The International Cricket Council (ICC) Monday said <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-pays-tribute-to-pulwama-attack-victims-dons-special-army-cap-for-3rd-odi-against-australia-201965">India was granted permission to wear camouflage military caps</a> in the third ODI against Australia as a tribute to the country's armed forces, a gesture which Pakistan has objected to.&nbsp;

In the third ODI in Ranchi on March 8, the Indian team sported military caps as a mark of respect to the CRPF personnel who were killed in the Pulwama terror attack and donated its match fee to the National Defence Fund.

"The BCCI sought permission from the ICC to wear the caps as part of a fundraising drive and in memory of fallen soldiers who have died, which was granted," ICC's General Manager Strategic Communications Claire Furlong said in a statement.

The Pakistan Cricket Board had sent a strongly-worded letter to the ICC, calling for action against India for wearing the caps.

"They took permission from ICC for some other purpose and used it to do something else, which is not acceptable," PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani said on Sunday in Karachi.

Last month, the BCCI had asked the ICC to "sever ties with countries from which terrorism emanates" following the Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed. The responsibility of the attack was taken by Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Monday said India was granted permission to wear camouflage military caps in the third ODI against Australia as a tribute to the country's armed forces, a gesture which Pakistan has objected to.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Monday said India was granted permission to wear camouflage military caps in the third ODI against Australia as a tribute to the country's armed forces, a gesture which Pakistan has objected to. In the third ODI in Ranchi on March 8, the Indian team sported military caps as a mark of respect to the CRPF personnel who were killed in the Pulwama terror attack and donated its match fee to the National Defence Fund. "The BCCI sought permission from the ICC to wear the caps as part of a fundraising drive and in memory of fallen soldiers who have died, which was granted," ICC's General Manager Strategic Communications Claire Furlong said in a statement. The Pakistan Cricket Board had sent a strongly-worded letter to the ICC, calling for action against India for wearing the caps. "They took permission from ICC for some other purpose and used it to do something else, which is not acceptable," PCB Chairman Ehsan Mani said on Sunday in Karachi. Last month, the BCCI had asked the ICC to "sever ties with countries from which terrorism emanates" following the Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed. The responsibility of the attack was taken by Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed.

India was given permission to wear camouflage caps in memory of fallen soldiers: ICC

India's wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MSD) was replaced by young bloke Rishabh Pant in the fourth ODI against Australia. Pant gave a decent performance with bat scoring 34 off 26 balls but failed miserably with the gloves.&nbsp;

One of the reasons India lost the fourth game despite scoring a mammoth 358, was poor fielding, especially by Pant.&nbsp;

The youngster missing a few clear-cut chances, with one being trying to stump a batsman in Dhoni's no-look flick. His missed chance actually turned the game in Australia's favour.&nbsp;

His failure behind the stumps also drew an angry reaction <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-blames-drs-after-losing-4th-odi-to-australia-202423">from India skipper Virat Kohli</a>.

Right-arm leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal also didn't look happy as Pant smiled sheepishly after his another failed attempt.

Out of many, here are the three major mistakes Pant committed that cost India 4th ODI.

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Pant's mistakes...!! <a href="https://t.co/qyo9Kpkdox">pic.twitter.com/qyo9Kpkdox</a>
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It turned out to be a dismal day for India in the field despite the heroics of Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma. The opening duo's record partnership, which includes a sensational 143, had helped India post a mammoth target.&nbsp;

Australia chase down a record-breaking target of 359 runs, making it the highest ever total that Indian team failed to defend in its ODI history, losing the game by four wickets.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/shikhar-dhawan-is-vital-as-we-need-left-right-combination-at-top-going-sanjay-bangar-202257">Also read:&nbsp;Shikhar Dhawan is vital as we need left-right combination at </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/shikhar-dhawan-is-vital-as-we-need-left-right-combination-at-top-going-sanjay-bangar-202257">top</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/shikhar-dhawan-is-vital-as-we-need-left-right-combination-at-top-going-sanjay-bangar-202257"> going: Sanjay Bangar</a>

Playing only his second ODI, Turner hit an unbeaten 84 off 43 balls with five boundaries and as many as six sixes to help Australia reach the target with 13 balls to spare.

India's wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MSD) was replaced by young bloke Rishabh Pant in the fourth ODI against Australia. Pant gave a decent performance with bat scoring 34 off 26 balls but failed miserably with the gloves.

India's wicketkeeper-batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni (MSD) was replaced by young bloke Rishabh Pant in the fourth ODI against Australia. Pant gave a decent performance with bat scoring 34 off 26 balls but failed miserably with the gloves. One of the reasons India lost the fourth game despite scoring a mammoth 358, was poor fielding, especially by Pant. The youngster missing a few clear-cut chances, with one being trying to stump a batsman in Dhoni's no-look flick. His missed chance actually turned the game in Australia's favour. His failure behind the stumps also drew an angry reaction from India skipper Virat Kohli. Right-arm leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal also didn't look happy as Pant smiled sheepishly after his another failed attempt. Out of many, here are the three major mistakes Pant committed that cost India 4th ODI. Pant's mistakes...!! pic.twitter.com/qyo9Kpkdox — Vidshots (@Vidshots1) March 10, 2019 × It turned out to be a dismal day for India in the field despite the heroics of Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma. The opening duo's record partnership, which includes a sensational 143, had helped India post a mammoth target. Australia chase down a record-breaking target of 359 runs, making it the highest ever total that Indian team failed to defend in its ODI history, losing the game by four wickets. Also read: Shikhar Dhawan is vital as we need left-right combination at top going: Sanjay Bangar Playing only his second ODI, Turner hit an unbeaten 84 off 43 balls with five boundaries and as many as six sixes to help Australia reach the target with 13 balls to spare.

Watch: Three mistakes of Rishabh Pant that cost India 4th ODI

India's assistant coach Sanjay Bangar said that the management wants a right-left combination to fire the top batting, hence left-handed batsman Shikhar Dhawan plays an important role in India batting plans with the ICC World Cup round the corner.

Dhawan has failed in 14 out of his 16 innings but Bangar feels that more than anything else, it's his shot selection that has let him down.

"In the previous game, he (Dhawan) was batting really well till he erred in shot selection. But from our point of view, he has been an important player," said Bangar.

"If we know that he gets going, he can give us that solidity as it is vital to have that right-left combination going. He is a hugely valuable player for us and he is expected to come good very soon," Bangar added.

Recently, Dhawan has been dropped from the top rank of India's annual contracts.

Bangar was also sympathetic for Ambati Rayudu, who Friday got a brilliant delivery from Pat Cummins.

"These games are valuable opportunities for all players concerned and even for us so that the players are at their utmost best when we go into the World Cup. Don't forget that in the last game in New Zealand, Rayudu scored a match-winning 90," Bangar said.

"Today's delivery that he got, could have gotten out any batsmen with that pace and low bounce. Players are expected to take chances and that's what we are expecting of every player," Bangar explained.

In the fourth match of the five-match series against Australia, India will look to win series in Mohali on Sunday.

India's assistant coach Sanjay Bangar said that the management wants a right-left combination to fire the top batting, hence left-handed batsman Shikhar Dhawan plays an important role in India batting plans with the ICC World Cup round the corner.

India's assistant coach Sanjay Bangar said that the management wants a right-left combination to fire the top batting, hence left-handed batsman Shikhar Dhawan plays an important role in India batting plans with the ICC World Cup round the corner. Dhawan has failed in 14 out of his 16 innings but Bangar feels that more than anything else, it's his shot selection that has let him down. "In the previous game, he (Dhawan) was batting really well till he erred in shot selection. But from our point of view, he has been an important player," said Bangar. "If we know that he gets going, he can give us that solidity as it is vital to have that right-left combination going. He is a hugely valuable player for us and he is expected to come good very soon," Bangar added. Recently, Dhawan has been dropped from the top rank of India's annual contracts. Bangar was also sympathetic for Ambati Rayudu, who Friday got a brilliant delivery from Pat Cummins. "These games are valuable opportunities for all players concerned and even for us so that the players are at their utmost best when we go into the World Cup. Don't forget that in the last game in New Zealand, Rayudu scored a match-winning 90," Bangar said. "Today's delivery that he got, could have gotten out any batsmen with that pace and low bounce. Players are expected to take chances and that's what we are expecting of every player," Bangar explained. In the fourth match of the five-match series against Australia, India will look to win series in Mohali on Sunday.

Shikhar Dhawan is vital as we need left-right combination at top going: Sanjay Bangar

Australia beat India by four wickets in fourth One-Day International (ODI) at Mohali city's Punjab Cricket Association Stadium to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ashton-turner-turns-tables-on-india-as-australia-beat-india-by-4-wickets-in-4th-odi-202412">level the five-match series</a>.&nbsp;

Ashton Turner&nbsp;helped Australia chase down a record 359&nbsp;with an unbeaten 84 off 43 balls while Indian captain Virat Kohli seemed unhappy&nbsp;after&nbsp;the&nbsp;match.&nbsp;

Kohli blamed the Decision Review System (DRS)&nbsp;saying "it is not consistent at all and becoming a talking point in every game".&nbsp;

Turner survived an early scare&nbsp;in his innings when DRS result saved him but the decision surprised&nbsp;Kohli as he had a long chat with the on-field umpires.&nbsp;

During the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "The DRS call was a surprise, it's just not consistent at all, it's becoming a talking point in every game."

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Australia pull off their biggest ODI chase to level the series in Mohali! 
 
Ashton Turner finishes it superbly with 84 off 43 balls after Handscomb (117) and Khawaja (91) set up a fantastic pursuit. Australia win by four wickets! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> scorecard ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/X4QGtIjbn2">https://t.co/X4QGtIjbn2</a> <a href="https://t.co/OnUn4p3DZD">pic.twitter.com/OnUn4p3DZD</a>
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Also,&nbsp;Rishabh Pant, who replaced rested Mahendra Singh Dhoni&nbsp;missed a chance to stump Turner on 38 and the innings and overall&nbsp;India were poor in the field.&nbsp;

"We were sloppy in the field and should've grabbed our chances," said the India skipper.&nbsp;

The dew also played a big role in Australia's innings.&nbsp;

"The wicket remained good throughout, we've fallen on the wrong side of the dew in two games, but that's not an excuse. Ashton played a hell of a knock, Peter Handscomb played a brilliant innings, Usman Khawaja held the innings together.&nbsp;

"They played better cricket, we got to accept and it's a record chase, they deserved to win. If we had won the toss, we would've batted first (in Ranchi). We had to get the fifth bowler out of the way tonight. If Kedar Jadhav and Vijay Shankar was bowling with the dew, it would've been more difficult, so we wanted to get done with it first," said Kohli.&nbsp;

Australia beat India by four wickets in fourth One-Day International (ODI) at Mohali city's Punjab Cricket Association Stadium to level the five-match series. Ashton Turner helped Australia chase down a record 359 with an unbeaten 84 off 43 balls while Indian captain Virat Kohli seemed unhappy after the match.

Australia beat India by four wickets in fourth One-Day International (ODI) at Mohali city's Punjab Cricket Association Stadium to level the five-match series. Ashton Turner helped Australia chase down a record 359 with an unbeaten 84 off 43 balls while Indian captain Virat Kohli seemed unhappy after the match. Kohli blamed the Decision Review System (DRS) saying "it is not consistent at all and becoming a talking point in every game". Turner survived an early scare in his innings when DRS result saved him but the decision surprised Kohli as he had a long chat with the on-field umpires. During the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "The DRS call was a surprise, it's just not consistent at all, it's becoming a talking point in every game." Australia pull off their biggest ODI chase to level the series in Mohali! Ashton Turner finishes it superbly with 84 off 43 balls after Handscomb (117) and Khawaja (91) set up a fantastic pursuit. Australia win by four wickets! #INDvAUS scorecard ➡️ https://t.co/X4QGtIjbn2 pic.twitter.com/OnUn4p3DZD — ICC (@ICC) March 10, 2019 × Also, Rishabh Pant, who replaced rested Mahendra Singh Dhoni missed a chance to stump Turner on 38 and the innings and overall India were poor in the field. "We were sloppy in the field and should've grabbed our chances," said the India skipper. The dew also played a big role in Australia's innings. "The wicket remained good throughout, we've fallen on the wrong side of the dew in two games, but that's not an excuse. Ashton played a hell of a knock, Peter Handscomb played a brilliant innings, Usman Khawaja held the innings together. "They played better cricket, we got to accept and it's a record chase, they deserved to win. If we had won the toss, we would've batted first (in Ranchi). We had to get the fifth bowler out of the way tonight. If Kedar Jadhav and Vijay Shankar was bowling with the dew, it would've been more difficult, so we wanted to get done with it first," said Kohli.

Virat Kohli blames DRS after losing 4th ODI to Australia

Peter Handscomb top-scored with 117 as Australia beat India by four wickets to level the series at 2-2 in the fourth one-day international in Mohali on Sunday.

Ashton Turner hit an unbeaten 84 to anchor Australia's 359-run chase as they achieved the target with 13 balls to spare and take the five-match series into the final ODI in Delhi on Wednesday.

A second-wicket partnership between Handscomb, who registered his maiden ODI ton, and Usman Khawaja, who made 91, was key to Australia's best ever ODI chase against India.

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Australia pull off their biggest ODI chase to level the series in Mohali! 
 
Ashton Turner finishes it superbly with 84 off 43 balls after Handscomb (117) and Khawaja (91) set up a fantastic pursuit. Australia win by four wickets! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> scorecard ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/X4QGtIjbn2">https://t.co/X4QGtIjbn2</a> <a href="https://t.co/OnUn4p3DZD">pic.twitter.com/OnUn4p3DZD</a>
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&nbsp;

Peter Handscomb top-scored with 117 as Australia beat India by four wickets to level the series at 2-2 in the fourth one-day international in Mohali on Sunday. Ashton Turner hit an unbeaten 84 to anchor Australia's 359-run chase as they achieved the target with 13 balls to spare and take the five-match series into the final ODI in Delhi on Wednesday.

Peter Handscomb top-scored with 117 as Australia beat India by four wickets to level the series at 2-2 in the fourth one-day international in Mohali on Sunday. Ashton Turner hit an unbeaten 84 to anchor Australia's 359-run chase as they achieved the target with 13 balls to spare and take the five-match series into the final ODI in Delhi on Wednesday. A second-wicket partnership between Handscomb, who registered his maiden ODI ton, and Usman Khawaja, who made 91, was key to Australia's best ever ODI chase against India. Australia pull off their biggest ODI chase to level the series in Mohali! Ashton Turner finishes it superbly with 84 off 43 balls after Handscomb (117) and Khawaja (91) set up a fantastic pursuit. Australia win by four wickets! #INDvAUS scorecard ➡️ https://t.co/X4QGtIjbn2 pic.twitter.com/OnUn4p3DZD — ICC (@ICC) March 10, 2019 ×

Ashton Turner turns tables on India as Australia win 4th ODI by 4 wickets

India's pacer Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah is known for his&nbsp;efficient bowling in the death overs but this time he stunned the spectators with his bat by hitting a six on the last ball of India's innings against Australia in fourth ODI in Mohali.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli celebrated Bumrah's last-ball sixer in the dressing room of Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium.&nbsp;

He&nbsp;jumped off from his seat and applauded the shot with the teammates.&nbsp;Even Bumrah couldn't believe that he has hit a six against the opposition's best bowler.&nbsp;

Australian pacer Pat Cummins, who was bowling the last over, took a wicket on the second last ball that put pacer Bumrah on the crease.&nbsp;

Bumrah connected his bat well with the ball and swung it enough to send the&nbsp;ball over&nbsp;boundary rope on long-on.&nbsp;

Watch the video:&nbsp;

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Whatta a shot. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> enjoyed a lot. He was jumping with jot. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bumrah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bumrah</a> <a href="https://t.co/ajd7vZmaP0">pic.twitter.com/ajd7vZmaP0</a>
— Jaydeepsinh Solanki (@JaydeepsinhSo7) <a href="https://twitter.com/JaydeepsinhSo7/status/1104720099619987456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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That moment when <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a> hits the last ball for a maximum 😅😅<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/e6iOHorg8N">pic.twitter.com/e6iOHorg8N</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1104710330976894978?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Opener Shikhar Dhawan struck a career-best 143 to guide India to 358 for nine in their bid to clinch the series in the fourth one-day international against Australia on Sunday.&nbsp;

The hosts, who lead the five-match series 2-1, rode on a 193-run opening stand between Dhawan and Rohit Sharma, who made 95, to put up a challenging total after electing to bat in Mohali.&nbsp;

Fast bowler Pat Cummins returned his best-ever ODI figures of 5-70 in 10 overs.&nbsp;

India's pacer Jasprit Bumrah is known for his efficient bowling in the death overs but this time he stunned the spectators with his bat by hitting a six on the last ball of India's innings against Australia in fourth ODI in Mohali.

India's pacer Jasprit Bumrah is known for his efficient bowling in the death overs but this time he stunned the spectators with his bat by hitting a six on the last ball of India's innings against Australia in fourth ODI in Mohali. Indian skipper Virat Kohli celebrated Bumrah's last-ball sixer in the dressing room of Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium. He jumped off from his seat and applauded the shot with the teammates. Even Bumrah couldn't believe that he has hit a six against the opposition's best bowler. Australian pacer Pat Cummins, who was bowling the last over, took a wicket on the second last ball that put pacer Bumrah on the crease. Bumrah connected his bat well with the ball and swung it enough to send the ball over boundary rope on long-on. Watch the video: Whatta a shot. #ViratKohli enjoyed a lot. He was jumping with jot. #bumrah pic.twitter.com/ajd7vZmaP0 — Jaydeepsinh Solanki (@JaydeepsinhSo7) March 10, 2019 × That moment when @Jaspritbumrah93 hits the last ball for a maximum 😅😅#INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/e6iOHorg8N — BCCI (@BCCI) March 10, 2019 × Opener Shikhar Dhawan struck a career-best 143 to guide India to 358 for nine in their bid to clinch the series in the fourth one-day international against Australia on Sunday. The hosts, who lead the five-match series 2-1, rode on a 193-run opening stand between Dhawan and Rohit Sharma, who made 95, to put up a challenging total after electing to bat in Mohali. Fast bowler Pat Cummins returned his best-ever ODI figures of 5-70 in 10 overs.

Watch: Jasprit Bumrah hits sixer, Virat Kohli dances in dressing room

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Rishabh+Pant">Rishabh Pant</a> will take over as wicketkeeper from MS Dhoni for the final two matches of India's one-day series against Australia with the former captain being rested ahead of the World Cup later this year.

The decision to rest Dhoni may signal the end of his international career in his home country, with the 37-year-old still to make an announcement on his future after the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England and Wales.

It also allows Pant the opportunity to make a late push for inclusion at the tournament, with captain Virat Kohli believing the final two games in Mohali and New Dehli the perfect opportunities for players to prove themselves.

"We will have a few changes in the next couple of games," Kohli said after Australia won the third game in Dhoni's hometown of Ranchi by 32 runs to leave India with a 2-1 advantage in the series.

"We will have to figure out what those changes are.

"But the idea is still to go out there and ask the guys to put in match-winning performances and take a lot of pride in winning for the country. That mindset will not change.

"Yes, we'll have a few new faces and they'll be given chances, and they have to make the most of the chances because there's a World Cup coming in.

"Everyone wants to be on that flight as well."

Pant has not featured in the series so far and only played three ODIs in his nascent career but is rated highly by the selectors who awarded the 21-year-old a lucrative central contract earlier this week.

The decision to rest Dhoni was not a surprise given he has been battling leg injuries and still has to play the Indian Premier League before the World Cup, while the selectors have managed the workload of key players over the last few months.

Kohli missed the final three one-day matches against New Zealand in late January, while pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah was rested after the Test series in Australia ended in early January.

Bumrah has played the current series against Australia and looks set to get a fresh new-ball partner in Mohali on Sunday with Bhuvneshwar Kumar likely to come in for Mohammed Shami, who was hit in the leg on Friday by a shot from Aaron Finch.

"Shami got hurt in his leg so we will need to check whether he can be fit for day after (the Mohali game)," said India assistant coach Sanjay Bangar.

"If he does not get fit then Bhuvneshwar Kumar could come in."

Rishabh Pant will take over as wicketkeeper from MS Dhoni for the final two matches of India's one-day series against Australia with the former captain being rested ahead of the World Cup later this year.

Rishabh Pant will take over as wicketkeeper from MS Dhoni for the final two matches of India's one-day series against Australia with the former captain being rested ahead of the World Cup later this year. The decision to rest Dhoni may signal the end of his international career in his home country, with the 37-year-old still to make an announcement on his future after the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England and Wales. It also allows Pant the opportunity to make a late push for inclusion at the tournament, with captain Virat Kohli believing the final two games in Mohali and New Dehli the perfect opportunities for players to prove themselves. "We will have a few changes in the next couple of games," Kohli said after Australia won the third game in Dhoni's hometown of Ranchi by 32 runs to leave India with a 2-1 advantage in the series. "We will have to figure out what those changes are. "But the idea is still to go out there and ask the guys to put in match-winning performances and take a lot of pride in winning for the country. That mindset will not change. "Yes, we'll have a few new faces and they'll be given chances, and they have to make the most of the chances because there's a World Cup coming in. "Everyone wants to be on that flight as well." Pant has not featured in the series so far and only played three ODIs in his nascent career but is rated highly by the selectors who awarded the 21-year-old a lucrative central contract earlier this week. The decision to rest Dhoni was not a surprise given he has been battling leg injuries and still has to play the Indian Premier League before the World Cup, while the selectors have managed the workload of key players over the last few months. Kohli missed the final three one-day matches against New Zealand in late January, while pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah was rested after the Test series in Australia ended in early January. Bumrah has played the current series against Australia and looks set to get a fresh new-ball partner in Mohali on Sunday with Bhuvneshwar Kumar likely to come in for Mohammed Shami, who was hit in the leg on Friday by a shot from Aaron Finch. "Shami got hurt in his leg so we will need to check whether he can be fit for day after (the Mohali game)," said India assistant coach Sanjay Bangar. "If he does not get fit then Bhuvneshwar Kumar could come in."

Rishabh Pant to replace rested MS Dhoni in last two ODIs against Australia

Rishabh Pant will strive to seal a slot in the World Cup squad even as India fret about their top-order woes ahead of the fourth ODI against Australia, here Sunday.

Providing opportunities to all Cup hopefuls would be on Virat Kohli's mind and the team management is expected to ring in a few changes in the playing XI in the remaining two matches of the series.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni seem to have played his last international game in Ranchi and now Pant gets a chance to book his boarding pass for the London-bound flight.

In earlier ODIs, Pant had played purely as batsman but with Dhoni being rested, Pant will get a chance to don the big gloves.

The Indian playing XI will also have Bhuvneshwar Kumar on Sunday as he replaces Mohammed Shami, who was hit on the leg in his follow through during the third match.

Shami completed his spell but since he will be sharing the new ball with Jasprit Bumrah in England, it is natural to give him precautionary rest.

"We will have a few changes in the next couple of games but the idea is to tell the boys to put in match-winning performances and the boys will be looking to be in top form before the flight to England," Kohli said after the third ODI.

However, what will keep the Indian team worried is the batting form of the top-order, save skipper Kohli, who has been lock, stock and barrel above everyone in his team.

Kohli has 283 runs in three games with two hundreds and the next best in the Indian team is Kedar Jadhav with 118 runs.

Rohit Sharma is undergoing a rare slump in ODIs, having scored only 51 runs in three innings. Even worse is Ambati Rayudu's performance at No 4 with aggregate of 33 runs in three games.

Shikhar Dhawan's struggles are well-documented and he has scored only 22 runs in three games.

Dhawan and Rayudu's form should be a cause of concern even though both are certainties as far as place in the World Cup squad is concerned.

There are certain problems in both Dhawan and Rayudu's games but they won't get adequate time to correct those follies with just two games to be played in five days and the cash-rich IPL to follow soon.

Bangar however considers that the shortest of gaps between two games ? Friday and Sunday to be a blessing in disguise.

"At times, actually it's good that there is a very small turnaround between matches because if there are too many gaps, then players have that much more time to think. The best for any player is to get back into action and give it another shot. In fact I'm very pleased that the next game is starting Sunday," Bangar said.

While Kohli is not a great advocate of wholesale changes, KL Rahul is also expected to get a look-in but it is not clear who would he replace -- Dhawan or Rayudu.

India will be worried about Aussie leg-spinner Adam Zampa, who despite conceding lot of runs, has managed to get Kohli and Dhoni on multiple occasions.

"That's the sign of a good player. You're not at your best, not having your best day and still taking those important wickets. Batsmen pride themselves on the same thing - when you don't feel like you are hitting the ball well, you try to get runs on those days," Usman Khawaja said.

Teams:

India: Virat Kohli (captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Ambati Rayudu, Kedar Jadhav, Vijay Shankar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rishabh Pant (wk).

Australia: Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja, Peter Handscomb, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Turner, Jhye Richardson, Adam Zampa, Andrew Tye, Pat Cummins, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Alex Carey, Nathan Lyon, Jason Behrendorff.

Rishabh Pant will strive to seal a slot in the World Cup squad even as India fret about their top-order woes ahead of the fourth ODI against Australia, here Sunday.

Rishabh Pant will strive to seal a slot in the World Cup squad even as India fret about their top-order woes ahead of the fourth ODI against Australia, here Sunday. Providing opportunities to all Cup hopefuls would be on Virat Kohli's mind and the team management is expected to ring in a few changes in the playing XI in the remaining two matches of the series. Mahendra Singh Dhoni seem to have played his last international game in Ranchi and now Pant gets a chance to book his boarding pass for the London-bound flight. In earlier ODIs, Pant had played purely as batsman but with Dhoni being rested, Pant will get a chance to don the big gloves. The Indian playing XI will also have Bhuvneshwar Kumar on Sunday as he replaces Mohammed Shami, who was hit on the leg in his follow through during the third match. Shami completed his spell but since he will be sharing the new ball with Jasprit Bumrah in England, it is natural to give him precautionary rest. "We will have a few changes in the next couple of games but the idea is to tell the boys to put in match-winning performances and the boys will be looking to be in top form before the flight to England," Kohli said after the third ODI. However, what will keep the Indian team worried is the batting form of the top-order, save skipper Kohli, who has been lock, stock and barrel above everyone in his team. Kohli has 283 runs in three games with two hundreds and the next best in the Indian team is Kedar Jadhav with 118 runs. Rohit Sharma is undergoing a rare slump in ODIs, having scored only 51 runs in three innings. Even worse is Ambati Rayudu's performance at No 4 with aggregate of 33 runs in three games. Shikhar Dhawan's struggles are well-documented and he has scored only 22 runs in three games. Dhawan and Rayudu's form should be a cause of concern even though both are certainties as far as place in the World Cup squad is concerned. There are certain problems in both Dhawan and Rayudu's games but they won't get adequate time to correct those follies with just two games to be played in five days and the cash-rich IPL to follow soon. Bangar however considers that the shortest of gaps between two games ? Friday and Sunday to be a blessing in disguise. "At times, actually it's good that there is a very small turnaround between matches because if there are too many gaps, then players have that much more time to think. The best for any player is to get back into action and give it another shot. In fact I'm very pleased that the next game is starting Sunday," Bangar said. While Kohli is not a great advocate of wholesale changes, KL Rahul is also expected to get a look-in but it is not clear who would he replace -- Dhawan or Rayudu. India will be worried about Aussie leg-spinner Adam Zampa, who despite conceding lot of runs, has managed to get Kohli and Dhoni on multiple occasions. "That's the sign of a good player. You're not at your best, not having your best day and still taking those important wickets. Batsmen pride themselves on the same thing - when you don't feel like you are hitting the ball well, you try to get runs on those days," Usman Khawaja said. Teams: India: Virat Kohli (captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Ambati Rayudu, Kedar Jadhav, Vijay Shankar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rishabh Pant (wk). Australia: Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja, Peter Handscomb, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Turner, Jhye Richardson, Adam Zampa, Andrew Tye, Pat Cummins, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Alex Carey, Nathan Lyon, Jason Behrendorff.

INDvsAUS, 4th ODI: Virat Kohli-led team look to win series in Mohali

Usman Khawaja termed his maiden hundred in ODI as a "huge thing" simply because the first one is always difficult to get.&nbsp;

Khawaja hit a 104-run knock and shared a 193 run stand with captain and fellow opener Aaron Finch to play a significant role in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-virat-kohlis-41st-ton-goes-in-vain-as-india-lose-3rd-odi-by-32-runs-202091">Australia's 32-run win in the third ODI</a>.

"Yeah it's huge. The first one is always hardest - no matter what you're playing. It's obviously a special one. I found the same thing in Test cricket as well as in one-day cricket. I got that 98 before a few years ago, it was frustrating and disappointing," said Khwaja.&nbsp;

Australia have won an overseas ODI for the first time since 2017 and Khawaja is absolutely delighted.

"Any win, you are very happy. That's why we play the game. We love competing and winning against a very good Indian side. It's always nice to do that -especially on their turf. We lost the first two and won the third one. We are still in the series and feeling is good."

Khawaja didn't agree with the notion that he finally got measure of bowlers, who had his 'number' during the Test series back in Australia.

"Not really. I've scored a lot of runs here for Australia A in one-day (List A) cricket. I went over to Chennai a few years ago and I was the leading run-scorer for Australia A there. Then I scored a hundred here six months back in another Australia A series. So I have performed well here before."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Khawaja said that Finch had a measure of Kuldeep and it worked well on Friday night.

"There was no set plan. It was just the feeling out in the middle. Instincts. When a bowler comes on - you feel like he can take him. When Kuldeep came on, I knew he (Finch) was hitting to the short side with the spin. When he took him on that first over, it was obvious he could clear the rope pretty easily with that short boundary.

"So as soon as I got any strike, I was just trying to get a single and give him as much strike as possible. That's just a partnership - it's how you work as batsmen, you sort of understand what the other guy is trying to do."

Usman Khawaja termed his maiden hundred in ODI as a "huge thing" simply because the first one is always difficult to get. Khawaja hit a 104-run knock and shared a 193 run stand with captain and fellow opener Aaron Finch to play a significant role in Australia's 32-run win in the third ODI.

Usman Khawaja termed his maiden hundred in ODI as a "huge thing" simply because the first one is always difficult to get. Khawaja hit a 104-run knock and shared a 193 run stand with captain and fellow opener Aaron Finch to play a significant role in Australia's 32-run win in the third ODI. "Yeah it's huge. The first one is always hardest - no matter what you're playing. It's obviously a special one. I found the same thing in Test cricket as well as in one-day cricket. I got that 98 before a few years ago, it was frustrating and disappointing," said Khwaja. Australia have won an overseas ODI for the first time since 2017 and Khawaja is absolutely delighted. "Any win, you are very happy. That's why we play the game. We love competing and winning against a very good Indian side. It's always nice to do that -especially on their turf. We lost the first two and won the third one. We are still in the series and feeling is good." Khawaja didn't agree with the notion that he finally got measure of bowlers, who had his 'number' during the Test series back in Australia. "Not really. I've scored a lot of runs here for Australia A in one-day (List A) cricket. I went over to Chennai a few years ago and I was the leading run-scorer for Australia A there. Then I scored a hundred here six months back in another Australia A series. So I have performed well here before." Khawaja said that Finch had a measure of Kuldeep and it worked well on Friday night. "There was no set plan. It was just the feeling out in the middle. Instincts. When a bowler comes on - you feel like he can take him. When Kuldeep came on, I knew he (Finch) was hitting to the short side with the spin. When he took him on that first over, it was obvious he could clear the rope pretty easily with that short boundary. "So as soon as I got any strike, I was just trying to get a single and give him as much strike as possible. That's just a partnership - it's how you work as batsmen, you sort of understand what the other guy is trying to do."

It's huge for me as 1st one is always difficult to get: Usman Khawaja on century

India will play visitors Australia in the third One Day International (ODI) At Ranchi and the main focus will be on Mahendra Singh Dhoni, probably for two reasons - first, a pavilion will be inaugurated named after the former captain and second, the game could possibly be Dhoni's last homecoming.

India are playing their last 50-over games before they leave for ICC World Cup scheduled to be held in England.&nbsp;

Dhoni's unwillingness to hang up his boots, earlier, despite a run of lacklustre performances in 2017 made speculations rife that the 37-year-old will retire after the World Cup.

If yes, then a 3-0 lead in the five-match series will be a perfect parting gift for Ranchi's favourite man.

Meanwhile, just like the Sunil Gavaskar Stand at the Wankhede in Mumbai or the Virender Sehwag Gate at the Kotla in New Delhi, the JSCA Stadium will have its very own Mahendra Singh Dhoni Pavilion.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/3rd-odi-india-eye-series-win-against-australia-in-dhonis-hometown-ranchi-201834">India eye series win against Australia in Dhoni's hometown Ranchi</a>

Dhoni is also inching closer to another landmark. He’s only 33 short of reaching 17,000 runs in International cricket, having accumulated 16,967 runs so far.

The Men in Blue, who lost the T20 series, lead the five-game series 2-0, having won in Hyderabad and Nagpur respectively.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India will play visitors Australia in the third One Day International (ODI) At Ranchi and the main focus will be on Mahendra Singh Dhoni, probably for two reasons - first, a pavilion will be inaugurated named after the former captain and second, the game could possibly be Dhoni's last homecoming.

India will play visitors Australia in the third One Day International (ODI) At Ranchi and the main focus will be on Mahendra Singh Dhoni, probably for two reasons - first, a pavilion will be inaugurated named after the former captain and second, the game could possibly be Dhoni's last homecoming. India are playing their last 50-over games before they leave for ICC World Cup scheduled to be held in England. Dhoni's unwillingness to hang up his boots, earlier, despite a run of lacklustre performances in 2017 made speculations rife that the 37-year-old will retire after the World Cup. If yes, then a 3-0 lead in the five-match series will be a perfect parting gift for Ranchi's favourite man. Meanwhile, just like the Sunil Gavaskar Stand at the Wankhede in Mumbai or the Virender Sehwag Gate at the Kotla in New Delhi, the JSCA Stadium will have its very own Mahendra Singh Dhoni Pavilion. Also read: India eye series win against Australia in Dhoni's hometown Ranchi Dhoni is also inching closer to another landmark. He’s only 33 short of reaching 17,000 runs in International cricket, having accumulated 16,967 runs so far. The Men in Blue, who lost the T20 series, lead the five-game series 2-0, having won in Hyderabad and Nagpur respectively.

IND vs AUS, 3rd ODI: Is it the 'final' homecoming for MS Dhoni?

Indian skipper Virat Kohli continued his fine form and slammed his 41st ODI century during <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-score-3rd-odi-virat-kohli-wins-toss-opts-to-bowl-against-australia-201948">3rd ODI against Australia at the JSCA International Stadium Complex</a> in Ranchi on Friday.

Although India struggled in their chase of 314, Kohli hit his 66th overall ton in style and at a point when the team needed the most.&nbsp;

He now has the most hundreds in India-Australia ODIs in India. The record was previously held by Sachin Tendulkar. It was also Kohli's 25th ton while chasing and so far, India have won on 21 occasions.

Kohli came in to bat early as Shikhar Dhawan was dismissed by a fantastic catch by Glenn Maxwell. Rohit Sharma followed Dhawan in the very next over and Ambati Rayudu two overs later as India were left reeling at 27/3 from 6.2 overs.

Kohli was joined by Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the middle and the duo put on a 59-run stand for the fourth wicket and recovered the innings to some extent before the Ranchi boy fell for 26 off Adam Zampa.

The 30-year-old reached his fifty off 52 balls in the 24th over.&nbsp;

This was the second century of the series for him and 8th against Australia in ODIs and 15th overall across all the formats against them.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli continued his fine form and slammed his 41st ODI century during 3rd ODI against Australia at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi on Friday.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli continued his fine form and slammed his 41st ODI century during 3rd ODI against Australia at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi on Friday. Although India struggled in their chase of 314, Kohli hit his 66th overall ton in style and at a point when the team needed the most. He now has the most hundreds in India-Australia ODIs in India. The record was previously held by Sachin Tendulkar. It was also Kohli's 25th ton while chasing and so far, India have won on 21 occasions. Kohli came in to bat early as Shikhar Dhawan was dismissed by a fantastic catch by Glenn Maxwell. Rohit Sharma followed Dhawan in the very next over and Ambati Rayudu two overs later as India were left reeling at 27/3 from 6.2 overs. Kohli was joined by Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the middle and the duo put on a 59-run stand for the fourth wicket and recovered the innings to some extent before the Ranchi boy fell for 26 off Adam Zampa. The 30-year-old reached his fifty off 52 balls in the 24th over. This was the second century of the series for him and 8th against Australia in ODIs and 15th overall across all the formats against them.

IND vs AUS, 3rd ODI: Virat Kohli hits 41st century in Ranchi, breaks another Sachin Tendulkar record

Opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan and seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar have been dropped from the top rank of India's annual contracts with the board showing faith in young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant by handing him the second-most lucrative retainer.

BCCI's retainer structure has four grades with the top "A+" category, which was introduced last year, worth 70 million rupees ($998,730) a year.

Skipper and batting mainstay Virat Kohli, opening batsman Rohit Sharma and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah are the players in that bracket, which has been cut from five to three.

Kohli is the top-ranked batsman in the world in both tests and one-day internationals, while his ODI deputy Rohit is ranked a spot below him in the 50-over format.

Bumrah was one of the key contributors to India's maiden test series triumph in Australia and is currently ranked number one in the ODI bowlers' list.

Pant, 21, is one of 11 players who were grouped in the second grade with a retainership of 50 million rupees for the period from October 2018 to September 2019.

The hard-hitting batsman replaced the injured Wriddhiman Saha behind the stumps in tests last year and scored a century during India's test series in England.

He underlined his worth further with an unbeaten 159 against Australia in Sydney at the beginning of the year and is seen as a long-term replacement for Mahendra Singh Dhoni in India's limited-overs sides.

Long-serving test opening batsman Murali Vijay has lost out on a contract after a poor year with the bat.

The world's richest cricket board will pay 30 million rupees to the players in the third grade while the final group has a retainership of 10 million.

BCCI's top tier for annual retainership for women has four players including Mithali Raj, who is the highest run-getter and most capped player in the world.

Raj and her three colleagues will be paid 5 million rupees for their contract.

BCCI men's contracts:

Grade A+ - Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah

Grade A - Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Shikhar Dhawan, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant

Grade B - Lokesh Rahul, Umesh Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Hardik Pandya

Grade C - Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Karthik, Ambati Rayudu, Manish Pandey, Hanuma Vihari, Khaleel Ahmed, Wriddhiman Saha

Opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan and seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar have been dropped from the top rank of India's annual contracts with the board showing faith in young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant by handing him the second-most lucrative retainer.

Opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan and seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar have been dropped from the top rank of India's annual contracts with the board showing faith in young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant by handing him the second-most lucrative retainer. BCCI's retainer structure has four grades with the top "A+" category, which was introduced last year, worth 70 million rupees ($998,730) a year. Skipper and batting mainstay Virat Kohli, opening batsman Rohit Sharma and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah are the players in that bracket, which has been cut from five to three. Kohli is the top-ranked batsman in the world in both tests and one-day internationals, while his ODI deputy Rohit is ranked a spot below him in the 50-over format. Bumrah was one of the key contributors to India's maiden test series triumph in Australia and is currently ranked number one in the ODI bowlers' list. Pant, 21, is one of 11 players who were grouped in the second grade with a retainership of 50 million rupees for the period from October 2018 to September 2019. The hard-hitting batsman replaced the injured Wriddhiman Saha behind the stumps in tests last year and scored a century during India's test series in England. He underlined his worth further with an unbeaten 159 against Australia in Sydney at the beginning of the year and is seen as a long-term replacement for Mahendra Singh Dhoni in India's limited-overs sides. Long-serving test opening batsman Murali Vijay has lost out on a contract after a poor year with the bat. The world's richest cricket board will pay 30 million rupees to the players in the third grade while the final group has a retainership of 10 million. BCCI's top tier for annual retainership for women has four players including Mithali Raj, who is the highest run-getter and most capped player in the world. Raj and her three colleagues will be paid 5 million rupees for their contract. BCCI men's contracts: Grade A+ - Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah Grade A - Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Shikhar Dhawan, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant Grade B - Lokesh Rahul, Umesh Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Hardik Pandya Grade C - Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Karthik, Ambati Rayudu, Manish Pandey, Hanuma Vihari, Khaleel Ahmed, Wriddhiman Saha

BCCI hands Pant lucrative central contract; Dhawan dropped from top rank

Indian cricket team Friday paid tribute to the armed forces by donating the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-score-3rd-odi-virat-kohli-wins-toss-opts-to-bowl-against-australia-201948">match fees of the third ODI against Australia </a>at the JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi.

Skipper Virat Kohli arrived for the toss wearing a special army cap and urged the netizens to donate and stick to the families of our armed forces.

The cap is a mark of tribute to the loss of lives in Pulwama terror attack and the armed forces

"This is a special cap, it's a tribute to the Armed forces. We're all donating our match fees of this game to the Nation's Defence Fund. I urge everyone in the country to do the same, donate and stick to the families of our armed forces."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> will be sporting camouflage caps today as mark of tribute to the loss of lives in Pulwama terror attack and the armed forces 
 
And to encourage countrymen to donate to the National Defence Fund for taking care of the education of the dependents of the martyrs <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JaiHind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JaiHind</a> <a href="https://t.co/fvFxHG20vi">pic.twitter.com/fvFxHG20vi</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1103921142669037568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Honorary Lieutenant Colonel Mahendra Singh Dhoni had presented the camouflage cap to Indian skipper Virat Kohli.

On 14 February 2019, a convoy of vehicles carrying security personnel on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was attacked by a vehicle-borne suicide bomber at Lethpora in the Pulwama district&nbsp;

The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel and the attacker.

Indian cricket team Friday paid tribute to the armed forces by donating the match fees of the third ODI against Australia at the JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi.

Indian cricket team Friday paid tribute to the armed forces by donating the match fees of the third ODI against Australia at the JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi. Skipper Virat Kohli arrived for the toss wearing a special army cap and urged the netizens to donate and stick to the families of our armed forces. The cap is a mark of tribute to the loss of lives in Pulwama terror attack and the armed forces "This is a special cap, it's a tribute to the Armed forces. We're all donating our match fees of this game to the Nation's Defence Fund. I urge everyone in the country to do the same, donate and stick to the families of our armed forces." #TeamIndia will be sporting camouflage caps today as mark of tribute to the loss of lives in Pulwama terror attack and the armed forces And to encourage countrymen to donate to the National Defence Fund for taking care of the education of the dependents of the martyrs #JaiHind pic.twitter.com/fvFxHG20vi — BCCI (@BCCI) March 8, 2019 × Honorary Lieutenant Colonel Mahendra Singh Dhoni had presented the camouflage cap to Indian skipper Virat Kohli. On 14 February 2019, a convoy of vehicles carrying security personnel on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was attacked by a vehicle-borne suicide bomber at Lethpora in the Pulwama district The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 40 Central Reserve Police Force personnel and the attacker.

Team India pays tribute to Pulwama attack victims, dons 'special army cap' for 3rd ODI against Australia

With an unassailable 2-0 lead, dominant Indian cricket team will be eyeing the five-game ODI series, as the hosts will lock horns with visitors Australia in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/dhoni-pavilion-to-be-inaugurated-tomorrow-ms-dhoni-refuses-to-inaugurate-201744">third ODI in MS Dhoni's hometown, Ranchi</a>, on Friday.

The Men In Blue, who lost the T20 series, won the first two ODIs held in Hyderabad and Nagpur, respectively.

However, Virat Kohli led side are facing some concerning issues with their top-order batting, considering the 2019 World Cup which is now just two months away.&nbsp;

Opener Shikhar Dhawan's poor run of form, in particular, has affected India's starts of late. To put things in perspective, Dhawan has scored only two half-centuries in the last 15 ODIs.

However, the hosts are unlikely to experiment with the winning combination in the third game also.&nbsp;

KL Rahul, who has found his form, may have to wait till India clinch the series, but the team management could well try him out at number three.

The two victories - by six wickets and eight runs - weren't exactly convincing but pulling off close matches under pressure will certainly add to team's confidence.&nbsp;

On the other hand, India's bowling has been flawless as Australia failed to reach 250 in both games. &nbsp;

Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav and last game's hero Vijay Shankar have proved their worth. Considering the exposure he needs to be included in the World Cup playing XI, Shankar might be given the following three games also. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, Vice-captain and opener Rohit Sharma looked good in the first game but didn't do much damage in the next.&nbsp;

Kedar Jadhav and Dhoni shepherded India in the first match and didn't trouble the scorers in the second game.&nbsp;

Ambati Rayudu, whose only significant knock was the 90 against New Zealand in the last away series, has also been inconsistent and can be replaced by Rahul.

Australia, on the other hand, would do everthing to keep the series alive by playing their best in Friday's must-win fixture.

Australia have majorly fell behind India in run-making was the number of singles they took. The side is finding it difficult to keep the strike rotating.&nbsp;

Aaron Finch broke his batting rut, Usman Khawaja and Peter Handscomb looked impressive, and Marcus Stoinis essayed the finisher's role to near perfection in the second ODI. They would be expected to keep their momentum going. 
&nbsp; 
Probable Squads:

India: Virat Kohli (capt), Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Ambati Rayudu, Kedar Jadhav, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni (wk), Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rishabh Pant.

Australia: Aaron Finch (capt), Usman Khawaja, Peter Handscomb, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Turner, Jhye Richardson, Adam Zampa, Andrew Tye, Pat Cummins, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Alex Carey (wk), Nathan Lyon, Jason Behrendorff.

With an unassailable 2-0 lead, dominant Indian cricket team will be eyeing the five-game ODI series, as the hosts will lock horns with visitors Australia in the third ODI in MS Dhoni's hometown, Ranchi, on Friday.

With an unassailable 2-0 lead, dominant Indian cricket team will be eyeing the five-game ODI series, as the hosts will lock horns with visitors Australia in the third ODI in MS Dhoni's hometown, Ranchi, on Friday. The Men In Blue, who lost the T20 series, won the first two ODIs held in Hyderabad and Nagpur, respectively. However, Virat Kohli led side are facing some concerning issues with their top-order batting, considering the 2019 World Cup which is now just two months away. Opener Shikhar Dhawan's poor run of form, in particular, has affected India's starts of late. To put things in perspective, Dhawan has scored only two half-centuries in the last 15 ODIs. However, the hosts are unlikely to experiment with the winning combination in the third game also. KL Rahul, who has found his form, may have to wait till India clinch the series, but the team management could well try him out at number three. The two victories - by six wickets and eight runs - weren't exactly convincing but pulling off close matches under pressure will certainly add to team's confidence. On the other hand, India's bowling has been flawless as Australia failed to reach 250 in both games. Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav and last game's hero Vijay Shankar have proved their worth. Considering the exposure he needs to be included in the World Cup playing XI, Shankar might be given the following three games also. Meanwhile, Vice-captain and opener Rohit Sharma looked good in the first game but didn't do much damage in the next. Kedar Jadhav and Dhoni shepherded India in the first match and didn't trouble the scorers in the second game. Ambati Rayudu, whose only significant knock was the 90 against New Zealand in the last away series, has also been inconsistent and can be replaced by Rahul. Australia, on the other hand, would do everthing to keep the series alive by playing their best in Friday's must-win fixture. Australia have majorly fell behind India in run-making was the number of singles they took. The side is finding it difficult to keep the strike rotating. Aaron Finch broke his batting rut, Usman Khawaja and Peter Handscomb looked impressive, and Marcus Stoinis essayed the finisher's role to near perfection in the second ODI. They would be expected to keep their momentum going. Probable Squads: India: Virat Kohli (capt), Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Ambati Rayudu, Kedar Jadhav, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni (wk), Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rishabh Pant. Australia: Aaron Finch (capt), Usman Khawaja, Peter Handscomb, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Turner, Jhye Richardson, Adam Zampa, Andrew Tye, Pat Cummins, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Alex Carey (wk), Nathan Lyon, Jason Behrendorff.

3rd ODI: India eye series win against Australia in Dhoni's hometown Ranchi

A lot has been said about MS Dhoni's humility and modesty. Another sheer example of his simplicity was visible when the former Indian captain politely declined to inaugurate the pavilion named after him at the JSCA Stadium.

As per reports, when Dhoni was approached to invite him to inaugurate the stand, the 37-year-old cricketer had said “Dada mein toh isika hissa hu. Ghar ka ladka apne hi ghar mein kya inaugurate karega? (I am a part of this ground. How can a person inaugurate something in his own home?)”

According to Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) secretary, Debashis Chakraborty, the JSCA had asked Dhoni to inaugurate the stand before the third ODI between India and Australia, that begins on Friday. &nbsp;

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The MS Dhoni Pavilion at JSCA 💙 <a href="https://t.co/SkAj4udGZ2">pic.twitter.com/SkAj4udGZ2</a>
— ˗ˏˋBestOfDhoniˎˊ (@BestOfDhoni) <a href="https://twitter.com/BestOfDhoni/status/1094999865505898496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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However, Dhoni had said that inaugurating the stand would make him feel that he is not a part of this ground. The veteran cricketer also thanked the JSCA for the recognition given to him.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ms-dhoni-turns-driver-and-host-for-team-india-chahal-thanks-the-veteran-on-twitter-201713">Also read:&nbsp;MS Dhoni turns driver and host for Team India, Chahal thanks the veteran on Twitter</a>

The third ODI between India and Australia will be held on Friday. India are currently leading the five-match series by a margin of 2-0 after beating the visitors in Hyderabad and Nagpur.

A lot has been said about MS Dhoni's humility and modesty. Another sheer example of his simplicity was visible when the former Indian captain politely declined to inaugurate the pavilion named after him at the JSCA Stadium.

A lot has been said about MS Dhoni's humility and modesty. Another sheer example of his simplicity was visible when the former Indian captain politely declined to inaugurate the pavilion named after him at the JSCA Stadium. As per reports, when Dhoni was approached to invite him to inaugurate the stand, the 37-year-old cricketer had said “Dada mein toh isika hissa hu. Ghar ka ladka apne hi ghar mein kya inaugurate karega? (I am a part of this ground. How can a person inaugurate something in his own home?)” According to Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) secretary, Debashis Chakraborty, the JSCA had asked Dhoni to inaugurate the stand before the third ODI between India and Australia, that begins on Friday. The MS Dhoni Pavilion at JSCA 💙 pic.twitter.com/SkAj4udGZ2 — ˗ˏˋBestOfDhoniˎˊ (@BestOfDhoni) February 11, 2019 × However, Dhoni had said that inaugurating the stand would make him feel that he is not a part of this ground. The veteran cricketer also thanked the JSCA for the recognition given to him. Also read: MS Dhoni turns driver and host for Team India, Chahal thanks the veteran on Twitter The third ODI between India and Australia will be held on Friday. India are currently leading the five-match series by a margin of 2-0 after beating the visitors in Hyderabad and Nagpur.

'Dhoni pavilion' to be inaugurated tomorrow, MS Dhoni refuses to cut the ribbon

When MS Dhoni is around, the fun quotient remains intact! He cheered up the crowd at Nagpur's Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium when a fan invaded the pitch to meet him during the second One-Day International clash between <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/viay-shankar-shines-with-both-bat-ball-as-india-beat-australia-in-2nd-odi-201393">India and Australia</a>.&nbsp;

The incident happened when the Indian team came on the field in the second innings but as usual, Dhoni decided to make it interesting.&nbsp;

When team India was walking out in the second innings, a fan wearing a white T-shirt and black pants came running to the ground and on his T-shirt, "Thala" was written with number seven on the back. #7 is also Dhoni's jersey number. &nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-2nd-test-male-fan-invades-pitch-tries-to-kiss-virat-kohli-171050">Male fan invades </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-2nd-test-male-fan-invades-pitch-tries-to-kiss-virat-kohli-171050">pitch</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-2nd-test-male-fan-invades-pitch-tries-to-kiss-virat-kohli-171050">, tries to kiss Virat Kohli</a>

When the fan came closer, Dhoni first hid behind Rohit Sharma and then started running through other players.&nbsp;

The players also enjoyed the cheerful incident.&nbsp;

After a while, he stopped and met the fan with a smile on his face and gave him a hug.&nbsp;

Watch the video:&nbsp;

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Rest of celebrities- Guards, save me from him. He might hurt me. 
 
Dhoni- aa ja beta, pakad ke dikha. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CaptainCool?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CaptainCool</a> <a href="https://t.co/m2RWDVPXGj">pic.twitter.com/m2RWDVPXGj</a>
— Abhijeet (@TheGadgetSpy) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheGadgetSpy/status/1102923370306383874?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Another Fan breached security walls to touch Dhoni 😍 
. 
Dhoni tried to escape but eventually gave him HUG 😂😎 <a href="https://t.co/8xauPm82cG">pic.twitter.com/8xauPm82cG</a>
— DHONIsm™ ❤️ (@DHONIism) <a href="https://twitter.com/DHONIism/status/1102949222611992577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In the match, India beat Australia by eight runs to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.&nbsp;

The Aussies were bowled out for 242 off 40.3 overs with Marcus Stoinis top-scoring with 52.&nbsp;

In Pics:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/it-wasnt-over-till-the-last-over-major-takeaways-from-2nd-india-australia-odi-201410">It wasn't over till the last </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/it-wasnt-over-till-the-last-over-major-takeaways-from-2nd-india-australia-odi-201410">over:</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/it-wasnt-over-till-the-last-over-major-takeaways-from-2nd-india-australia-odi-201410"> Major takeaways from 2nd India-Australia ODI</a>

It was the 500th win in one-day internationals for India.&nbsp;

When MS Dhoni is around, the fun quotient remains intact! He cheered up the crowd at Nagpur's Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium when a fan invaded the pitch to meet him during the second One-Day International clash between India and Australia.

When MS Dhoni is around, the fun quotient remains intact! He cheered up the crowd at Nagpur's Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium when a fan invaded the pitch to meet him during the second One-Day International clash between India and Australia. The incident happened when the Indian team came on the field in the second innings but as usual, Dhoni decided to make it interesting. When team India was walking out in the second innings, a fan wearing a white T-shirt and black pants came running to the ground and on his T-shirt, "Thala" was written with number seven on the back. #7 is also Dhoni's jersey number. Also Read: Male fan invades pitch, tries to kiss Virat Kohli When the fan came closer, Dhoni first hid behind Rohit Sharma and then started running through other players. The players also enjoyed the cheerful incident. After a while, he stopped and met the fan with a smile on his face and gave him a hug. Watch the video: Rest of celebrities- Guards, save me from him. He might hurt me. Dhoni- aa ja beta, pakad ke dikha. #Dhoni #CaptainCool pic.twitter.com/m2RWDVPXGj — Abhijeet (@TheGadgetSpy) March 5, 2019 × Another Fan breached security walls to touch Dhoni 😍 . Dhoni tried to escape but eventually gave him HUG 😂😎 pic.twitter.com/8xauPm82cG — DHONIsm™ ❤️ (@DHONIism) March 5, 2019 × In the match, India beat Australia by eight runs to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. The Aussies were bowled out for 242 off 40.3 overs with Marcus Stoinis top-scoring with 52. In Pics: It wasn't over till the last over: Major takeaways from 2nd India-Australia ODI It was the 500th win in one-day internationals for India.

Watch: MS Dhoni's epic reaction when a male fan invades pitch to meet him

It wasn't over till the last over: Major takeaways from 2nd India-Australia ODI

India's wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni is the only cricketer whose popularity as the best finisher has grown by leaps and bounds.&nbsp;

Lately, Dhoni played a major role in <a href="INDvsAUS, 1st ODI: Kedar Jadhav, MS Dhoni shine as India beat Australia by six wickets">India's victory against Australia in the first ODI</a>. The hosts were able to chase down a target of 237 runs, credits to <a href="I can play innovative shots and hence took more risk: Kedar Jadhav">Dhoni and Kedar Jadhav's unbeaten 59 and 81-run knock</a>.&nbsp;

Considering the form Dhoni is in, the Indian player needs just 33 more runs to the overall tally&nbsp;and join&nbsp;legends among a total of 5 Indians to amass 17,0000 runs across all formats in international cricket.

If able to, Dhoni would become the 6th Indian batsman to achieve this feat. The milestone would put him in the elite list of players including Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, Virender Sehwag and Virat Kohli. &nbsp;

The year 2019 has seen Dhoni in extraordinary form, especially against Australia.&nbsp;

Having bagged three back-to-back half-centuries in the ODI series during India's tour Down Under, the Ranchi-born batsman bagged his fourth consecutive in the format against the Aussies in Hyderabad on Saturday.&nbsp;

Having accumulated a total of 301 runs so far this calendar year, the 37-year-old is currently second in the list of players with the best average in one year (minimum 300 runs).&nbsp;

He is also the team's third-highest scorer against Australia, having reached the 1600-run mark in the format during the first ODI.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-indias-predicted-xi-for-the-second-odi-201197">India will lock horns with Australia in second ODI</a>&nbsp;in Nagpur, later in the day.

India's wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni is the only cricketer whose popularity as the best finisher has grown by leaps and bounds. Lately, Dhoni played a major role in India's victory against Australia in the first ODI.

India's wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni is the only cricketer whose popularity as the best finisher has grown by leaps and bounds. Lately, Dhoni played a major role in India's victory against Australia in the first ODI. The hosts were able to chase down a target of 237 runs, credits to Dhoni and Kedar Jadhav's unbeaten 59 and 81-run knock. Considering the form Dhoni is in, the Indian player needs just 33 more runs to the overall tally and join legends among a total of 5 Indians to amass 17,0000 runs across all formats in international cricket. If able to, Dhoni would become the 6th Indian batsman to achieve this feat. The milestone would put him in the elite list of players including Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, Virender Sehwag and Virat Kohli. The year 2019 has seen Dhoni in extraordinary form, especially against Australia. Having bagged three back-to-back half-centuries in the ODI series during India's tour Down Under, the Ranchi-born batsman bagged his fourth consecutive in the format against the Aussies in Hyderabad on Saturday. Having accumulated a total of 301 runs so far this calendar year, the 37-year-old is currently second in the list of players with the best average in one year (minimum 300 runs). He is also the team's third-highest scorer against Australia, having reached the 1600-run mark in the format during the first ODI. India will lock horns with Australia in second ODI in Nagpur, later in the day.

IND vs AUS, 2nd ODI: MS Dhoni 33 runs away from reaching 17,000 international runs

India beat Australia by eight runs in the second one-day international in Nagpur to go 2-0 up in the five-match series.&nbsp;

All-rounder Vijay Shankar picked two wickets in the final over to bowl out Australia for 242 after India made 250 off their 50 overs.&nbsp;

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What a game in Nagpur! 
 
India edge to victory by eight runs, with Australia bowled out for 242. Marcus Stoinis (52) threatened to take the game away from the home side, but some strong bowling at the death sees India go 2-0 up. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> SCORECARD ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/pNkv2db4Mg">https://t.co/pNkv2db4Mg</a> <a href="https://t.co/236W0cyXDK">pic.twitter.com/236W0cyXDK</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1102963629702463493?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Australians needed 11 runs from the last over with two wickets in hand but Shankar, playing only his sixth ODI, kept his nerves to pick a wicket off his first and third balls in the day-night game in Nagpur.

Skipper Virat Kohli, who struck 116 in India's modest total of 250, asked Shankar to bowl the final over ahead of the regular Kuldeep Yadav, and he was rewarded amply for his move.

The Aussies were bowled out for 242 off 40.3 overs with Marcus Stoinis top-scoring with 52. &nbsp;

It was the 500th win in one-day internationals for India.

The visitors were off to a steady start with openers Aaron Finch (37) and Usman Khawaja (38) putting on 83 runs before being dismissed in successive overs.

Glenn Maxwell (18) saw his stumps being uprooted after a ball from Kuldeep Yadav sneaked from under his bat.

But it was the run-out of Peter Handscomb who looked set for a big score that hurt the visitors hard.

Handscomb, who made 48 off 59 balls, tried to take a risky single but Ravindra Jadeja made no mistake in hitting the stumps.

A double-strike by Jasprit Bumrah (2-29) turned the game around for the Indians who ensured there was no let-up in the pressure on the visitors.

Earlier Kohli smashed his 40th century on a challenging pitch that seemed to aid bowlers.

Kohli hit 10 fours in his 120-ball knock and held anchor after Australian captain &nbsp;Finch had elected to bat.

The Indians got off to a rocky start, losing openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan (21) early in the innings.

Sharma (0) top-edged off Adam Zampa and Dhawan (21) was given out leg before wicket after Australia's appeal was upheld on review.

India had no such luck as Ambati Rayudu's decision to appeal against the on-field umpire's lbw decision was turned down, the hosts reduced to a shaky 75-3.

Kohli, the world's top-ranked ODI batsman, went for the counter-attack, hitting two fours off the last two balls of the 18th over by Zampa to underline his top form.

The 30-year-old skipper timed his innings perfectly, stitching a 81-run partnership with Shankar, who impressed during his 41-ball 46 before being run out by Zampa.

Zampa struck again soon after, dismissing Kedar Jadhav (11) and Mahendra Singh Dhoni (0) off successive balls to stun the home crowd into silence.

But Kohli looked unfettered at the other end, reaching his 40th ODI century with a four over backward point.&nbsp;

The flamboyant captain removed his helmet and raised his bat to acknowledge the applause from the crowd and the dressing room.

Kohli's innings ended when he holed a simple catch to Stoinis off Pat Cummins who picked up four late wickets.

India beat Australia by eight runs in the second one-day international in Nagpur to go 2-0 up in the five-match series. All-rounder Vijay Shankar picked two wickets in the final over to bowl out Australia for 242 after India made 250 off their 50 overs.

India beat Australia by eight runs in the second one-day international in Nagpur to go 2-0 up in the five-match series. All-rounder Vijay Shankar picked two wickets in the final over to bowl out Australia for 242 after India made 250 off their 50 overs. What a game in Nagpur! India edge to victory by eight runs, with Australia bowled out for 242. Marcus Stoinis (52) threatened to take the game away from the home side, but some strong bowling at the death sees India go 2-0 up. #INDvAUS SCORECARD ➡️ https://t.co/pNkv2db4Mg pic.twitter.com/236W0cyXDK — ICC (@ICC) March 5, 2019 × The Australians needed 11 runs from the last over with two wickets in hand but Shankar, playing only his sixth ODI, kept his nerves to pick a wicket off his first and third balls in the day-night game in Nagpur. Skipper Virat Kohli, who struck 116 in India's modest total of 250, asked Shankar to bowl the final over ahead of the regular Kuldeep Yadav, and he was rewarded amply for his move. The Aussies were bowled out for 242 off 40.3 overs with Marcus Stoinis top-scoring with 52. It was the 500th win in one-day internationals for India. The visitors were off to a steady start with openers Aaron Finch (37) and Usman Khawaja (38) putting on 83 runs before being dismissed in successive overs. Glenn Maxwell (18) saw his stumps being uprooted after a ball from Kuldeep Yadav sneaked from under his bat. But it was the run-out of Peter Handscomb who looked set for a big score that hurt the visitors hard. Handscomb, who made 48 off 59 balls, tried to take a risky single but Ravindra Jadeja made no mistake in hitting the stumps. A double-strike by Jasprit Bumrah (2-29) turned the game around for the Indians who ensured there was no let-up in the pressure on the visitors. Earlier Kohli smashed his 40th century on a challenging pitch that seemed to aid bowlers. Kohli hit 10 fours in his 120-ball knock and held anchor after Australian captain Finch had elected to bat. The Indians got off to a rocky start, losing openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan (21) early in the innings. Sharma (0) top-edged off Adam Zampa and Dhawan (21) was given out leg before wicket after Australia's appeal was upheld on review. India had no such luck as Ambati Rayudu's decision to appeal against the on-field umpire's lbw decision was turned down, the hosts reduced to a shaky 75-3. Kohli, the world's top-ranked ODI batsman, went for the counter-attack, hitting two fours off the last two balls of the 18th over by Zampa to underline his top form. The 30-year-old skipper timed his innings perfectly, stitching a 81-run partnership with Shankar, who impressed during his 41-ball 46 before being run out by Zampa. Zampa struck again soon after, dismissing Kedar Jadhav (11) and Mahendra Singh Dhoni (0) off successive balls to stun the home crowd into silence. But Kohli looked unfettered at the other end, reaching his 40th ODI century with a four over backward point. The flamboyant captain removed his helmet and raised his bat to acknowledge the applause from the crowd and the dressing room. Kohli's innings ended when he holed a simple catch to Stoinis off Pat Cummins who picked up four late wickets.

Vijay Shankar shines with both bat & ball as India beat Australia in 2nd ODI

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-odi-kedar-jadhav-ms-dhoni-shine-as-india-beat-australia-by-six-wickets-200781">India defeated Australia in the first ODI</a> between to take a 1-0 lead in the five-game ODI series. Held in Hyderabad, Indian bowlers did exceedingly well to restrict Australia to a low score of 236 runs.

Jasprit Bumrah had a rare off day but Mohammad Shami made sure that Australia was never getting away with the game as he picked the two wickets including that of in-form Glenn Maxwell. 
&nbsp; 
For India, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/i-can-play-innovative-shots-and-hence-took-more-risk-kedar-jadhav-200887">Kedar Jadhav and MS Dhoni </a>took brought the game in control as the hosts, at one stage, were reeling at 99/4.&nbsp;

Both of them scored match-winning half centuries. Jadhav won the Man of the Match for his match-winning 81 runs. Dhoni notched up his fourth consecutive ODI half-century against Australia.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-2nd-odi-world-cup-auditions-continue-as-india-aim-for-2-0-201172">With the second ODI being played today at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur</a>, India might make a few changes to test the bench strength.&nbsp;

Here's the predicted XI for the upcoming game.&nbsp;

#Top order

India might be tempted to go with Rahul to open the innings along with Rohit Sharma. The former has played really well in the T20I series. So if India are looking at him as a backup opener, then he must get a few games before the 2019 World Cup.&nbsp;

If Rahul comes in, Dhawan might have to sit out. The southpaw got out for a golden duck in the first ODI and has been inconsistent in recent days.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-virat-kohli-still-on-top-but-kane-williamson-narrows-gap-201164">Virat Kohli will take his </a>usual number three position as he perfectly fits the bill.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/we-havent-ousted-ashwin-jadeja-just-made-use-of-our-opportunities-kuldeep-yadav-201173">We haven't ousted Ashwin, Jadeja, just made use of our opportunities: Kuldeep Yadav</a>

#2 Middle Order and All-rounders

Ambati Rayudu might bat at number four. He departed for 13 in the first but might surprise the visitors today.&nbsp;

Dhoni's presence among the youngsters makes a big difference. Kedar was more vocal about Dhoni's role in the first ODI. Hence, batting at number five suits him. It won't be a big decision if Dhoni is promoted to no 4.&nbsp;

Vijay Shankar had a very little role to play in the first ODI so we might see Pant at number six, where he can play the finisher's role. With Kedar and Jadeja doing well with the ball, India can go with an extra batsman or bowler or even an all-rounder.

# Bowling department

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-cricket-skipper-virat-kohli-praises-mohammed-shamis-fitness-and-weight-loss-200886">Mohammad Shami displayed excellent bowling in the first ODI</a>. He conceded only six runs in his first four overs. He also took two crucial wickets in the second spell. The 28-year-old looked really fit, and the Indian captain complimented him for looking so lean.

The number one ODI bowler for India, Jasprit Bumrah, took the wicket of Aaron Finch, after which he conceded a lot of runs. He had rare off day. However, he is one of the best Indian bowlers and one of the trump cards for the World Cup.

Kuldeep Yadav would play ahead of Chahal even in the second ODI too. He is a clear match winner, hence India are unlikely to rest him for the remaining games.&nbsp;

India defeated Australia in the first ODI between to take a 1-0 lead in the five-game ODI series. Held in Hyderabad, Indian bowlers did exceedingly well to restrict Australia to a low score of 236 runs.

India defeated Australia in the first ODI between to take a 1-0 lead in the five-game ODI series. Held in Hyderabad, Indian bowlers did exceedingly well to restrict Australia to a low score of 236 runs. Jasprit Bumrah had a rare off day but Mohammad Shami made sure that Australia was never getting away with the game as he picked the two wickets including that of in-form Glenn Maxwell. For India, Kedar Jadhav and MS Dhoni took brought the game in control as the hosts, at one stage, were reeling at 99/4. Both of them scored match-winning half centuries. Jadhav won the Man of the Match for his match-winning 81 runs. Dhoni notched up his fourth consecutive ODI half-century against Australia. With the second ODI being played today at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur, India might make a few changes to test the bench strength. Here's the predicted XI for the upcoming game. #Top order India might be tempted to go with Rahul to open the innings along with Rohit Sharma. The former has played really well in the T20I series. So if India are looking at him as a backup opener, then he must get a few games before the 2019 World Cup. If Rahul comes in, Dhawan might have to sit out. The southpaw got out for a golden duck in the first ODI and has been inconsistent in recent days. Virat Kohli will take his usual number three position as he perfectly fits the bill. Also read: We haven't ousted Ashwin, Jadeja, just made use of our opportunities: Kuldeep Yadav #2 Middle Order and All-rounders Ambati Rayudu might bat at number four. He departed for 13 in the first but might surprise the visitors today. Dhoni's presence among the youngsters makes a big difference. Kedar was more vocal about Dhoni's role in the first ODI. Hence, batting at number five suits him. It won't be a big decision if Dhoni is promoted to no 4. Vijay Shankar had a very little role to play in the first ODI so we might see Pant at number six, where he can play the finisher's role. With Kedar and Jadeja doing well with the ball, India can go with an extra batsman or bowler or even an all-rounder. # Bowling department Mohammad Shami displayed excellent bowling in the first ODI. He conceded only six runs in his first four overs. He also took two crucial wickets in the second spell. The 28-year-old looked really fit, and the Indian captain complimented him for looking so lean. The number one ODI bowler for India, Jasprit Bumrah, took the wicket of Aaron Finch, after which he conceded a lot of runs. He had rare off day. However, he is one of the best Indian bowlers and one of the trump cards for the World Cup. Kuldeep Yadav would play ahead of Chahal even in the second ODI too. He is a clear match winner, hence India are unlikely to rest him for the remaining games.

India vs Australia: India's predicted XI for the second ODI

Indian skipper Virat Kohli hit his career's 40th One-Day International century in the second match of a five-match series at Nagpur's Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium.&nbsp;

"Men in Blue" were all out for 250 runs in 48.2 overs and the team scored 248 runs with Kohli on the pitch and just two runs without him.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli, who came at number three, smashed 10 fours in his 120-ball knock.&nbsp;

Virat is currently at number second position of all time in on the list of most ODI hundred behind India's Sachin Tendulkar. He is nine centuries away from Sachin's overall ODI centuries record of 49.&nbsp;

Against Australia, it's is Kohli's seventh ODI century. Rohit Sharma also has seven tons in his name against Australia while Sachin has scored nine.&nbsp;

After completing the century with a four over backward point, Kohli removed his helmet and raised his bat to acknowledge the applause from the crowd and the dressing room. &nbsp;

Team India got off to a rocky start, losing openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan (21) early in the innings but Kohli looked unfettered at the other end.&nbsp;

Kohli's innings ended when he holed a simple catch to Marcus Stoinis off Pat Cummins who picked up four late wickets.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli hit his career's 40th One-Day International century in the second match of a five-match series at Nagpur's Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli hit his career's 40th One-Day International century in the second match of a five-match series at Nagpur's Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium. "Men in Blue" were all out for 250 runs in 48.2 overs and the team scored 248 runs with Kohli on the pitch and just two runs without him. Virat Kohli, who came at number three, smashed 10 fours in his 120-ball knock. Virat is currently at number second position of all time in on the list of most ODI hundred behind India's Sachin Tendulkar. He is nine centuries away from Sachin's overall ODI centuries record of 49. Against Australia, it's is Kohli's seventh ODI century. Rohit Sharma also has seven tons in his name against Australia while Sachin has scored nine. After completing the century with a four over backward point, Kohli removed his helmet and raised his bat to acknowledge the applause from the crowd and the dressing room. Team India got off to a rocky start, losing openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan (21) early in the innings but Kohli looked unfettered at the other end. Kohli's innings ended when he holed a simple catch to Marcus Stoinis off Pat Cummins who picked up four late wickets.

Virat Kohli hits ton in 2nd ODI against Australia

His stint in the IPL has made Adam Zampa realise that the best way to counter Indian batsmen is by bowling a wicket-to-wicket line.

Zampa, who has grabbed 44 wickets in 35 ODI appearances so far feels that his strength is attacking the stumps rather than bowl big loopy leg breaks outside the off-stump, which players like Virat Kohli and Kedar Jadhav relish hitting.

"From my IPL experience and seeing these guys play, it's not about the variety of wrong 'uns but it's about the best way to bowl to these batsmen. Particularly in ODI cricket, most leg-spinners these days are attacking the stumps and that's my strength," Zampa said on the eve of the match.

"I feel like when I get away from the stumps, guys lilke Virat and the other night (Kedar) Jadhav, I got little bit frustrated and went wide off the stumps, that is when the damage happen. It's about staying away from their strengths," said Zampa, who dismissed Kohli in the first T20 International in Visakhapatnam as well as the first ODI in Hyderabad.

Zampa is happy that he has been to get better of the world's best batsman on a few occasions recently.

"It's nice to get players like that (Virat) out. I thought the best one was the T20 here (in Visakhapatnam) and another match in Brisbane. I thought they were big wickets given the situation of the match and we ended up winning the game (Visakhapatnam).

But then Zampa also knows that getting Kohli alone won't be enough.&nbsp;

"Getting Virat is one thing, he was in at the time and it was big wicket, but then you also have to think about getting (Mahendra Singh) Dhoni out and Rohit (Sharma) out. Virat is big wicket, but there are six or seven big wickets in the Indian team,? Zampa told reporters here on the eve of the team's second ODI here against hosts India.

Kohli is always a prized catch but Adam Zampa does not intend to be too harsh on himself if the Indian captain or some of the other star batsman in the opposition ranks happen to dominate him.&nbsp;

"I don't want to think too far ahead and not be too harsh on myself. Virat (Kohli) and Rohit (Sharma) are amazing players and somehow I just need to be in the game for as long as possible. That's all I can really do," said Zampa.&nbsp;

His stint in the IPL has made Adam Zampa realise that the best way to counter Indian batsmen is by bowling a wicket-to-wicket line. Zampa, who has grabbed 44 wickets in 35 ODI appearances so far feels that his strength is attacking the stumps rather than bowl big loopy leg breaks outside the off-stump, which players like Virat Kohli and Kedar Jadhav relish hitting.

His stint in the IPL has made Adam Zampa realise that the best way to counter Indian batsmen is by bowling a wicket-to-wicket line. Zampa, who has grabbed 44 wickets in 35 ODI appearances so far feels that his strength is attacking the stumps rather than bowl big loopy leg breaks outside the off-stump, which players like Virat Kohli and Kedar Jadhav relish hitting. "From my IPL experience and seeing these guys play, it's not about the variety of wrong 'uns but it's about the best way to bowl to these batsmen. Particularly in ODI cricket, most leg-spinners these days are attacking the stumps and that's my strength," Zampa said on the eve of the match. "I feel like when I get away from the stumps, guys lilke Virat and the other night (Kedar) Jadhav, I got little bit frustrated and went wide off the stumps, that is when the damage happen. It's about staying away from their strengths," said Zampa, who dismissed Kohli in the first T20 International in Visakhapatnam as well as the first ODI in Hyderabad. Zampa is happy that he has been to get better of the world's best batsman on a few occasions recently. "It's nice to get players like that (Virat) out. I thought the best one was the T20 here (in Visakhapatnam) and another match in Brisbane. I thought they were big wickets given the situation of the match and we ended up winning the game (Visakhapatnam). But then Zampa also knows that getting Kohli alone won't be enough. "Getting Virat is one thing, he was in at the time and it was big wicket, but then you also have to think about getting (Mahendra Singh) Dhoni out and Rohit (Sharma) out. Virat is big wicket, but there are six or seven big wickets in the Indian team,? Zampa told reporters here on the eve of the team's second ODI here against hosts India. Kohli is always a prized catch but Adam Zampa does not intend to be too harsh on himself if the Indian captain or some of the other star batsman in the opposition ranks happen to dominate him. "I don't want to think too far ahead and not be too harsh on myself. Virat (Kohli) and Rohit (Sharma) are amazing players and somehow I just need to be in the game for as long as possible. That's all I can really do," said Zampa.

INDvsAUS, 2nd ODI: Bowling wicket-to-wicket is best way to counter Indian batsmen, says Adam Zampa

Auditions for the World Cup hopefuls will continue but India will also be aiming to produce another complete performance against Australia in the second ODI here Tuesday.&nbsp;

The Virat-Kohli led team ticked all the boxes to thrash Australia by six wickets in the series opener on Saturday. It was a welcome win for India after losing the T20 series 0-2.

With only four ODIs remaining before the World Cup, the hosts will look to finalise the "two available spots" in an otherwise settled squad for the all-important tournament.

Opener Shikhar Dhawan failed in Hyderabad but he is likely to get another game as chances of K L Rahul coming in for him appear bleak. However, if given a chance Rahul will be more than willing to make optimum use of.

Vice-captain Rohit Sharma can take any attack to cleaners on his day and the Aussies would be wary of him and skipper Virat Kohli, who scored 44 on Saturday night.&nbsp;

Both Rohit and Kohli are always hungry for runs and if the duo fires in unison at the VCA stadium, then the visitors are in for a hard time.

Ambati Rayudu failed in the first game but knowing his abilities and the backing he has from the team management, his place in the playing eleven is not in danger.

Pint-sized Maharashtra batsman Kedar Jadhav, who steered the team home with an unbeaten 81 on Saturday, has more or less sealed the number six position. He is also useful with his right-arm off-breaks, making him more valuable to the side.

On Saturday, it would have been pleasing for coach Ravi Shastri to see that 37-year-old Mahendra Singh Dhoni hitting form.

His unbeaten 59 proved that his finishing skills are not on the wane. Dhoni and Jadhav now form a vital cog in India's middle order, especially when the top order fails.&nbsp;

Dhoni has been in the prime of late form and every good outing will only boost his confidence ahead of the World Cup.&nbsp;

The Indian team could bring in the young Rishabh Pant in place of all-rounder Vijay Shankar, who had an off day with the ball on Saturday.&nbsp;

India's bowling, spearheaded by death-overs specialist Jasprit Bumrah, has been impeccable and it reflected in the first ODI, when he made Aussies dance to his tunes. Along with the Gujarat pacer, Mohammed Shami is proving to be a lethal weapon in Kohli's armoury.

Chinaman Kuldeep Yadav (2-46 in the first ODI) has been leading the spin attack and is effective in the middle overs. But, it will be interesting to see if Ravindra Jadeja, who remained wicketless in his miserly effort, gets another chance or Yuzvendra Chahal comes back to the playing XI.

Australia, on the other hand, will need to pull one back to ensure that the hosts do not double their advantage early in the series.

For their coach Justin Langer, out of form skipper, Aaron Finch would be a definite concern.

Finch, who had scores of 0 and 8 in the preceding T20 series, continued his bad run in the first ODI. The 32-year old would hope for change of fortunes and get some runs under his belt on Tuesday.

Other batsmen like opener Usman Khawaja, the flamboyant Glenn Maxwell, all-rounder Marcus Stonis, threw their wickets away after getting their eye in and would be aiming for bigger scores.&nbsp;

The likes of young Peter Handscomb and wicket-keeper Alex Carey too would be keen to play their part.

On the bowling front, leg-spinner Adam Zampa troubled the Indian batsmen and will be key for the visitors. But he needs adequate support upfront from pacers Pat Cummins and Nathan Counter-Nile.&nbsp;

Australia could try Andrew Tye, who regularly plays in the IPL, ahead of Jason Behrendoff.

Auditions for the World Cup hopefuls will continue but India will also be aiming to produce another complete performance against Australia in the second ODI here Tuesday.

Auditions for the World Cup hopefuls will continue but India will also be aiming to produce another complete performance against Australia in the second ODI here Tuesday. The Virat-Kohli led team ticked all the boxes to thrash Australia by six wickets in the series opener on Saturday. It was a welcome win for India after losing the T20 series 0-2. With only four ODIs remaining before the World Cup, the hosts will look to finalise the "two available spots" in an otherwise settled squad for the all-important tournament. Opener Shikhar Dhawan failed in Hyderabad but he is likely to get another game as chances of K L Rahul coming in for him appear bleak. However, if given a chance Rahul will be more than willing to make optimum use of. Vice-captain Rohit Sharma can take any attack to cleaners on his day and the Aussies would be wary of him and skipper Virat Kohli, who scored 44 on Saturday night. Both Rohit and Kohli are always hungry for runs and if the duo fires in unison at the VCA stadium, then the visitors are in for a hard time. Ambati Rayudu failed in the first game but knowing his abilities and the backing he has from the team management, his place in the playing eleven is not in danger. Pint-sized Maharashtra batsman Kedar Jadhav, who steered the team home with an unbeaten 81 on Saturday, has more or less sealed the number six position. He is also useful with his right-arm off-breaks, making him more valuable to the side. On Saturday, it would have been pleasing for coach Ravi Shastri to see that 37-year-old Mahendra Singh Dhoni hitting form. His unbeaten 59 proved that his finishing skills are not on the wane. Dhoni and Jadhav now form a vital cog in India's middle order, especially when the top order fails. Dhoni has been in the prime of late form and every good outing will only boost his confidence ahead of the World Cup. The Indian team could bring in the young Rishabh Pant in place of all-rounder Vijay Shankar, who had an off day with the ball on Saturday. India's bowling, spearheaded by death-overs specialist Jasprit Bumrah, has been impeccable and it reflected in the first ODI, when he made Aussies dance to his tunes. Along with the Gujarat pacer, Mohammed Shami is proving to be a lethal weapon in Kohli's armoury. Chinaman Kuldeep Yadav (2-46 in the first ODI) has been leading the spin attack and is effective in the middle overs. But, it will be interesting to see if Ravindra Jadeja, who remained wicketless in his miserly effort, gets another chance or Yuzvendra Chahal comes back to the playing XI. Australia, on the other hand, will need to pull one back to ensure that the hosts do not double their advantage early in the series. For their coach Justin Langer, out of form skipper, Aaron Finch would be a definite concern. Finch, who had scores of 0 and 8 in the preceding T20 series, continued his bad run in the first ODI. The 32-year old would hope for change of fortunes and get some runs under his belt on Tuesday. Other batsmen like opener Usman Khawaja, the flamboyant Glenn Maxwell, all-rounder Marcus Stonis, threw their wickets away after getting their eye in and would be aiming for bigger scores. The likes of young Peter Handscomb and wicket-keeper Alex Carey too would be keen to play their part. On the bowling front, leg-spinner Adam Zampa troubled the Indian batsmen and will be key for the visitors. But he needs adequate support upfront from pacers Pat Cummins and Nathan Counter-Nile. Australia could try Andrew Tye, who regularly plays in the IPL, ahead of Jason Behrendoff.

INDvsAUS, 2nd ODI: World Cup auditions continue as India aim for 2-0

His innovative range of shots allowed him to take more risks in a tricky chase while Mahendra Singh Dhoni's mere presence at the other end kept the pressure on Australia during the first ODI, feels Kedar Jadhav.

Kedar's unbeaten 81 off 87 balls saw India <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-odi-kedar-jadhav-ms-dhoni-shine-as-india-beat-australia-by-six-wickets-200781">beat Australia by six wickets</a> with Mahendra Singh Dhoni remaining not out on 59 at the other end.

After reaching 50, Kedar suddenly changed gears while Dhoni was found suffering from cramps.

Asked if Dhoni's discomfort made him play more attacking shots, Kedar said, "Not really. Out of both of us, one had to take the risk. I have batted throughout my career at No 4, so I am more open to playing all the shots.&nbsp;

"Growing up, I've always built my batting on playing innovative shots. I feel I have a good chance of converting those innovative shots," Kedar told reporters at the post-match press conference.

The Maharashtra player feels that Dhoni's game is more about playing straight and it creates pressure.

"Mahi's natural game is hitting down the ground. As long as he's there, the other teams always feel the pressure. Whatever little bit of cramp he was having, I just told him "you stay at the wicket, gives me a lot of confidence". I could play my natural game after 50 because he was at the other end."

Like a fanboy, Kedar then spoke glowingly about the Dhoni effect on any junior player.

"Every time I spend time with him, I learn a lot. I can't put it in words but let's say when I see Mahi bhai, I feel very confident. That's the sort of aura where you feel that. I will deliver today'. He has that knack of getting best out of every player and that's what everybody loves about him.

"Credit to MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli for what they have achieved in their career. If we can achieve 10 or 15 per cent of what they achieved, it will be great."

Kedar and Dhoni were in a similar situation in Melbourne during the final game of the series and also had a partnership that sealed it for them.&nbsp;

Asked about the degree of difficulty, he said, "I guess both the games were difficult in their own terms. In Australia, that was my first game on Australian soil. It was difficult to adjust to bounce and get into the groove. If I have a MS or Virat at the other end, they will be telling you things like taking the game deep.

"Now these things don't always strike you and you need somebody to tell you that unless you have played enough international cricket to understand that.

How much you practice at the nets, the best thing is learning in the middle."

His side arm off-breaks have been a trump card for Kohli but he still thinks that he is not ready mentally or physically to regularly bowl full quota of 10 overs.

"I never thought of bowling 10 overs in a game as of now. If the situation demands and the team requires, I can definitely do. But doing consistently, it will take mental adjustment and physically also," he said.

"Since I have not grown up bowling a lot of overs, my body also can't adjust immediately. I need to have that mental adjustment and physically also I need to get more fitter to bowl 10 overs in every game," he said.

He is India's man with a golden arm as he gets a breakthrough almost in every game.&nbsp;

Asked about the secret, he smiled and replied, "I guess I get lucky. I always keep it stump-to-stump. You will find it difficult. My ball doesn't bounce that much and it comes from 2-3 angles," he added.

His innovative range of shots allowed him to take more risks in a tricky chase while Mahendra Singh Dhoni's mere presence at the other end kept the pressure on Australia during the first ODI, feels Kedar Jadhav.

His innovative range of shots allowed him to take more risks in a tricky chase while Mahendra Singh Dhoni's mere presence at the other end kept the pressure on Australia during the first ODI, feels Kedar Jadhav. Kedar's unbeaten 81 off 87 balls saw India beat Australia by six wickets with Mahendra Singh Dhoni remaining not out on 59 at the other end. After reaching 50, Kedar suddenly changed gears while Dhoni was found suffering from cramps. Asked if Dhoni's discomfort made him play more attacking shots, Kedar said, "Not really. Out of both of us, one had to take the risk. I have batted throughout my career at No 4, so I am more open to playing all the shots. "Growing up, I've always built my batting on playing innovative shots. I feel I have a good chance of converting those innovative shots," Kedar told reporters at the post-match press conference. The Maharashtra player feels that Dhoni's game is more about playing straight and it creates pressure. "Mahi's natural game is hitting down the ground. As long as he's there, the other teams always feel the pressure. Whatever little bit of cramp he was having, I just told him "you stay at the wicket, gives me a lot of confidence". I could play my natural game after 50 because he was at the other end." Like a fanboy, Kedar then spoke glowingly about the Dhoni effect on any junior player. "Every time I spend time with him, I learn a lot. I can't put it in words but let's say when I see Mahi bhai, I feel very confident. That's the sort of aura where you feel that. I will deliver today'. He has that knack of getting best out of every player and that's what everybody loves about him. "Credit to MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli for what they have achieved in their career. If we can achieve 10 or 15 per cent of what they achieved, it will be great." Kedar and Dhoni were in a similar situation in Melbourne during the final game of the series and also had a partnership that sealed it for them. Asked about the degree of difficulty, he said, "I guess both the games were difficult in their own terms. In Australia, that was my first game on Australian soil. It was difficult to adjust to bounce and get into the groove. If I have a MS or Virat at the other end, they will be telling you things like taking the game deep. "Now these things don't always strike you and you need somebody to tell you that unless you have played enough international cricket to understand that. How much you practice at the nets, the best thing is learning in the middle." His side arm off-breaks have been a trump card for Kohli but he still thinks that he is not ready mentally or physically to regularly bowl full quota of 10 overs. "I never thought of bowling 10 overs in a game as of now. If the situation demands and the team requires, I can definitely do. But doing consistently, it will take mental adjustment and physically also," he said. "Since I have not grown up bowling a lot of overs, my body also can't adjust immediately. I need to have that mental adjustment and physically also I need to get more fitter to bowl 10 overs in every game," he said. He is India's man with a golden arm as he gets a breakthrough almost in every game. Asked about the secret, he smiled and replied, "I guess I get lucky. I always keep it stump-to-stump. You will find it difficult. My ball doesn't bounce that much and it comes from 2-3 angles," he added.

I can play innovative shots and hence took more risk: Kedar Jadhav

Indian pacer Mohammed Shami earned praises for his performance in the first One-Day International match against Australia at Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.&nbsp;

In the match, the Virat Kohli-led team <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-odi-kedar-jadhav-ms-dhoni-shine-as-india-beat-australia-by-six-wickets-200781">defeated Australia by six wickets</a> to take a 1-0 lead in five-match series.&nbsp;

Pace spearhead Mohammed Shami made it count with figures of 2-44 to restrict Australia to 236 for seven.&nbsp;

He dismissed Stoinis (37, 53 balls) and Khawaja (50, 76 balls), who added 87 runs for the second wicket.&nbsp;

After winning the match, Kohli spoke highly of Shami. He said, "He [Shami] has wicket-taking ability and he's hungry for wickets. Heading into the WC, it's a great sign for team India."

"If he can stay hungry like this and look for wickets and he has the ability to back it up with Bumrah and Kuldeep, it's gonna be great to stand in the field and watch," Kohli added.&nbsp;

Kohli gave special mention to Shami's fitness. "The way Shami has come back into the white-ball set-up after his Test performances, have never seen him so lean before. He has lost 5-6 kgs. He's running in and bowling so well," Shami said.&nbsp;

He has lost 5-6 kgs. He's running in and bowling so well."

"The lines and length he's bowling; got Maxi on 40-odd out with a beautiful ball," added Kohli.&nbsp;

Indian pacer Mohammed Shami earned praises for his performance in the first One-Day International match against Australia at Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.

Indian pacer Mohammed Shami earned praises for his performance in the first One-Day International match against Australia at Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. In the match, the Virat Kohli-led team defeated Australia by six wickets to take a 1-0 lead in five-match series. Pace spearhead Mohammed Shami made it count with figures of 2-44 to restrict Australia to 236 for seven. He dismissed Stoinis (37, 53 balls) and Khawaja (50, 76 balls), who added 87 runs for the second wicket. After winning the match, Kohli spoke highly of Shami. He said, "He [Shami] has wicket-taking ability and he's hungry for wickets. Heading into the WC, it's a great sign for team India." "If he can stay hungry like this and look for wickets and he has the ability to back it up with Bumrah and Kuldeep, it's gonna be great to stand in the field and watch," Kohli added. Kohli gave special mention to Shami's fitness. "The way Shami has come back into the white-ball set-up after his Test performances, have never seen him so lean before. He has lost 5-6 kgs. He's running in and bowling so well," Shami said. He has lost 5-6 kgs. He's running in and bowling so well." "The lines and length he's bowling; got Maxi on 40-odd out with a beautiful ball," added Kohli.

Indian cricket skipper Virat Kohli praises Mohammed Shami's fitness and weight loss

India defeated Australia by six wickets in the first One-Day International of a five-match series&nbsp;at&nbsp;Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium and&nbsp;take a 1-0 lead.&nbsp;

India had restricted Australia to a modest 236 for seven after the visitors opted to bat.

Virat Kohli-led team returned to overhaul the target with 10 balls to spare, scoring 240-4 in 48.2 overs.&nbsp;

India rode on an unbeaten 141-run stand between Jadhav and Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who made 59, to achieve the target in 48.2 overs and lead the five-match series 1-0.&nbsp;

For his brilliant innings, Jadhav was given Man of the Match award.&nbsp;

For Australia, fast bowler Nathan Coulter-Nile and leg-spinner Adam Zampa took two wickets each.

Zampa got skipper Virat Kohli's prized scalp for 44.&nbsp;

Earlier, Australia's batsmen could not really rotate the strike and were restricted to 236-7 by India's disciplined bowling attack.

Mohammed Shami began with a maiden before Jasprit Bumrah struck with his third delivery to prolong Finch's slump in form.

Bumrah's good length ball kissed the shoulder of Finch's tentative bat and nestled into Dhoni's gloves as the opener perished for a duck.

Usman Khawaja and Marcus Stoinis shared an 87-run stand to help Australia overcome the loss of their captain.

Part-time spinner Jadhav dismissed Stoinis for 37 but Khawaja made a fluent 50 before Kuldeep Yadav sent him back.

Glen Maxwell made 40 before losing his off-stump to Shami.

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey made 36 not out, adding 62 runs with Nathan Coulter-Nile (28).&nbsp;

India lost opener Shikhar Dhawan for a golden duck in the second over of their innings, but Kohli and Rohit Sharma played with characteristic ease before Australia prized out three wickets to roar back into the match.

Kohli, who added 76 runs with Rohit, raced to a run-a-ball 44 before being foxed by an Adam Zampa delivery that beat his bat and rapped him on the pad.

Australia decided to review the original not-out decision and were rewarded with the prized wicket of Kohli.

Rohit's departure for 37 compounded India's problems but Dhoni and Jadhav batted sensibly and did not panic even when the asking run rate climbed above six an over.

Dhoni sealed the victory with his sixth boundary off Stoinis.

The teams move to Nagpur for the second match of the five-game series on Tuesday.

Brief Scores:

Australia: 236 for 7 in 50 overs (Usman Khawaja 50, Glenn Maxwell 40; Mohammed Shami 2/44). 
India: 240-4 in 48.2 overs (MS Dhoni 59, Kedar Jadhav 81; Nathan Coulter-Nile 2/35).&nbsp;

India defeated Australia by six wickets in the first One-Day International of a five-match series at Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium and take a 1-0 lead.

India defeated Australia by six wickets in the first One-Day International of a five-match series at Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium and take a 1-0 lead. India had restricted Australia to a modest 236 for seven after the visitors opted to bat. Virat Kohli-led team returned to overhaul the target with 10 balls to spare, scoring 240-4 in 48.2 overs. India rode on an unbeaten 141-run stand between Jadhav and Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who made 59, to achieve the target in 48.2 overs and lead the five-match series 1-0. For his brilliant innings, Jadhav was given Man of the Match award. For Australia, fast bowler Nathan Coulter-Nile and leg-spinner Adam Zampa took two wickets each. Zampa got skipper Virat Kohli's prized scalp for 44. Earlier, Australia's batsmen could not really rotate the strike and were restricted to 236-7 by India's disciplined bowling attack. Mohammed Shami began with a maiden before Jasprit Bumrah struck with his third delivery to prolong Finch's slump in form. Bumrah's good length ball kissed the shoulder of Finch's tentative bat and nestled into Dhoni's gloves as the opener perished for a duck. Usman Khawaja and Marcus Stoinis shared an 87-run stand to help Australia overcome the loss of their captain. Part-time spinner Jadhav dismissed Stoinis for 37 but Khawaja made a fluent 50 before Kuldeep Yadav sent him back. Glen Maxwell made 40 before losing his off-stump to Shami. Wicketkeeper Alex Carey made 36 not out, adding 62 runs with Nathan Coulter-Nile (28). India lost opener Shikhar Dhawan for a golden duck in the second over of their innings, but Kohli and Rohit Sharma played with characteristic ease before Australia prized out three wickets to roar back into the match. Kohli, who added 76 runs with Rohit, raced to a run-a-ball 44 before being foxed by an Adam Zampa delivery that beat his bat and rapped him on the pad. Australia decided to review the original not-out decision and were rewarded with the prized wicket of Kohli. Rohit's departure for 37 compounded India's problems but Dhoni and Jadhav batted sensibly and did not panic even when the asking run rate climbed above six an over. Dhoni sealed the victory with his sixth boundary off Stoinis. The teams move to Nagpur for the second match of the five-game series on Tuesday. Brief Scores: Australia: 236 for 7 in 50 overs (Usman Khawaja 50, Glenn Maxwell 40; Mohammed Shami 2/44). India: 240-4 in 48.2 overs (MS Dhoni 59, Kedar Jadhav 81; Nathan Coulter-Nile 2/35).

INDvsAUS, 1st ODI: Kedar Jadhav, MS Dhoni shine as India beat Australia by six wickets

Kedar Jadhav, MS Dhoni finish off in style; major takeaways from first ODI between India and Australia

India's cricket board has said that the&nbsp;final two One-Day International matches against Australia in Mohali and Delhi will not be shifted.&nbsp;

There were reports that the Board of Control of Cricket in India (BCCI)&nbsp;is&nbsp;discussing to&nbsp;shift the venues&nbsp;in the wake of increased tensions between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

The reports added BCCI&nbsp;was considering taking the last two ODIs out of the northern region.&nbsp;

But&nbsp;the cricket board's acting president CK Khanna turned down the media reports.&nbsp;

The fourth ODI in Mohali is scheduled on March 10 while the fifth game at Delhi will be held on March 13.&nbsp;

"There is certainly no such plan to shift any of the games from their original venues. I can confirm that both ODIs in Mohali and Delhi, is happening as per schedule," Khanna said.&nbsp;

"As far as a back up venue is concerned, the BCCI always has alternate arrangements in place in case a venue expresses its inability to hold a game. It was nice of Saurashtra to put their hand up but as of now, it will not be necessary," Khanna confirmed.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-197778">India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

Earlier, tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after Indian fighters bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan early Tuesday.&nbsp;

It came 12 days after 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir on February 14.&nbsp;

Following the bombing of the JeM training camp, the Pakistan Air Force carried out retaliatory aerial combat, unsuccessfully targeting several Indian military installations.&nbsp;

India's cricket board has said that the final two One-Day International matches against Australia in Mohali and Delhi will not be shifted. There were reports that the Board of Control of Cricket in India (BCCI) is discussing to shift the venues in the wake of increased tensions between India and Pakistan.

India's cricket board has said that the final two One-Day International matches against Australia in Mohali and Delhi will not be shifted. There were reports that the Board of Control of Cricket in India (BCCI) is discussing to shift the venues in the wake of increased tensions between India and Pakistan. The reports added BCCI was considering taking the last two ODIs out of the northern region. But the cricket board's acting president CK Khanna turned down the media reports. The fourth ODI in Mohali is scheduled on March 10 while the fifth game at Delhi will be held on March 13. "There is certainly no such plan to shift any of the games from their original venues. I can confirm that both ODIs in Mohali and Delhi, is happening as per schedule," Khanna said. "As far as a back up venue is concerned, the BCCI always has alternate arrangements in place in case a venue expresses its inability to hold a game. It was nice of Saurashtra to put their hand up but as of now, it will not be necessary," Khanna confirmed. Also Read: India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue Earlier, tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after Indian fighters bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan early Tuesday. It came 12 days after 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir on February 14. Following the bombing of the JeM training camp, the Pakistan Air Force carried out retaliatory aerial combat, unsuccessfully targeting several Indian military installations.

BCCI not to shift ODI matches from Mohali, Delhi

Australia skipper <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Aaron+Finch">Aaron Finch</a> was dismissed for a duck in his 100th one-day international after the tourists won the toss and elected to bat against India in Hyderabad on Saturday.

Finch faced just three deliveries of the second over when paceman Jasprit Bumrah got the opener caught behind by wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni. The first over was a maiden.

Finch, 32, managed just 83 runs in his previous seven ODI outings for Australia and scored a zero and eight in the two recent Twenty20 matches that Australia won against India.

He has accumulated 3,444 runs including 11 centuries since his ODI debut in 2013.

Australia and India will play five ODI matches scheduled to March 13.

Australia skipper Aaron Finch was dismissed for a duck in his 100th one-day international after the tourists won the toss and elected to bat against India in Hyderabad on Saturday.

Australia skipper Aaron Finch was dismissed for a duck in his 100th one-day international after the tourists won the toss and elected to bat against India in Hyderabad on Saturday. Finch faced just three deliveries of the second over when paceman Jasprit Bumrah got the opener caught behind by wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni. The first over was a maiden. Finch, 32, managed just 83 runs in his previous seven ODI outings for Australia and scored a zero and eight in the two recent Twenty20 matches that Australia won against India. He has accumulated 3,444 runs including 11 centuries since his ODI debut in 2013. Australia and India will play five ODI matches scheduled to March 13.

India vs Australia, 1st ODI: Australia's Aaron Finch out for nought in 100th ODI

Australia coach Justin Langer on promised unwavering support for out-of-form Aaron Finch, saying he has no doubts that the limited-overs skipper will soon find his mojo back.

Finch's rough patch has extended to the T20s as he was out for zero and eight in the two T20Is which Australia won to claim their maiden series win in the shortest format in India.

"He's such a good player, such a good person, captain of the team, we know he'll come good," Langer was quoted as saying by cricket.Com.Au.

"We just got to keep giving him plenty of care and support. We know he'll come good."

Finch has not scored a fifty in his last 19 innings for Australia in limited overs cricket.

However, Langer threw his weight behind Finch.

"There's no more destructive player in the world, we talk about 'Maxi' (Glenn Maxwell), Marcus Stoinis, a number of our players who can be so destructive but when he's going, he is as destructive as a player as there is in white-ball cricket," Langer said.

"We know he'll come good and we'll be patient with him."

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-197778">India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

Langer was impressed with the way Finch has conducted himself as a captain during this phase.

"Another important part about leadership is that he's really consistent.&nbsp;

We haven't seen any real change in his personality or his attitude around the group, so that's a real credit to him. That's why he is the captain of the team," he said.

"My experience of every captain, the most important thing is they're playing really good cricket. He's got to keep his attention on that. He's got lots of support around him. Like I say, he's such a good person, he's got to be Aaron Finch, be himself. He's doing that.

"He's one of the nicest people you'll ever meet. We'll just keep encouraging him to be himself. His runs will come, keep encouraging him to be himself and

I'm sure he'll come good soon."

While Finch endured a lean patch, teammate Maxwell has been on fire, blasting a 55-ball match-winning 113 in the second T20I. He had also scored a 56 in Vizag.

Given his form, Maxwell said a promotion in the batting order in the ODIs might help his game and also the team. The all-rounder was demoted to no 7 following his lean patch.

Asked if a potential move up the order for Maxwell is on the cards, Langer said: "We'll wait and see. We'll do what's best for the team I reckon. We'll see how we go."

Langer said if Maxwell can be more consistent his standing in the game will go to another level.

"He'll be the first to say it, that's what we've been crying out for some time from him. It just goes to show what he can do. When he does things like that, he elevates himself to a world-class performer," Langer said.

"He wants that, we want that and the more he becomes a world-class performer, the more games we win and the more he gets recognised as a great player."

Australia will play India a five-match ODI series against India starting Saturday.&nbsp;

Australia coach Justin Langer on promised unwavering support for out-of-form Aaron Finch, saying he has no doubts that the limited-overs skipper will soon find his mojo back.

Australia coach Justin Langer on promised unwavering support for out-of-form Aaron Finch, saying he has no doubts that the limited-overs skipper will soon find his mojo back. Finch's rough patch has extended to the T20s as he was out for zero and eight in the two T20Is which Australia won to claim their maiden series win in the shortest format in India. "He's such a good player, such a good person, captain of the team, we know he'll come good," Langer was quoted as saying by cricket.Com.Au. "We just got to keep giving him plenty of care and support. We know he'll come good." Finch has not scored a fifty in his last 19 innings for Australia in limited overs cricket. However, Langer threw his weight behind Finch. "There's no more destructive player in the world, we talk about 'Maxi' (Glenn Maxwell), Marcus Stoinis, a number of our players who can be so destructive but when he's going, he is as destructive as a player as there is in white-ball cricket," Langer said. "We know he'll come good and we'll be patient with him." Also Read: India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue Langer was impressed with the way Finch has conducted himself as a captain during this phase. "Another important part about leadership is that he's really consistent. We haven't seen any real change in his personality or his attitude around the group, so that's a real credit to him. That's why he is the captain of the team," he said. "My experience of every captain, the most important thing is they're playing really good cricket. He's got to keep his attention on that. He's got lots of support around him. Like I say, he's such a good person, he's got to be Aaron Finch, be himself. He's doing that. "He's one of the nicest people you'll ever meet. We'll just keep encouraging him to be himself. His runs will come, keep encouraging him to be himself and I'm sure he'll come good soon." While Finch endured a lean patch, teammate Maxwell has been on fire, blasting a 55-ball match-winning 113 in the second T20I. He had also scored a 56 in Vizag. Given his form, Maxwell said a promotion in the batting order in the ODIs might help his game and also the team. The all-rounder was demoted to no 7 following his lean patch. Asked if a potential move up the order for Maxwell is on the cards, Langer said: "We'll wait and see. We'll do what's best for the team I reckon. We'll see how we go." Langer said if Maxwell can be more consistent his standing in the game will go to another level. "He'll be the first to say it, that's what we've been crying out for some time from him. It just goes to show what he can do. When he does things like that, he elevates himself to a world-class performer," Langer said. "He wants that, we want that and the more he becomes a world-class performer, the more games we win and the more he gets recognised as a great player." Australia will play India a five-match ODI series against India starting Saturday.

Aaron Finch will come good, just need to be patient, says coach Justin Langer

The importance of the one-day series against Australia beginning on Saturday is not lost on Virat Kohli's India as they gauge their World Cup preparations against the reigning champions in their final series before the showpiece event.&nbsp;

India capped their memorable tour of Australia, where they registered their first ever test series victory Down Under, by claiming the three-match ODI series 2-1 in January.&nbsp;

Chief selector MSK&nbsp;Prasad told reporters last month that most of the players in&nbsp;the current India side pick themselves and it was a matter of finalising a couple of slots before the World Cup in England and Wales.&nbsp;

The five-match series against Australia is naturally important for a handful of Indian players who want to nail down their places with solid performances against the tourists who have slipped to sixth in world rankings.&nbsp;

Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has leapfrogged Dinesh Karthik to be Mahendra Singh Dhoni's understudy behind the stumps, but needs to prove his maturity against Australia to make the flight to England.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-197778">India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

"The progression of Rishabh in the last one year is phenomenal across the formats," Prasad, a former stumper himself, told ESPNcricinfo recently, describing the exciting 21-year-old's form as a "healthy headache".&nbsp;

"What we actually felt is he needs a bit of maturity now, gain more experience. That is the reason we have included him in India A series wherever possible."&nbsp;

Lokesh Rahul has been thrown a lifeline despite a slump in form and a brief suspension he incurred for inappropriate comments on a television show. The opener impressed with scores of 50 and 47 in the Twenty20 matches against Australia.&nbsp;

"I got some time off from international cricket, so I could come back here and reflect on what wasn't going right for me," said Rahul, who remains optimistic of securing a back-up role to first-choice opening pair Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan.&nbsp;

Australia play an ODI series against Pakistan in United Arab Emirates later this month but coach Justin Langer will hope the series against world number two India will provide answers to many questions.&nbsp;

Finch's lack of form at the top of the batting order has been a concern for a team who eagerly await the return of Steve Smith and David Warner from ball-tampering suspensions which expire at the end of the month.

"We have just got to keep giving him plenty of care and support. We know he'll come good," Langer said, throwing his weight behind Finch.

Usman Khawaja did reasonably well in the home ODI series against India, and while he may not match the strike rate of some of his teammates, Finch's poor form means Australia will keep an eye on how the left-hander fares against India.

Among others, batsman Peter Handscomb will look to prove his prowess against spin while quick Nathan Coulter-Nile will hope to stay on his feet through the series to shed his 'injury-prone' image.

The importance of the one-day series against Australia beginning on Saturday is not lost on Virat Kohli's India as they gauge their World Cup preparations against the reigning champions in their final series before the showpiece event.

The importance of the one-day series against Australia beginning on Saturday is not lost on Virat Kohli's India as they gauge their World Cup preparations against the reigning champions in their final series before the showpiece event. India capped their memorable tour of Australia, where they registered their first ever test series victory Down Under, by claiming the three-match ODI series 2-1 in January. Chief selector MSK Prasad told reporters last month that most of the players in the current India side pick themselves and it was a matter of finalising a couple of slots before the World Cup in England and Wales. The five-match series against Australia is naturally important for a handful of Indian players who want to nail down their places with solid performances against the tourists who have slipped to sixth in world rankings. Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has leapfrogged Dinesh Karthik to be Mahendra Singh Dhoni's understudy behind the stumps, but needs to prove his maturity against Australia to make the flight to England. Also Read: India vs Australia 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue "The progression of Rishabh in the last one year is phenomenal across the formats," Prasad, a former stumper himself, told ESPNcricinfo recently, describing the exciting 21-year-old's form as a "healthy headache". "What we actually felt is he needs a bit of maturity now, gain more experience. That is the reason we have included him in India A series wherever possible." Lokesh Rahul has been thrown a lifeline despite a slump in form and a brief suspension he incurred for inappropriate comments on a television show. The opener impressed with scores of 50 and 47 in the Twenty20 matches against Australia. "I got some time off from international cricket, so I could come back here and reflect on what wasn't going right for me," said Rahul, who remains optimistic of securing a back-up role to first-choice opening pair Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. Australia play an ODI series against Pakistan in United Arab Emirates later this month but coach Justin Langer will hope the series against world number two India will provide answers to many questions. Finch's lack of form at the top of the batting order has been a concern for a team who eagerly await the return of Steve Smith and David Warner from ball-tampering suspensions which expire at the end of the month. "We have just got to keep giving him plenty of care and support. We know he'll come good," Langer said, throwing his weight behind Finch. Usman Khawaja did reasonably well in the home ODI series against India, and while he may not match the strike rate of some of his teammates, Finch's poor form means Australia will keep an eye on how the left-hander fares against India. Among others, batsman Peter Handscomb will look to prove his prowess against spin while quick Nathan Coulter-Nile will hope to stay on his feet through the series to shed his 'injury-prone' image.

India vs Australia, 1st ODI: Virat Kohli to evaluate World Cup plans against defending champions

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