strongly to level the series 1-1 in Melbourne. 
&nbsp;

With Rohit Sharma joining Team India’s training session on Thursday, debates and discussions are taking place on who the Hitman will replace in the playing XI for the third Test against Australia, scheduled to start from January 7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

With Rohit Sharma joining Team India’s training session on Thursday, debates and discussions are taking place on who the Hitman will replace in the playing XI for the third Test against Australia, scheduled to start from January 7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has opined on his options of Indian openers in the New Year’s Test at the SCG. Rohit’s availability and Umesh Yadav’s injury have complicated the selection for Team India in the third Test. Gavaskar, when asked about his preferred choice of openers for the third Test, said that he would keep Mayank Agarwal in the playing XI and pair him up with Rohit Sharma. The Little Master added that Shubman Gill, who impressed everyone in his Test debut, should be moved to number five to accommodate Rohit at the top and replace Hanuma Vihari. ALSO READ: Umesh Yadav ruled out of Australia tour due to calf injury “I would be keeping Mayank Agarwal. I know he’s not looked good but he’s a quality player. I would keep him in the side and open the batting with Rohit,” Gavaskar told Sanjay Manjrekar on Sony Sports Network. Gavaskar further said, "Despite the fact that Shubman Gill has looked so good at the top, I’d look to bat him at No.5. I’m not too sure, that with his approach he would be too successful at the opening position also at the U19 level he was batting down the order so I think for Shubman Gill no.5 would be the ideal position. The rest of the team should remain same and obviously if Gill bats at five, Vihari goes out automatically.” ALSO READ: ICC Rankings: Kane Williamson overtakes Smith, Kohli as top Test batsman; Ajinkya Rahane enters Top 10 Moreover, the third Test will be hosted by Sydney Cricket Ground despite a fresh COVID-19 cluster in the city. Cricket Australia are hopeful of having crowds at 50 per cent capacity. The four-Test series is firmly locked at 1-1 after India bounced back strongly to level the series 1-1 in Melbourne.

Rohit, Shubman or Mayank? Sunil Gavaskar picks his Indian openers for 3rd Test vs Australia

Indian pacer Umesh Yadav has been ruled out of the remainder of the Test series against Australia. Umesh, who limped off in pain after pulling his calf muscle on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test, left for India on Monday in a bid to recover in time for the upcoming England series.&nbsp;

Umesh’s injury leaves the Indian bowling unit even more depleted. Ahead of the Boxing Day Test, key bowler&nbsp;Mohammed Shami was ruled out of the series due to fractured hand. Shardul Thakur or T Natarajan, who were a part of Indian side as net bowlers, are likely to start in the third Test against Australia, scheduled to start at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 7.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-kane-williamson-overtakes-smith-kohli-as-top-test-batsman-ajinkya-rahane-enters-top-10-353560" hreflang="en">ICC Rankings: Kane Williamson overtakes Smith, Kohli as top Test batsman; Ajinkya Rahane enters Top 10</a>

"His scans came in and he will miss the third and fourth game. So, there was no point in holding him back and it is better that he returns to the country and undergoes rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). He left on Wednesday night," a source privy to the development told ANI.

Umesh underwent scans after suffering pain in his calf muscle while bowling on Day 3 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Despite missing Umesh, the Indian team put up an inspirational performance to come back into the series and win the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-kane-williamson-overtakes-smith-kohli-as-top-test-batsman-ajinkya-rahane-enters-top-10-353560" hreflang="en">ICC Rankings: Kane Williamson overtakes Smith, Kohli as top Test batsman; Ajinkya Rahane enters Top 10</a>

"With limited options available, the team management can ask for Natarajan to be added to the squad," the source added.&nbsp;

However, with the likes of Navdeep Saini, Shardul Thakur and T Natarajan all in the fray to be in the playing XI against Australia in the third Test, it would be interesting to see who the Indian team management picks in the playing XI.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Indian pacer Umesh Yadav has been ruled out of the remainder of the Test series against Australia. Umesh, who limped off in pain after pulling his calf muscle on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test, left for India on Monday in a bid to recover in time for the upcoming England series.

Indian pacer Umesh Yadav has been ruled out of the remainder of the Test series against Australia. Umesh, who limped off in pain after pulling his calf muscle on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test, left for India on Monday in a bid to recover in time for the upcoming England series. Umesh’s injury leaves the Indian bowling unit even more depleted. Ahead of the Boxing Day Test, key bowler Mohammed Shami was ruled out of the series due to fractured hand. Shardul Thakur or T Natarajan, who were a part of Indian side as net bowlers, are likely to start in the third Test against Australia, scheduled to start at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 7. ALSO READ: ICC Rankings: Kane Williamson overtakes Smith, Kohli as top Test batsman; Ajinkya Rahane enters Top 10 "His scans came in and he will miss the third and fourth game. So, there was no point in holding him back and it is better that he returns to the country and undergoes rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). He left on Wednesday night," a source privy to the development told ANI. Umesh underwent scans after suffering pain in his calf muscle while bowling on Day 3 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Despite missing Umesh, the Indian team put up an inspirational performance to come back into the series and win the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets. ALSO READ: ICC Rankings: Kane Williamson overtakes Smith, Kohli as top Test batsman; Ajinkya Rahane enters Top 10 "With limited options available, the team management can ask for Natarajan to be added to the squad," the source added. However, with the likes of Navdeep Saini, Shardul Thakur and T Natarajan all in the fray to be in the playing XI against Australia in the third Test, it would be interesting to see who the Indian team management picks in the playing XI.

Umesh Yadav ruled out of Australia tour due to calf injury

Australian authorities are asking fans at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) not to cheer too loudly during the third test against India next week as the city grapples with an outbreak of COVID-19.

The New South Wales (NSW) government restricted movement and tightened curbs on gatherings in Sydney on Wednesday, as the state recorded 18 new cases.

Despite public gatherings being capped at 30, authorities have given the green light to a half-capacity crowd at the 48,000-seat SCG, though fans will be asked to keep a lid on their cheering.

“We will be handing out masks on public transport going into the SCG, and advising people to wear masks when they are not physically at their seat,” New South Wales Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant told a media briefing on Wednesday.

“We also are asking people to ensure that they recognise (rules) around screaming and chanting, particularly when they are not in their fixed location.”

After weeks without a new case of COVID-19, NSW has recorded more than 100 infections linked to a recent outbreak in the city’s northern beaches.

Governing body Cricket Australia considered moving the third test to Melbourne but on Tuesday confirmed it would plough ahead with Sydney as scheduled from Jan. 7.

The players and staff are in Melbourne following the traditional ‘Boxing Day’ test, which India won on Tuesday by eight wickets, levelling the four-match series at 1-1.

Australian authorities are asking fans at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) not to cheer too loudly during the third test against India next week as the city grapples with an outbreak of COVID-19.

Australian authorities are asking fans at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) not to cheer too loudly during the third test against India next week as the city grapples with an outbreak of COVID-19. The New South Wales (NSW) government restricted movement and tightened curbs on gatherings in Sydney on Wednesday, as the state recorded 18 new cases. Despite public gatherings being capped at 30, authorities have given the green light to a half-capacity crowd at the 48,000-seat SCG, though fans will be asked to keep a lid on their cheering. “We will be handing out masks on public transport going into the SCG, and advising people to wear masks when they are not physically at their seat,” New South Wales Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant told a media briefing on Wednesday. “We also are asking people to ensure that they recognise (rules) around screaming and chanting, particularly when they are not in their fixed location.” After weeks without a new case of COVID-19, NSW has recorded more than 100 infections linked to a recent outbreak in the city’s northern beaches. Governing body Cricket Australia considered moving the third test to Melbourne but on Tuesday confirmed it would plough ahead with Sydney as scheduled from Jan. 7. The players and staff are in Melbourne following the traditional ‘Boxing Day’ test, which India won on Tuesday by eight wickets, levelling the four-match series at 1-1.

Shhhh! Fans urged to cheer quietly at SCG amid COVID outbreak

Australian batsman Steve Smith, who was also recently named ICC’s Men’s Test Cricketer of the Decade, talked about his struggles against India in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-warner-returns-for-australia-will-the-hitman-formula-to-bolster-team-india-353392" hreflang="en">As Warner returns for Australia, will the 'Hitman' formula bolster Team India?</a>

Ravichandran Ashwin has been toying with the Aussie and is preventing him to score runs for the hosts. Smith has scored only 10 runs in 4 innings in the series so far while being dismissed by Ashwin two times.

“I probably haven’t played Ashwin as well as I would’ve liked. I probably would’ve liked to have put him under a bit more pressure,” Smith told SEN Radio.

“I’ve sort of let him dictate terms and that’s something I’ve probably never let any spinner do in my career. I’ve sort of taken it to them, been a bit more aggressive and made them change things,” he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-biggest-reward-for-us-ajinkya-rahane-posts-heartfelt-message-for-fans-after-mcg-triumph-353371" hreflang="en">'The biggest reward for us...' - Ajinkya Rahane posts heartfelt message for fans after MCG triumph</a>

“It’s kind of a two-edged sword in a way, but I think I’ve just got to have the confidence to take it on and play my game,” Smith continued.

“At the moment I’m searching for time in the middle; that’s the most important thing for me. When I look at this year, 64 balls is the longest I’ve spent in the middle, during those one-day games.

Ashwin also spoke about Smith and the importance of his dismissal. “Coming down to Australia and if you cannot get Steven Smith out, it is always going to be an uphill task,” he told Channel 7.

“He pretty much holds the batting line-up together.”

Australian batsman Steve Smith, who was also recently named ICC’s Men’s Test Cricketer of the Decade, talked about his struggles against India in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series.

Australian batsman Steve Smith, who was also recently named ICC’s Men’s Test Cricketer of the Decade, talked about his struggles against India in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series. ALSO READ: As Warner returns for Australia, will the 'Hitman' formula bolster Team India? Ravichandran Ashwin has been toying with the Aussie and is preventing him to score runs for the hosts. Smith has scored only 10 runs in 4 innings in the series so far while being dismissed by Ashwin two times. “I probably haven’t played Ashwin as well as I would’ve liked. I probably would’ve liked to have put him under a bit more pressure,” Smith told SEN Radio. “I’ve sort of let him dictate terms and that’s something I’ve probably never let any spinner do in my career. I’ve sort of taken it to them, been a bit more aggressive and made them change things,” he said. ALSO READ: 'The biggest reward for us...' - Ajinkya Rahane posts heartfelt message for fans after MCG triumph “It’s kind of a two-edged sword in a way, but I think I’ve just got to have the confidence to take it on and play my game,” Smith continued. “At the moment I’m searching for time in the middle; that’s the most important thing for me. When I look at this year, 64 balls is the longest I’ve spent in the middle, during those one-day games. Ashwin also spoke about Smith and the importance of his dismissal. “Coming down to Australia and if you cannot get Steven Smith out, it is always going to be an uphill task,” he told Channel 7. “He pretty much holds the batting line-up together.”

'I’ve let him dictate terms': Steve Smith talks about his trouble in facing Ravichandran Ashwin

India equalised the Border-Gavaskar series after beating hosts Australia by 8 wickets. With the Warner returning for the third Test, India will be working on their weak points too.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shhhh-fans-urged-to-cheer-quietly-at-scg-amid-covid-outbreak-353325" hreflang="en">Shhhh! Fans urged to cheer quietly at SCG amid COVID outbreak</a>

India is failing to find a stable opening pair this year. Agarwal has failed to perform in the top order for India. He scored 7, 3, 17, 9, 0, 5 in his last 6 Test innings for Team India. The Karnataka batsman could be replaced by much experienced Rohit Sharma, who had prolific Test innings in the land down under. With Rohit returning to the squad after the 14-day quarantine period, he could be the part of the playing XI. However, Rohit is yet to get into nets and train as it has been a long time since the batsman has entered the ground.&nbsp;

The Hitman also has stats backing his case, having produced scores of &nbsp;176, 127, 14, 212, 6, 21 in his last 6 Test innings. Rohit hasn't played cricket since November 10 which is when his Mumbai Indians had defeated Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2020 final.

Sharma has nine days to adapt to Aussie conditions before playing the third Test that will be played on the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 07.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t-natarajan-could-make-test-debut-in-third-test-vs-australia-as-umesh-yadav-suffers-calf-injury-353331" hreflang="en">T Natarajan could make Test debut in third Test vs Australia as Umesh Yadav suffers calf injury</a>

Recently, Australia on Wednesday announced a strong 18-member squad for the third and fourth Tests against India as David Warner returned in the team for the hosts. The four-match Test series is firmly locked at 1-1 after India made a resounding comeback in the Boxing Day Test to equalise the series.&nbsp;

Warner and Will Pucovsi have been added in Australia’s Test squad with out-of-form opener Joe Burns dropped from the squad. Pacer Sean Abbott has also been declared fit for the remainder of the series and is one of the names in the 18-member squad.

Warner continues to recover from the groin injury and will replace Burns in the playing XI. Whereas Pucovski is in line to make his Test debut after suffering a concussion while playing for Australia A against India earlier this month.&nbsp;

The 22-year-old will still be required to pass further tests before he is cleared to make a possible debut in Sydney.

India equalised the Border-Gavaskar series after beating hosts Australia by 8 wickets. With the Warner returning for the third Test, India will be working on their weak points too.

India equalised the Border-Gavaskar series after beating hosts Australia by 8 wickets. With the Warner returning for the third Test, India will be working on their weak points too. ALSO READ: Shhhh! Fans urged to cheer quietly at SCG amid COVID outbreak India is failing to find a stable opening pair this year. Agarwal has failed to perform in the top order for India. He scored 7, 3, 17, 9, 0, 5 in his last 6 Test innings for Team India. The Karnataka batsman could be replaced by much experienced Rohit Sharma, who had prolific Test innings in the land down under. With Rohit returning to the squad after the 14-day quarantine period, he could be the part of the playing XI. However, Rohit is yet to get into nets and train as it has been a long time since the batsman has entered the ground. The Hitman also has stats backing his case, having produced scores of 176, 127, 14, 212, 6, 21 in his last 6 Test innings. Rohit hasn't played cricket since November 10 which is when his Mumbai Indians had defeated Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2020 final. Sharma has nine days to adapt to Aussie conditions before playing the third Test that will be played on the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 07. ALSO READ: T Natarajan could make Test debut in third Test vs Australia as Umesh Yadav suffers calf injury Recently, Australia on Wednesday announced a strong 18-member squad for the third and fourth Tests against India as David Warner returned in the team for the hosts. The four-match Test series is firmly locked at 1-1 after India made a resounding comeback in the Boxing Day Test to equalise the series. Warner and Will Pucovsi have been added in Australia’s Test squad with out-of-form opener Joe Burns dropped from the squad. Pacer Sean Abbott has also been declared fit for the remainder of the series and is one of the names in the 18-member squad. Warner continues to recover from the groin injury and will replace Burns in the playing XI. Whereas Pucovski is in line to make his Test debut after suffering a concussion while playing for Australia A against India earlier this month. The 22-year-old will still be required to pass further tests before he is cleared to make a possible debut in Sydney.

As Warner returns for Australia, will the 'Hitman' formula bolster Team India?

India completed a memorable triumph in Melbourne as the visitors defeated Australia by eight wickets to equalise the four-match Test series 1-1. While there is still a sense of jubilation among fans, the captain of the Indian cricket team Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday posted a heartfelt letter for all the fans for the support they have received after winning the Boxing Day Test.&nbsp;

Rahane, who is leading the Indian side in the absence of Virat Kohli, expressed his gratitude for all the love and support coming towards the Indian cricket team. Rahane further wrote that the biggest reward for the Indian cricket team has been the ability to put a smile on the faces of cricket lovers.&nbsp; 
The centurion in the MCG Test concluded by saying that the Indian cricket team continues to seek support and good wishes from everyone for the final two Test matches against Australia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahane-joins-ms-dhoni-in-a-rare-list-as-india-win-boxing-day-test-vs-australia-353117" hreflang="en">Ajinkya Rahane joins MS Dhoni in a rare list as India win Boxing Day Test vs Australia</a>

“I would like to express my gratitude for all the love and support we've received. The biggest reward for us as a team has been the ability to bring a smile on the faces of all those Indians that follow the sport,” Rahane posted on Twitter.

“We continue to seek your support and good wishes as we work hard for the next two matches,” the stand-in Indian skipper concluded.&nbsp;

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Thank you 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/tJdduct5Pl">pic.twitter.com/tJdduct5Pl</a>
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India, after suffering humiliation in the Adelaide Test, showed immense character to bounce back and dominate Australia in the Boxing Day Test, played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. Rahane was one of the orchestrators of the memorable win as he led the side with a fantastic century in the first innings.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/couldnt-be-happier-for-jinks-virat-kohli-lauds-ajinkya-rahane-co-for-historic-win-in-boxing-day-test-353106" hreflang="en">'Couldn't be happier for Jinks' - Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane &amp; Co. for historic win in Boxing Day Test</a>

Rahane’s aggressive captaincy and shrewd decision making was largely praised by pundits and former cricketers as India bounced back to level the series 1-1.&nbsp;

India and Australia will lock horns in the New Year’s Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, scheduled to start from January 7. 
&nbsp;

India completed a memorable triumph in Melbourne as the visitors defeated Australia by eight wickets to equalise the four-match Test series 1-1. While there is still a sense of jubilation among fans, the captain of the Indian cricket team Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday posted a heartfelt letter for all the fans for the support they have received after winning the Boxing Day Test.

India completed a memorable triumph in Melbourne as the visitors defeated Australia by eight wickets to equalise the four-match Test series 1-1. While there is still a sense of jubilation among fans, the captain of the Indian cricket team Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday posted a heartfelt letter for all the fans for the support they have received after winning the Boxing Day Test. Rahane, who is leading the Indian side in the absence of Virat Kohli, expressed his gratitude for all the love and support coming towards the Indian cricket team. Rahane further wrote that the biggest reward for the Indian cricket team has been the ability to put a smile on the faces of cricket lovers. The centurion in the MCG Test concluded by saying that the Indian cricket team continues to seek support and good wishes from everyone for the final two Test matches against Australia. ALSO READ: Ajinkya Rahane joins MS Dhoni in a rare list as India win Boxing Day Test vs Australia “I would like to express my gratitude for all the love and support we've received. The biggest reward for us as a team has been the ability to bring a smile on the faces of all those Indians that follow the sport,” Rahane posted on Twitter. “We continue to seek your support and good wishes as we work hard for the next two matches,” the stand-in Indian skipper concluded. Thank you 🙏 pic.twitter.com/tJdduct5Pl — Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) December 30, 2020 × India, after suffering humiliation in the Adelaide Test, showed immense character to bounce back and dominate Australia in the Boxing Day Test, played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. Rahane was one of the orchestrators of the memorable win as he led the side with a fantastic century in the first innings. ALSO READ: 'Couldn't be happier for Jinks' - Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane & Co. for historic win in Boxing Day Test Rahane’s aggressive captaincy and shrewd decision making was largely praised by pundits and former cricketers as India bounced back to level the series 1-1. India and Australia will lock horns in the New Year’s Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, scheduled to start from January 7.

'The biggest reward for us...' - Ajinkya Rahane posts heartfelt message for fans after MCG triumph