The Indian women's team will play as many as 65 international games in the inaugural Future Tours &amp; Programmes (FTP) set by the ICC during the three-year cycle between May, 2022 to April, 2025.

The ICC on Tuesday announced the the structured calender that includes a total of 301 matches (seven Tests, 135 ODIs and 159 T20Is) over a period of three years.

India's share of matches will be two Tests against England and Australia along with 27 ODIs and 36 T20 Internationals during the said duration. Since the FTP has started from May, 2022, India have already played 3 WODIs and 3 WT20Is against Sri Lanka.

As per the list, India hosts New Zealand, South Africa, West Indies and Ireland at home, the away series are against Australia, England, Sri Lanka (already played) and Bangladesh. One of the marquee events in this phase will be India's five-match T20I series against the 'Southern Stars' later this year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-opines-on-team-indias-multiple-captaincy-changes-in-2022-explains-how-it-has-been-beneficial-507450">Ganguly opines on Team India's multiple captaincy changes in 2022, explains how it has been beneficial</a>

While the Australians will be visiting India once again during the summer of 2023-24 for a multi-format series (one Test, three ODIs, and three T20Is), the Indians will return the favour when they tour Down Under in the winter of 2025-26 (one Test, three ODIs, and three T20Is).

Of the seven Tests inked during the phase, England will play the most Tests - five, followed by Australia (four), South Africa (three) and India (two).

"This is a huge moment for the women's game," ICC general manager of cricket, Wasim Khan, said in a statement. 
"This FTP not only lends certainty to future cricket tours but also sets the base for a structure that is sure to grow in the coming years," Khan added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-wasnt-aggressive-under-kohli-but-players-attack-under-rohits-captaincy-feels-aakash-chopra-507368">Team India wasn't aggressive under Kohli, but players attack under Rohit's captaincy, feels Aakash Chopra</a>

According to ICC, the 2022-25 Women's Championship, teams will generally play three-match bilateral ODI series before the 2025 World Cup.

Many of these series will also be accompanied by T20 international matches, with some teams also giving its consent for five-match WT20I series.

"All bilateral T20I matches count towards respective team rankings, which in turn serves as a primary mechanism for determining the teams that qualify for ICC global events," ICC said in its statement.

The Indian women's team will play as many as 65 international games in the inaugural Future Tours & Programmes (FTP) set by the ICC during the three-year cycle between May, 2022 to April, 2025.

The Indian women's team will play as many as 65 international games in the inaugural Future Tours & Programmes (FTP) set by the ICC during the three-year cycle between May, 2022 to April, 2025. The ICC on Tuesday announced the the structured calender that includes a total of 301 matches (seven Tests, 135 ODIs and 159 T20Is) over a period of three years. India's share of matches will be two Tests against England and Australia along with 27 ODIs and 36 T20 Internationals during the said duration. Since the FTP has started from May, 2022, India have already played 3 WODIs and 3 WT20Is against Sri Lanka. As per the list, India hosts New Zealand, South Africa, West Indies and Ireland at home, the away series are against Australia, England, Sri Lanka (already played) and Bangladesh. One of the marquee events in this phase will be India's five-match T20I series against the 'Southern Stars' later this year. Also Read: Ganguly opines on Team India's multiple captaincy changes in 2022, explains how it has been beneficial While the Australians will be visiting India once again during the summer of 2023-24 for a multi-format series (one Test, three ODIs, and three T20Is), the Indians will return the favour when they tour Down Under in the winter of 2025-26 (one Test, three ODIs, and three T20Is). Of the seven Tests inked during the phase, England will play the most Tests - five, followed by Australia (four), South Africa (three) and India (two). "This is a huge moment for the women's game," ICC general manager of cricket, Wasim Khan, said in a statement. "This FTP not only lends certainty to future cricket tours but also sets the base for a structure that is sure to grow in the coming years," Khan added. Also Read: Team India wasn't aggressive under Kohli, but players attack under Rohit's captaincy, feels Aakash Chopra According to ICC, the 2022-25 Women's Championship, teams will generally play three-match bilateral ODI series before the 2025 World Cup. Many of these series will also be accompanied by T20 international matches, with some teams also giving its consent for five-match WT20I series. "All bilateral T20I matches count towards respective team rankings, which in turn serves as a primary mechanism for determining the teams that qualify for ICC global events," ICC said in its statement.

Indian women's team to play 2 Tests, 27 ODIs and 36 T20Is in three-year cycle as ICC releases FTP

From inaugural champions to woeful performers in 2021: Team India at T20 World Cup over the years

Former Australia pacer Brett Lee has heaped praise on Virender Sehwag calling him one of the toughest batters he has bowled to. Lee recently recalled his fierce battles with Sehwag and said the former Indian opener was just too good with the bat. Sehwag was known for his swashbuckling style of batting during his playing days and used to go after the bowlers irrespective of the format.

Sehwag enjoyed some fierce duels with Lee, one of the fastest bowlers of all time. The former Australian pacer used to bowl at over 150 kmph consistently and was a nightmare to face for even the best of batters. Lee is arguably one of the best fast bowlers the game has ever seen and he enjoyed great duels with Indian batters.

The former Australian pacer has always maintained he found the legendary Sachin Tendulkar the toughest to bowl to but he also holds his opening partner Sehwag in the same regard. Lee, who enjoyed some great battles with Sehwag, recalled how the former India opener was a character who just loved playing cricket and had the ability to get people hooked to their seats with his attacking strokeplay.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brown-face-in-a-vanilla-line-up-new-zealand-great-ross-taylor-makes-shocking-racism-claims-in-his-new-book-505850">Brown face in a vanilla line-up: New Zealand great Ross Taylor makes shocking racism claims in his new book</a>

"The guy that looked a little bit like Sachin Tendulkar when he was batting. And I thought 'here we go again. Another Sachin Tendulkar. If one wasn't enough, we've got another one and he is opening the batting'. We in the Australian team had a ploy for Sehwag and even start the Test match with a third man, trying to suck him in to hit one down there. We tried that in an ODI match one day and he whacked it... he absolutely nailed it out of the ground. I just thought ‘this guy is too good," Lee said in a video on his YouTube channel.

"And he would give you that cheeky little wink. The best thing about Sehwag was that he was a character. He loved playing cricket and those little battle scars against the bowler. He got the ability to make people get hooked on to seats," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gavaskar-gives-hard-hitting-response-to-gilchrists-plea-of-allowing-indian-players-to-play-in-foreign-leagues-505814">Gavaskar gives hard-hitting response to Gilchrist's plea of allowing Indian players to play in foreign leagues</a>

Lee explained how Sehwag's unpredictable approach with the bat made him one of the toughest batters to bowl to. The two-time World Cup winner with Australia hailed Sehwag's intent and showered praise on the former India opener for his sensational batting skills.

"You think of the word cruel. You think of the word swashbuckling. Think of the world unpredictable, I think of none other than Virender Sehwag. He played with a smile on his face, with intent... the type of guy that would quite likely want to hit the first ball of a Test match for six... and he has done it," said Lee as he spoke highly about Sehwag.

"He is a guy that is so hard to bowl to because, as I mentioned, the unpredictability. You would bowl that beautiful line and length, thinking, I’ve got him… ball shaping away. And that big smile, Sehwag would go bang, hit you over cover for six," he added.

Sachin and Sehwag once formed the backbone of India's batting and the duo used to dominate the best bowling attacks in the world during their playing days. While Sachin remains the leading run-getter of all time in international cricket, Sehwag finished his career with&nbsp;8586 runs in 104 Tests and 8273 runs in 251 ODIs.

Former Australia pacer Brett Lee has heaped praise on Virender Sehwag calling him one of the toughest batters he has bowled to. Lee recently recalled his fierce battles with Sehwag and said the former Indian opener was just too good with the bat.

Former Australia pacer Brett Lee has heaped praise on Virender Sehwag calling him one of the toughest batters he has bowled to. Lee recently recalled his fierce battles with Sehwag and said the former Indian opener was just too good with the bat. Sehwag was known for his swashbuckling style of batting during his playing days and used to go after the bowlers irrespective of the format. Sehwag enjoyed some fierce duels with Lee, one of the fastest bowlers of all time. The former Australian pacer used to bowl at over 150 kmph consistently and was a nightmare to face for even the best of batters. Lee is arguably one of the best fast bowlers the game has ever seen and he enjoyed great duels with Indian batters. The former Australian pacer has always maintained he found the legendary Sachin Tendulkar the toughest to bowl to but he also holds his opening partner Sehwag in the same regard. Lee, who enjoyed some great battles with Sehwag, recalled how the former India opener was a character who just loved playing cricket and had the ability to get people hooked to their seats with his attacking strokeplay. Also Read: Brown face in a vanilla line-up: New Zealand great Ross Taylor makes shocking racism claims in his new book "The guy that looked a little bit like Sachin Tendulkar when he was batting. And I thought 'here we go again. Another Sachin Tendulkar. If one wasn't enough, we've got another one and he is opening the batting'. We in the Australian team had a ploy for Sehwag and even start the Test match with a third man, trying to suck him in to hit one down there. We tried that in an ODI match one day and he whacked it... he absolutely nailed it out of the ground. I just thought ‘this guy is too good," Lee said in a video on his YouTube channel. "And he would give you that cheeky little wink. The best thing about Sehwag was that he was a character. He loved playing cricket and those little battle scars against the bowler. He got the ability to make people get hooked on to seats," he added. Also Read: Gavaskar gives hard-hitting response to Gilchrist's plea of allowing Indian players to play in foreign leagues Lee explained how Sehwag's unpredictable approach with the bat made him one of the toughest batters to bowl to. The two-time World Cup winner with Australia hailed Sehwag's intent and showered praise on the former India opener for his sensational batting skills. "You think of the word cruel. You think of the word swashbuckling. Think of the world unpredictable, I think of none other than Virender Sehwag. He played with a smile on his face, with intent... the type of guy that would quite likely want to hit the first ball of a Test match for six... and he has done it," said Lee as he spoke highly about Sehwag. "He is a guy that is so hard to bowl to because, as I mentioned, the unpredictability. You would bowl that beautiful line and length, thinking, I’ve got him… ball shaping away. And that big smile, Sehwag would go bang, hit you over cover for six," he added. Sachin and Sehwag once formed the backbone of India's batting and the duo used to dominate the best bowling attacks in the world during their playing days. While Sachin remains the leading run-getter of all time in international cricket, Sehwag finished his career with 8586 runs in 104 Tests and 8273 runs in 251 ODIs.

Brett Lee recalls fierce battles with Virender Sehwag: 'If one Sachin wasn't enough, we've got another'

Australian women's team star Alyssa Healy posted a cryptic tweet on Tuesday (August 09) after her team's victory against India in the gold medal match at the recently-concluded Commonwealth Games 2022. Australia defeated India by 9 runs in a thrilling final at Edgbaston Cricket Ground in Birmingham to clinch their maiden gold medal in the inaugural edition of women's cricket at the Commonwealth Games.

The final between India and Australia was marred with controversy after Aussie all-rounder Tahlia McGrath was allowed to take part in the game despite testing positive for COVID-19 ahead of the game.&nbsp;McGrath tested positive for the virus ahead of the toss but was allowed to take the field after ICC's approval.

While she was seen sitting with a mask on in the dugout during Australia's batting innings, McGrath came out to bat without a mask, She later was also seen fielding without a mask on but avoided celebrating with her teammates after taking a catch.

The decision to allow McGrath to play the game despite testing positive for COVID-19 was questioned by many with fans calling out the hypocrisy as India's para discuss thrower Aneesh Pillai was barred from participating in his event at CWG 2022 after testing positive for the virus a few days before the women's cricket final.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-will-change-his-career-ex-pakistan-spinner-makes-bold-claim-says-asia-cup-will-benefit-virat-kohli-505294">'It will change his career' - Ex-Pakistan spinner makes BOLD claim, says Asia Cup will benefit Virat Kohli</a>

With Indian fans expressing their outrage on Twitter and slamming the organisers for allowing Australia to field a COVID-positive player in the final, Australia batter Alyssa Healy took to Twitter to take a dig at the critics. Healy shared a cryptic post with an image of a boat which had 'salty' written on it.

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<a href="https://t.co/dp6lkLkL9l">pic.twitter.com/dp6lkLkL9l</a>
— Alyssa Healy (@ahealy77) <a href="https://twitter.com/ahealy77/status/1556744011808837632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Healy faced immense backlash from the Indian cricket fans soon after the post took Twitter by a storm. The Australian batter was called out by the fans leading her to issue a clarification over her post. Explaining her stance, Healy said it was just a picture of a boat with the name Salty and that fans should stop reading into it.

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. Relax everyone. It’s a photo of a boat in the water with the name Salty. I thought it was clever. Stop trying to read anything other into it. But if it makes you feel better to reply cruelly go nuts. Water off a ducks back! <a href="https://t.co/ZUhES3bS78">https://t.co/ZUhES3bS78</a>
— Alyssa Healy (@ahealy77) <a href="https://twitter.com/ahealy77/status/1556951003559256066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-we-get-covid-so-be-it-megan-schutt-on-tahlia-mcgrath-playing-against-india-despite-testing-positive-504742">'If we get COVID, so be it': Megan Schutt on Tahlia McGrath playing against India despite testing positive</a>&nbsp;

Talking about the final, Australia won the toss and opted to bat first in the final. They rode on senior batter Beth Mooney's brilliant knock of 61 runs to post a strong total of 161 runs in 20 overs. India came close to chasing down the target but ended up falling short eventually.

Captain Harmanpreet Kaur (65) and Jemimah Rodrigues (33) took India closer to the finishing line with a 96-run stand for the third wicket after a poor start. However, the duo lost their wickets in quick succession leading to a collapse as India folded for 152 runs with 3 balls to spare to lose the game by 9 runs.

Australian women's team star Alyssa Healy posted a cryptic tweet on Tuesday (August 09) after her team's victory against India in the gold medal match at the recently-concluded Commonwealth Games 2022.

Australian women's team star Alyssa Healy posted a cryptic tweet on Tuesday (August 09) after her team's victory against India in the gold medal match at the recently-concluded Commonwealth Games 2022. Australia defeated India by 9 runs in a thrilling final at Edgbaston Cricket Ground in Birmingham to clinch their maiden gold medal in the inaugural edition of women's cricket at the Commonwealth Games. The final between India and Australia was marred with controversy after Aussie all-rounder Tahlia McGrath was allowed to take part in the game despite testing positive for COVID-19 ahead of the game. McGrath tested positive for the virus ahead of the toss but was allowed to take the field after ICC's approval. While she was seen sitting with a mask on in the dugout during Australia's batting innings, McGrath came out to bat without a mask, She later was also seen fielding without a mask on but avoided celebrating with her teammates after taking a catch. The decision to allow McGrath to play the game despite testing positive for COVID-19 was questioned by many with fans calling out the hypocrisy as India's para discuss thrower Aneesh Pillai was barred from participating in his event at CWG 2022 after testing positive for the virus a few days before the women's cricket final. Also Read: 'It will change his career' - Ex-Pakistan spinner makes BOLD claim, says Asia Cup will benefit Virat Kohli With Indian fans expressing their outrage on Twitter and slamming the organisers for allowing Australia to field a COVID-positive player in the final, Australia batter Alyssa Healy took to Twitter to take a dig at the critics. Healy shared a cryptic post with an image of a boat which had 'salty' written on it. pic.twitter.com/dp6lkLkL9l — Alyssa Healy (@ahealy77) August 8, 2022 × Healy faced immense backlash from the Indian cricket fans soon after the post took Twitter by a storm. The Australian batter was called out by the fans leading her to issue a clarification over her post. Explaining her stance, Healy said it was just a picture of a boat with the name Salty and that fans should stop reading into it. . Relax everyone. It’s a photo of a boat in the water with the name Salty. I thought it was clever. Stop trying to read anything other into it. But if it makes you feel better to reply cruelly go nuts. Water off a ducks back! https://t.co/ZUhES3bS78 — Alyssa Healy (@ahealy77) August 9, 2022 × Also Read: 'If we get COVID, so be it': Megan Schutt on Tahlia McGrath playing against India despite testing positive Talking about the final, Australia won the toss and opted to bat first in the final. They rode on senior batter Beth Mooney's brilliant knock of 61 runs to post a strong total of 161 runs in 20 overs. India came close to chasing down the target but ended up falling short eventually. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur (65) and Jemimah Rodrigues (33) took India closer to the finishing line with a 96-run stand for the third wicket after a poor start. However, the duo lost their wickets in quick succession leading to a collapse as India folded for 152 runs with 3 balls to spare to lose the game by 9 runs.

Alyssa Healy issues clarification after facing backlash over 'salty' tweet post CWG win against India

After a 0-7 loss against Australia in the final at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, Indian Men's Hockey Team Vice Captain Harmanpreet Singh emphasized that the team must move on from this bitter experience. Having arrived in New Delhi early Wednesday morning, the team has had some time to introspect on their performance. He said, "It is hard to digest a loss by such a big margin. Definitely, the entire team is disappointed by the way we played but it is important we move on from this bitter outing. Like chief coach mentioned, we lacked the energy and tempo required to match-up a team like Australia."

While the final was a forgettable experience, there were a number of positives to take away from the entire campaign at Birmingham 2022 CWG. India marched into the final on the back of some fine performances in the group stage as they beat Ghana 11-0, drew against England 4-4, beat Canada 8-0 and Wales 4-1 followed by a 3-2 win against South Africa in the semi-final. "There are many lessons from this campaign that we can work on and improve upon. Every match we played will be analyzed thoroughly when we return to camp after a two-week break and we will be starting from scratch," stated the drag flick specialist.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2022-indian-contingent-shine-end-campaign-at-fourth-slot-with-a-staggering-61-medals-504917">CWG 2022: Indian contingent shines, ends campaign at fourth slot with a staggering 61 medals</a>

The vice-captain was in sublime form through the tournament as he scored nine goals for the team, and was the second highest goal scorer along with Wales' Gareth Furlong who also scored 9 goals from penalty corners while Harmanpreet scored eight from PCs and one from penalty stroke. He also scored a hat-trick, in India's 4-1 win against Wales. England's Nicholas Bandurak remained the highest goal-scorer of the tournament with 11 goals.

Talking about his own performance, he said, "This was a memorable outing for me personally despite the final not going our way. For the first time after the pandemic, we were playing in front of such big crowds and many Indian fans had turned up. My wife travelled to Birmingham to watch our matches, and this was the first time she was watching me play a big tournament live. This is my first Commonwealth Games medal, so in all it was a special outing for me on a personal note," he stated. Up next, India will prepare for the upcoming FIH Hockey Pro League season 2022/23 which begins in October. India is scheduled to play New Zealand and Spain at home. The team will return to the National Coaching Camp in Bengaluru on August 29.

After a 0-7 loss against Australia in the final at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, Indian Men's Hockey Team Vice Captain Harmanpreet Singh emphasized that the team must move on from this bitter experience.

After a 0-7 loss against Australia in the final at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, Indian Men's Hockey Team Vice Captain Harmanpreet Singh emphasized that the team must move on from this bitter experience. Having arrived in New Delhi early Wednesday morning, the team has had some time to introspect on their performance. He said, "It is hard to digest a loss by such a big margin. Definitely, the entire team is disappointed by the way we played but it is important we move on from this bitter outing. Like chief coach mentioned, we lacked the energy and tempo required to match-up a team like Australia." While the final was a forgettable experience, there were a number of positives to take away from the entire campaign at Birmingham 2022 CWG. India marched into the final on the back of some fine performances in the group stage as they beat Ghana 11-0, drew against England 4-4, beat Canada 8-0 and Wales 4-1 followed by a 3-2 win against South Africa in the semi-final. "There are many lessons from this campaign that we can work on and improve upon. Every match we played will be analyzed thoroughly when we return to camp after a two-week break and we will be starting from scratch," stated the drag flick specialist. ALSO READ | CWG 2022: Indian contingent shines, ends campaign at fourth slot with a staggering 61 medals The vice-captain was in sublime form through the tournament as he scored nine goals for the team, and was the second highest goal scorer along with Wales' Gareth Furlong who also scored 9 goals from penalty corners while Harmanpreet scored eight from PCs and one from penalty stroke. He also scored a hat-trick, in India's 4-1 win against Wales. England's Nicholas Bandurak remained the highest goal-scorer of the tournament with 11 goals. Talking about his own performance, he said, "This was a memorable outing for me personally despite the final not going our way. For the first time after the pandemic, we were playing in front of such big crowds and many Indian fans had turned up. My wife travelled to Birmingham to watch our matches, and this was the first time she was watching me play a big tournament live. This is my first Commonwealth Games medal, so in all it was a special outing for me on a personal note," he stated. Up next, India will prepare for the upcoming FIH Hockey Pro League season 2022/23 which begins in October. India is scheduled to play New Zealand and Spain at home. The team will return to the National Coaching Camp in Bengaluru on August 29.

Harmanpreet Singh emphasises India need to move on from bitter experience at CWG 2022 final

Former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin slammed the Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian women's cricket team after their defeat against Australia in the gold medal match at the Commonwealth Games 2022 on Sunday (August 07). The Indian women's team lost the final against Australia by 9 runs after failing to chase down the target of 162 runs in 20 overs.

India got off to a poor start in the summit clash as they lost both their openers Smriti Mandhana (6) and Shafali Verma (11) cheaply to be reeling at 22/2 inside the first three overs. However, captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Jemimah Rodrigues then joined forces in the middle to help the Women in Blue fight back with a 96-run stand for the second wicket.

While Harmanpreet slammed a brilliant 65 off 43 balls, Rodrigues scored a run-a-ball 33. While it seemed the duo would take India home comfortably, they ended up throwing away their wickets in quick succession as India lost the plot towards the end to eventually fall short in the run chase.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-stage-fright-gets-to-india-again-as-they-lose-to-australia-in-cwg-2022-final-to-settle-for-silver-504684">Big stage fright gets to India again as they lose to Australia in CWG 2022 final to settle for silver</a>

Former India skipper Azharuddin took to Twitter to lash out at Harmanpreet &amp; Co. for their poor show in the final. Azharuddin called India's batting 'rubbish' and slammed them for throwing away a game they could have easily won. "Rubbish batting by the Indian team. No common sense. Gave away a winning game on a platter," he wrote in a tweet.

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Rubbish batting by the Indian team. No common sense. Gave away a winning game on a platter. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WomensCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WomensCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWG22?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWG22</a>
— Mohammed Azharuddin (@azharflicks) <a href="https://twitter.com/azharflicks/status/1556357754302140416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-champion-nikhat-zareen-beats-carly-mcnaul-to-win-her-maiden-gold-medal-at-cwg-2022-504598">World champion Nikhat Zareen beats Carly McNaul to win her maiden gold medal at CWG</a>

Ashleigh Gardner was the pick of the bowlers for Australia as he finished with excellent figures of 3/16 off her three overs and picked up the important wickets of Verma, Harmanpreet and Pooja Vastrakar to break the back of the Indian batting line-up.

With the thrilling win, Australia clinched their maiden gold medal in women's cricket in the Commonwealth Games as India faltered once again on the big stage to settle with silver.

Former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin slammed the Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian women's cricket team after their defeat against Australia in the gold medal match at the Commonwealth Games 2022 on Sunday (August 07).

Former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin slammed the Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian women's cricket team after their defeat against Australia in the gold medal match at the Commonwealth Games 2022 on Sunday (August 07). The Indian women's team lost the final against Australia by 9 runs after failing to chase down the target of 162 runs in 20 overs. India got off to a poor start in the summit clash as they lost both their openers Smriti Mandhana (6) and Shafali Verma (11) cheaply to be reeling at 22/2 inside the first three overs. However, captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Jemimah Rodrigues then joined forces in the middle to help the Women in Blue fight back with a 96-run stand for the second wicket. While Harmanpreet slammed a brilliant 65 off 43 balls, Rodrigues scored a run-a-ball 33. While it seemed the duo would take India home comfortably, they ended up throwing away their wickets in quick succession as India lost the plot towards the end to eventually fall short in the run chase. Also Read: Big stage fright gets to India again as they lose to Australia in CWG 2022 final to settle for silver Former India skipper Azharuddin took to Twitter to lash out at Harmanpreet & Co. for their poor show in the final. Azharuddin called India's batting 'rubbish' and slammed them for throwing away a game they could have easily won. "Rubbish batting by the Indian team. No common sense. Gave away a winning game on a platter," he wrote in a tweet. Rubbish batting by the Indian team. No common sense. Gave away a winning game on a platter. #INDvsAUS #WomensCricket #CWG22 — Mohammed Azharuddin (@azharflicks) August 7, 2022 × Also Read: World champion Nikhat Zareen beats Carly McNaul to win her maiden gold medal at CWG Ashleigh Gardner was the pick of the bowlers for Australia as he finished with excellent figures of 3/16 off her three overs and picked up the important wickets of Verma, Harmanpreet and Pooja Vastrakar to break the back of the Indian batting line-up. With the thrilling win, Australia clinched their maiden gold medal in women's cricket in the Commonwealth Games as India faltered once again on the big stage to settle with silver.

Rubbish batting, no common sense: Mohammad Azharuddin slams India after CWG final defeat against Australia

The Indian women's cricket team once again succumbed to the big stage fright to suffer a nine-run defeat against the mighty Australia in the gold medal match of the Commonwealth Games here on Sunday. The 'Women In Blue' lost the battle of nerves and also the last five wickets for 13 runs with some poor strategic moves and even more atrocious shot selections leaving a lot to be desired.

Losing like winning is also a habit and in the end, the self-belief of the Southern Stars prevailed with the opposition taking a lot of pressure on themselves. Beth Mooney (61 off 41) made a stroke-filled half century as Australia managed to reach 161 for eight despite a spirited fielding effort from India.

With 50 needed off the last six overs with eight wickets in hand, and Harmanpreet (65 off 43) in the middle of a special innings, it should have been a straightforward chase for India.

However, India found a way to fluff it as they lost eight wickets for 32 runs to come short in a major final once again. India's inexplicable batting collapse was also reminiscent of their failure in the 2017 ODI World Cup final in England.

Sharing an 96-run stand after the fall of openers, Harmanpreet and Jemimah Rodrigues (33 off 33) were controlling the chase but the latter's dismissal triggered the collapse. The batters manufactured ways to get dismissed with innings including three run outs. India were eventually bowled out for 152 with three balls left.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-champion-nikhat-zareen-beats-carly-mcnaul-to-win-her-maiden-gold-medal-at-cwg-2022-504598">World champion Nikhat Zareen beats Carly McNaul to win her maiden gold medal at CWG</a>

The shots that Harmanpreet and Jemimah played were also questionable but they could not be solely blamed for the abject surrender. It was between 14.3 overs and 15.5 overs, a space of nine deliveries that India lost the game with Jemimah being bowled by Megan Schutt and Harmanpreet playing a suicidal lap-scoop off Ashleigh Gardner which was brilliantly pouched by an alert Alyssa Healy.

Deepti Sharma going for a non-existent second run and Concussion sub Yastika Bhatia being sent after Radha Yadav were questionable decisions taken by coach Ramesh Powar and skipper Harman.

A silver medal finish was still a creditable one for India who beat England in the semi-finals on Saturday. It can also be said the women's cricket debut at the Commonwealth Games was largely a success. A packed house at Edgbaston witnessed the first-ever final in CWG.

Earlier, Australia opted to bat on a bright and sunny afternoon. Renuka Singh, the stand-out pacer for India in this tournament, once again provided an early breakthrough by trapping the dangerous Alyssa Healy leg before with a delivery that moved in a shade.

The Indians went for the DRS in the last second and it was successful. Mooney (61 off 41)and skipper Meg Lanning (36 off 26) then stitched a 78-run stand and once again it seemed Australia would bat India out of the game like they had done in the T20 World Cup final couple of years ago.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-reveals-why-captain-rohit-sharma-is-not-playing-in-5th-t20i-against-west-indies-504618">Hardik Pandya reveals why captain Rohit Sharma is not playing in 5th T20I against West Indies</a>

Lanning made her intent clear as she dispatched a length ball off Renuka over mid off for the first six of the match. 
The Indian fielders who are often criticised had a fine day in the middle. It started with a close run out of Lanning and included two fine catches from Deepti Sharma and Radha Yadav.

Deepti plucked one off the right hand to get rid of a well set Mooney while Radha took a low diving catch at backward point to dismiss Tahlia McGrath, who played the game despite testing positive for COVID-19.

Australia looked set for a 180 plus total but India fought back in the last five overs taking five wickets for 35 runs. 
Renuka ended with tidy figures of 2 for 25 in four overs while fellow pacer Meghna Singh was under bowled as India used seven bowling options.

Sneh Rana (2/38) was the most expensive bowler who bowled their full quota but took two crucial wickets of Mooney and Ashleigh Gardner.

The Indian women's cricket team once again succumbed to the big stage fright to suffer a nine-run defeat against the mighty Australia in the gold medal match of the Commonwealth Games here on Sunday.

The Indian women's cricket team once again succumbed to the big stage fright to suffer a nine-run defeat against the mighty Australia in the gold medal match of the Commonwealth Games here on Sunday. The 'Women In Blue' lost the battle of nerves and also the last five wickets for 13 runs with some poor strategic moves and even more atrocious shot selections leaving a lot to be desired. Losing like winning is also a habit and in the end, the self-belief of the Southern Stars prevailed with the opposition taking a lot of pressure on themselves. Beth Mooney (61 off 41) made a stroke-filled half century as Australia managed to reach 161 for eight despite a spirited fielding effort from India. With 50 needed off the last six overs with eight wickets in hand, and Harmanpreet (65 off 43) in the middle of a special innings, it should have been a straightforward chase for India. However, India found a way to fluff it as they lost eight wickets for 32 runs to come short in a major final once again. India's inexplicable batting collapse was also reminiscent of their failure in the 2017 ODI World Cup final in England. Sharing an 96-run stand after the fall of openers, Harmanpreet and Jemimah Rodrigues (33 off 33) were controlling the chase but the latter's dismissal triggered the collapse. The batters manufactured ways to get dismissed with innings including three run outs. India were eventually bowled out for 152 with three balls left. Also Read: World champion Nikhat Zareen beats Carly McNaul to win her maiden gold medal at CWG The shots that Harmanpreet and Jemimah played were also questionable but they could not be solely blamed for the abject surrender. It was between 14.3 overs and 15.5 overs, a space of nine deliveries that India lost the game with Jemimah being bowled by Megan Schutt and Harmanpreet playing a suicidal lap-scoop off Ashleigh Gardner which was brilliantly pouched by an alert Alyssa Healy. Deepti Sharma going for a non-existent second run and Concussion sub Yastika Bhatia being sent after Radha Yadav were questionable decisions taken by coach Ramesh Powar and skipper Harman. A silver medal finish was still a creditable one for India who beat England in the semi-finals on Saturday. It can also be said the women's cricket debut at the Commonwealth Games was largely a success. A packed house at Edgbaston witnessed the first-ever final in CWG. Earlier, Australia opted to bat on a bright and sunny afternoon. Renuka Singh, the stand-out pacer for India in this tournament, once again provided an early breakthrough by trapping the dangerous Alyssa Healy leg before with a delivery that moved in a shade. The Indians went for the DRS in the last second and it was successful. Mooney (61 off 41)and skipper Meg Lanning (36 off 26) then stitched a 78-run stand and once again it seemed Australia would bat India out of the game like they had done in the T20 World Cup final couple of years ago. Also Read: Hardik Pandya reveals why captain Rohit Sharma is not playing in 5th T20I against West Indies Lanning made her intent clear as she dispatched a length ball off Renuka over mid off for the first six of the match. The Indian fielders who are often criticised had a fine day in the middle. It started with a close run out of Lanning and included two fine catches from Deepti Sharma and Radha Yadav. Deepti plucked one off the right hand to get rid of a well set Mooney while Radha took a low diving catch at backward point to dismiss Tahlia McGrath, who played the game despite testing positive for COVID-19. Australia looked set for a 180 plus total but India fought back in the last five overs taking five wickets for 35 runs. Renuka ended with tidy figures of 2 for 25 in four overs while fellow pacer Meghna Singh was under bowled as India used seven bowling options. Sneh Rana (2/38) was the most expensive bowler who bowled their full quota but took two crucial wickets of Mooney and Ashleigh Gardner.

Big stage fright gets to India again as they lose to Australia in CWG 2022 final to settle for silver

While it has been raining medals for the Indian contingent on the last day of the Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition, in Birmingham, on Monday (August 08), the Manpreet Singh-led Indian men's hockey team faltered in the final encounter to lose to Australia by a whopping 7-0 margin.

Coming into this contest on the back of an unbeaten streak so far in the competition, India were expected to give a tough fight to the Australians. However, nothing clicked for the Men in Blue as they were trailing 2-0 in the first quarter and the lead extended to 5-0 at halftime. The writing was always on the wall as India were only playing the catchup game and never looked to threaten the Aussies.

Goals from Blake Govers,&nbsp;Tom Wickham, Fynn Ogilvie along with braces from Nathan Ephraums and&nbsp;Jacob Anderson helped Australia thump India.&nbsp;It could've been more embarrassing for India had PR Sreejesh not saved a few towards the end of the match. Even the likes of vice-captain Harmanpreet Singh and captain Manpreet were kept silent throughout the contest. Thus, the Australian men's hockey team ended their glorious run in an emphatic manner and continue their dominance&nbsp;at the multi-sport sporting extravaganza by claiming their seventh gold medal at the Games.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg22-heartwarming-savita-led-india-get-guard-of-honour-from-manpreet-co-after-bronze-win-watch-504835">CWG'22: Heartwarming! Savita-led India get guard of honour from Manpreet &amp; Co. after bronze win - WATCH</a>

India, on the other hand, continues to search for their maiden gold at CWG. They, however, settled for silver -- which is their third overall. Manpreet &amp; Co. were at their very best in the group stage, topping Pool B and defeating South Africa 3-2 in the semi-finals before being blown away by Australia in the summit clash.

Earlier, their women's counterpart had ended at the third spot&nbsp;after beating New Zealand in their bronze-medal face-off.&nbsp;

While it has been raining medals for the Indian contingent on the last day of the Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition, in Birmingham, on Monday (August 08), the Manpreet Singh-led Indian men's hockey team faltered in the final encounter to lose to Australia by a whopping 7-0 margin.

While it has been raining medals for the Indian contingent on the last day of the Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition, in Birmingham, on Monday (August 08), the Manpreet Singh-led Indian men's hockey team faltered in the final encounter to lose to Australia by a whopping 7-0 margin. Coming into this contest on the back of an unbeaten streak so far in the competition, India were expected to give a tough fight to the Australians. However, nothing clicked for the Men in Blue as they were trailing 2-0 in the first quarter and the lead extended to 5-0 at halftime. The writing was always on the wall as India were only playing the catchup game and never looked to threaten the Aussies. Goals from Blake Govers, Tom Wickham, Fynn Ogilvie along with braces from Nathan Ephraums and Jacob Anderson helped Australia thump India. It could've been more embarrassing for India had PR Sreejesh not saved a few towards the end of the match. Even the likes of vice-captain Harmanpreet Singh and captain Manpreet were kept silent throughout the contest. Thus, the Australian men's hockey team ended their glorious run in an emphatic manner and continue their dominance at the multi-sport sporting extravaganza by claiming their seventh gold medal at the Games. ALSO READ | CWG'22: Heartwarming! Savita-led India get guard of honour from Manpreet & Co. after bronze win - WATCH India, on the other hand, continues to search for their maiden gold at CWG. They, however, settled for silver -- which is their third overall. Manpreet & Co. were at their very best in the group stage, topping Pool B and defeating South Africa 3-2 in the semi-finals before being blown away by Australia in the summit clash. Earlier, their women's counterpart had ended at the third spot after beating New Zealand in their bronze-medal face-off.

CWG 2022: Indian men's hockey team suffer humiliating 7-0 defeat against Australia in final, settle for silver

Harmanpreet Kaur-led India women's cricket team faced Meg Lanning-led Australia in the gold medal face-off at the Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition on Sunday (August 07) in Edgbaston, Birmingham. In a marquee clash, the match went down to the wire before Australia completed a nine-run win to clinch their maiden gold medal at the event whereas the T20 World Cup runners-up settled for silver.

In a match that saw the momentum being shifted from one side to the other, Harmanpreet &amp; Co. were asked to chase down a stiff 162 after Renuka Singh and Sneh Rana's two-fers each restricted the Women in Yellow to 161/8 in 20 overs. As India were reduced to 22-2 before Harmanpreet's 43-ball 65 and Jemimah Rodrigues' run-a-ball 33 brought the chasing side back into the contest, they eventually fell short by nine runs -- being dismissed for 152 in 19.3&nbsp;overs.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-we-get-covid-so-be-it-megan-schutt-on-tahlia-mcgrath-playing-against-india-despite-testing-positive-504742">'If we get COVID, so be it': Megan Schutt on Tahlia McGrath playing against India despite testing positive</a>

During India's run-chase, Yastika Bhatia was involved in a hilarious incident. The left-hander wasn't part of the playing XI and came in as a concussion replacement of wicketkeeper-batter Taniya Bhatia, who&nbsp;was struck on the back of her head while keeping&nbsp;as the ball ricocheted off her gloves during India's bowling. Thus, Yastika filled in for her but tripped over the advertising board when she was coming out to bat during the end overs of India's run-chase. Here's the video, where the likes of Smriti Mandhana, captain Harmanpreet, Shafali Verma, etc. couldn't control themselves and were in splits&nbsp;seeing Yastika fall down:

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Thats the summary of today's match <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/ENSYvpGKIq">pic.twitter.com/ENSYvpGKIq</a>
— Darshan S. Bhosale (@DarshanBhosale2) <a href="https://twitter.com/DarshanBhosale2/status/1556357078406422529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Yastika was the last wicket to fall in the encounter as she only managed a 5-ball 2 as&nbsp;Ashleigh Gardner's 3 for 16 and Beth Mooney's 61 led the Aussies to a gold medal win.&nbsp;

At the post-match presentation, Harmanpreet said, "Every time in big finals, we make the same mistakes again and again [with the bat], that is something we have to improve. We don't do these mistakes in the league phase or in bilateral. That is blocking our mind somewhere. I am someone who is always looking for one more batter in the side. Unfortunately, we're working on that. Once we get that, this thing [collapsing] will go away."

Harmanpreet Kaur-led India women's cricket team faced Meg Lanning-led Australia in the gold medal face-off at the Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition on Sunday (August 07) in Edgbaston, Birmingham.

Harmanpreet Kaur-led India women's cricket team faced Meg Lanning-led Australia in the gold medal face-off at the Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition on Sunday (August 07) in Edgbaston, Birmingham. In a marquee clash, the match went down to the wire before Australia completed a nine-run win to clinch their maiden gold medal at the event whereas the T20 World Cup runners-up settled for silver. In a match that saw the momentum being shifted from one side to the other, Harmanpreet & Co. were asked to chase down a stiff 162 after Renuka Singh and Sneh Rana's two-fers each restricted the Women in Yellow to 161/8 in 20 overs. As India were reduced to 22-2 before Harmanpreet's 43-ball 65 and Jemimah Rodrigues' run-a-ball 33 brought the chasing side back into the contest, they eventually fell short by nine runs -- being dismissed for 152 in 19.3 overs. ALSO READ | 'If we get COVID, so be it': Megan Schutt on Tahlia McGrath playing against India despite testing positive During India's run-chase, Yastika Bhatia was involved in a hilarious incident. The left-hander wasn't part of the playing XI and came in as a concussion replacement of wicketkeeper-batter Taniya Bhatia, who was struck on the back of her head while keeping as the ball ricocheted off her gloves during India's bowling. Thus, Yastika filled in for her but tripped over the advertising board when she was coming out to bat during the end overs of India's run-chase. Here's the video, where the likes of Smriti Mandhana, captain Harmanpreet, Shafali Verma, etc. couldn't control themselves and were in splits seeing Yastika fall down: Thats the summary of today's match #INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/ENSYvpGKIq — Darshan S. Bhosale (@DarshanBhosale2) August 7, 2022 × Yastika was the last wicket to fall in the encounter as she only managed a 5-ball 2 as Ashleigh Gardner's 3 for 16 and Beth Mooney's 61 led the Aussies to a gold medal win. At the post-match presentation, Harmanpreet said, "Every time in big finals, we make the same mistakes again and again [with the bat], that is something we have to improve. We don't do these mistakes in the league phase or in bilateral. That is blocking our mind somewhere. I am someone who is always looking for one more batter in the side. Unfortunately, we're working on that. Once we get that, this thing [collapsing] will go away."

CWG 2022 final: Harmanpreet, Smriti & Co. in splits as Yastika Bhatia slips while coming out to bat - WATCH

Manpreet Singh-led Indian men's hockey team will face Australia in the Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition final on Monday evening, in Birmingham. After winning three out of their four games and topping Pool B, India defeated South Africa -- 3-2 -- in the semi-finals and will now gear up to face six-time CWG gold medallist in the summit clash.

Thus, the Harmanpreet Singh-starrer Indian team are on the cusp of attaining gold versus the Aussies. The battle will be an intense affair and is expected to go down to the wire. The likes of Manpreet, Mandeep Singh, Harmanpreet, PR Sreejesh, etc. will look to lead the charge as the national side will aim for gold after a bronze medal win at Tokyo 2020.

Here is everything you need to know about&nbsp;India vs Australia, Men's Hockey CWG 2022 final match:

When will India vs Australia Men's Hockey CWG 2022&nbsp;final kickoff?

The India vs Australia&nbsp;Men's Hockey CWG 2022&nbsp;final match will start at 5:00&nbsp;PM IST&nbsp;on Monday (August 08).

Where will&nbsp;India vs Australia Men's Hockey CWG 2022&nbsp;final&nbsp;be played?

The India vs Australia&nbsp;Men's Hockey CWG 2022&nbsp;final will be played&nbsp;at the University of Birmingham Hockey and Squash centre in Birmingham

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-arshad-nadeem-1st-south-asian-to-breach-90m-mark-claims-gold-in-javelin-throw-at-cwg-2022-504717">Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem 1st south Asian to breach 90m mark, claims gold in javelin throw at CWG 2022</a>

Where will India vs Australia Men's Hockey CWG 2022&nbsp;final be telecast&nbsp;on TV in India?

The India vs Australia&nbsp;Men's Hockey CWG 2022&nbsp;final's telecast will be on&nbsp;Sony Ten and Sony network.

Where will India vs Australia Men's Hockey CWG 2022&nbsp;final's live streaming take place&nbsp;in the country?

The India vs Australia&nbsp;Men's Hockey CWG 2022&nbsp;final&nbsp;will be available for&nbsp;live streaming&nbsp;on Sony Liv.

Manpreet Singh-led Indian men's hockey team will face Australia in the Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition final on Monday evening, in Birmingham. After winning three out of their four games and topping Pool B, India defeated South Africa -- 3-2 -- in the semi-finals and will now gear up to face six-time CWG gold medallist in the summit clash.

Manpreet Singh-led Indian men's hockey team will face Australia in the Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition final on Monday evening, in Birmingham. After winning three out of their four games and topping Pool B, India defeated South Africa -- 3-2 -- in the semi-finals and will now gear up to face six-time CWG gold medallist in the summit clash. Thus, the Harmanpreet Singh-starrer Indian team are on the cusp of attaining gold versus the Aussies. The battle will be an intense affair and is expected to go down to the wire. The likes of Manpreet, Mandeep Singh, Harmanpreet, PR Sreejesh, etc. will look to lead the charge as the national side will aim for gold after a bronze medal win at Tokyo 2020. Here is everything you need to know about India vs Australia, Men's Hockey CWG 2022 final match: When will India vs Australia Men's Hockey CWG 2022 final kickoff? The India vs Australia Men's Hockey CWG 2022 final match will start at 5:00 PM IST on Monday (August 08). Where will India vs Australia Men's Hockey CWG 2022 final be played? The India vs Australia Men's Hockey CWG 2022 final will be played at the University of Birmingham Hockey and Squash centre in Birmingham ALSO READ | Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem 1st south Asian to breach 90m mark, claims gold in javelin throw at CWG 2022 Where will India vs Australia Men's Hockey CWG 2022 final be telecast on TV in India? The India vs Australia Men's Hockey CWG 2022 final's telecast will be on Sony Ten and Sony network. Where will India vs Australia Men's Hockey CWG 2022 final's live streaming take place in the country? The India vs Australia Men's Hockey CWG 2022 final will be available for live streaming on Sony Liv.

India vs Australia live streaming: When and where to watch CWG 2022 men's hockey final in India?

The women's cricket final between India and Australia at the Commonwealth Games 2022 on Sunday was marred with controversy after Tahlia McGrath was allowed to play for the Aussies despite testing positive for COVID-19 ahead of the game. McGrath returned a positive test and had mild symptoms but was allowed to take the field in the gold medal match after the approval of the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Due to the conundrum over her participation, the toss between India and Australia was delayed for 12 minutes at Edgbaston. Had the tournament been in Australia, McGrath wouldn't have featured but she was allowed to play the game as the rules regarding COVID-19 at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham are relaxing.

Nonetheless, questions were raised as McGrath was spotted sitting with a mask on in the dugout during Australia's innings at Edgbaston. She was seen isolated from the rest of the squad. However, McGrath took the mask off later when she came out to bat and later while fielding for her team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rubbish-batting-no-common-sense-mohammad-azharuddin-slams-india-after-cwg-final-defeat-against-australia-504701">Rubbish batting, no common sense: Azharuddin slams India after CWG final defeat against Australia</a>

Amid controversy over her appearance in the game despite having tested positive for COVID-19, Australian fast bowler Megan Schutt said the Aussie payers were happy to play with McGrath and didn't care about contracting COVID-19.&nbsp;

"We were all happy to play, she was happy to play. She feels absolutely fine so I think the positive result was a bit of a shock to her, but that’s Covid isn’t it, we’re all going to live through it," Schutt was quoted as saying by The Guardian.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-stage-fright-gets-to-india-again-as-they-lose-to-australia-in-cwg-2022-final-to-settle-for-silver-504684">Big stage fright gets to India again as they lose to Australia in CWG 2022 final to settle for silver</a>

McGrath scored 2 runs and bowled two overs conceding 24 runs during India's innings. She also took the catch of Indian opener Shafali Verma and was spotted asking her teammates to stay away when they ran towards her to celebrate the dismissal.

"We didn’t want to get in trouble, we felt bad for Tahlia at the end there. Obviously, when you’re part of a game that’s so thrilling like that, that’s all you want to do (is celebrate)&nbsp;and at the end screw it, if we get Covid, so be it," said Schutt.

While she batted and fielded without a mask, McGrath was spotted wearing a mask while receiving her medal after Australia won the final by 9 runs. Australia successfully managed to defend the total of 161 runs as they bundled out India for 152 with three balls to spare to win their maiden gold medal in women's cricket at the Commonwealth Games.

The women's cricket final between India and Australia at the Commonwealth Games 2022 on Sunday was marred with controversy after Tahlia McGrath was allowed to play for the Aussies despite testing positive for COVID-19 ahead of the game.

The women's cricket final between India and Australia at the Commonwealth Games 2022 on Sunday was marred with controversy after Tahlia McGrath was allowed to play for the Aussies despite testing positive for COVID-19 ahead of the game. McGrath returned a positive test and had mild symptoms but was allowed to take the field in the gold medal match after the approval of the International Cricket Council (ICC). Due to the conundrum over her participation, the toss between India and Australia was delayed for 12 minutes at Edgbaston. Had the tournament been in Australia, McGrath wouldn't have featured but she was allowed to play the game as the rules regarding COVID-19 at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham are relaxing. Nonetheless, questions were raised as McGrath was spotted sitting with a mask on in the dugout during Australia's innings at Edgbaston. She was seen isolated from the rest of the squad. However, McGrath took the mask off later when she came out to bat and later while fielding for her team. Also Read: Rubbish batting, no common sense: Azharuddin slams India after CWG final defeat against Australia Amid controversy over her appearance in the game despite having tested positive for COVID-19, Australian fast bowler Megan Schutt said the Aussie payers were happy to play with McGrath and didn't care about contracting COVID-19. "We were all happy to play, she was happy to play. She feels absolutely fine so I think the positive result was a bit of a shock to her, but that’s Covid isn’t it, we’re all going to live through it," Schutt was quoted as saying by The Guardian. Also Read: Big stage fright gets to India again as they lose to Australia in CWG 2022 final to settle for silver McGrath scored 2 runs and bowled two overs conceding 24 runs during India's innings. She also took the catch of Indian opener Shafali Verma and was spotted asking her teammates to stay away when they ran towards her to celebrate the dismissal. "We didn’t want to get in trouble, we felt bad for Tahlia at the end there. Obviously, when you’re part of a game that’s so thrilling like that, that’s all you want to do (is celebrate) and at the end screw it, if we get Covid, so be it," said Schutt. While she batted and fielded without a mask, McGrath was spotted wearing a mask while receiving her medal after Australia won the final by 9 runs. Australia successfully managed to defend the total of 161 runs as they bundled out India for 152 with three balls to spare to win their maiden gold medal in women's cricket at the Commonwealth Games.

'If we get COVID, so be it': Megan Schutt on Tahlia McGrath playing against India despite testing positive

Indian stars added to the country's medal tally on Saturday (August 06) as the wrestlers continued their terrific show at the Commonwealth Games 2022. Ravi Dahiya, Vinesh Phogat and NaveenKumar won a gold medal each in wrestling while Pooja Gehlot, Pooja Sihag and Deepak Nehra won a bronze medal in their respective categories.

India's Avinash Sable clinched a historic silver in men's steeplechase while Priyanka Goswami won the country's first medal in race walking by clinching silver in the 10,000m. Boxers Nikhat Zareen and Amit Phangal won their respective semi-finals and will be aiming for gold in their respective finals on Sunday.

A number of Indian athletes will be in action once again on August 07 - the penultimate day of the Games. Along with Nikhat and Panghal, boxer Neetu&nbsp;Ghangas will also be competing in her final. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian women's cricket team will take on Australia in the gold medal match.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2022-indian-wrestler-ravi-dahiya-defeats-nigerias-ebikewenimo-welson-to-clinch-gold-504411"> Indian wrestler Ravi Dahiya defeats Nigeria's Ebikewenimo Welson to clinch gold</a>

In badminton, PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen and Kidambi Srikanth have all stormed into their semi-finals and will be hoping to assure a medal by continuing their winning run on Sunday.&nbsp;Achanta Sharath Kamal will be hoping to add another gold to his tally when he competes in the mixed doubles final on Sunday.

Here is India's complete schedule at Commonwealth Games 2022 on August 07:

Table tennis and para table tennis

3:35 pm - Women’s Singles Bronze Medal Match: Sreeja Akula - 
6:15 pm - Men’s Doubles Gold Medal Match: Achanta Sharath Kamal/G Sathiyan 
9:50 pm - Men’s Singles Semifinal 1: Achanta Sharath Kamal 
10:40 pm - Men’s Singles Semifinal 2: G Sathiyan 
12:15 am - Mixed Doubles Gold Medal Match: Achanta Sharath Kamal and Sreeja Akula

Athletics and Para-athletics

2:45 pm - Men’s Triple Jump Final: Abdulla Aboobacker, Eldhose Paul, Praveen Chitravel 
3:50 pm - Men’s 10,000m Race Walk Final: Amit, Sandeep Kumar - 
4:05 pm - Women’s Javelin Throw Final: Shilpa Rani, Annu Rani - 
5:24 pm - Women’s 4 x 100m Relay Final 
12:10 am - Men’s Javelin Throw Final: Rohit Yadav, DP Manu 
1 am - Men’s 4 x 400m Relay Final

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2022-vinesh-phogat-clinches-gold-in-womens-53kg-completes-hat-trick-of-top-podium-finishes-504420">Vinesh Phogat clinches gold in women's 53kg, completes hat-trick of top podium finishes</a>

Badminton:

2:20 pm - Women’s singles semifinal: PV Sindhu 
3:10 pm - Men’s singles semifinal 1: Lakshya Sen 
3:10 pm - Men’s singles semifinal 2: Kidambi Srikanth 
4:00 pm - Women’s doubles semifinal: Gayatri Gopichand-Treesa Jolly 
4:50 pm: Men’s doubles semifinal: Satwiksairaj Rankireddy-Chirag Shetty

Boxing:

3 pm - Women’s 48kg Final: Nitu - 
3:15 pm - Men’s 51kg Final: Amit Panghal 
7 pm - Women’s 50kg Final: Nikhat Zareen 
1:15 am - Men’s 92kg: Sagar Ahlawat

Cricket

9:30 pm - Women’s T20 Final: India

Hockey

1:30 pm - Women’s Bronze Medal Match: India vs New Zealand

Squash

10:30 pm &nbsp;Mixed Doubles Bronze Medal Match: Dipika Pallikal/Saurav Ghosal 
&nbsp;

(With agency inputs)

Indian stars added to the country's medal tally on Saturday (August 06) as the wrestlers continued their terrific show at the Commonwealth Games 2022. Ravi Dahiya, Vinesh Phogat and NaveenKumar won a gold medal each in wrestling while Pooja Gehlot, Pooja Sihag and Deepak Nehra won a bronze medal in their respective categories.

Indian stars added to the country's medal tally on Saturday (August 06) as the wrestlers continued their terrific show at the Commonwealth Games 2022. Ravi Dahiya, Vinesh Phogat and NaveenKumar won a gold medal each in wrestling while Pooja Gehlot, Pooja Sihag and Deepak Nehra won a bronze medal in their respective categories. India's Avinash Sable clinched a historic silver in men's steeplechase while Priyanka Goswami won the country's first medal in race walking by clinching silver in the 10,000m. Boxers Nikhat Zareen and Amit Phangal won their respective semi-finals and will be aiming for gold in their respective finals on Sunday. A number of Indian athletes will be in action once again on August 07 - the penultimate day of the Games. Along with Nikhat and Panghal, boxer Neetu Ghangas will also be competing in her final. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian women's cricket team will take on Australia in the gold medal match. Also Read: Indian wrestler Ravi Dahiya defeats Nigeria's Ebikewenimo Welson to clinch gold In badminton, PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen and Kidambi Srikanth have all stormed into their semi-finals and will be hoping to assure a medal by continuing their winning run on Sunday. Achanta Sharath Kamal will be hoping to add another gold to his tally when he competes in the mixed doubles final on Sunday. Here is India's complete schedule at Commonwealth Games 2022 on August 07: Table tennis and para table tennis 3:35 pm - Women’s Singles Bronze Medal Match: Sreeja Akula - 6:15 pm - Men’s Doubles Gold Medal Match: Achanta Sharath Kamal/G Sathiyan 9:50 pm - Men’s Singles Semifinal 1: Achanta Sharath Kamal 10:40 pm - Men’s Singles Semifinal 2: G Sathiyan 12:15 am - Mixed Doubles Gold Medal Match: Achanta Sharath Kamal and Sreeja Akula Athletics and Para-athletics 2:45 pm - Men’s Triple Jump Final: Abdulla Aboobacker, Eldhose Paul, Praveen Chitravel 3:50 pm - Men’s 10,000m Race Walk Final: Amit, Sandeep Kumar - 4:05 pm - Women’s Javelin Throw Final: Shilpa Rani, Annu Rani - 5:24 pm - Women’s 4 x 100m Relay Final 12:10 am - Men’s Javelin Throw Final: Rohit Yadav, DP Manu 1 am - Men’s 4 x 400m Relay Final Also Read: Vinesh Phogat clinches gold in women's 53kg, completes hat-trick of top podium finishes Badminton: 2:20 pm - Women’s singles semifinal: PV Sindhu 3:10 pm - Men’s singles semifinal 1: Lakshya Sen 3:10 pm - Men’s singles semifinal 2: Kidambi Srikanth 4:00 pm - Women’s doubles semifinal: Gayatri Gopichand-Treesa Jolly 4:50 pm: Men’s doubles semifinal: Satwiksairaj Rankireddy-Chirag Shetty Boxing: 3 pm - Women’s 48kg Final: Nitu - 3:15 pm - Men’s 51kg Final: Amit Panghal 7 pm - Women’s 50kg Final: Nikhat Zareen 1:15 am - Men’s 92kg: Sagar Ahlawat Cricket 9:30 pm - Women’s T20 Final: India Hockey 1:30 pm - Women’s Bronze Medal Match: India vs New Zealand Squash 10:30 pm Mixed Doubles Bronze Medal Match: Dipika Pallikal/Saurav Ghosal (With agency inputs)

India's schedule at CWG 2022 on August 7: Indian women's cricket team, Nikhat Zareen eye gold

The International Hockey Federation (FIH) on Saturday apologised for the clock controversy that took place during the Indian women's team's semifinal loss against Australia at the Commonwealth Games, saying it would "thoroughly review" the incident.

Australia's Rosie Malone, who missed her first attempt during the penalty shootout, was gifted another chance as the eight second countdown on the scoreboard hadn't started. The forward did not miss the second time, putting her side in the lead.

The Indians eventually lost the semifinal 0-3 in the shootout after both teams were tied 1-1 at the end of regulation time as the crowd booed the technical officials for the decision.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-schedule-at-cwg-2022-on-august-6-cricket-and-hockey-teams-eye-final-berth-sindhu-nikhat-in-action-504251">&nbsp;India's schedule at CWG 2022 on August 6: Cricket and hockey teams eye final berth; Sindhu, Nikhat in action</a>

"In the semi-final match of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games between Australia and India (Women), the penalty shootout started mistakenly too early (the clock was not yet ready to operate), for which we apologise," FIH said in a statement.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cwg-2022-deepak-punia-clinches-gold-in-mens-freestyle-86kg-defeats-pakistans-muhammad-inam-504139">CWG 2022: Deepak Punia clinches gold in Men's Freestyle 86kg, defeats Pakistan's Muhammad Inam</a>

"The process in place for such situations is that the penalty shootout has to be retaken, which was done. This incident will be thoroughly reviewed by the FIH in order to avoid any similar issues in the future," the statement added.

The International Hockey Federation (FIH) on Saturday apologised for the clock controversy that took place during the Indian women's team's semifinal loss against Australia at the Commonwealth Games, saying it would "thoroughly review" the incident.

The International Hockey Federation (FIH) on Saturday apologised for the clock controversy that took place during the Indian women's team's semifinal loss against Australia at the Commonwealth Games, saying it would "thoroughly review" the incident. Australia's Rosie Malone, who missed her first attempt during the penalty shootout, was gifted another chance as the eight second countdown on the scoreboard hadn't started. The forward did not miss the second time, putting her side in the lead. The Indians eventually lost the semifinal 0-3 in the shootout after both teams were tied 1-1 at the end of regulation time as the crowd booed the technical officials for the decision. Also Read: India's schedule at CWG 2022 on August 6: Cricket and hockey teams eye final berth; Sindhu, Nikhat in action "In the semi-final match of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games between Australia and India (Women), the penalty shootout started mistakenly too early (the clock was not yet ready to operate), for which we apologise," FIH said in a statement. Also Read: CWG 2022: Deepak Punia clinches gold in Men's Freestyle 86kg, defeats Pakistan's Muhammad Inam "The process in place for such situations is that the penalty shootout has to be retaken, which was done. This incident will be thoroughly reviewed by the FIH in order to avoid any similar issues in the future," the statement added.

CWG 2022: FIH apologises for clock howler during Indian women's semifinal loss, will review incident

The women's hockey semi-final clash between India and Australia was marred with controversy after Indian goalkeeper Savita Punia's save was ruled out during the penalty shoot-out after the game ended in a 1-1 draw at the end of regulation time. India lost 0-3 in shoot-out to go down in the semi-final and bow out of the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2022 after a heartbreaking defeat.

Australia took the lead in the semi-final through Rebecca Greiner, who scored in the 10th minute before India fought back in the semi-final. Vandana Kataria scored the equaliser in the 49th minute to pull India back level at 1-1. Australia came close to winning the all-important clash with two penalty corners in the final minute of the game. However, Punia made two brilliant saves to force the game into a shoot-out.

Controversy erupted during the penalty shoot-out after Punia saved Australia's first attempt from Ambrosia Malone but it was ruled out as the match official had forgotten to set the clock. The penalty was re-taken by Malone, who managed to score in her second attempt and put Australia ahead.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-schedule-at-cwg-2022-on-august-6-cricket-and-hockey-teams-eye-final-berth-sindhu-nikhat-in-action-504251">India's schedule at CWG 2022 on August 6: Cricket and hockey teams eye final berth; Sindhu, Nikhat in action</a>

Malone's shot was saved by Punia in her first attempt but the technical delegate later asked the Aussie to 'wait' and retake the shot due to the clock howler. "No, no, no, wait, wait, wait," the technical delegate was spotted shouting as Malone was called back to take the shot again. She ended up beating Punia in the second attempt.

Watch video:

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Penalty miss hua Australia se and the Umpire says, Sorry Clock start nahi hua. Such biasedness used to happen in cricket as well earlier till we became a superpower, Hockey mein bhi hum jald banenge and all clocks will start on time. Proud of our girls <a href="https://t.co/mqxJfX0RDq">pic.twitter.com/mqxJfX0RDq</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1555774075821527042?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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India suffered a heartbreak in the penalty shoot-out as they ended up missing their first three attempts while Australia managed to convert their first three chances to win 3-0. Lalremsiami, Neha Goyal and Navneet Kaur missed their chances for India as the Savita Punia-led women's team crashed&nbsp;out of the tournament.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cwg-2022-deepak-punia-clinches-gold-in-mens-freestyle-86kg-defeats-pakistans-muhammad-inam-504139">Deepak Punia clinches gold in Men's Freestyle 86kg, defeats Pakistan's Muhammad Inam</a>

Captain Punia spoke about the clock howler post her team's semi-final loss and said the decision to allow Australia to retake the penalty was a tough one to take but it is part of the game so the team moves on.

"It was a very close match and sometimes these decisions don’t go your way, it becomes tougher. The first stroke was asked to be retaken. It was tough for us but, at the same time, these are part of the game. We have to move on," Punia said on Sony Sports.

"It will take today’s time (to get over the loss in the semi-final). It was a close match, we had worked hard. But now, the bronze medal match is very important. We are aware of it. As a captain and as a senior player, it’s my responsibility to motivate the players and make sure they are ready for the bronze medal match," he added.

The women's hockey semi-final clash between India and Australia was marred with controversy after Indian goalkeeper Savita Punia's save was ruled out during the penalty shoot-out after the game ended in a 1-1 draw at the end of regulation time.

The women's hockey semi-final clash between India and Australia was marred with controversy after Indian goalkeeper Savita Punia's save was ruled out during the penalty shoot-out after the game ended in a 1-1 draw at the end of regulation time. India lost 0-3 in shoot-out to go down in the semi-final and bow out of the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2022 after a heartbreaking defeat. Australia took the lead in the semi-final through Rebecca Greiner, who scored in the 10th minute before India fought back in the semi-final. Vandana Kataria scored the equaliser in the 49th minute to pull India back level at 1-1. Australia came close to winning the all-important clash with two penalty corners in the final minute of the game. However, Punia made two brilliant saves to force the game into a shoot-out. Controversy erupted during the penalty shoot-out after Punia saved Australia's first attempt from Ambrosia Malone but it was ruled out as the match official had forgotten to set the clock. The penalty was re-taken by Malone, who managed to score in her second attempt and put Australia ahead. Also Read: India's schedule at CWG 2022 on August 6: Cricket and hockey teams eye final berth; Sindhu, Nikhat in action Malone's shot was saved by Punia in her first attempt but the technical delegate later asked the Aussie to 'wait' and retake the shot due to the clock howler. "No, no, no, wait, wait, wait," the technical delegate was spotted shouting as Malone was called back to take the shot again. She ended up beating Punia in the second attempt. Watch video: Penalty miss hua Australia se and the Umpire says, Sorry Clock start nahi hua. Such biasedness used to happen in cricket as well earlier till we became a superpower, Hockey mein bhi hum jald banenge and all clocks will start on time. Proud of our girls pic.twitter.com/mqxJfX0RDq — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) August 6, 2022 × India suffered a heartbreak in the penalty shoot-out as they ended up missing their first three attempts while Australia managed to convert their first three chances to win 3-0. Lalremsiami, Neha Goyal and Navneet Kaur missed their chances for India as the Savita Punia-led women's team crashed out of the tournament. Also Read: Deepak Punia clinches gold in Men's Freestyle 86kg, defeats Pakistan's Muhammad Inam Captain Punia spoke about the clock howler post her team's semi-final loss and said the decision to allow Australia to retake the penalty was a tough one to take but it is part of the game so the team moves on. "It was a very close match and sometimes these decisions don’t go your way, it becomes tougher. The first stroke was asked to be retaken. It was tough for us but, at the same time, these are part of the game. We have to move on," Punia said on Sony Sports. "It will take today’s time (to get over the loss in the semi-final). It was a close match, we had worked hard. But now, the bronze medal match is very important. We are aware of it. As a captain and as a senior player, it’s my responsibility to motivate the players and make sure they are ready for the bronze medal match," he added.

WATCH: Controversy erupts as Savita Punia's save ruled out after clock howler in India-Australia semi-final

Savita Punia-led India women's hockey team will step onto the pitch once again as they face Australia in the semi-finals at the ongoing Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition in Birmingham. The Indian team is riding high on confidence after ending as the second-best side in Pool A, only behind England, by beating the likes of Ghana, Canada and Wales.

Beating Canada 3-2, India stormed into the last four and will be facing the mighty Australians. While the Aussies are favourites, India will&nbsp;like to take inspiration from their Tokyo 2020 win over the Kangaroos, in the quarter-finals. Will the result favour the Indians once again?

All you need&nbsp;to know about the live streaming details of the marquee face-off:

When will India vs Australia&nbsp;Women's Hockey CWG 2022&nbsp;clash kickoff?

The India vs Australia Women's Hockey CWG 2022&nbsp;clash will start at 8:15 PM IST&nbsp;on Friday (August 05).

Where will&nbsp;India vs Australia&nbsp;Women's Hockey CWG 2022&nbsp;be played?

The India vs Australia Women's Hockey CWG 2022&nbsp;match will take place&nbsp;in Birmingham, England.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg22-badminton-r-16-live-streaming-when-where-to-watch-sindhu-starrer-indian-shuttlers-games-503862">CWG'22, badminton R-16 live streaming: When &amp; where to watch Sindhu-starrer Indian shuttlers' games?</a>

Where will India vs Australia&nbsp;Women's Hockey CWG 2022 be telecast&nbsp;on TV in India?

India vs Australia Women's Hockey CWG 2022&nbsp;match's live telecast will be available on Sony Sports Network.

Where will India vs Australia&nbsp;Women's Hockey CWG 2022 match's live streaming take place&nbsp;in the country?

India vs Australia Women's Hockey CWG 2022&nbsp;match's&nbsp;live streaming&nbsp;will be on Sony Liv.

Savita Punia-led India women's hockey team will step onto the pitch once again as they face Australia in the semi-finals at the ongoing Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition in Birmingham.

Savita Punia-led India women's hockey team will step onto the pitch once again as they face Australia in the semi-finals at the ongoing Commonwealth Games (CWG) 2022 edition in Birmingham. The Indian team is riding high on confidence after ending as the second-best side in Pool A, only behind England, by beating the likes of Ghana, Canada and Wales. Beating Canada 3-2, India stormed into the last four and will be facing the mighty Australians. While the Aussies are favourites, India will like to take inspiration from their Tokyo 2020 win over the Kangaroos, in the quarter-finals. Will the result favour the Indians once again? All you need to know about the live streaming details of the marquee face-off: When will India vs Australia Women's Hockey CWG 2022 clash kickoff? The India vs Australia Women's Hockey CWG 2022 clash will start at 8:15 PM IST on Friday (August 05). Where will India vs Australia Women's Hockey CWG 2022 be played? The India vs Australia Women's Hockey CWG 2022 match will take place in Birmingham, England. ALSO READ | CWG'22, badminton R-16 live streaming: When & where to watch Sindhu-starrer Indian shuttlers' games? Where will India vs Australia Women's Hockey CWG 2022 be telecast on TV in India? India vs Australia Women's Hockey CWG 2022 match's live telecast will be available on Sony Sports Network. Where will India vs Australia Women's Hockey CWG 2022 match's live streaming take place in the country? India vs Australia Women's Hockey CWG 2022 match's live streaming will be on Sony Liv.

India vs Australia SF live streaming: When and where to watch CWG 2022 women's hockey match in India?

Australia beat India by three wickets in the opening Group A game of the Commonwealth Games here on Friday. Electing to bat, India posted a challenging 154 for eight in 20 overs with skipper Harmanpreet Kaur hitting a breezy half-century.

Harmanpreet smashed 52 off 34 balls with eight fours and a six while opener Shafali Verma played an attacking knock of 48 off 33 balls.

Smriti Mandhana (25 off 17 balls) also started well but couldn't convert that into a substantial knock. 
Left-arm spinner Jess Jonassen (4/22) was the pick of the Australian bowlers. Australia overhauled the target of 155 with an over to spare.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2022-hope-this-takes-sachin-tendulkar-reacts-as-cricket-returns-in-showpiece-event-501772">CWG 2022: 'Hope this takes.....' - Sachin Tendulkar reacts as cricket returns in showpiece event</a>

Ashleigh Gardner top-scored for Australia with a 35-ball 52 not out. For India, Renuka Singh grabbed four wickets for 18 runs, while Deepti Sharma took two wickets. Meghna Singh got one wicket.

Brief scores: India: 154/8 in 20 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 52, Shafali Verma 48, Jess Jonassen 4/22). 
Australia: 157 for 7 in 20 overs (Ashleigh Gardner 52 not out; Renuka Singh 4/18, Deepti Sharma 2/24

Australia beat India by three wickets in the opening Group A game of the Commonwealth Games here on Friday. Electing to bat, India posted a challenging 154 for eight in 20 overs with skipper Harmanpreet Kaur hitting a breezy half-century.

Australia beat India by three wickets in the opening Group A game of the Commonwealth Games here on Friday. Electing to bat, India posted a challenging 154 for eight in 20 overs with skipper Harmanpreet Kaur hitting a breezy half-century. Harmanpreet smashed 52 off 34 balls with eight fours and a six while opener Shafali Verma played an attacking knock of 48 off 33 balls. Smriti Mandhana (25 off 17 balls) also started well but couldn't convert that into a substantial knock. Left-arm spinner Jess Jonassen (4/22) was the pick of the Australian bowlers. Australia overhauled the target of 155 with an over to spare. ALSO READ | CWG 2022: 'Hope this takes.....' - Sachin Tendulkar reacts as cricket returns in showpiece event Ashleigh Gardner top-scored for Australia with a 35-ball 52 not out. For India, Renuka Singh grabbed four wickets for 18 runs, while Deepti Sharma took two wickets. Meghna Singh got one wicket. Brief scores: India: 154/8 in 20 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 52, Shafali Verma 48, Jess Jonassen 4/22). Australia: 157 for 7 in 20 overs (Ashleigh Gardner 52 not out; Renuka Singh 4/18, Deepti Sharma 2/24

Ashleigh Gardner's blitz ensures Australia's winning start at CWG 2022, chase down 155 vs India

The T20 World Cup is nearing its commencement. The eighth edition of the marquee tournament will be held in Australia for the first time, from October-Novamber and will be played in the same format as the 2021 edition.

Aaron Finch-led Australia will not only be the hosts but also start as the defending champions after the Men in Yellow won their maiden T20 WC trophy last year, beating New Zealand in a one-sided Trans-Tasman battle in Dubai.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-shikhar-dhawan-led-india-on-cusp-of-attaining-massive-feat-in-3rd-odi-in-trinidad-500893">WI vs IND: Shikhar Dhawan-led India on cusp of attaining MASSIVE feat in 3rd ODI in Trinidad</a>

Ahead of the showpiece event Down Under, former Aussie captain and two-time ODI World Cup-winning skipper Ricky Ponting made a bold claim. He feels Rohit Sharma-led India will enter the tournament final but lose to Australia in the summit clash. "I think India and Australia will be the two playing in the final and I will just have to say that Australia will beat them in the final. The reigning champions have got home conditions and that was one thing that made Australia's win in the last World Cup, not remarkable, but that little bit sweeter for them," Ponting said on ICC Review.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fantastic-option-former-pakistan-cricketer-backs-young-indian-player-for-t20-wc-asia-cup-squads-500838">'Fantastic option': Former Pakistan cricketer backs young Indian player for T20 WC &amp; Asia Cup squads</a>

Ponting, the Delhi Capitals (DC) head coach, is quite optimistic of his team's chances after they did very well in the last edition, which was held in challenging conditions -- in&nbsp;the UAE -- for the Aussies. "The fact that a lot of people, me included, thought when they went to UAE, the conditions that they were going to have to face on the back of the IPL, I thought the conditions might have been the thing that might not have allowed them to win it. But they found a way," Ponting added.

Australia and India are placed in different groups in the Super 12 round. Will they meet each other in the finale? Only time will tell...
</section>

The T20 World Cup is nearing its commencement. The eighth edition of the marquee tournament will be held in Australia for the first time, from October-Novamber and will be played in the same format as the 2021 edition.

The T20 World Cup is nearing its commencement. The eighth edition of the marquee tournament will be held in Australia for the first time, from October-Novamber and will be played in the same format as the 2021 edition. Aaron Finch-led Australia will not only be the hosts but also start as the defending champions after the Men in Yellow won their maiden T20 WC trophy last year, beating New Zealand in a one-sided Trans-Tasman battle in Dubai. ALSO READ | WI vs IND: Shikhar Dhawan-led India on cusp of attaining MASSIVE feat in 3rd ODI in Trinidad Ahead of the showpiece event Down Under, former Aussie captain and two-time ODI World Cup-winning skipper Ricky Ponting made a bold claim. He feels Rohit Sharma-led India will enter the tournament final but lose to Australia in the summit clash. "I think India and Australia will be the two playing in the final and I will just have to say that Australia will beat them in the final. The reigning champions have got home conditions and that was one thing that made Australia's win in the last World Cup, not remarkable, but that little bit sweeter for them," Ponting said on ICC Review. ALSO READ | 'Fantastic option': Former Pakistan cricketer backs young Indian player for T20 WC & Asia Cup squads Ponting, the Delhi Capitals (DC) head coach, is quite optimistic of his team's chances after they did very well in the last edition, which was held in challenging conditions -- in the UAE -- for the Aussies. "The fact that a lot of people, me included, thought when they went to UAE, the conditions that they were going to have to face on the back of the IPL, I thought the conditions might have been the thing that might not have allowed them to win it. But they found a way," Ponting added. Australia and India are placed in different groups in the Super 12 round. Will they meet each other in the finale? Only time will tell...

India, Pakistan or England! Ricky Ponting names who Australia will meet in 2022 T20 World Cup final

Cricket Australia (CA) on Sunday said it has signed a seven-year deal with Disney Star to broadcast the country’s cricket matches in India, the sport’s largest market in the world. As part of the deal, which commences in 2023-24, Disney Star will televise all internationals matches as well as the KFC Big Bash League and Weber Women’s Big Bash League in India.

Disney Star will take over from Sony, who have held the Australian rights since the 2017-18 season. According to CA, the channel’s reach will provide “enormous exposure” for Australian cricket and for the board’s commercial partners in India.

“We are delighted to announce this new association with Disney Star from season 2023-24 onwards. Disney Star is synonymous with the game in India and we look forward to working with them to showcase the outstanding cricket played in Australia every summer,” said CA CEO Nick Hockley.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-aim-to-create-new-world-record-with-12th-consecutive-odi-series-win-against-west-indies-500192">India aim for world record with 12th consecutive ODI series win against West Indies</a>

“The magnitude of this association is testament to the enduring rivalry and respect that exists between Australian and Indian teams, the excitement and popularity of WBBL and BBL, and the high regard of Australian cricket in India and global markets more broadly.”

“There was significant interest in our rights and we are very grateful to our current rights holder Sony for their partnership which will continue throughout this season,” he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/scotland-cricket-found-to-be-institutionally-racist-after-spinner-majid-haqs-allegations-last-year-500097">Scotland Cricket found to be 'institutionally racist' after spinner Majid Haq's allegations last year</a>

Disney Star also recently won the TV broadcasting rights for the Indian Premier League from 2023-27.

Cricket Australia (CA) on Sunday said it has signed a seven-year deal with Disney Star to broadcast the country’s cricket matches in India, the sport’s largest market in the world.

Cricket Australia (CA) on Sunday said it has signed a seven-year deal with Disney Star to broadcast the country’s cricket matches in India, the sport’s largest market in the world. As part of the deal, which commences in 2023-24, Disney Star will televise all internationals matches as well as the KFC Big Bash League and Weber Women’s Big Bash League in India. Disney Star will take over from Sony, who have held the Australian rights since the 2017-18 season. According to CA, the channel’s reach will provide “enormous exposure” for Australian cricket and for the board’s commercial partners in India. “We are delighted to announce this new association with Disney Star from season 2023-24 onwards. Disney Star is synonymous with the game in India and we look forward to working with them to showcase the outstanding cricket played in Australia every summer,” said CA CEO Nick Hockley. Also Read: India aim for world record with 12th consecutive ODI series win against West Indies “The magnitude of this association is testament to the enduring rivalry and respect that exists between Australian and Indian teams, the excitement and popularity of WBBL and BBL, and the high regard of Australian cricket in India and global markets more broadly.” “There was significant interest in our rights and we are very grateful to our current rights holder Sony for their partnership which will continue throughout this season,” he added. Also Read: Scotland Cricket found to be 'institutionally racist' after spinner Majid Haq's allegations last year Disney Star also recently won the TV broadcasting rights for the Indian Premier League from 2023-27.

Cricket Australia inks seven-year deal with Disney Star to broadcast matches in India

India are set to&nbsp;host South Africa and&nbsp;Australia for three T20Is each before heading to the forthcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November. BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly&nbsp;confirmed the development&nbsp;after the board's Apex Council on Thursday (July 21).

Virat Kohli-led India had a disastrous campaign in last year's T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Hence, the board is keen to leave no stone unturned this time around to ensure Men in Blue's success in the upcoming showpiece event Down Under. Hence, two more home series have been confirmed now in the shortest format in the run-up to the marquee tournament.

"We will host SA and Australia for three T20Is each before going for the T20 World Cup. South Africa will come to India after concluding their ongoing England tour (in September). All those venues which didn’t get to stage a game against SA- Ranchi, Nagpur, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Indore, Mohali- will host T20Is against SA and Australia,” Ganguly told the media.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-should-kohli-tackle-off-stump-line-bowling-ex-india-captain-urges-batter-to-learn-from-tendulkar-499750">How should Kohli tackle off-stump line bowling? Ex-India captain urges batter to learn from Tendulkar</a>

The two T20I series will be held in September-October -- after the 2022 Asia Cup (also to be held in the shortest format) in the UAE -- whereas the final dates and venues will be revealed later.&nbsp;

The Indian team had hosted South Africa in five T20Is in early June, soon after the end of IPL 2022. The series ended in a 2-2 stalemate. They will like to beat the Proteas this time around and also get the better of the World T20 champions Australia before leaving the country for the eighth edition of the T20 WC.

India are set to host South Africa and Australia for three T20Is each before heading to the forthcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November.

India are set to host South Africa and Australia for three T20Is each before heading to the forthcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November. BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly confirmed the development after the board's Apex Council on Thursday (July 21). Virat Kohli-led India had a disastrous campaign in last year's T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Hence, the board is keen to leave no stone unturned this time around to ensure Men in Blue's success in the upcoming showpiece event Down Under. Hence, two more home series have been confirmed now in the shortest format in the run-up to the marquee tournament. "We will host SA and Australia for three T20Is each before going for the T20 World Cup. South Africa will come to India after concluding their ongoing England tour (in September). All those venues which didn’t get to stage a game against SA- Ranchi, Nagpur, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Indore, Mohali- will host T20Is against SA and Australia,” Ganguly told the media. ALSO READ | How should Kohli tackle off-stump line bowling? Ex-India captain urges batter to learn from Tendulkar The two T20I series will be held in September-October -- after the 2022 Asia Cup (also to be held in the shortest format) in the UAE -- whereas the final dates and venues will be revealed later. The Indian team had hosted South Africa in five T20Is in early June, soon after the end of IPL 2022. The series ended in a 2-2 stalemate. They will like to beat the Proteas this time around and also get the better of the World T20 champions Australia before leaving the country for the eighth edition of the T20 WC.

India to host South Africa, Australia for three T20Is each prior to T20 World Cup, reveals Sourav Ganguly

Indian skipper Virat Kohli might be one of the fiercest competitors on the pitch but he remains a calm and composed character off the field. Kohli rarely disappoints his fans and is often seen obliging for pictures and autographs with them. One of the best batters of the current era, Kohli once came up with a special gesture for Australian legend Brett Lee's son, who is a huge fan of the Indian star.

Lee recently opened up on an incident from the past when a special gesture from Kohli for his son touched his heart. Lee recalled he was commentating during a Test match in India when he met with Kohli and the duo spoke about a range of things from their rivalry in cricket to life in general.

Lee told Kohli during the interaction that his son Preston was a fan of him and that he was his favourite player. Kohli sent a Test shirt for Lee's son Preston which was signed under his name. The Australian legend reveals the shirt gifted to his son by Kohli still hangs up in his room.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-after-missing-series-opener-virat-kohli-likely-to-skip-2nd-odi-with-injury-concerns-report-496967">After missing series opener, Virat Kohli likely to skip 2nd ODI with injury concerns - Report</a>

"One special moment that will stay with me forever was when India were playing a Test match in India. I was commentating on the field and I saw Kohli out in the middle. We were talking, laughing and sharing moments about the times we have played against each other," Lee said in a video shared on his official YouTube channel.

"I said 'my son Preston thinks you are the best thing in slice, already loves you and you're his favourite player'. He was like, really? I said, yeah he loves your cover drive. After the Test match finished, I was presented with a Test shirt: VK captain and Kohli had signed an address to Preston. To this day, the shirt hangs up in his room," he recalled.

Lee and Kohli didn't fce each other much as the Australian great was in the final lap of his career when Kohli was breaking on to the scene. However, the duo did came across each other on a few ocassions and managed to get the better of each other.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-hitman-on-a-roll-rohit-sharma-breaks-plethora-of-records-in-1st-odi-496921">ENG vs IND: Hitman on a roll! Rohit Sharma breaks plethora of records in 1st ODI</a>

Kohli is currently in England with the Indian team and has been enduring a lean patch for a while now. He has struggled to score runs consistently and his spot in the T20I side has been questioned by several former cricketers and experts. However, Kohli has been backed by the Indian team management and will be hopeful of bouncing back soon.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli might be one of the fiercest competitors on the pitch but he remains a calm and composed character off the field. Kohli rarely disappoints his fans and is often seen obliging for pictures and autographs with them.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli might be one of the fiercest competitors on the pitch but he remains a calm and composed character off the field. Kohli rarely disappoints his fans and is often seen obliging for pictures and autographs with them. One of the best batters of the current era, Kohli once came up with a special gesture for Australian legend Brett Lee's son, who is a huge fan of the Indian star. Lee recently opened up on an incident from the past when a special gesture from Kohli for his son touched his heart. Lee recalled he was commentating during a Test match in India when he met with Kohli and the duo spoke about a range of things from their rivalry in cricket to life in general. Lee told Kohli during the interaction that his son Preston was a fan of him and that he was his favourite player. Kohli sent a Test shirt for Lee's son Preston which was signed under his name. The Australian legend reveals the shirt gifted to his son by Kohli still hangs up in his room. Also Read: After missing series opener, Virat Kohli likely to skip 2nd ODI with injury concerns - Report "One special moment that will stay with me forever was when India were playing a Test match in India. I was commentating on the field and I saw Kohli out in the middle. We were talking, laughing and sharing moments about the times we have played against each other," Lee said in a video shared on his official YouTube channel. "I said 'my son Preston thinks you are the best thing in slice, already loves you and you're his favourite player'. He was like, really? I said, yeah he loves your cover drive. After the Test match finished, I was presented with a Test shirt: VK captain and Kohli had signed an address to Preston. To this day, the shirt hangs up in his room," he recalled. Lee and Kohli didn't fce each other much as the Australian great was in the final lap of his career when Kohli was breaking on to the scene. However, the duo did came across each other on a few ocassions and managed to get the better of each other. Also Read: ENG vs IND: Hitman on a roll! Rohit Sharma breaks plethora of records in 1st ODI Kohli is currently in England with the Indian team and has been enduring a lean patch for a while now. He has struggled to score runs consistently and his spot in the T20I side has been questioned by several former cricketers and experts. However, Kohli has been backed by the Indian team management and will be hopeful of bouncing back soon.

'That will stay with me forever': Brett Lee reveals Virat Kohli's special gesture for his son

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

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

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

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

The India-Australia four-match Test series, in 2020/21, was&nbsp;intensely fought. After losing the series opener in Adelaide, by eight wickets, the Indian team was without regular captain Virat Kohli for the remainder of the series in Australia.

With Ajinkya Rahane leading the side, there were a host of youngsters in the squad who battled several odds -- racial slur, sledging and injuries -- to triumph 2-1 and retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. In the recently-released docudrama series on India's emphatic series win in Australia, the then Aussie skipper Tim Paine recalled the racism incident that affected Siraj in the drawn third and penultimate&nbsp;Sydney Test.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pretty-selfish-they-put-paine-on-team-india-stars-alleged-bio-bubble-breach-during-202021-tests-489119">'Pretty selfish, they put....' - Paine on Team India stars' alleged bio-bubble breach during 2020/21 Tests</a>

During the match, Siraj was subjected to racial abuse by some section of the Aussie fans. When it happened again, he reported the matter to his stand-in captain Rahane as the match was halted for a bit, before the officials asked the particular section of the fans to vacate the stands. Recalling the infamous episode, Paint said on the&nbsp;documentary&nbsp;Bandon mein tha dum,&nbsp;"I still remember walking up to Siraj, he actually had tears in his eyes and tears rolling down his cheeks. So it obviously really affected him and cut him really deep. This is a kid, who has just gone through the death of his father. And then to have that I just thought was uncalled for.

"Traditionally in Australia we have been pretty good at how we treat our visiting cricketing teams. So to see it happen again was disappointing," Paine added.

Despite the incident, Siraj continued to shine for India with the ball in hand. As a result, he ended with 13 wickets -- most by an Indian in the series -- and also claimed his maiden five-fer in the final Test to be one of India's main heroes in their historic series win.&nbsp;

The India-Australia four-match Test series, in 2020/21, was intensely fought. After losing the series opener in Adelaide, by eight wickets, the Indian team was without regular captain Virat Kohli for the remainder of the series in Australia.

The India-Australia four-match Test series, in 2020/21, was intensely fought. After losing the series opener in Adelaide, by eight wickets, the Indian team was without regular captain Virat Kohli for the remainder of the series in Australia. With Ajinkya Rahane leading the side, there were a host of youngsters in the squad who battled several odds -- racial slur, sledging and injuries -- to triumph 2-1 and retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. In the recently-released docudrama series on India's emphatic series win in Australia, the then Aussie skipper Tim Paine recalled the racism incident that affected Siraj in the drawn third and penultimate Sydney Test. ALSO READ | 'Pretty selfish, they put....' - Paine on Team India stars' alleged bio-bubble breach during 2020/21 Tests During the match, Siraj was subjected to racial abuse by some section of the Aussie fans. When it happened again, he reported the matter to his stand-in captain Rahane as the match was halted for a bit, before the officials asked the particular section of the fans to vacate the stands. Recalling the infamous episode, Paint said on the documentary Bandon mein tha dum, "I still remember walking up to Siraj, he actually had tears in his eyes and tears rolling down his cheeks. So it obviously really affected him and cut him really deep. This is a kid, who has just gone through the death of his father. And then to have that I just thought was uncalled for. "Traditionally in Australia we have been pretty good at how we treat our visiting cricketing teams. So to see it happen again was disappointing," Paine added. Despite the incident, Siraj continued to shine for India with the ball in hand. As a result, he ended with 13 wickets -- most by an Indian in the series -- and also claimed his maiden five-fer in the final Test to be one of India's main heroes in their historic series win.

'He had tears rolling...': Tim Paine recalls Md Siraj's racism incident during India-Australia Sydney Test

The India-Australia Test series was full of action, drama and entertainment during the 2020/21 Border Gavaskar Trophy, held Down Under. While India defied all odds to beat Australia, 2-1, after a disastrous show in the opening Test, the series was filled with various sledging episodes, racial abuse, alleged bio-bubble breach, etc.

Ahead of the third and penultimate&nbsp;Test, at the SCG, Sydney, Team India star players -- Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill and Navdeep Saini -- were caught in a huge controversy after an image went viral with all four of them sitting inside a restaurant, breaching the bio-bubble rules for the four-match Test series Down Under. It became a huge talking point before BCCI denied all such claims.

As per the bio-bubble rules back, the cricketers were&nbsp;allowed to dine out at a restaurant. However, they&nbsp;were told to avoid sitting indoors, to eliminate the chances of contracting the deadly COVID-19 virus.&nbsp;

In the docu-series Bandon Mein Tha Dum, Tim Paine -- who was captaining Australia back then -- blamed the Indian players for putting the entire series at risk.

"I mean those 4-5 guys put the whole Test series at risk. For what? For a bowl of Nando’s, chips or wherever they went, like I just find that pretty selfish to be honest,” said Paine, who was succeeded by Pat Cummins as the Aussie Test captain following his sexting scandal last year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashwin-recalls-intense-sledging-episode-with-paine-shares-story-behind-that-will-be-your-last-series-remark-489019">Ashwin recalls intense sledging episode with Paine, shares story behind 'that will be your last series' remark</a>

Even Cummins reacted in the docu-series and stated, “It did annoy quite a few of the boys. Especially the ones who had to spend a Christmas without their families. That was sacrificing quite a bit to be there on that tour to hear that the other team were flouting the rules and not taking it as seriously."

<section>
India's then stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane defended his troops saying, "The players who appeared in the pictures were actually waiting for their takeaway order. Due to bad weather, they had to wait inside. The story that appeared in the news was really wrong."

Amid many on and off-field drama, the India-Australia series was one for the ages, where a second-stringed Indian team defeated Australia to win their second successive series in whites on the Aussie soil.
</section>

The India-Australia Test series was full of action, drama and entertainment during the 2020/21 Border Gavaskar Trophy, held Down Under. While India defied all odds to beat Australia, 2-1, after a disastrous show in the opening Test, the series was filled with various sledging episodes, racial abuse, alleged bio-bubble breach, etc.

The India-Australia Test series was full of action, drama and entertainment during the 2020/21 Border Gavaskar Trophy, held Down Under. While India defied all odds to beat Australia, 2-1, after a disastrous show in the opening Test, the series was filled with various sledging episodes, racial abuse, alleged bio-bubble breach, etc. Ahead of the third and penultimate Test, at the SCG, Sydney, Team India star players -- Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill and Navdeep Saini -- were caught in a huge controversy after an image went viral with all four of them sitting inside a restaurant, breaching the bio-bubble rules for the four-match Test series Down Under. It became a huge talking point before BCCI denied all such claims. As per the bio-bubble rules back, the cricketers were allowed to dine out at a restaurant. However, they were told to avoid sitting indoors, to eliminate the chances of contracting the deadly COVID-19 virus. In the docu-series Bandon Mein Tha Dum, Tim Paine -- who was captaining Australia back then -- blamed the Indian players for putting the entire series at risk. "I mean those 4-5 guys put the whole Test series at risk. For what? For a bowl of Nando’s, chips or wherever they went, like I just find that pretty selfish to be honest,” said Paine, who was succeeded by Pat Cummins as the Aussie Test captain following his sexting scandal last year. ALSO READ | Ashwin recalls intense sledging episode with Paine, shares story behind 'that will be your last series' remark Even Cummins reacted in the docu-series and stated, “It did annoy quite a few of the boys. Especially the ones who had to spend a Christmas without their families. That was sacrificing quite a bit to be there on that tour to hear that the other team were flouting the rules and not taking it as seriously." India's then stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane defended his troops saying, "The players who appeared in the pictures were actually waiting for their takeaway order. Due to bad weather, they had to wait inside. The story that appeared in the news was really wrong." Amid many on and off-field drama, the India-Australia series was one for the ages, where a second-stringed Indian team defeated Australia to win their second successive series in whites on the Aussie soil.

'Pretty selfish, they put....' - Paine on Team India stars' alleged bio-bubble breach during 2020/21 Tests

India and Australia were engaged in a high-voltage four-match Test series Down Under in 2020/21. After Virat Kohli-led India lost the opening Test, in Adelaide, by eight wickets -- being dismissed for a paltry 36 in the second essay -- many thought it would all go downhill&nbsp;for the visitors from thereon.&nbsp;

With no Kohli for the remainder of the series, the onus fell on stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane. India not only levelled the series in the second Test, at the MCG, Melbourne, they managed to secure a draw form the jaws of defeat in the third and penultimate match, in Sydney, before winning the series decider in style at The Gabba, Brisbane.

There were plenty of eye-catching moments in the series, including Rishabh Pant's counterattack, Cheteshwar Pujara's rocksolid presence, R Ashwin-Hanuma Vihari's blockathon, Md Siraj battling racial abuse to shine&nbsp;with the ball, sledging, etc. Recently, Ashwin recalled the intense verbal spat with then Aussie Test captain Tim Paine during the last session of the SCG Test.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-skipper-rohit-sharma-set-to-leave-for-england-on-june-20-report-488999">Team India skipper Rohit Sharma set to leave for England on June 20: Report</a>

During Ashwin-Vihari's unbroken 62-run sixth-wicket stand, keeper-captain Paine tried to distract the wily spin all-rounder as hosts were eyeing a win in defence of 407. The two Indian batters had joined in with the score 272-5 and, hence, had more than a session to play for a draw. With them going well, captain Paine tried to resort to sledging.&nbsp;He told Ashwin, "can't wait to get him to the Gabba". To this, the 35-year-old said, "can't wait to take him to India which would be his last series".

Recently, Ashwin spilled the beans on his statement. "I think Vihari will remember why I said that as well. Because we had a discussion on the way Tim Paine was batting through the series. I kept telling these guys and we got a very different sort of a short leg position, which was forward short leg and then we usually have a leg slip. We had a chat... Rahane, myself, Vihari and we said, 'Pujara will generally stand at leg slip but this guy won't stand with the helmet. Let's put him somewhere else and get this guy under the lid'," Ashwin said during the trailer launch of the just-released docu-series “Bandon Mein Tha Dum” (i.e. a celebration of&nbsp;India's famous Test series triumph over the Aussies&nbsp;during the 2020/21 tour).

"We had this conversation and parked him there in a very awkward position and he (Paine) actually nicked off there. We had a celebration and I told Vihari, 'This guy better not come to India. If he actually comes to India, he will be going there every single time. At the end of the day, he was having a go at us when we were batting and it just came out of my mind because we had a conversation like that. It was very instantaneous," he further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-knew-this-could-be-a-game-changing-moment-rahane-recalls-mix-up-with-virat-kohli-in-adelaide-test-488795">'I knew this could be a game-changing moment' - Rahane recalls mix-up with Virat Kohli in Adelaide Test</a>

Paine-Ashwin sledging didn't stop at once. Paine had replied saying, "At least my teammates like me, d**khead. I’ve got a lot more Indian friends than you do. “Even your teammates think you’re a goose. Don’t they? Every one of them," he continued.

Ashwin&nbsp;countered by saying,&nbsp;“Tell me when you’re done". "I’ll talk all day, mate. Wait until you get to the Gabba, pal,” Paine responded. To Paine and many Aussies' surprise, India went to the Gabba Test with the series levelled at 1-1 and won the final encounter by three wickets, chasing an improbable 327 on the final day. With this, they breached Australia's 32-year-long fortress as well.

India and Australia were engaged in a high-voltage four-match Test series Down Under in 2020/21. After Virat Kohli-led India lost the opening Test, in Adelaide, by eight wickets -- being dismissed for a paltry 36 in the second essay -- many thought it would all go downhill for the visitors from thereon.

India and Australia were engaged in a high-voltage four-match Test series Down Under in 2020/21. After Virat Kohli-led India lost the opening Test, in Adelaide, by eight wickets -- being dismissed for a paltry 36 in the second essay -- many thought it would all go downhill for the visitors from thereon. With no Kohli for the remainder of the series, the onus fell on stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane. India not only levelled the series in the second Test, at the MCG, Melbourne, they managed to secure a draw form the jaws of defeat in the third and penultimate match, in Sydney, before winning the series decider in style at The Gabba, Brisbane. There were plenty of eye-catching moments in the series, including Rishabh Pant's counterattack, Cheteshwar Pujara's rocksolid presence, R Ashwin-Hanuma Vihari's blockathon, Md Siraj battling racial abuse to shine with the ball, sledging, etc. Recently, Ashwin recalled the intense verbal spat with then Aussie Test captain Tim Paine during the last session of the SCG Test. ALSO READ | Team India skipper Rohit Sharma set to leave for England on June 20: Report During Ashwin-Vihari's unbroken 62-run sixth-wicket stand, keeper-captain Paine tried to distract the wily spin all-rounder as hosts were eyeing a win in defence of 407. The two Indian batters had joined in with the score 272-5 and, hence, had more than a session to play for a draw. With them going well, captain Paine tried to resort to sledging. He told Ashwin, "can't wait to get him to the Gabba". To this, the 35-year-old said, "can't wait to take him to India which would be his last series". Recently, Ashwin spilled the beans on his statement. "I think Vihari will remember why I said that as well. Because we had a discussion on the way Tim Paine was batting through the series. I kept telling these guys and we got a very different sort of a short leg position, which was forward short leg and then we usually have a leg slip. We had a chat... Rahane, myself, Vihari and we said, 'Pujara will generally stand at leg slip but this guy won't stand with the helmet. Let's put him somewhere else and get this guy under the lid'," Ashwin said during the trailer launch of the just-released docu-series “Bandon Mein Tha Dum” (i.e. a celebration of India's famous Test series triumph over the Aussies during the 2020/21 tour). "We had this conversation and parked him there in a very awkward position and he (Paine) actually nicked off there. We had a celebration and I told Vihari, 'This guy better not come to India. If he actually comes to India, he will be going there every single time. At the end of the day, he was having a go at us when we were batting and it just came out of my mind because we had a conversation like that. It was very instantaneous," he further added. ALSO READ | 'I knew this could be a game-changing moment' - Rahane recalls mix-up with Virat Kohli in Adelaide Test Paine-Ashwin sledging didn't stop at once. Paine had replied saying, "At least my teammates like me, d**khead. I’ve got a lot more Indian friends than you do. “Even your teammates think you’re a goose. Don’t they? Every one of them," he continued. Ashwin countered by saying, “Tell me when you’re done". "I’ll talk all day, mate. Wait until you get to the Gabba, pal,” Paine responded. To Paine and many Aussies' surprise, India went to the Gabba Test with the series levelled at 1-1 and won the final encounter by three wickets, chasing an improbable 327 on the final day. With this, they breached Australia's 32-year-long fortress as well.

Ashwin recalls intense sledging episode with Paine, shares story behind 'that will be your last series' remark

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