India opener Mayank Agarwal was livid with himself after squandering a golden opportunity to score a maiden Test hundred on day one of the fourth Test but hopes to quickly learn from mistakes in his fledgeling career.&nbsp;

Agarwal scored 77 runs while Cheteshwar Pujara scored his 18th Test hundred as India finished at 303-4 at stumps. They put on 116 runs for the second wicket, setting a platform for the rest of this Test. The Karnataka opener had made 76 and 42 in his debut Test in Melbourne.

"I am quite disappointed for missing out on a big score. With that said, it's a learning curve. If I don't make this mistake again, it will be a good learning. I was looking to dominate Nathan Lyon and it didn't work out. Really disappointed that I threw my wicket," he said on Thursday.

India lost KL Rahul early and the duo faced a testing spell of short bowling from the Australian pacers. Agarwal said that their focus was on building partnerships, and he was talking with Pujara for the same throughout.

"Recently I faced such short bowling from New Zealand-A side (in New Zealand). They also came very hard, but to be really honest, I think the Australian pace bowling attack came really, really hard. They bowled quick bouncers and they were sharp. They were consistent and didn't give anything away," he said.

"The plan was always to get a small partnership after each wicket and that's the same thing we spoke about. We said to each other that let's try to play close to the body and not give them wickets. Even if we are not getting too many runs too quick, it's alright; let's try get a partnership and take it from there onwards," he added.

Pujara was unbeaten on 130 runs at stumps, having faced 250 balls, the fourth time he has played 200-plus deliveries in an innings on this tour. Agarwal talked about learning from his batting style and showered heady praise on the senior batsman who scored his third hundred of the series on Thursday.

"Definitely, it is great to watch him bat from the other end and also to watch him bat the way he grinds the bowlers. He has got a pattern to it and he understands his strengths and know that he is very tight with his defence. He looks to do that and waits for the bad ball to come.

"This game is for five days and there is time. It is a very long game and if you see him bat, you can learn a lot. Patience is his strength and he sticks to that," he said.

For Agarwal too though, this was an additional confidence booster after his showing in the debut Test at Melbourne. He credited Rahul Dravid for instilling this confidence in him.

"Runs gives you lot of confidence. The more you play it gives you confidence and belief in your game. I think those runs have really helped me and have given me a lot of confidence. They have helped me stay within myself.

"Obviously playing under Dravid is good. We, as batsmen, speak about our technique and the game, and he is out there to help us, guide us and help us climb the ladder. And his advice has been really helpful. He told me to think about how to manage my mental energy and that's something we have spoken about for 4-6 months."

Talking about the course of this Test on the second day, Agarwal said, "We are very happy, we would have liked to be just three down but that said 303-4 on first day after choosing to bat, I think we are in a great position."

India opener Mayank Agarwal was livid with himself after squandering a golden opportunity to score a maiden Test hundred on day one of the fourth Test but hopes to quickly learn from mistakes in his fledgeling career.

India opener Mayank Agarwal was livid with himself after squandering a golden opportunity to score a maiden Test hundred on day one of the fourth Test but hopes to quickly learn from mistakes in his fledgeling career. Agarwal scored 77 runs while Cheteshwar Pujara scored his 18th Test hundred as India finished at 303-4 at stumps. They put on 116 runs for the second wicket, setting a platform for the rest of this Test. The Karnataka opener had made 76 and 42 in his debut Test in Melbourne. "I am quite disappointed for missing out on a big score. With that said, it's a learning curve. If I don't make this mistake again, it will be a good learning. I was looking to dominate Nathan Lyon and it didn't work out. Really disappointed that I threw my wicket," he said on Thursday. India lost KL Rahul early and the duo faced a testing spell of short bowling from the Australian pacers. Agarwal said that their focus was on building partnerships, and he was talking with Pujara for the same throughout. "Recently I faced such short bowling from New Zealand-A side (in New Zealand). They also came very hard, but to be really honest, I think the Australian pace bowling attack came really, really hard. They bowled quick bouncers and they were sharp. They were consistent and didn't give anything away," he said. "The plan was always to get a small partnership after each wicket and that's the same thing we spoke about. We said to each other that let's try to play close to the body and not give them wickets. Even if we are not getting too many runs too quick, it's alright; let's try get a partnership and take it from there onwards," he added. Pujara was unbeaten on 130 runs at stumps, having faced 250 balls, the fourth time he has played 200-plus deliveries in an innings on this tour. Agarwal talked about learning from his batting style and showered heady praise on the senior batsman who scored his third hundred of the series on Thursday. "Definitely, it is great to watch him bat from the other end and also to watch him bat the way he grinds the bowlers. He has got a pattern to it and he understands his strengths and know that he is very tight with his defence. He looks to do that and waits for the bad ball to come. "This game is for five days and there is time. It is a very long game and if you see him bat, you can learn a lot. Patience is his strength and he sticks to that," he said. For Agarwal too though, this was an additional confidence booster after his showing in the debut Test at Melbourne. He credited Rahul Dravid for instilling this confidence in him. "Runs gives you lot of confidence. The more you play it gives you confidence and belief in your game. I think those runs have really helped me and have given me a lot of confidence. They have helped me stay within myself. "Obviously playing under Dravid is good. We, as batsmen, speak about our technique and the game, and he is out there to help us, guide us and help us climb the ladder. And his advice has been really helpful. He told me to think about how to manage my mental energy and that's something we have spoken about for 4-6 months." Talking about the course of this Test on the second day, Agarwal said, "We are very happy, we would have liked to be just three down but that said 303-4 on first day after choosing to bat, I think we are in a great position."

Need to learn from mistakes, says Mayank Agarwal after missing out on maiden ton

Ravichandran Ashwin's "similar injuries" on two successive away tours is a cause of concern and the off-spinner should "focus" on course correction, India captain Virat Kohli said Wednesday, drawing parallels with his own injury management.

Ashwin has not taken part in the current series after bowling 86 overs in the first Test in Adelaide and since then has been laid low by left -sided abdominal strain.

While Indian team management kept Ashwin in the final 13 and officially announced that a call will be taken on Thursday morning before the start of the match, Kohli made it clear that all is not well with the burly Tamil Nadu off-spinner.&nbsp;

"Well, it's unfortunate that Ashwin has had two niggles quite similar in the last couple of away tours (England and now Australia). He, more than anyone else, will be focused to correct this," the skipper said on the eve of the final Test.

"The physio and the trainer have spoken to him in terms of what's required (from him) in order to get over that injury. He is very important for sure. In Test cricket, he is a vital part of this team and we want him to be 100 per cent fit and for a longer period so that he can contribute to us more in the Test format," Kohli in his own way let media know on where he stood on this issue.&nbsp;

"He (Ashwin) is very disappointed with the fact that he has not been able to recover in time, but the things have been laid out to him (as to) what needs to be done to get back to full fitness. Honestly, you can't predict an injury. When it happens, you just manage and doing what you can to get over that injury," the skipper said.&nbsp;

From Ashwin's injury, the discussion veered towards back issues that Kohli has had for some time. Kohli was in pain during Melbourne Test and was also seen having a taping on his waist while fielding but he has now learnt to manage it.&nbsp;

While there was no reference to Ashwin, Kohli's take on injury management could be a lesson for the spinner also.

"You just have to manage it physically and stay ahead of the injury. I have been able to do it for now and I am sure I will find out more options and more ways to counter that and be at the top of my fitness.&nbsp;

"It's inhuman or impossible to keep going on without niggles and I think it's fine to have a few niggles here and there. You just need to be able to manage it very well," said Kohli.

Kohli revealed that he has had a disc problem since his early days with the Indian team, back in 2011.

"On my personal fitness concern, I have had disc issues since 2011, it's nothing new. I have been able to manage it because of the physical effort I have put in in the last few years. When you have a back, which has disc issues, you can only maintain it that way so I'm not too bothered by it.&nbsp;

"When the workload gets high, it can get into a spasm. You don't really get serious issues, you get fine in 2-3 days but at that point of time you get into a spasm. That's very easy to heal so I am not too concerned with it."&nbsp;

However, Kohli attributes his top level fitness to his routines which has helped him massively.&nbsp;

"The physical part has definitely helped me massively in the last three years. I feel like I can switch formats easily. And I can be at the top of my energy levels or intensity levels that is required to play international cricket because I work really hard no my fitness. There are many factors involved: the diet, the sleep patterns and all these sort of things are very crucial."&nbsp;

Coming back to Ashwin, Kohli feels that young Hanuma Vihari's part-time off-breaks could come in handy.&nbsp;

"Ashwin's absence does make you alter plans a little bit throughout the course of a series. But the fact that Hanuma Vihari has bowled beautifully whenever we have given him the ball makes us feel absolutely calm about Ashwin not being able to play," Kohli said.&nbsp;

"But, if you see the way Vihari has bowled he has looked like picking up a wicket whenever he comes to bowl. He's pitching the ball in the right areas so we are looking at him as a solid bowling option right now.&nbsp;

"Especially in this Test because he has pace on the ball, he puts in the effort, he's economical and that's all you need from a guy who is coming in to bowl 10-15 overs in a day," the skipper reasoned.&nbsp;

Ravichandran Ashwin's "similar injuries" on two successive away tours is a cause of concern and the off-spinner should "focus" on course correction, India captain Virat Kohli said Wednesday, drawing parallels with his own injury management.

Ravichandran Ashwin's "similar injuries" on two successive away tours is a cause of concern and the off-spinner should "focus" on course correction, India captain Virat Kohli said Wednesday, drawing parallels with his own injury management. Ashwin has not taken part in the current series after bowling 86 overs in the first Test in Adelaide and since then has been laid low by left -sided abdominal strain. While Indian team management kept Ashwin in the final 13 and officially announced that a call will be taken on Thursday morning before the start of the match, Kohli made it clear that all is not well with the burly Tamil Nadu off-spinner. "Well, it's unfortunate that Ashwin has had two niggles quite similar in the last couple of away tours (England and now Australia). He, more than anyone else, will be focused to correct this," the skipper said on the eve of the final Test. "The physio and the trainer have spoken to him in terms of what's required (from him) in order to get over that injury. He is very important for sure. In Test cricket, he is a vital part of this team and we want him to be 100 per cent fit and for a longer period so that he can contribute to us more in the Test format," Kohli in his own way let media know on where he stood on this issue. "He (Ashwin) is very disappointed with the fact that he has not been able to recover in time, but the things have been laid out to him (as to) what needs to be done to get back to full fitness. Honestly, you can't predict an injury. When it happens, you just manage and doing what you can to get over that injury," the skipper said. From Ashwin's injury, the discussion veered towards back issues that Kohli has had for some time. Kohli was in pain during Melbourne Test and was also seen having a taping on his waist while fielding but he has now learnt to manage it. While there was no reference to Ashwin, Kohli's take on injury management could be a lesson for the spinner also. "You just have to manage it physically and stay ahead of the injury. I have been able to do it for now and I am sure I will find out more options and more ways to counter that and be at the top of my fitness. "It's inhuman or impossible to keep going on without niggles and I think it's fine to have a few niggles here and there. You just need to be able to manage it very well," said Kohli. Kohli revealed that he has had a disc problem since his early days with the Indian team, back in 2011. "On my personal fitness concern, I have had disc issues since 2011, it's nothing new. I have been able to manage it because of the physical effort I have put in in the last few years. When you have a back, which has disc issues, you can only maintain it that way so I'm not too bothered by it. "When the workload gets high, it can get into a spasm. You don't really get serious issues, you get fine in 2-3 days but at that point of time you get into a spasm. That's very easy to heal so I am not too concerned with it." However, Kohli attributes his top level fitness to his routines which has helped him massively. "The physical part has definitely helped me massively in the last three years. I feel like I can switch formats easily. And I can be at the top of my energy levels or intensity levels that is required to play international cricket because I work really hard no my fitness. There are many factors involved: the diet, the sleep patterns and all these sort of things are very crucial." Coming back to Ashwin, Kohli feels that young Hanuma Vihari's part-time off-breaks could come in handy. "Ashwin's absence does make you alter plans a little bit throughout the course of a series. But the fact that Hanuma Vihari has bowled beautifully whenever we have given him the ball makes us feel absolutely calm about Ashwin not being able to play," Kohli said. "But, if you see the way Vihari has bowled he has looked like picking up a wicket whenever he comes to bowl. He's pitching the ball in the right areas so we are looking at him as a solid bowling option right now. "Especially in this Test because he has pace on the ball, he puts in the effort, he's economical and that's all you need from a guy who is coming in to bowl 10-15 overs in a day," the skipper reasoned.

Ashwin had similar injuries on two tours, says concerned skipper Kohli

India’s pursuit of history reaches Sydney as Virat Kohli’s men will enter the ground as favourites against Australia in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkars-coach-ramakant-achrekar-dies-at-87-187931">fourth and final Test in Sydney</a> on Thursday

Leading 2-1 in the four-match series, India remain firm favourites to make it 3-1 despite the fresh injuries woes that ruled pacer Ishant Sharma and ace spinner R Ashwin in doubt.

Before the final clash, let's take a look at the previous record of India ta Sydney ground.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Australia have hosted India Since 1947-48 and barring four occasions in 1947, 1986, 1992 and 2015 which were drawn, the visitors have lost the game played at Sydney.&nbsp;

A total of 11 games have been played so far between the two sides at the Sydney cricket ground and the 12th one will be played tomorrow.

India have won only one match at the SCG — when they won the fourth Test of the series in 1978 to level it up 2-2 before losing the final match. &nbsp;BS Chandrasekhar, Bishan Singh Bedi and EAS Prasanna combined to take 16 out of the 20 wickets in that match as India defeated Australia by an innings and two runs.

Another unforgettable game at Sydney came in 2003 - 2004, as Australia have been pushed to the brink of a series defeat. India won the toss and posted a mammoth 705-7 before declaring their innings. &nbsp;The total was underpinned by a 353-run partnership between Sachin Tendulkar (241) and VVS Laxman (178), setting up a potential match and series win.&nbsp;

Hundreds from current coach Justin Langer (117) and Simon Katich (125) helped Australia to 474. This meant India still had a good lead, which they extended thanks to half-centuries from Rahul Dravid and Tendulkar. But the absence of an off-spinner stung India once again as Langer, Matthew Hayden and Simon Katich made decent scores. But it was captain Steve Waugh who top-scored with 80 in the very last innings of his illustrious Test career as the match ended in a thrilling draw. The series was split 1-1.

In India’s last match in Sydney in 2015, batsman KL Rahul, who might return to the squad for the fourth test after being given rest in third game, scored a century as an opener. &nbsp;It was a high-scoring draw with Australia making 572/7 (decl.) and 251/6 (decl.) after winning the toss and batting first. India made 475 thanks to Rahul and Kohli’s centuries in the first innings and drew the match after scoring 252/7 in their second innings.

The Sydney ground is India’s favourite batting venue in Australia historically, as the batsmen average 34.96 per wicket.&nbsp;

It was, also Sachin Tendulkar’s favourite hunting grounds. On 5th January 1992, Tendulkar scored his second century in Test matches, hitting an unbeaten 148 against Australia in Sydney. Coming in to bat at No. 6, the 18 year-old went on to become the youngest batsman to score a century in Australia.&nbsp;

India’s pursuit of history reaches Sydney as Virat Kohli’s men will enter the ground as favourites against Australia in the fourth and final Test in Sydney on Thursday Leading 2-1 in the four-match series, India remain firm favourites to make it 3-1 despite the fresh injuries woes that ruled pacer Ishant Sharma and ace spinner R Ashwin in doubt.

India’s pursuit of history reaches Sydney as Virat Kohli’s men will enter the ground as favourites against Australia in the fourth and final Test in Sydney on Thursday Leading 2-1 in the four-match series, India remain firm favourites to make it 3-1 despite the fresh injuries woes that ruled pacer Ishant Sharma and ace spinner R Ashwin in doubt. Before the final clash, let's take a look at the previous record of India ta Sydney ground. Australia have hosted India Since 1947-48 and barring four occasions in 1947, 1986, 1992 and 2015 which were drawn, the visitors have lost the game played at Sydney. A total of 11 games have been played so far between the two sides at the Sydney cricket ground and the 12th one will be played tomorrow. India have won only one match at the SCG — when they won the fourth Test of the series in 1978 to level it up 2-2 before losing the final match. BS Chandrasekhar, Bishan Singh Bedi and EAS Prasanna combined to take 16 out of the 20 wickets in that match as India defeated Australia by an innings and two runs. Another unforgettable game at Sydney came in 2003 - 2004, as Australia have been pushed to the brink of a series defeat. India won the toss and posted a mammoth 705-7 before declaring their innings. The total was underpinned by a 353-run partnership between Sachin Tendulkar (241) and VVS Laxman (178), setting up a potential match and series win. Hundreds from current coach Justin Langer (117) and Simon Katich (125) helped Australia to 474. This meant India still had a good lead, which they extended thanks to half-centuries from Rahul Dravid and Tendulkar. But the absence of an off-spinner stung India once again as Langer, Matthew Hayden and Simon Katich made decent scores. But it was captain Steve Waugh who top-scored with 80 in the very last innings of his illustrious Test career as the match ended in a thrilling draw. The series was split 1-1. In India’s last match in Sydney in 2015, batsman KL Rahul, who might return to the squad for the fourth test after being given rest in third game, scored a century as an opener. It was a high-scoring draw with Australia making 572/7 (decl.) and 251/6 (decl.) after winning the toss and batting first. India made 475 thanks to Rahul and Kohli’s centuries in the first innings and drew the match after scoring 252/7 in their second innings. The Sydney ground is India’s favourite batting venue in Australia historically, as the batsmen average 34.96 per wicket. It was, also Sachin Tendulkar’s favourite hunting grounds. On 5th January 1992, Tendulkar scored his second century in Test matches, hitting an unbeaten 148 against Australia in Sydney. Coming in to bat at No. 6, the 18 year-old went on to become the youngest batsman to score a century in Australia.

India at Sydney: From Tendulkar's first ton in Australia to Kohli's pursuit of history

India's unwavering pursuit of history hit a minor glitch in 11th hour injury concerns but Virat Kohli's men will still walk in as overwhelming favourites against a faltering Australia in the fourth and final Test starting Thursday.

Leading 2-1 in the four-match series, India remain firm favourites to make it 3-1 at the Sydney Cricket Ground despite the injury-forced omission of premier spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and senior pacer Ishant Sharma, who has not been named in the 13-member list.

Australia have hosted India since 1947-48, and barring three occasions in 1980-81, 1985-86 and 2003-04 which were drawn the visitors have lost the Test series on seven occasions -- 1967-68, 1977-78, 1991-92, 1999-2000, 2007-08, 2011-12, 2014-15.

Virat Kohli, thus, is in a unique position as the only Indian captain to go into the final Test on the Australian soil with the cushion of a series lead.&nbsp;

A series win in Australia will certainly put Kohli on a different pedestal even though the quality of the home team's batting line-up suffered due to the ball-tampering bans on former skipper Steve Smith and his deputy David Warner.

Kohli will also need to fret over his team combination as the skipper revealed that senior off-spinner hasn't adequately recovered from his injury despite being named in the preliminary 13-member squad.

With spin considered a traditional factor in any Sydney Test, India were left fretting over the fitness of off-spinner R Ashwin, who is yet to recover from left abdominal strain that laid him low after the first Test in Adelaide.&nbsp;

Ishant is out after experiencing discomfort in his left rib cage and the team management didn't want to risk him by playing him in the decider.

While Ashwin had played on in Nottingham and Southampton (despite a groin injury as revealed by the team management only at the Oval), he has already missed two Tests - in Perth and Melbourne - in the on-going series.&nbsp;

"It's unfortunate that he's had two niggles that are quite similar in the last two away tours," said skipper Kohli.

"He's very important for sure. In Test cricket, he's a vital part of this team and we wanted him to be 100 per cent fit for a longer period to that he can come back to us in the Test format. He is very disappointed that he's not able to recover in time," Kohli elaborated.

In a strange u-turn, after he was ruled out at the time of Kohli's pre-match press conference, Ashwin was named in the 13-man shortlist for this fourth Test.&nbsp;

A final decision on his fitness and availability for the match will be taken at toss-time.&nbsp;

Additionally, India have included left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav as cover, in case the skipper decides to go in with two spinners.

Umesh Yadav has been included in place of Ishant, along with Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah.&nbsp;

In Rohit Sharma's absence, out-of-favour opener KL Rahul could be slated for a comeback after missing out in Melbourne, with Hanuma Vihari slotting down to his number six spot.

This is on assumption that regardless of Ashwin's fitness, India will opt to play four bowlers, whether in two-pacer-two spinners or three-pacers-one-spinner combination.&nbsp;

There is no option of playing an all-rounder as Hardik Pandya continues to be ignored, despite a hectic pre-match workout in the nets with both bat and ball. 
Kohli has described Vihari as an "exciting" spinner and he will be the second spin option, if India retain their bowling combination from the MCG Test.

Additionally, this 13-man shortlist can also be seen as a ploy to keep Australia guessing, for the hosts made a departure from norm and decided not to name their playing eleven for the first time in this series.&nbsp;

Skipper Tim Paine said that they would wait to announce the team until the toss, taking into consideration if India opt to play two full-time spinners.

While they need at least a draw in Sydney to win the series outright, India will retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy irrespective of the result. Kohli will join Ganguly as the only Indian captain to have achieved this feat in Australia.&nbsp;

Additionally, one more win will take Kohli ahead of Ganguly, who led India to 11 wins in 28 overseas Tests. Kohli has matched that record in 24 away Tests.

For Australia, batsman Peter Handscomb is expected to make a comeback for Mitchell Marsh, who has come under severe criticism after his poor shot selection in Melbourne.&nbsp;

The other toss-up is between opener Aaron Finch and leg-spin all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne. If Finch is left out, Usman Khawaja will open with Marcus Harris, and Labuschagne slotting in the middle-order.

It remains to be seen if this would solve any of Australia's batting problems, with not a single batsman scoring a century so far in this Test series.&nbsp; 
Teams:

India (Final 13): Virat Kohli (capt), Mayank Agarwal, Hanuma Vihari, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin.

Australia: Tim Paine (capt &amp; wk), Marcus Harris, Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, Shaun Marsh, Mitchell Marsh, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Marnus Labuschagne, Peter Handscomb, Peter Siddle.

India's unwavering pursuit of history hit a minor glitch in 11th hour injury concerns but Virat Kohli's men will still walk in as overwhelming favourites against a faltering Australia in the fourth and final Test starting Thursday.

India's unwavering pursuit of history hit a minor glitch in 11th hour injury concerns but Virat Kohli's men will still walk in as overwhelming favourites against a faltering Australia in the fourth and final Test starting Thursday. Leading 2-1 in the four-match series, India remain firm favourites to make it 3-1 at the Sydney Cricket Ground despite the injury-forced omission of premier spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and senior pacer Ishant Sharma, who has not been named in the 13-member list. Australia have hosted India since 1947-48, and barring three occasions in 1980-81, 1985-86 and 2003-04 which were drawn the visitors have lost the Test series on seven occasions -- 1967-68, 1977-78, 1991-92, 1999-2000, 2007-08, 2011-12, 2014-15. Virat Kohli, thus, is in a unique position as the only Indian captain to go into the final Test on the Australian soil with the cushion of a series lead. A series win in Australia will certainly put Kohli on a different pedestal even though the quality of the home team's batting line-up suffered due to the ball-tampering bans on former skipper Steve Smith and his deputy David Warner. Kohli will also need to fret over his team combination as the skipper revealed that senior off-spinner hasn't adequately recovered from his injury despite being named in the preliminary 13-member squad. With spin considered a traditional factor in any Sydney Test, India were left fretting over the fitness of off-spinner R Ashwin, who is yet to recover from left abdominal strain that laid him low after the first Test in Adelaide. Ishant is out after experiencing discomfort in his left rib cage and the team management didn't want to risk him by playing him in the decider. While Ashwin had played on in Nottingham and Southampton (despite a groin injury as revealed by the team management only at the Oval), he has already missed two Tests - in Perth and Melbourne - in the on-going series. "It's unfortunate that he's had two niggles that are quite similar in the last two away tours," said skipper Kohli. "He's very important for sure. In Test cricket, he's a vital part of this team and we wanted him to be 100 per cent fit for a longer period to that he can come back to us in the Test format. He is very disappointed that he's not able to recover in time," Kohli elaborated. In a strange u-turn, after he was ruled out at the time of Kohli's pre-match press conference, Ashwin was named in the 13-man shortlist for this fourth Test. A final decision on his fitness and availability for the match will be taken at toss-time. Additionally, India have included left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav as cover, in case the skipper decides to go in with two spinners. Umesh Yadav has been included in place of Ishant, along with Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah. In Rohit Sharma's absence, out-of-favour opener KL Rahul could be slated for a comeback after missing out in Melbourne, with Hanuma Vihari slotting down to his number six spot. This is on assumption that regardless of Ashwin's fitness, India will opt to play four bowlers, whether in two-pacer-two spinners or three-pacers-one-spinner combination. There is no option of playing an all-rounder as Hardik Pandya continues to be ignored, despite a hectic pre-match workout in the nets with both bat and ball. Kohli has described Vihari as an "exciting" spinner and he will be the second spin option, if India retain their bowling combination from the MCG Test. Additionally, this 13-man shortlist can also be seen as a ploy to keep Australia guessing, for the hosts made a departure from norm and decided not to name their playing eleven for the first time in this series. Skipper Tim Paine said that they would wait to announce the team until the toss, taking into consideration if India opt to play two full-time spinners. While they need at least a draw in Sydney to win the series outright, India will retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy irrespective of the result. Kohli will join Ganguly as the only Indian captain to have achieved this feat in Australia. Additionally, one more win will take Kohli ahead of Ganguly, who led India to 11 wins in 28 overseas Tests. Kohli has matched that record in 24 away Tests. For Australia, batsman Peter Handscomb is expected to make a comeback for Mitchell Marsh, who has come under severe criticism after his poor shot selection in Melbourne. The other toss-up is between opener Aaron Finch and leg-spin all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne. If Finch is left out, Usman Khawaja will open with Marcus Harris, and Labuschagne slotting in the middle-order. It remains to be seen if this would solve any of Australia's batting problems, with not a single batsman scoring a century so far in this Test series. Teams: India (Final 13): Virat Kohli (capt), Mayank Agarwal, Hanuma Vihari, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin. Australia: Tim Paine (capt & wk), Marcus Harris, Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, Shaun Marsh, Mitchell Marsh, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Marnus Labuschagne, Peter Handscomb, Peter Siddle.

IND vs AUS, 4th Test: Injured Ashwin, Ishant to miss out as India chase history

Australian skipper Tim Paine Wednesday said his "work-in-progress" team is unfazed by the prospect of losing a home Test series to India for the first time and will only be focused on being competitive in the fourth Test here.

India have never won a Test series on Australian soil, but go into the series-finale starting Thursday with a 2-1 lead. The visitors need only a draw to claim a piece of history.

"My focus has been on us improving and us playing the best possible cricket we can. We want to win every Test we play. At times it's not possible. We're playing the best Test team in the world at the moment who are playing really well," Paine admitted in the pre-match press conference.

Australia lost the third Test by 137 runs in Melbourne.

"I haven't thought too much about losing the series, that's for sure...Some guys will use different things to motivate them. My motivation is making sure we're improving, competitive at all times and put up a really good fight against India," he said.&nbsp;

Paine said Australia's inexperienced batting line-up failed to get going in Melbourne, but will slowly learn from mistakes. No Australian batsman has scored a hundred yet in this series and it is something the skipper hoped would be remedied in this final match.

"We are constantly a work in progress...As I said before, it is about trying to keep a bit of perspective, a reality about where we are at. I think we are showing signs of getting better," he said.&nbsp;

"I think in the last Test while our batters didn't set the world on fire, most guys got a start and showed that they can succeed at this level. So in this Test there is going to be a real focus from our batting group," he added.

He didn't make a direct mention of the ball-tampering bans of Steve Smith and David Warner, which will end in March, but Paine spoke of the experience that the side will have a few matches' time. He felt it would strengthen the team.&nbsp;

"We know we are not going to win too many Test matches without scoring hundreds and that's something that we have spoken about. It is something we are really keen to improve and address.

"The silver lining is that in a few Tests' time we have some world-class players available and we are going to have some younger guys with 8-10 Tests under their belt. So, it is going to be a great thing for Australian cricket," he said.

Australia are expected to make a couple of changes, with Aaron Finch making way for Usman Khawaja at the top and Peter Handscomb coming in for Mitchell Marsh. But the hosts haven't named their playing eleven for the first time in the series. Paine shrugged off suggestions that he could move up the order.

"We want to try and settle guys who we think will play long-term in their positions looking forward into the next series and then into the Ashes. But at the same time we've got to find the best eleven to win this Test as well, so it's a bit of a balancing act," he explained.&nbsp;

"I've had some discussions around that (promoting himself). It may happen, it may not, but I certainly haven't been setting the world on fire. I need to cash in on my starts as well so I'm no different to the other guys in our top six and I've just got to play my role," he added.&nbsp;

Speaking about the opposition, Paine expressed surprised that off-spinner R Ashwin might not be available for the fourth Test due to niggles. For Australia, leg-spin all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne might be set for a debut depending on the pitch conditions come Thursday morning.

"...I think some of our batters will be pretty happy to hear that news (of Ashwin probably missing out). But we know they've got some other spinners in their squad. Kuldeep Yadav is younger but has got some serious talent and Ravindra Jadeja did the job for them in Melbourne," he said.&nbsp;

"We'll have a quick look at the wicket again today an probably decide later on this afternoon. It is about team balance really.

"We'll be looking to pick the best eleven that we think is the best combination to win this Test. Obviously the wicket will play a part in that," he signed off.&nbsp;

Australian skipper Tim Paine Wednesday said his "work-in-progress" team is unfazed by the prospect of losing a home Test series to India for the first time and will only be focused on being competitive in the fourth Test here.

Australian skipper Tim Paine Wednesday said his "work-in-progress" team is unfazed by the prospect of losing a home Test series to India for the first time and will only be focused on being competitive in the fourth Test here. India have never won a Test series on Australian soil, but go into the series-finale starting Thursday with a 2-1 lead. The visitors need only a draw to claim a piece of history. "My focus has been on us improving and us playing the best possible cricket we can. We want to win every Test we play. At times it's not possible. We're playing the best Test team in the world at the moment who are playing really well," Paine admitted in the pre-match press conference. Australia lost the third Test by 137 runs in Melbourne. "I haven't thought too much about losing the series, that's for sure...Some guys will use different things to motivate them. My motivation is making sure we're improving, competitive at all times and put up a really good fight against India," he said. Paine said Australia's inexperienced batting line-up failed to get going in Melbourne, but will slowly learn from mistakes. No Australian batsman has scored a hundred yet in this series and it is something the skipper hoped would be remedied in this final match. "We are constantly a work in progress...As I said before, it is about trying to keep a bit of perspective, a reality about where we are at. I think we are showing signs of getting better," he said. "I think in the last Test while our batters didn't set the world on fire, most guys got a start and showed that they can succeed at this level. So in this Test there is going to be a real focus from our batting group," he added. He didn't make a direct mention of the ball-tampering bans of Steve Smith and David Warner, which will end in March, but Paine spoke of the experience that the side will have a few matches' time. He felt it would strengthen the team. "We know we are not going to win too many Test matches without scoring hundreds and that's something that we have spoken about. It is something we are really keen to improve and address. "The silver lining is that in a few Tests' time we have some world-class players available and we are going to have some younger guys with 8-10 Tests under their belt. So, it is going to be a great thing for Australian cricket," he said. Australia are expected to make a couple of changes, with Aaron Finch making way for Usman Khawaja at the top and Peter Handscomb coming in for Mitchell Marsh. But the hosts haven't named their playing eleven for the first time in the series. Paine shrugged off suggestions that he could move up the order. "We want to try and settle guys who we think will play long-term in their positions looking forward into the next series and then into the Ashes. But at the same time we've got to find the best eleven to win this Test as well, so it's a bit of a balancing act," he explained. "I've had some discussions around that (promoting himself). It may happen, it may not, but I certainly haven't been setting the world on fire. I need to cash in on my starts as well so I'm no different to the other guys in our top six and I've just got to play my role," he added. Speaking about the opposition, Paine expressed surprised that off-spinner R Ashwin might not be available for the fourth Test due to niggles. For Australia, leg-spin all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne might be set for a debut depending on the pitch conditions come Thursday morning. "...I think some of our batters will be pretty happy to hear that news (of Ashwin probably missing out). But we know they've got some other spinners in their squad. Kuldeep Yadav is younger but has got some serious talent and Ravindra Jadeja did the job for them in Melbourne," he said. "We'll have a quick look at the wicket again today an probably decide later on this afternoon. It is about team balance really. "We'll be looking to pick the best eleven that we think is the best combination to win this Test. Obviously the wicket will play a part in that," he signed off.

Focus on performance not preserving record against India: Paine

Racing against time to be fit for the fourth and final Test against Australia starting Thursday, India's ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin underwent a solo indoor bowling session at the SCG on Tuesday.

Ashwin, who was accompanied by physiotherapist Patrick Farhart and another support staff, bowled at the indoor centre facilities of the Sydney Cricket Ground while rest of the India squad took the day off.

The 32-year-old off-spinner missed the second and third Tests because of a side strain he sustained during the first Test win in Adelaide, where he claimed 6 for 149, his best match figures in seven Tests in Australia.

With the SCG pitch expected to be a turner, India are hoping for Ashwin's quick recovery before the final match of the four-Test series.

Racing against time to be fit for the fourth and final Test against Australia starting Thursday, India's ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin underwent a solo indoor bowling session at the SCG on Tuesday.

Racing against time to be fit for the fourth and final Test against Australia starting Thursday, India's ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin underwent a solo indoor bowling session at the SCG on Tuesday. Ashwin, who was accompanied by physiotherapist Patrick Farhart and another support staff, bowled at the indoor centre facilities of the Sydney Cricket Ground while rest of the India squad took the day off. The 32-year-old off-spinner missed the second and third Tests because of a side strain he sustained during the first Test win in Adelaide, where he claimed 6 for 149, his best match figures in seven Tests in Australia. With the SCG pitch expected to be a turner, India are hoping for Ashwin's quick recovery before the final match of the four-Test series.

Ashwin has bowling session ahead of Sydney Test

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the direct qualifiers for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2020.&nbsp;

The T20 World Cup is scheduled to be held in Australia, based on the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings as on 31 December 2018.

As per the qualification criteria set for the tournament, ICC announced in a statement that Australia and the other nine top-ranked sides have ensured direct qualification.

The top eight make it straight to the Super 12s stage while the remaining two will play in the group stage along with six other teams who will make it through from the ICC T20 World Cup Qualifier in 2019.&nbsp;

Four teams from the group stage will advance to the Super 12s.

Of the top 10 sides on the rankings table, top-ranked Pakistan, India, England, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, the West Indies and Afghanistan will start their campaign directly in the Super 12s.&nbsp;

Former champions and three-time finalists Sri Lanka and Bangladesh will have to contend with the other six qualifiers in the group stage of the tournament, which will be held from 18 October to 15 November 2020. 
&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the direct qualifiers for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2020. The T20 World Cup is scheduled to be held in Australia, based on the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings as on 31 December 2018.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced the direct qualifiers for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2020. The T20 World Cup is scheduled to be held in Australia, based on the ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings as on 31 December 2018. As per the qualification criteria set for the tournament, ICC announced in a statement that Australia and the other nine top-ranked sides have ensured direct qualification. The top eight make it straight to the Super 12s stage while the remaining two will play in the group stage along with six other teams who will make it through from the ICC T20 World Cup Qualifier in 2019. Four teams from the group stage will advance to the Super 12s. Of the top 10 sides on the rankings table, top-ranked Pakistan, India, England, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, the West Indies and Afghanistan will start their campaign directly in the Super 12s. Former champions and three-time finalists Sri Lanka and Bangladesh will have to contend with the other six qualifiers in the group stage of the tournament, which will be held from 18 October to 15 November 2020.

ICC announces direct qualifiers for Men's T20 World Cup 2020

The banter between Indian wicketkeeper-batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-now-tim-paines-sledging-includes-wife-and-babysitting-187049">Rishabh Pant and Australian skipper Tim Paine</a> during the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-australia-by-137-runs-to-win-melbourne-test-187279">Boxing Day Test</a> made several headlines.

However, the fans found the cheeky comments between the two to be interesting and laughable.&nbsp;In one such banter, Tim asked Pant if he is available to babysit his kids when he takes his wife out for a movie.&nbsp;

Pant didn’t sit back and gave it back to the Aussie skipper when he came to bat in the fourth innings and called him a ‘temporary captain’. Pant said, “We’ve got a special guest today…..have you heard of a temporary captain ever? You don’t need anything to get him out boys. He loves to talk, that’s the only thing he can do, only talking talking.”

But guess what, days later the incident, Paine's wife uploaded a picture on her Instagram where Pant can be seen holding one of her kids.

Bonnie Paine, Tim's wife, even called Pant as the 'best babysitter'.

Meanwhile, the fourth and final Test of the series will kick off on January 3 at Sydney Cricket Ground. India are leading the series 2-1 and will try to create history by winning a series on Australian soil.&nbsp;

India will be without the services of Rohit Sharma in this Test, who has flown back to India to be with his wife and new-born daughter. He is expected to be replaced by R Ashwin in the squad, keeping the pitch in mind.&nbsp;

If Ashwin is unfit for the match, then Kuldeep Yadav might be looked at for a place in the playing XI.

The banter between Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant and Australian skipper Tim Paine during the Boxing Day Test made several headlines. However, the fans found the cheeky comments between the two to be interesting and laughable.

The banter between Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant and Australian skipper Tim Paine during the Boxing Day Test made several headlines. However, the fans found the cheeky comments between the two to be interesting and laughable. In one such banter, Tim asked Pant if he is available to babysit his kids when he takes his wife out for a movie. Pant didn’t sit back and gave it back to the Aussie skipper when he came to bat in the fourth innings and called him a ‘temporary captain’. Pant said, “We’ve got a special guest today…..have you heard of a temporary captain ever? You don’t need anything to get him out boys. He loves to talk, that’s the only thing he can do, only talking talking.” But guess what, days later the incident, Paine's wife uploaded a picture on her Instagram where Pant can be seen holding one of her kids. Bonnie Paine, Tim's wife, even called Pant as the 'best babysitter'. Meanwhile, the fourth and final Test of the series will kick off on January 3 at Sydney Cricket Ground. India are leading the series 2-1 and will try to create history by winning a series on Australian soil. India will be without the services of Rohit Sharma in this Test, who has flown back to India to be with his wife and new-born daughter. He is expected to be replaced by R Ashwin in the squad, keeping the pitch in mind. If Ashwin is unfit for the match, then Kuldeep Yadav might be looked at for a place in the playing XI.

See! 'Babysitter' Pant's photo with Tim Paine's kids

Overflowing with confidence and buoyed by the blossoming of a rare pace talent, India can sniff a first-ever series win on Australian soil ahead of the fourth and final Test in Sydney.

Led by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/delighted-virat-kohli-praises-jasprit-bumrah-mayank-agarwal-after-3rd-test-victory-over-australia-187321">Jasprit Bumrah</a>'s series-leading 20 wickets, India's vaunted pace attack have hogged the spotlight this tour but the slow bowlers may get their turn to shine on the traditionally spin-friendly wicket at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Leading the series 2-1 after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-australia-by-137-runs-to-win-melbourne-test-187279">137-run thrashing</a> of Tim Paine's depleted Australia in Melbourne on Sunday, Virat Kohli's team are in the box seat to shrug off the nation's history of underachievement Down Under.

The last Indian team to win two Tests in Australia was back in 1977-78 but the Bob Simpson-captained hosts claimed the fifth and final contest to break the hearts of Bishan Bedi's side.

After India outplayed Australia with bat and ball in Melbourne, Kohli is convinced India have the firepower to break new ground.

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Thank you to all the fans for the Love and support! A special win at The MCG. Next stop - SCG 🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/HR4FnnGEbA">pic.twitter.com/HR4FnnGEbA</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1079251672231104512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"We're not shocked or very surprised by what's happened," he said after the MCG triumph.

"We always believed that it's very possible because of the talent we have in the side and the mindset that we've been carrying for the last 12 months, regardless of what's been said or the mistakes we've made.

"It's a great opportunity from the point of view that we always wanted to win a series away from home.

"The fact that the boys realised we worked so hard to be here now and there is no looking back, it's the last Test of the series and you have to give everything you have to win a series, and that was our goal from day one."

India's sole defeat in the series came without a spinner at Perth, when the team went with four pace bowlers in a much-criticised selection. Australia spinner Nathan Lyon took a bag of wickets to be named man-of-the-match.

Left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja was selected in Melbourne and supported the quicks with five wickets, while Ravichandran Ashwin continued his recovery from an abdominal strain.

Ashwin took six wickets and was instrumental in the series-opening win in Adelaide, so India may be keen to unleash a dual spin bowling attack against Australia's ill-at-ease batsmen.

"It depends on the pitch. I think Ashwin's very close to being match fit," Kohli said. "He's been bowling a lot of overs and I'm sure these next four days will make him even stronger.

"Regardless, being the last Test match I think he will be willing to push himself and start for the team but again it depends on what type of pitch we get for Sydney."

Plagued by worries over their opening pair after Perth, India solved one half of the equation by blooding Mayank Agarwal, who enjoyed a stellar debut with a 76 in the first innings and three catches in the match.

With 42 in the second innings, Agarwal's total of 118 runs for the match was a record for an Indian debutant in Australia.

Spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari, promoted from number six after Perth, was less assured in his debut as an opener, scoring eight and 13.

He could make way for fit-again seam-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya should selectors opt for two spinners.

Kohli, however, praised Vihari for soaking up 111 deliveries in the Melbourne Test and may be reluctant to fiddle too much with a winning combination.

Overflowing with confidence and buoyed by the blossoming of a rare pace talent, India can sniff a first-ever series win on Australian soil ahead of the fourth and final Test in Sydney.

Overflowing with confidence and buoyed by the blossoming of a rare pace talent, India can sniff a first-ever series win on Australian soil ahead of the fourth and final Test in Sydney. Led by Jasprit Bumrah's series-leading 20 wickets, India's vaunted pace attack have hogged the spotlight this tour but the slow bowlers may get their turn to shine on the traditionally spin-friendly wicket at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Leading the series 2-1 after the 137-run thrashing of Tim Paine's depleted Australia in Melbourne on Sunday, Virat Kohli's team are in the box seat to shrug off the nation's history of underachievement Down Under. The last Indian team to win two Tests in Australia was back in 1977-78 but the Bob Simpson-captained hosts claimed the fifth and final contest to break the hearts of Bishan Bedi's side. After India outplayed Australia with bat and ball in Melbourne, Kohli is convinced India have the firepower to break new ground. Thank you to all the fans for the Love and support! A special win at The MCG. Next stop - SCG 🇮🇳 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/HR4FnnGEbA — BCCI (@BCCI) December 30, 2018 × "We're not shocked or very surprised by what's happened," he said after the MCG triumph. "We always believed that it's very possible because of the talent we have in the side and the mindset that we've been carrying for the last 12 months, regardless of what's been said or the mistakes we've made. "It's a great opportunity from the point of view that we always wanted to win a series away from home. "The fact that the boys realised we worked so hard to be here now and there is no looking back, it's the last Test of the series and you have to give everything you have to win a series, and that was our goal from day one." India's sole defeat in the series came without a spinner at Perth, when the team went with four pace bowlers in a much-criticised selection. Australia spinner Nathan Lyon took a bag of wickets to be named man-of-the-match. Left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja was selected in Melbourne and supported the quicks with five wickets, while Ravichandran Ashwin continued his recovery from an abdominal strain. Ashwin took six wickets and was instrumental in the series-opening win in Adelaide, so India may be keen to unleash a dual spin bowling attack against Australia's ill-at-ease batsmen. "It depends on the pitch. I think Ashwin's very close to being match fit," Kohli said. "He's been bowling a lot of overs and I'm sure these next four days will make him even stronger. "Regardless, being the last Test match I think he will be willing to push himself and start for the team but again it depends on what type of pitch we get for Sydney." Plagued by worries over their opening pair after Perth, India solved one half of the equation by blooding Mayank Agarwal, who enjoyed a stellar debut with a 76 in the first innings and three catches in the match. With 42 in the second innings, Agarwal's total of 118 runs for the match was a record for an Indian debutant in Australia. Spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari, promoted from number six after Perth, was less assured in his debut as an opener, scoring eight and 13. He could make way for fit-again seam-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya should selectors opt for two spinners. Kohli, however, praised Vihari for soaking up 111 deliveries in the Melbourne Test and may be reluctant to fiddle too much with a winning combination.

Virat Kohli-led India sniff maiden series win in Sydney

Australia is set to rest its fast-bowling trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood for the first three ODIs against India in a bid to manage their workload ahead of a busy international calendar.&nbsp;

Cummins has been Australia's top performer with both the ball and the bat in the just-concluded Boxing Day Test in Melbourne and coach Justin Langer insisted that it's a great selection "conundrum" for the hosts for the ODI series which begins in Sydney on January 12.&nbsp;

Langer said Australia need to keep its players fit and fresh ahead of busy 2019, which includes a World Cup and an Ashes tour and hinted that Cummins, Starc and Hazlewood may be rested in the ODI series against India ahead of the two Tests against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

"It's the great conundrum for us, really, how we manage our bowlers. For example, we might not play them in the next three one-dayers so they're ready for the next two (Tests) to keep them fresh," Langer was quoted as saying by 'The Sydney Morning Herald'.&nbsp;

"He (Cummins) has been brilliant, he's been outstanding but then - as soon as we do that they want to play and also then everyone else would be on our back saying: 'Why aren't they playing every single game?' But if you play every game - we've also got a World Cup and Ashes next year - we want him fresh for those things."&nbsp;

Cummins, who has been Australia's best fast bowler in the first three Tests against India with 14 wickets at an average of 20.07, had earlier missed the ODI series in England and the two Tests against Pakistan in the UAE owing to injuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The lanky pacer is one of several Australian cricketers, who will not feature in the 2019 IPL because of a packed international calendar.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"You look at every year on an individual basis and the player as well. There might be times when it's a really good thing for them to be playing IPL. But there's so much cricket now. The players individually - and us as management - have to make sure we get the balance right so everyone is happy and playing cricket," Langer said.&nbsp;

"So getting that management right and staying true to the management, so we can have him (Cummins) fit and firing - we've got to be strong with that because there's got to be a lot of people with different opinions as to whether they should play every game," he said.&nbsp;

"But we know it's really hard to play all year around because they need to keep their bodies as fresh and strong (as possible) and then be bowling at the level we want them to be at. It's a real balancing act as well."

Australia is set to rest its fast-bowling trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood for the first three ODIs against India in a bid to manage their workload ahead of a busy international calendar.

Australia is set to rest its fast-bowling trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood for the first three ODIs against India in a bid to manage their workload ahead of a busy international calendar. Cummins has been Australia's top performer with both the ball and the bat in the just-concluded Boxing Day Test in Melbourne and coach Justin Langer insisted that it's a great selection "conundrum" for the hosts for the ODI series which begins in Sydney on January 12. Langer said Australia need to keep its players fit and fresh ahead of busy 2019, which includes a World Cup and an Ashes tour and hinted that Cummins, Starc and Hazlewood may be rested in the ODI series against India ahead of the two Tests against Sri Lanka. "It's the great conundrum for us, really, how we manage our bowlers. For example, we might not play them in the next three one-dayers so they're ready for the next two (Tests) to keep them fresh," Langer was quoted as saying by 'The Sydney Morning Herald'. "He (Cummins) has been brilliant, he's been outstanding but then - as soon as we do that they want to play and also then everyone else would be on our back saying: 'Why aren't they playing every single game?' But if you play every game - we've also got a World Cup and Ashes next year - we want him fresh for those things." Cummins, who has been Australia's best fast bowler in the first three Tests against India with 14 wickets at an average of 20.07, had earlier missed the ODI series in England and the two Tests against Pakistan in the UAE owing to injuries. The lanky pacer is one of several Australian cricketers, who will not feature in the 2019 IPL because of a packed international calendar. "You look at every year on an individual basis and the player as well. There might be times when it's a really good thing for them to be playing IPL. But there's so much cricket now. The players individually - and us as management - have to make sure we get the balance right so everyone is happy and playing cricket," Langer said. "So getting that management right and staying true to the management, so we can have him (Cummins) fit and firing - we've got to be strong with that because there's got to be a lot of people with different opinions as to whether they should play every game," he said. "But we know it's really hard to play all year around because they need to keep their bodies as fresh and strong (as possible) and then be bowling at the level we want them to be at. It's a real balancing act as well."

Australia set to rest Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood for first 3 ODIs against India

India's star batsman Rohit Sharma will miss the fourth and final Test match against Australia as he has flown down to India to be with his with his wife Ritika Sajdeh as the couple is blessed with a baby girl.&nbsp;

The official Twitter handle of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed that Rohit Sharma will join the one-day squad on January 8. It means, he will miss the Sydney Test which is scheduled to start from January&nbsp;3.

Rohit and Ritika got married in the year 2015 and&nbsp;BCCI congratulated him "on the beginning of a new chapter in his life".

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Update - Rohit Sharma to join ODI squad on 8th January 
 
India batsman <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> left for Mumbai on the 30th of December to attend to his wife who has delivered a baby girl. The BCCI congratulates Rohit on the beginning of a new chapter in his life. <a href="https://t.co/7jokivuLGT">pic.twitter.com/7jokivuLGT</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1079624898358607872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">31 December 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rohit Sharma returned after missing the second Test and scored&nbsp;a crucial 63* in the first innings as India registered a comfortable win by 137 runs.

After the win, India lead the four-match series 2-1 and Virat Kohli's team are in the box seat to shrug off the nation's history of underachievement Down Under.

The last Indian team to win two Tests in Australia was back in 1977-78 but the Bob Simpson-captained hosts claimed the fifth and final contest to break the hearts of Bishan Bedi's side.

India's star batsman Rohit Sharma will miss the fourth and final Test match against Australia as he has flown down to India to be with his with his wife Ritika Sajdeh as the couple is blessed with a baby girl.

India's star batsman Rohit Sharma will miss the fourth and final Test match against Australia as he has flown down to India to be with his with his wife Ritika Sajdeh as the couple is blessed with a baby girl. The official Twitter handle of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed that Rohit Sharma will join the one-day squad on January 8. It means, he will miss the Sydney Test which is scheduled to start from January 3. Rohit and Ritika got married in the year 2015 and BCCI congratulated him "on the beginning of a new chapter in his life". Update - Rohit Sharma to join ODI squad on 8th January India batsman @ImRo45 left for Mumbai on the 30th of December to attend to his wife who has delivered a baby girl. The BCCI congratulates Rohit on the beginning of a new chapter in his life. pic.twitter.com/7jokivuLGT — BCCI (@BCCI) 31 December 2018 × Rohit Sharma returned after missing the second Test and scored a crucial 63* in the first innings as India registered a comfortable win by 137 runs. After the win, India lead the four-match series 2-1 and Virat Kohli's team are in the box seat to shrug off the nation's history of underachievement Down Under. The last Indian team to win two Tests in Australia was back in 1977-78 but the Bob Simpson-captained hosts claimed the fifth and final contest to break the hearts of Bishan Bedi's side.

Rohit Sharma blessed with baby girl, will miss Sydney Test

India defeated Australia by 137 runs to win the third Test of a four-match series at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday. With the win, India have taken an&nbsp;unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.&nbsp;

Chasing a huge 399 to win, Australia were all out for 261 in the post-lunch session after the first session was washed out due to intermittent showers.&nbsp;

India, the world's top-ranked nation, are eying the first-ever series win Down Under in Sydney later this week, where they only need a draw to smash the long-time jinx.&nbsp;

No team before had made more than 332 to win, and that was in 1928 by England.&nbsp;

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INDIA LEAD SERIES 2-1! 
 
With the wicket of Nathan Lyon, Ishant Sharma wraps Australia up for 261, powering his side to a convincing 137-run win at the MCG.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> SCORECARD 👇<a href="https://t.co/XyVZQv8kRp">https://t.co/XyVZQv8kRp</a> <a href="https://t.co/8o7GPf04yZ">pic.twitter.com/8o7GPf04yZ</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1079202275908771840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The home team were 258 for eight overnight,&nbsp;with Pat Cummins not out 61 and Nathan Lyon on six, with just Josh Hazlewood to come.&nbsp;

While Indian pacers were quick to take the remaining wickets to give India a historic win at MCG and also it was India's 150th Test match win.&nbsp;

India's yorker specialist Jasprit Bumrah stuck in his second over of the day and send back Pat Cummins, who showed immense resistance with his bat. Cummins returned to the pavilion after scoring 63 off 114.&nbsp;

In the next over, Ishant Sharma took the last wicket as Nathan Lyon departed after scored seven runs off 50 balls.&nbsp;

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Jasprit Bumrah gets the big wicket of Pat Cummins! 
 
India are just one wicket away from retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE 👇<a href="https://t.co/XyVZQv8kRp">https://t.co/XyVZQv8kRp</a> <a href="https://t.co/cURNQ2HP5w">pic.twitter.com/cURNQ2HP5w</a>
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Bumrah was awarded player of the match for his brilliant bowling. He took a total of nine wickets in the third match and so far in the series, he has taken 20 wickets.&nbsp;

Cummins aside, no other Australian passed 50 in Melbourne, exposing their lack of batting depth and reinforcing how much they are missing the banned Steve Smith and David Warner.

The pair's year-long suspensions for ball-tampering run out in late March and it is widely believed that they will be reintegrated quickly into the team.

It leaves India zeroing in on a first-ever series win in Australia with just the Sydney Test next week to go.&nbsp;

India won the first Test in Adelaide by 31 runs with Australia bouncing back to claim the second in Perth by 146 runs.&nbsp;

India defeated Australia by 137 runs to win the third Test of a four-match series at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday. With the win, India have taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.

India defeated Australia by 137 runs to win the third Test of a four-match series at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday. With the win, India have taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series. Chasing a huge 399 to win, Australia were all out for 261 in the post-lunch session after the first session was washed out due to intermittent showers. India, the world's top-ranked nation, are eying the first-ever series win Down Under in Sydney later this week, where they only need a draw to smash the long-time jinx. No team before had made more than 332 to win, and that was in 1928 by England. INDIA LEAD SERIES 2-1! With the wicket of Nathan Lyon, Ishant Sharma wraps Australia up for 261, powering his side to a convincing 137-run win at the MCG.#AUSvIND SCORECARD 👇https://t.co/XyVZQv8kRp pic.twitter.com/8o7GPf04yZ — ICC (@ICC) December 30, 2018 × The home team were 258 for eight overnight, with Pat Cummins not out 61 and Nathan Lyon on six, with just Josh Hazlewood to come. While Indian pacers were quick to take the remaining wickets to give India a historic win at MCG and also it was India's 150th Test match win. India's yorker specialist Jasprit Bumrah stuck in his second over of the day and send back Pat Cummins, who showed immense resistance with his bat. Cummins returned to the pavilion after scoring 63 off 114. In the next over, Ishant Sharma took the last wicket as Nathan Lyon departed after scored seven runs off 50 balls. Jasprit Bumrah gets the big wicket of Pat Cummins! India are just one wicket away from retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.#AUSvIND LIVE 👇https://t.co/XyVZQv8kRp pic.twitter.com/cURNQ2HP5w — ICC (@ICC) December 30, 2018 × Bumrah was awarded player of the match for his brilliant bowling. He took a total of nine wickets in the third match and so far in the series, he has taken 20 wickets. Cummins aside, no other Australian passed 50 in Melbourne, exposing their lack of batting depth and reinforcing how much they are missing the banned Steve Smith and David Warner. The pair's year-long suspensions for ball-tampering run out in late March and it is widely believed that they will be reintegrated quickly into the team. It leaves India zeroing in on a first-ever series win in Australia with just the Sydney Test next week to go. India won the first Test in Adelaide by 31 runs with Australia bouncing back to claim the second in Perth by 146 runs.

India beat Australia by 137 runs to win Melbourne Test

Indian skipper Virat Kohli&nbsp;hailed "outstanding" pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah Sunday and declared batsmen around the world should be scared of the young hotshot fast bowler.

The 25-year-old right-arm quick with an unorthodox rigid action took 9-86 in the Melbourne Test against Australia, including a career-best 6-33 in the first innings.

In his first year of Test cricket he has claimed three five-wicket hauls overseas -- in South Africa, England and now Australia, where his exploits were central to India's 137-run win.&nbsp;

"Credit has to go to the bowlers. I think they have been outstanding, especially Jasprit. The way he bowled in this Test match was outstanding," said Kohli after win gave India a 2-1 lead in the four-Test series.

"The mindset he has at the moment is what separates him from anyone else in the world right now.

"He looks at a pitch and he doesn't think it's a hard toil, he thinks wickets, he thinks how can I get a breakthrough for the team.

"He's as strong-headed as I've seen anyone in the past and that's the key to his success that I've seen in the last 12 months, the way he has matured as a Test cricketer."

He added that the way Bumrah was bowling so soon in his Test career "is a very scary sign for batsmen around the world".

Kohli is widely seen as one of the best batsmen of his generation and even he said he wouldn't want to be facing Bumrah on surfaces like the recent Perth Test, where the cracked pitch caused variable bounce and numerous blows to the body.

"In Test cricket, especially on a pitch like Perth, I wouldn't want to face him to be honest because once he is on a roll, he can really crank it up."

It wasn't just the bowlers that were impeccable for India in Melbourne. The batsmen, led by Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara, were also top class.

Kohli said he was most proud of the way the team bounced back after losing in Perth.

"I think that takes more mentally out of you than starting a series well, so I think that's why this victory is more special for the bowlers," he said.

"They've been so tired and bowled so many overs. Even in this game they had to put in more effort because of the nature of the pitch. So outstanding, hats off to them."

Indian skipper Virat Kohli hailed "outstanding" pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah Sunday and declared batsmen around the world should be scared of the young hotshot fast bowler.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli hailed "outstanding" pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah Sunday and declared batsmen around the world should be scared of the young hotshot fast bowler. The 25-year-old right-arm quick with an unorthodox rigid action took 9-86 in the Melbourne Test against Australia, including a career-best 6-33 in the first innings. In his first year of Test cricket he has claimed three five-wicket hauls overseas -- in South Africa, England and now Australia, where his exploits were central to India's 137-run win. "Credit has to go to the bowlers. I think they have been outstanding, especially Jasprit. The way he bowled in this Test match was outstanding," said Kohli after win gave India a 2-1 lead in the four-Test series. "The mindset he has at the moment is what separates him from anyone else in the world right now. "He looks at a pitch and he doesn't think it's a hard toil, he thinks wickets, he thinks how can I get a breakthrough for the team. "He's as strong-headed as I've seen anyone in the past and that's the key to his success that I've seen in the last 12 months, the way he has matured as a Test cricketer." He added that the way Bumrah was bowling so soon in his Test career "is a very scary sign for batsmen around the world". Kohli is widely seen as one of the best batsmen of his generation and even he said he wouldn't want to be facing Bumrah on surfaces like the recent Perth Test, where the cracked pitch caused variable bounce and numerous blows to the body. "In Test cricket, especially on a pitch like Perth, I wouldn't want to face him to be honest because once he is on a roll, he can really crank it up." It wasn't just the bowlers that were impeccable for India in Melbourne. The batsmen, led by Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara, were also top class. Kohli said he was most proud of the way the team bounced back after losing in Perth. "I think that takes more mentally out of you than starting a series well, so I think that's why this victory is more special for the bowlers," he said. "They've been so tired and bowled so many overs. Even in this game they had to put in more effort because of the nature of the pitch. So outstanding, hats off to them."

Bumrah's bowling 'scary sign for batsmen around the world,' says Virat Kohli

Australia on Sunday included leg-spinning all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne in the squad for the series-deciding fourth and final Test against India in Sydney, beginning Thursday.

India on Sunday defeated Australia by 137 runs at the third Test to take an unassailable 2-1 lead in the four-Test series.

After winning the second Test, Australia had announced a 13-member squad for both the third and fourth Test but now they have added South African-born Labuschagne for the crucial Sydney match where the hosts need a win to level the series.

"We'll get up to Sydney and have a look at the conditions," skipper Tim Paine said as he confirmed Labuschagne's inclusion.

"From what we're hearing, it'll probably spin quite a bit so once we see that for ourselves, we'll start to think about the best combination for ourselves to win that Test."&nbsp;

Opener Aaron Finch and all-rounder Mitch Marsh are under pressure to retain their spot in the playing XI following the loss at the MCG and Australia will now have another option to go for.

Paine said there will be "a lot of things on the table" when selectors meet in Sydney.

"We think we've got the best group of players available to us at the moment and we'll pick the best combination from that group that we think will win the last Test," he said.

Labuschagne had made his Test debut against Pakistan in the UAE in October but was dropped for the India series as Peter Handscomb and all-rounder Mitchell Marsh came into the middle order.

Australia squad: Aaron Finch, Peter Handscomb, Marcus Harris, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitch Marsh, Tim Paine (capt) Nathan Lyon, Shaun Marsh, Pat Cummins, Peter Siddle, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood.&nbsp;

Australia on Sunday included leg-spinning all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne in the squad for the series-deciding fourth and final Test against India in Sydney, beginning Thursday.

Australia on Sunday included leg-spinning all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne in the squad for the series-deciding fourth and final Test against India in Sydney, beginning Thursday. India on Sunday defeated Australia by 137 runs at the third Test to take an unassailable 2-1 lead in the four-Test series. After winning the second Test, Australia had announced a 13-member squad for both the third and fourth Test but now they have added South African-born Labuschagne for the crucial Sydney match where the hosts need a win to level the series. "We'll get up to Sydney and have a look at the conditions," skipper Tim Paine said as he confirmed Labuschagne's inclusion. "From what we're hearing, it'll probably spin quite a bit so once we see that for ourselves, we'll start to think about the best combination for ourselves to win that Test." Opener Aaron Finch and all-rounder Mitch Marsh are under pressure to retain their spot in the playing XI following the loss at the MCG and Australia will now have another option to go for. Paine said there will be "a lot of things on the table" when selectors meet in Sydney. "We think we've got the best group of players available to us at the moment and we'll pick the best combination from that group that we think will win the last Test," he said. Labuschagne had made his Test debut against Pakistan in the UAE in October but was dropped for the India series as Peter Handscomb and all-rounder Mitchell Marsh came into the middle order. Australia squad: Aaron Finch, Peter Handscomb, Marcus Harris, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitch Marsh, Tim Paine (capt) Nathan Lyon, Shaun Marsh, Pat Cummins, Peter Siddle, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood.

Australia announces squad for 4th test against India

Indian cricket team registered a historic 137-run victory at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Sunday as they won the Boxing Day Test against Australia for the very first time.&nbsp;

Both the teams have played eight Boxing Tests in Melbourne since 1985, and India lost five and two ended in a draw but this is the first time when the 'Men in Blue' walked out as winners.

Earlier, India had won the first Test at the Adelaide Oval before going down in Perth.

Congratulating the Virat Kohli-led side, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar termed the team's effort as "incredible".

"Incredible effort by #TeamIndia to take a 2-1 lead, especially @Jaspritbumrah93 who has played an instrumental role in this win. He has gone from strength to strength in all formats of the game. Definitely one of the best in the world today. #INDvAUS," Sachin tweeted.

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Incredible effort by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> to take a 2-1 lead, especially <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a> who has played an instrumental role in this win. He has gone from strength to strength in all formats of the game. Definitely one of the best in the world today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/vweoHd0nEE">pic.twitter.com/vweoHd0nEE</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1079210461663358977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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37 years 10 months ago was the last time India won a test at the MCG, none of the players from either sides were born. This win is one to savour &amp; cherish for a long time and a perfect end to 2018 for Team India. Each player can be very proud of their contribution to this win👍
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1079200335111933952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The win gave India a 2-1 lead and leaves them on the verge of claiming a historic first series victory on Australian soil.

Chasing a huge 399 to win, Australia were all out for 261 in the post-lunch session after the first session was washed out due to intermittent showers. 
&nbsp; 
Bumrah was awarded player of the match for his brilliant bowling. He took a total of nine wickets in the third match and so far in the series, he has taken 20 wickets.&nbsp;

Indian cricket team registered a historic 137-run victory at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Sunday as they won the Boxing Day Test against Australia for the very first time.

Indian cricket team registered a historic 137-run victory at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Sunday as they won the Boxing Day Test against Australia for the very first time. Both the teams have played eight Boxing Tests in Melbourne since 1985, and India lost five and two ended in a draw but this is the first time when the 'Men in Blue' walked out as winners. Earlier, India had won the first Test at the Adelaide Oval before going down in Perth. Congratulating the Virat Kohli-led side, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar termed the team's effort as "incredible". "Incredible effort by #TeamIndia to take a 2-1 lead, especially @Jaspritbumrah93 who has played an instrumental role in this win. He has gone from strength to strength in all formats of the game. Definitely one of the best in the world today. #INDvAUS," Sachin tweeted. Incredible effort by #TeamIndia to take a 2-1 lead, especially @Jaspritbumrah93 who has played an instrumental role in this win. He has gone from strength to strength in all formats of the game. Definitely one of the best in the world today. #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/vweoHd0nEE — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) December 30, 2018 × 37 years 10 months ago was the last time India won a test at the MCG, none of the players from either sides were born. This win is one to savour & cherish for a long time and a perfect end to 2018 for Team India. Each player can be very proud of their contribution to this win👍 — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) December 30, 2018 × The win gave India a 2-1 lead and leaves them on the verge of claiming a historic first series victory on Australian soil. Chasing a huge 399 to win, Australia were all out for 261 in the post-lunch session after the first session was washed out due to intermittent showers. Bumrah was awarded player of the match for his brilliant bowling. He took a total of nine wickets in the third match and so far in the series, he has taken 20 wickets.

'Incredible effort,' says Sachin Tendulkar on India's historic Boxing Day Test win

India captain <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> praised his side after they defeated Australia by 137 runs in Melbourne on Sunday to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-australia-by-137-runs-to-win-melbourne-test-187279">win the third Test</a> of their four-match series. With the win, India have taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.&nbsp;

While addressing the media, Virat said, "We are very happy. Leading the series for the first time in Australia. We will take the trophy back home regardless of what happens in the last Test."&nbsp;

Virat added, "Although our aim is to win the series here, which is what we came here thinking and that hasn't changed regardless of whatever happened."

"But it is important to realise this moment and it is important to understand how much hard work we have put in to reach this scoreline. We have to appreciate that as a whole team."&nbsp;

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Thank you to all the fans for the Love and support! A special win at The MCG. Next stop - SCG 🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/HR4FnnGEbA">pic.twitter.com/HR4FnnGEbA</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1079251672231104512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Thank you, Melbourne for all the support. Onto the next one at the SCG <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/6iCBgNaLcu">pic.twitter.com/6iCBgNaLcu</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1079235152008675328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Kohli singled out bowler Jasprit Bumrah and Test debutante batsman Mayank Aggarwal for their contributions to the victory as India retained the Border-Gavaskar trophy.&nbsp;

Kohli told reporters, "Mayank's composure, his intent and belief, it was a huge boost for us. Because the way he batted at top of the order on first day, it has to be praised because it is not easy to come to Australia and start like that, and starting against such a bowling attack. He should also get a lot of credit for the win."&nbsp;

Virat gave a special mention to Bumrah, who was awarded player of the match for his brilliant bowling.&nbsp;

"Jasprit obviously is the best bowler in the world, as per me. He is a match winner, without doubt."

Bumrah took a total of nine wickets in the third match and so far in the series, he has taken 20 wickets.&nbsp;

The final Test match of the series starts 3rd January in Sydney.

India captain Virat Kohli praised his side after they defeated Australia by 137 runs in Melbourne on Sunday to win the third Test of their four-match series. With the win, India have taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.

India captain Virat Kohli praised his side after they defeated Australia by 137 runs in Melbourne on Sunday to win the third Test of their four-match series. With the win, India have taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series. While addressing the media, Virat said, "We are very happy. Leading the series for the first time in Australia. We will take the trophy back home regardless of what happens in the last Test." Virat added, "Although our aim is to win the series here, which is what we came here thinking and that hasn't changed regardless of whatever happened." "But it is important to realise this moment and it is important to understand how much hard work we have put in to reach this scoreline. We have to appreciate that as a whole team." Thank you to all the fans for the Love and support! A special win at The MCG. Next stop - SCG 🇮🇳 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/HR4FnnGEbA — BCCI (@BCCI) December 30, 2018 × Thank you, Melbourne for all the support. Onto the next one at the SCG #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/6iCBgNaLcu — BCCI (@BCCI) December 30, 2018 × Kohli singled out bowler Jasprit Bumrah and Test debutante batsman Mayank Aggarwal for their contributions to the victory as India retained the Border-Gavaskar trophy. Kohli told reporters, "Mayank's composure, his intent and belief, it was a huge boost for us. Because the way he batted at top of the order on first day, it has to be praised because it is not easy to come to Australia and start like that, and starting against such a bowling attack. He should also get a lot of credit for the win." Virat gave a special mention to Bumrah, who was awarded player of the match for his brilliant bowling. "Jasprit obviously is the best bowler in the world, as per me. He is a match winner, without doubt." Bumrah took a total of nine wickets in the third match and so far in the series, he has taken 20 wickets. The final Test match of the series starts 3rd January in Sydney.

Delighted Virat Kohli praises Jasprit Bumrah, Mayank Agarwal after 3rd Test victory over Australia

India's star bowler <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=jasprit+bumrah">Jasprit Bumrah</a>, in his first year in Test cricket, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-in-charge-but-devastating-pat-cummins-gives-australia-hope-186970">took a career-best 6-33</a> as India took control on the third day of the third Test against Australia.&nbsp;

Bumrah earned praises for a brilliant slower ball that dismissed Australian batsman Shaun Marsh on the third day of the third Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne.&nbsp;

He later explained what he thinks on that particular ball and his career-best bowling haul.

While speaking to the media, Bumrah said that when he was bowling on day three, wicket had become really slow and the ball became really soft.&nbsp;

He said on the last ball before the lunch, Rohit Sharma asked him to try a slower one, what he usually does in the one-day formats.&nbsp;

Bumrah said he was trying to bowl a fuller slower ball and the plan really worked.

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Oh what a feeling! BOOOOM!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/LncsUe0jGq">pic.twitter.com/LncsUe0jGq</a>
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India built a 346 run lead as Australia were bowled out for 151 in their first innings, in reply to the tourists 443-7 declared.

Pat Cummins gave the 33,447 fans at the MCG something to cheer with four wickets in nine balls as India slumped from 28-0 to end the day on 54-5, a lead of 346.

Bumrah broke the 39-year-old record held by spinner Dileep Doshi as he registered the most number of wickets taken by an India bowler in a debut year.

"We lost a few more wickets than we wanted to but we'll assess tomorrow morning and we'll try to add as much as we can and then hopefully get them out," Bumrah told reporters.

The four-Test series is level at one-all and earlier, India have never won a Test series in Australia.

India's star bowler Jasprit Bumrah, in his first year in Test cricket, took a career-best 6-33 as India took control on the third day of the third Test against Australia.

India's star bowler Jasprit Bumrah, in his first year in Test cricket, took a career-best 6-33 as India took control on the third day of the third Test against Australia. Bumrah earned praises for a brilliant slower ball that dismissed Australian batsman Shaun Marsh on the third day of the third Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne. He later explained what he thinks on that particular ball and his career-best bowling haul. While speaking to the media, Bumrah said that when he was bowling on day three, wicket had become really slow and the ball became really soft. He said on the last ball before the lunch, Rohit Sharma asked him to try a slower one, what he usually does in the one-day formats. Bumrah said he was trying to bowl a fuller slower ball and the plan really worked. Oh what a feeling! BOOOOM!#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/LncsUe0jGq — BCCI (@BCCI) December 28, 2018 × India built a 346 run lead as Australia were bowled out for 151 in their first innings, in reply to the tourists 443-7 declared. Pat Cummins gave the 33,447 fans at the MCG something to cheer with four wickets in nine balls as India slumped from 28-0 to end the day on 54-5, a lead of 346. Bumrah broke the 39-year-old record held by spinner Dileep Doshi as he registered the most number of wickets taken by an India bowler in a debut year. "We lost a few more wickets than we wanted to but we'll assess tomorrow morning and we'll try to add as much as we can and then hopefully get them out," Bumrah told reporters. The four-Test series is level at one-all and earlier, India have never won a Test series in Australia.

Bumrah reacts on career-best show and explains how he trapped Shaun Marsh

Australia were at 258 for eight at stumps on the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-india-march-to-brink-of-victory-in-melbourne-test-187151">fourth day of the third Test</a> against India in Melbourne. India set a target of 399 after the visitors declared their second innings at 106 for eight.&nbsp;

While Australian tailenders displayed a massive resistance as they managed to add crucial runs and were behind by 141 runs at the close of play, with Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon batting on 61 and 6 respectively.&nbsp;

Australian spinner Lyon praised Indian bowling attack and said, "It's one of the best Indian bowling attacks that I have ever seen."&nbsp;

On being asked about flaws in the Australian batting unit, he said, "I see how much hard work the guys are doing in the nets and at training. You have got to remember that we are coming up against a world class bowling attack."&nbsp;

He further said, "I think the Indian's fast bowling attack really stood the seam up really well, and in them being able to get a fair amount of swing."&nbsp;

Lyon gave a special mention to Indian pacer <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-reacts-on-his-record-breaking-6-wicket-haul-and-magic-slower-ball-that-dismissed-shaun-marsh-187011">Jasprit Bumrah</a> who took a career-best 6-33 in his first year in Test cricket.&nbsp;

He said, "He's quick and he's got a very good slower one. Obviously, he is world-class. He has got all the skills - he has got a fast bumper, he has got a fast yorker, and he bashes (hits it) a good length. He is a pretty good all-round package when it comes to fast bowling."&nbsp;

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Pat Cummins enjoyed an all-round day at the <a href="https://twitter.com/MCG?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MCG</a>, following up his second innings six-for with a brilliant 61*. 
 
Australia, however, will still need a miracle to stave off defeat tomorrow.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> REPORT 👇<a href="https://t.co/fwFSGXHJdC">https://t.co/fwFSGXHJdC</a> <a href="https://t.co/zRL0MaSwmE">pic.twitter.com/zRL0MaSwmE</a>
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The hosts require 141 runs for an improbable win, with just two wickets remaining.&nbsp;

"We are going to come out tomorrow and we are going to try and win the first ball and the first over and show a lot of fight and have a lot of pride in going at the bat there for Australia," Lyon said.&nbsp;

The previous biggest successful run chase at the ground came in 1928 when England made 332 for seven.&nbsp;

Australia were at 258 for eight at stumps on the fourth day of the third Test against India in Melbourne. India set a target of 399 after the visitors declared their second innings at 106 for eight.

Australia were at 258 for eight at stumps on the fourth day of the third Test against India in Melbourne. India set a target of 399 after the visitors declared their second innings at 106 for eight. While Australian tailenders displayed a massive resistance as they managed to add crucial runs and were behind by 141 runs at the close of play, with Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon batting on 61 and 6 respectively. Australian spinner Lyon praised Indian bowling attack and said, "It's one of the best Indian bowling attacks that I have ever seen." On being asked about flaws in the Australian batting unit, he said, "I see how much hard work the guys are doing in the nets and at training. You have got to remember that we are coming up against a world class bowling attack." He further said, "I think the Indian's fast bowling attack really stood the seam up really well, and in them being able to get a fair amount of swing." Lyon gave a special mention to Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah who took a career-best 6-33 in his first year in Test cricket. He said, "He's quick and he's got a very good slower one. Obviously, he is world-class. He has got all the skills - he has got a fast bumper, he has got a fast yorker, and he bashes (hits it) a good length. He is a pretty good all-round package when it comes to fast bowling." Pat Cummins enjoyed an all-round day at the @MCG, following up his second innings six-for with a brilliant 61*. Australia, however, will still need a miracle to stave off defeat tomorrow.#AUSvIND REPORT 👇https://t.co/fwFSGXHJdC pic.twitter.com/zRL0MaSwmE — ICC (@ICC) December 29, 2018 × The hosts require 141 runs for an improbable win, with just two wickets remaining. "We are going to come out tomorrow and we are going to try and win the first ball and the first over and show a lot of fight and have a lot of pride in going at the bat there for Australia," Lyon said. The previous biggest successful run chase at the ground came in 1928 when England made 332 for seven.

India vs Australia: One of the best Indian bowling attacks that I have ever seen, says Nathan Lyon

India moved within two wickets of an emphatic victory in the third Test after reducing Australia to 258 for eight at the close of day four on Saturday.

Having set a mammoth victory target of 399 shortly before lunch, Virat Kohli's team attacked with precision and intensity to leave the home side on life support at the end of a muggy and overcast day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The lion-hearted Pat Cummins thwarted India's hopes of closing out the win with a day to spare, anchoring some stubborn tail-end resistance after the top order crumbled.

The seamer was 61 not out, with Nathan Lyon on six, and Australia still 141 runs short of their victory target.

Having dominated with bat and ball throughout a one-sided contest, the tourists will almost certainly head to the Sydney finale with a 2-1 series lead and a genuine belief they can become the first Indian team to win a series Down Under.

On a grim day for Australian cricket, Cummins was the only shining light for the home side, and recorded career-best figures of 6-27 before Kohli declared India's second innings at 106-8 before lunch.

However, Cummins's heroics will likely be consigned to a foot-note, squandered as they were by the familiar batting failures of his team mates.

Where straight bats were required to provide a platform of resistance, Aaron Finch got his team off to the worst possible start by throwing away his wicket for three with an unsightly cut shot off Jasprit Bumrah that was gobbled in the slips.

Recalled all-rounder Mitchell Marsh was similarly wasteful, slogging spinner Ravindra Jadeja straight to Kohli at short cover to be out for 10.

Having done the hard work to get set in his innings, Travis Head (34) fell on his sword after tea by dragging Ishant Sharma onto his stumps with a dubious drive away from his body.

Amid the help from Australia's poor shot selection, India produced moments of brilliance to remove their more assured batsmen.

Mohammed Shami dismissed Usman Khawaja lbw for 33 shortly after lunch with a peach of a delivery, before Bumrah trapped Shaun Marsh for 44 with a searing ball.

The wily Jadeja proved a constant menace, and induced an edge off Marcus Harris (13) that lodged in Mayank Agarwal's mid-riff.

The left-arm spinner later returned to dismiss wicketkeeper-captain Tim Paine for 26, leaving Australia to rely on their tail and a miracle to stave off defeat.

India moved within two wickets of an emphatic victory in the third Test after reducing Australia to 258 for eight at the close of day four on Saturday. Having set a mammoth victory target of 399 shortly before lunch, Virat Kohli's team attacked with precision and intensity to leave the home side on life support at the end of a muggy and overcast day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

India moved within two wickets of an emphatic victory in the third Test after reducing Australia to 258 for eight at the close of day four on Saturday. Having set a mammoth victory target of 399 shortly before lunch, Virat Kohli's team attacked with precision and intensity to leave the home side on life support at the end of a muggy and overcast day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The lion-hearted Pat Cummins thwarted India's hopes of closing out the win with a day to spare, anchoring some stubborn tail-end resistance after the top order crumbled. The seamer was 61 not out, with Nathan Lyon on six, and Australia still 141 runs short of their victory target. Having dominated with bat and ball throughout a one-sided contest, the tourists will almost certainly head to the Sydney finale with a 2-1 series lead and a genuine belief they can become the first Indian team to win a series Down Under. On a grim day for Australian cricket, Cummins was the only shining light for the home side, and recorded career-best figures of 6-27 before Kohli declared India's second innings at 106-8 before lunch. However, Cummins's heroics will likely be consigned to a foot-note, squandered as they were by the familiar batting failures of his team mates. Where straight bats were required to provide a platform of resistance, Aaron Finch got his team off to the worst possible start by throwing away his wicket for three with an unsightly cut shot off Jasprit Bumrah that was gobbled in the slips. Recalled all-rounder Mitchell Marsh was similarly wasteful, slogging spinner Ravindra Jadeja straight to Kohli at short cover to be out for 10. Having done the hard work to get set in his innings, Travis Head (34) fell on his sword after tea by dragging Ishant Sharma onto his stumps with a dubious drive away from his body. Amid the help from Australia's poor shot selection, India produced moments of brilliance to remove their more assured batsmen. Mohammed Shami dismissed Usman Khawaja lbw for 33 shortly after lunch with a peach of a delivery, before Bumrah trapped Shaun Marsh for 44 with a searing ball. The wily Jadeja proved a constant menace, and induced an edge off Marcus Harris (13) that lodged in Mayank Agarwal's mid-riff. The left-arm spinner later returned to dismiss wicketkeeper-captain Tim Paine for 26, leaving Australia to rely on their tail and a miracle to stave off defeat.

INDvsAUS: India march to brink of victory in Melbourne Test

A clinical India had Australia on the ropes Friday and staring at defeat in the third Test after skittling them for 151 before a devastating spell by Pat Cummins sparked the game back into life.

At stumps, the visitors had a formidable 346 cushion with five wickets left and two days to play as they inch closer to a first ever series win Down Under. The series is currently tied at 1-1 with just the Sydney Test next week to go.

Once again the home team's batting frailties were exposed as they struggled not only with a deteriorating Melbourne pitch but outstanding bowling from young pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah.

He ended with a career-best 6-33, collecting his third five-wicket Test haul having also achieved the feat against South Africa and England.

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Stumps on Day 3 of the 3rd Test. 
 
A total of 15 wickets have fallen today. After bowling Australia out for 151, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> are 54/5 in the second innings, lead by 346 runs. 
 
Updates - <a href="https://t.co/xZXZnUvzvk">https://t.co/xZXZnUvzvk</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/p74NK3LUKb">pic.twitter.com/p74NK3LUKb</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1078545690257584128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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With a 292-run first innings advantage, Indian skipper Virat Kohli could have enforced the follow-on but instead opted to turn the screws and add to the imposing total.

But his batsmen also found it tough going and they slumped to 54 for five, with first innings century-maker Cheteshwar Pujara and Kohli himself sensationally out for ducks.

Cummins was Australia's best bowler in India's first innings 443-7 declared and was chief destroyer on Friday, claiming an amazing 4-3 off his first four overs.&nbsp;

His scalps also included opener Hanuma Vihari (13) and vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane (1).

Josh Hazlewood chipped in with the wicket of Rohit Sharma (5) with debutant Mayank Agarwal watching the carnage from the other end. He was not out 28 with Rishabh Pant on six.

None of Australia's batsmen could muster more than 22, again demonstrating how much they miss the banned Steve Smith and David Warner.

Talk surrounding the pair's reintegration into the team reached a crescendo this week after Smith and Cameron Bancroft gave tell-all interviews about the South Africa ball-tampering scandal, effectively blaming Warner.

Their bans run out in late March.

In overcast conditions, Australia began the day with eight runs on the scoreboard after surviving six nervy overs on Thursday.&nbsp;

But with the pitch showing wear and tear, it wasn't long before the bowlers took advantage.

Aaron Finch smashed a four off Bumrah in a positive start but once again Australia's limited overs captain failed as a Test opener.

He was on eight when he feebly chipped an Ishant Sharma delivery to Agarwal at short midwicket, who took a difficult diving catch.

That brought Usman Khawaja to the crease, just hours after his brother was re-arrested for allegedly breaching bail and charged with trying to influence a witness.

Arsalan Khawaja had been detained earlier this month, then bailed, after being accused of framing a love rival as the author of a terrorist hit list.

Khawaja was only at the wicket for a short time before Australia's other opener Marcus Harris also fell, plunging the home team into strife at 36 for two.

Khawaja didn't last much longer, despondently trudging off for 21 after Agarwal took another catch close in off spinner Ravindra Jadeja, who was finding the rough and causing problems.

Shaun Marsh was then deceived on the last ball of the morning by some late swing from Bumrah to be plum lbw.

The afternoon didn't get any better with Travis Head's stumps knocked over by a quick Bumrah delivery and then Mitchell Marsh tickled a Jadeja ball to Rahane at slip, with the last four wickets falling for just 13 runs.

A clinical India had Australia on the ropes Friday and staring at defeat in the third Test after skittling them for 151 before a devastating spell by Pat Cummins sparked the game back into life.

A clinical India had Australia on the ropes Friday and staring at defeat in the third Test after skittling them for 151 before a devastating spell by Pat Cummins sparked the game back into life. At stumps, the visitors had a formidable 346 cushion with five wickets left and two days to play as they inch closer to a first ever series win Down Under. The series is currently tied at 1-1 with just the Sydney Test next week to go. Once again the home team's batting frailties were exposed as they struggled not only with a deteriorating Melbourne pitch but outstanding bowling from young pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. He ended with a career-best 6-33, collecting his third five-wicket Test haul having also achieved the feat against South Africa and England. Stumps on Day 3 of the 3rd Test. A total of 15 wickets have fallen today. After bowling Australia out for 151, #TeamIndia are 54/5 in the second innings, lead by 346 runs. Updates - https://t.co/xZXZnUvzvk #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/p74NK3LUKb — BCCI (@BCCI) December 28, 2018 × With a 292-run first innings advantage, Indian skipper Virat Kohli could have enforced the follow-on but instead opted to turn the screws and add to the imposing total. But his batsmen also found it tough going and they slumped to 54 for five, with first innings century-maker Cheteshwar Pujara and Kohli himself sensationally out for ducks. Cummins was Australia's best bowler in India's first innings 443-7 declared and was chief destroyer on Friday, claiming an amazing 4-3 off his first four overs. His scalps also included opener Hanuma Vihari (13) and vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane (1). Josh Hazlewood chipped in with the wicket of Rohit Sharma (5) with debutant Mayank Agarwal watching the carnage from the other end. He was not out 28 with Rishabh Pant on six. None of Australia's batsmen could muster more than 22, again demonstrating how much they miss the banned Steve Smith and David Warner. Talk surrounding the pair's reintegration into the team reached a crescendo this week after Smith and Cameron Bancroft gave tell-all interviews about the South Africa ball-tampering scandal, effectively blaming Warner. Their bans run out in late March. In overcast conditions, Australia began the day with eight runs on the scoreboard after surviving six nervy overs on Thursday. But with the pitch showing wear and tear, it wasn't long before the bowlers took advantage. Aaron Finch smashed a four off Bumrah in a positive start but once again Australia's limited overs captain failed as a Test opener. He was on eight when he feebly chipped an Ishant Sharma delivery to Agarwal at short midwicket, who took a difficult diving catch. That brought Usman Khawaja to the crease, just hours after his brother was re-arrested for allegedly breaching bail and charged with trying to influence a witness. Arsalan Khawaja had been detained earlier this month, then bailed, after being accused of framing a love rival as the author of a terrorist hit list. Khawaja was only at the wicket for a short time before Australia's other opener Marcus Harris also fell, plunging the home team into strife at 36 for two. Khawaja didn't last much longer, despondently trudging off for 21 after Agarwal took another catch close in off spinner Ravindra Jadeja, who was finding the rough and causing problems. Shaun Marsh was then deceived on the last ball of the morning by some late swing from Bumrah to be plum lbw. The afternoon didn't get any better with Travis Head's stumps knocked over by a quick Bumrah delivery and then Mitchell Marsh tickled a Jadeja ball to Rahane at slip, with the last four wickets falling for just 13 runs.

INDvsAUS, 3rd Test, Day 3: India in charge but devastating Pat Cummins gives Australia hope

Australian skipper Tim Paine is gathering all kinds of attention in the ongoing India-Australia Test series apart from his wicketkeeping skills. On the third day of the Melbourne Test, Paine sledged Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and the conversation was recorded on the stumps mic.

When Pant was batting, Paine said, "Now that big MS back in the ODI squad, maybe he could play for the Hobart Hurricanes, this bloke [Pant]. We need a batter. Fancy that Panty, extend your little Aussie holiday? Beautiful town Hobart too. We'll get you a nice apartment on the waterfront, have you over for dinner."

He further added, "Do you babysit? I can take my wife to the movies while you watch the kids."

Pant and Mayank Agarwal not out as&nbsp;India built a 346 run lead as Australia were bowled out for 151 in their first innings, in reply to the tourists 443-7 declared.&nbsp;

Watch:

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Tim Paine doing some recruiting for the <a href="https://twitter.com/HurricanesBBL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HurricanesBBL</a> out in the middle of the 'G... 😂 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/6btRZA3KI7">pic.twitter.com/6btRZA3KI7</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1078545482597556224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The banter continues... 
Now it's for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RishabhPant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RishabhPant</a> 
 
"Left out of India's ODI squad, Rishabh Pant will have some free time after the Test series." 
 
Tim Paine had a couple of suggestions for how he can use it. 
 
Baby sitting? 👶 
A stint with the Hobart Hurricanes? 🌪️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusvInd?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusvInd</a> <a href="https://t.co/udTtqB9Q1i">pic.twitter.com/udTtqB9Q1i</a>
— Ramya Pedapudi (@ramyapedapudi) <a href="https://twitter.com/ramyapedapudi/status/1078589213690318850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-stump-mic-reveals-on-pitch-chats-between-virat-kohli-and-tim-paine-in-perth-test-184628">Paine and his banter with Virat Kohli</a> became a talking point in the Perth Test and he was at it again from behind the stumps with Rohit Sharma at the receiving end on the second day of third Test.

In the Perth Test, Paine was involved in a heated verbal exchange with Kohli, which at one point, needed the umpires' intervention.&nbsp;

Yesterday, Paine was caught on the stump microphone telling team-mate Aaron Finch that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-tim-paine-sledges-rohit-with-ipl-banter-twitterati-cant-stop-laughing-186815">he would join Mumbai team in Indian Premier League</a> if the stylish Indian hits a six at the MCG, during the post-tea session.

Recently, the Australian Cricketers' Association (ACA) has expressed concerns over the use of stump microphones, with its chief Alistair Nicholson saying it doesn't want players to get unnecessary sanctions for "unintentional and accidental" on-field conversations.&nbsp;

According to media reports here, the ACA has already aired its reservations on stump microphones to broadcasters.&nbsp;

The ACA said it's not against the use of stump mics but wants clarity over the "rules of engagement".&nbsp;

Australian skipper Tim Paine is gathering all kinds of attention in the ongoing India-Australia Test series apart from his wicketkeeping skills. On the third day of the Melbourne Test, Paine sledged Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and the conversation was recorded on the stumps mic.

Australian skipper Tim Paine is gathering all kinds of attention in the ongoing India-Australia Test series apart from his wicketkeeping skills. On the third day of the Melbourne Test, Paine sledged Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and the conversation was recorded on the stumps mic. When Pant was batting, Paine said, "Now that big MS back in the ODI squad, maybe he could play for the Hobart Hurricanes, this bloke [Pant]. We need a batter. Fancy that Panty, extend your little Aussie holiday? Beautiful town Hobart too. We'll get you a nice apartment on the waterfront, have you over for dinner." He further added, "Do you babysit? I can take my wife to the movies while you watch the kids." Pant and Mayank Agarwal not out as India built a 346 run lead as Australia were bowled out for 151 in their first innings, in reply to the tourists 443-7 declared. Watch: Tim Paine doing some recruiting for the @HurricanesBBL out in the middle of the 'G... 😂 #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/6btRZA3KI7 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 28, 2018 × The banter continues... Now it's for #RishabhPant "Left out of India's ODI squad, Rishabh Pant will have some free time after the Test series." Tim Paine had a couple of suggestions for how he can use it. Baby sitting? 👶 A stint with the Hobart Hurricanes? 🌪️#AusvInd pic.twitter.com/udTtqB9Q1i — Ramya Pedapudi (@ramyapedapudi) December 28, 2018 × Earlier, Paine and his banter with Virat Kohli became a talking point in the Perth Test and he was at it again from behind the stumps with Rohit Sharma at the receiving end on the second day of third Test. In the Perth Test, Paine was involved in a heated verbal exchange with Kohli, which at one point, needed the umpires' intervention. Yesterday, Paine was caught on the stump microphone telling team-mate Aaron Finch that he would join Mumbai team in Indian Premier League if the stylish Indian hits a six at the MCG, during the post-tea session. Recently, the Australian Cricketers' Association (ACA) has expressed concerns over the use of stump microphones, with its chief Alistair Nicholson saying it doesn't want players to get unnecessary sanctions for "unintentional and accidental" on-field conversations. According to media reports here, the ACA has already aired its reservations on stump microphones to broadcasters. The ACA said it's not against the use of stump mics but wants clarity over the "rules of engagement".

Watch: Now Tim Paine's sledging includes wife, kids and babysitting

Bundled out for a paltry 151 in the first innings, pacer Pat Cummins on Friday said Australian batsmen need to learn a lot from India captain <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> and Cheteshwar Pujara on how to pace their knocks on this MCG pitch.

Pujara and Kohli had put on 170 runs in the first innings to help India declare at a mammoth 443 for seven and Cummins said the Australian batsmen need to take a cue from the visiting duo's temperament.&nbsp;

"It was obviously not ideal. We turned up thinking of a good first innings score and be right in the game. We wanted to take this result away from them. This is a young batting group and they are working hard. They are trying their best, but it is just one of those things. Today it didn't come off," Cummins said after the day's play.&nbsp;

"What we saw from India's first innings, we saw temperament of Pujara and Virat and how they pace their innings. They absorb pressure because on this kind of wicket, it is hard to score runs.&nbsp;

"You have to face a lot of balls to get big scores and it is probably one of those wickets where you do the hard work early. Keep absorbing pressure and score later, but evidently it did not work for us today," he added.&nbsp;

Riding on Cummins' four for 10 figures, Australia reduced India to 54 for five in the second innings of the ongoing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-in-charge-but-devastating-pat-cummins-gives-australia-hope-186970">third Test</a> but still trail the visitors by 346 runs after conceding a first innings lead of 292 runs.&nbsp;

The fast bowler said in the absence of their two best batsmen - banned duo of Steve Smith and David Warner, others have to rise to the occasion to give India a tough fight in the remaining two days of the match.&nbsp;

"It's always going to be hard missing two of your best players. We've known for nine months (that Steve Smith and David Warner won't be available).

thers have to stand up. It probably highlights the class they've had in previous years but we've got find to find a way," Cummins said.&nbsp;

"Everyone here is good enough. They've done it at the level below, all of them are the best (Sheffield) Shield players and most of them have done it for Australia before. Wicket feels pretty good still, so everyone feels like in the second innings they can face more balls and get going," he added.&nbsp;

Cummins was the wrecker-in-chief In India's second innings with his impressive figures.&nbsp;

And the pacer said they wanted to make things tough for India in the second things and still dare to dream for a positive result over the next two days.&nbsp;

"I am pretty tired, exhausted but the good thing is that coming into this series I felt really fresh. Hopefully, there won't be too many overs tomorrow and we won't have to bowl last in this game. So hopefully there will be a 4-5 day break before Sydney," Cummins said.&nbsp;

"If we knock them over in the morning, you just never know. We tried to make it very hard for every run. The wicket is still pretty good, tough to score runs.

ut we saw last year we batted really well on day four and five (at the MCG), you dare to dream.&nbsp;

"But it's still a long way left in the game. For India to move the game forward will be hard tomorrow. They will have to bat long and we will just take it as deep as possible," he signed off.

Bundled out for a paltry 151 in the first innings, pacer Pat Cummins on Friday said Australian batsmen need to learn a lot from India captain Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara on how to pace their knocks on this MCG pitch.

Bundled out for a paltry 151 in the first innings, pacer Pat Cummins on Friday said Australian batsmen need to learn a lot from India captain Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara on how to pace their knocks on this MCG pitch. Pujara and Kohli had put on 170 runs in the first innings to help India declare at a mammoth 443 for seven and Cummins said the Australian batsmen need to take a cue from the visiting duo's temperament. "It was obviously not ideal. We turned up thinking of a good first innings score and be right in the game. We wanted to take this result away from them. This is a young batting group and they are working hard. They are trying their best, but it is just one of those things. Today it didn't come off," Cummins said after the day's play. "What we saw from India's first innings, we saw temperament of Pujara and Virat and how they pace their innings. They absorb pressure because on this kind of wicket, it is hard to score runs. "You have to face a lot of balls to get big scores and it is probably one of those wickets where you do the hard work early. Keep absorbing pressure and score later, but evidently it did not work for us today," he added. Riding on Cummins' four for 10 figures, Australia reduced India to 54 for five in the second innings of the ongoing third Test but still trail the visitors by 346 runs after conceding a first innings lead of 292 runs. The fast bowler said in the absence of their two best batsmen - banned duo of Steve Smith and David Warner, others have to rise to the occasion to give India a tough fight in the remaining two days of the match. "It's always going to be hard missing two of your best players. We've known for nine months (that Steve Smith and David Warner won't be available). thers have to stand up. It probably highlights the class they've had in previous years but we've got find to find a way," Cummins said. "Everyone here is good enough. They've done it at the level below, all of them are the best (Sheffield) Shield players and most of them have done it for Australia before. Wicket feels pretty good still, so everyone feels like in the second innings they can face more balls and get going," he added. Cummins was the wrecker-in-chief In India's second innings with his impressive figures. And the pacer said they wanted to make things tough for India in the second things and still dare to dream for a positive result over the next two days. "I am pretty tired, exhausted but the good thing is that coming into this series I felt really fresh. Hopefully, there won't be too many overs tomorrow and we won't have to bowl last in this game. So hopefully there will be a 4-5 day break before Sydney," Cummins said. "If we knock them over in the morning, you just never know. We tried to make it very hard for every run. The wicket is still pretty good, tough to score runs. ut we saw last year we batted really well on day four and five (at the MCG), you dare to dream. "But it's still a long way left in the game. For India to move the game forward will be hard tomorrow. They will have to bat long and we will just take it as deep as possible," he signed off.

Need to bat like Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli in second innings: Pat Cummins

India declared their first innings after scoring a mammoth 443 for the loss of seven wickets to leave Australia with just six overs to bat on Day 2 of the third Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday.

India's massive total was powered by a classic century from Cheteshwar Pujara (106) and half-centuries from skipper Virat Kohli (82), debutant opener Mayank Agarwal (76) and Rohit Sharma (63 not out).

Pujara's brilliant inning ended after the right-handed batsman lost his wicket to a low ball of Australian pacer Pat Cummins. The 30-year old was sent back to the pavilion minutes after Indian skipper Virat Kohli was dismissed by Mitchell Starc.

India reached 277 for loss of two wickets at lunch on the second day. Pujara, who resumed the inning on Day 2 at 68, went on to hit his 17th Test century to put India in a dominating position while skipper Kohli reached his half-century early today.

Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane made 34 while and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant contributed 39 to add to Australia's woes.&nbsp;

For the hosts, pacer Pat Cummins emerged the hero returning with figures of 3/72 while Mitchell Starc contributed with two wickets.

Josh Hazlewood and lone spinner Nathan Lyon worked hard for their one wicket apiece.

India declared their first innings after scoring a mammoth 443 for the loss of seven wickets to leave Australia with just six overs to bat on Day 2 of the third Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday.

India declared their first innings after scoring a mammoth 443 for the loss of seven wickets to leave Australia with just six overs to bat on Day 2 of the third Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday. India's massive total was powered by a classic century from Cheteshwar Pujara (106) and half-centuries from skipper Virat Kohli (82), debutant opener Mayank Agarwal (76) and Rohit Sharma (63 not out). Pujara's brilliant inning ended after the right-handed batsman lost his wicket to a low ball of Australian pacer Pat Cummins. The 30-year old was sent back to the pavilion minutes after Indian skipper Virat Kohli was dismissed by Mitchell Starc. India reached 277 for loss of two wickets at lunch on the second day. Pujara, who resumed the inning on Day 2 at 68, went on to hit his 17th Test century to put India in a dominating position while skipper Kohli reached his half-century early today. Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane made 34 while and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant contributed 39 to add to Australia's woes. For the hosts, pacer Pat Cummins emerged the hero returning with figures of 3/72 while Mitchell Starc contributed with two wickets. Josh Hazlewood and lone spinner Nathan Lyon worked hard for their one wicket apiece.

3rd Test, Day 2: India declare on 443/7

Indian skipper Virat Kohli declared his side's inning at 443/7 with Rohit Sharma remaining&nbsp;unbeaten on 63.&nbsp;Kohli's decision will give Indian bowlers around 25 minutes to make it difficult for the Australia openers.

Rohit Sharma slammed a brilliant half-century to take India's score past 400. Rohit found a perfect ally in young Rishabh pant and the two have built up a partnership of 76 runs before the wicketkeeper-batsman lost his wicket.

Pant got caught while trying to hit a big shot off Mitchell Starc. He departed after making 39 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Australia's Nathan Lyon bowled a beautiful low delivery to end Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane's 62 run partnership. Ajinkya lost his wicket to the Australian spinner for the ninth time. He departed after making 34 runs.&nbsp;

Earlier, Cheteshwar Pujara's brilliant inning ended after the right-handed batsman lost his wicket to a low ball of Australian pacer Pat Cummins.

The 30-year old was sent back to the pavilion minutes after Indian skipper Virat Kohli was dismissed by Mitchell Starc.

While Pujara departed after making 106 runs, Kohli contributed crucial 82 runs, ending a long 170-run partership between the two.&nbsp;

The wickets of these two have brought Australia back in the game as India didn't lose any since the start of the game on day 2.

India reached 277 for loss of two wickets only at lunch on the second day of the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday.

Pujara, who resumed the inning on Day 2 at 68, went on to hit his17th Test century to put India in a dominating position against hosts Australia.&nbsp;

Skipper Kohli too reached his half-century early today and was going strong along with Pujara as the two resumed India's bid to build on. 
&nbsp; 
The Australian bowlers failed to create any chance to take a wicket in the first session but are expected to make a strong comeback in the next session.&nbsp;

On Day 1, India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day where Pujara raised his 21st Test half-century.

Electing to bat, Indian opener Mayank Agarwal enjoyed a stellar entry to Test cricket, scoring 76 to record the highest ever innings by an India debutant on Australian soil before being dismissed on the last ball before tea. 
&nbsp; 
With the four-match series poised at 1-1, India's slow but disciplined accumulation left them well-placed to build a big total.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli declared his side's inning at 443/7 with Rohit Sharma remaining unbeaten on 63. Kohli's decision will give Indian bowlers around 25 minutes to make it difficult for the Australia openers.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli declared his side's inning at 443/7 with Rohit Sharma remaining unbeaten on 63. Kohli's decision will give Indian bowlers around 25 minutes to make it difficult for the Australia openers. Rohit Sharma slammed a brilliant half-century to take India's score past 400. Rohit found a perfect ally in young Rishabh pant and the two have built up a partnership of 76 runs before the wicketkeeper-batsman lost his wicket. Pant got caught while trying to hit a big shot off Mitchell Starc. He departed after making 39 runs. Australia's Nathan Lyon bowled a beautiful low delivery to end Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane's 62 run partnership. Ajinkya lost his wicket to the Australian spinner for the ninth time. He departed after making 34 runs. Earlier, Cheteshwar Pujara's brilliant inning ended after the right-handed batsman lost his wicket to a low ball of Australian pacer Pat Cummins. The 30-year old was sent back to the pavilion minutes after Indian skipper Virat Kohli was dismissed by Mitchell Starc. While Pujara departed after making 106 runs, Kohli contributed crucial 82 runs, ending a long 170-run partership between the two. The wickets of these two have brought Australia back in the game as India didn't lose any since the start of the game on day 2. India reached 277 for loss of two wickets only at lunch on the second day of the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday. Pujara, who resumed the inning on Day 2 at 68, went on to hit his17th Test century to put India in a dominating position against hosts Australia. Skipper Kohli too reached his half-century early today and was going strong along with Pujara as the two resumed India's bid to build on. The Australian bowlers failed to create any chance to take a wicket in the first session but are expected to make a strong comeback in the next session. On Day 1, India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day where Pujara raised his 21st Test half-century. Electing to bat, Indian opener Mayank Agarwal enjoyed a stellar entry to Test cricket, scoring 76 to record the highest ever innings by an India debutant on Australian soil before being dismissed on the last ball before tea. With the four-match series poised at 1-1, India's slow but disciplined accumulation left them well-placed to build a big total.

IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Australia eight for no loss at stumps on Day 2

India reached 277 for loss of two wickets at lunch on the second day of the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday.

Cheteshwar Pujara was batting on 103 and captain Virat Kohli was giving him company on 69 at the break as India scored 62 runs from 28 overs in the morning session.

Pujara, who resumed the inning on Day 2 at 68, went on to hit his17th Test century to put India in a dominating position against hosts Australia.&nbsp;

Skipper Kohli too reached his half-century early today and is going strong along with Pujara as the two resumed India's bid to build on. 
&nbsp; 
The Australian bowlers failed to create any chance to take a wicket in the first session but are expected to make a strong comeback in the next session.&nbsp;

On Day 1, India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day where Pujara raised his 21st Test half-century.

Electing to bat, Indian opener Mayank Agarwal enjoyed a stellar entry to Test cricket, scoring 76 to record the highest ever innings by an India debutant on Australian soil before being dismissed on the last ball before tea. 
&nbsp; 
With the four-match series poised at 1-1, India's slow but disciplined accumulation left them well-placed to build a big total.&nbsp;

India reached 277 for loss of two wickets at lunch on the second day of the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday. Cheteshwar Pujara was batting on 103 and captain Virat Kohli was giving him company on 69 at the break as India scored 62 runs from 28 overs in the morning session.

India reached 277 for loss of two wickets at lunch on the second day of the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday. Cheteshwar Pujara was batting on 103 and captain Virat Kohli was giving him company on 69 at the break as India scored 62 runs from 28 overs in the morning session. Pujara, who resumed the inning on Day 2 at 68, went on to hit his17th Test century to put India in a dominating position against hosts Australia. Skipper Kohli too reached his half-century early today and is going strong along with Pujara as the two resumed India's bid to build on. The Australian bowlers failed to create any chance to take a wicket in the first session but are expected to make a strong comeback in the next session. On Day 1, India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day where Pujara raised his 21st Test half-century. Electing to bat, Indian opener Mayank Agarwal enjoyed a stellar entry to Test cricket, scoring 76 to record the highest ever innings by an India debutant on Australian soil before being dismissed on the last ball before tea. With the four-match series poised at 1-1, India's slow but disciplined accumulation left them well-placed to build a big total.

IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Kohli and Pujara return to crease, India are 277/2 after 117 overs

Cheteshwar Pujara reached his 17th Test century on Thursday to put India in a dominating position&nbsp;on the second day of the third test match against Australia.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli too reached his half-century and is going strong along with Pujara as the two resumed India's bid to build on. After 115 overs, India's score stands at 271 for the loss of two wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day.&nbsp;

Pujara raised his 21st test half-century to be 68 not out at stumps, while Kohli ended the day on 47.

Opener Mayank Agarwal enjoyed a stellar entry to test cricket, scoring 76 to record the highest ever innings by an India debutant on Australian soil before being dismissed on the last ball before tea. 
&nbsp; 
Kohli won the toss and elected to bat first. With the four-match series poised at 1-1, India's slow but disciplined accumulation left them well-placed to build a big total.&nbsp;

Cheteshwar Pujara reached his 17th Test century on Thursday to put India in a dominating position on the second day of the third test match against Australia. Indian skipper Virat Kohli too reached his half-century and is going strong along with Pujara as the two resumed India's bid to build on.

Cheteshwar Pujara reached his 17th Test century on Thursday to put India in a dominating position on the second day of the third test match against Australia. Indian skipper Virat Kohli too reached his half-century and is going strong along with Pujara as the two resumed India's bid to build on. After 115 overs, India's score stands at 271 for the loss of two wickets. India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day. Pujara raised his 21st test half-century to be 68 not out at stumps, while Kohli ended the day on 47. Opener Mayank Agarwal enjoyed a stellar entry to test cricket, scoring 76 to record the highest ever innings by an India debutant on Australian soil before being dismissed on the last ball before tea. Kohli won the toss and elected to bat first. With the four-match series poised at 1-1, India's slow but disciplined accumulation left them well-placed to build a big total.

IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Pujara hits 17th Test hundred; India are 271/2 after 115 overs

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday went past former captain Rahul Dravid’s long-standing record during his innings of 82 in the first innings of the third Test against Australia in Melbourne.&nbsp;

With the help of his latest half-century, Kohli surpassed Dravid to become highest-scoring Indian Test batsman on overseas soil in a calendar year.

Earlier, Dravid held the record for scoring 1137 runs in overseas Tests in 2002. Kohli now has 1138 runs to his name.

1138: Virat Kohli (2018)

1137: Rahul Dravid (2002)

1065: Mohinder Amarnath (1983)

Kohli missed out on a ton on the second day after he was dismissed by Mitchell Starc. Kohli tried to hit it for a six but was caught out in the deep by Aaron Finch.

Meanwhile, Kohli declared his side's inning for mammoth 443 runs to make the hosts bat for the remaining six overs of Day 2. Australia scored just eight runs in the last six overs they played today.&nbsp;

Openers Marcus Harris (5) and Aaron Finch (3) were at the crease at close of play.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday went past former captain Rahul Dravid’s long-standing record during his innings of 82 in the first innings of the third Test against Australia in Melbourne.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday went past former captain Rahul Dravid’s long-standing record during his innings of 82 in the first innings of the third Test against Australia in Melbourne. With the help of his latest half-century, Kohli surpassed Dravid to become highest-scoring Indian Test batsman on overseas soil in a calendar year. Earlier, Dravid held the record for scoring 1137 runs in overseas Tests in 2002. Kohli now has 1138 runs to his name. 1138: Virat Kohli (2018) 1137: Rahul Dravid (2002) 1065: Mohinder Amarnath (1983) Kohli missed out on a ton on the second day after he was dismissed by Mitchell Starc. Kohli tried to hit it for a six but was caught out in the deep by Aaron Finch. Meanwhile, Kohli declared his side's inning for mammoth 443 runs to make the hosts bat for the remaining six overs of Day 2. Australia scored just eight runs in the last six overs they played today. Openers Marcus Harris (5) and Aaron Finch (3) were at the crease at close of play.

IND vs AUS: Virat Kohli breaks Rahul Dravid's 16-year old record

Australian skipper Tim Paine once again tried to unsettle Indian batsman Rohit Sharma through his comments from behind the stumps on the day 2 of the third Test match.

On Thursday, Paine was caught on the stump microphone provoking Rohit to go for a big hit against spinner Nathan Lyon. &nbsp;

Paine was talking about which team he is going to support in the upcoming Indian Premier League and told Aaron Finch at short-leg that it was 'a toss-up between Rajasthan and Mumbai at this time'.&nbsp;

Before Lyon was about to bowl the next ball, Paine added, "If Rohit hits a six here, I'm changing to Mumbai".&nbsp;

“It’s been a toss up for me between Royals and Indians, and if Rohit hits a six here, I am changing to Mumbai,” said Paine.

He didn’t stop there. “Too many Poms at the Royals,” he added.&nbsp;

The chatter went on for a good couple of overs with Sharma breaking into a smile every now and then.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
"If Rohit hits a six here I'm changing to Mumbai" 😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/JFdHsAl84b">pic.twitter.com/JFdHsAl84b</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1078139684654538752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Such a banter was seen in the second Test as well when Kohli had a go at Paine on day three saying, “if he messes it up it’s 2-0, and who’s going to talk then?” For which the Australian captain retorted, “You’ve got to bat first, big head.”

When Paine resumed batting on day four, he had a few run-ins with Kohli once again with the umpire needing to step in once and remind the two that they are the captains and need to get on with the game.

A little while after the Indian captain was dismissed, Paine took a dig at Kohli to Murali Vijay who was still out in the middle then.

“I know he is your captain, but you can’t possibly like him as a bloke,” said Paine, which was caught on the stump mic.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://t.co/5GVqs7HJz9">pic.twitter.com/5GVqs7HJz9</a>
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan/status/1078143126978457600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
"Rohit hits a six here, I'm changing to Mumbai Indians" 😂😂 
 
Oh Tim Paine, you are the opposition captain but we seriously can't hate your banter. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a>
— Manya (@CSKian716) <a href="https://twitter.com/CSKian716/status/1078138608685592576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Tim Paine’s chatter behind the stumps is Epic😂He’s talking about who he’s fav IPL team between Mumbai and I guess RCB is ..<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SPNSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SPNSportsIndia</a>
— Jason Dsouza (@jdnats) <a href="https://twitter.com/jdnats/status/1078137941258457088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In reply to India's mammoth 443, Australia were eight for no loss at stumps after Virat Kohli declared his side's inning to make the hosts bat for the remaining six overs of Day 2 of the third Test match at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

&nbsp;

Australian skipper Tim Paine once again tried to unsettle Indian batsman Rohit Sharma through his comments from behind the stumps on the day 2 of the third Test match.

Australian skipper Tim Paine once again tried to unsettle Indian batsman Rohit Sharma through his comments from behind the stumps on the day 2 of the third Test match. On Thursday, Paine was caught on the stump microphone provoking Rohit to go for a big hit against spinner Nathan Lyon. Paine was talking about which team he is going to support in the upcoming Indian Premier League and told Aaron Finch at short-leg that it was 'a toss-up between Rajasthan and Mumbai at this time'. Before Lyon was about to bowl the next ball, Paine added, "If Rohit hits a six here, I'm changing to Mumbai". “It’s been a toss up for me between Royals and Indians, and if Rohit hits a six here, I am changing to Mumbai,” said Paine. He didn’t stop there. “Too many Poms at the Royals,” he added. The chatter went on for a good couple of overs with Sharma breaking into a smile every now and then. "If Rohit hits a six here I'm changing to Mumbai" 😂#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/JFdHsAl84b — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 27, 2018 × Such a banter was seen in the second Test as well when Kohli had a go at Paine on day three saying, “if he messes it up it’s 2-0, and who’s going to talk then?” For which the Australian captain retorted, “You’ve got to bat first, big head.” When Paine resumed batting on day four, he had a few run-ins with Kohli once again with the umpire needing to step in once and remind the two that they are the captains and need to get on with the game. A little while after the Indian captain was dismissed, Paine took a dig at Kohli to Murali Vijay who was still out in the middle then. “I know he is your captain, but you can’t possibly like him as a bloke,” said Paine, which was caught on the stump mic. pic.twitter.com/5GVqs7HJz9 — Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) December 27, 2018 × "Rohit hits a six here, I'm changing to Mumbai Indians" 😂😂 Oh Tim Paine, you are the opposition captain but we seriously can't hate your banter. #AUSvIND — Manya (@CSKian716) December 27, 2018 × Tim Paine’s chatter behind the stumps is Epic😂He’s talking about who he’s fav IPL team between Mumbai and I guess RCB is ..#AUSvIND @SPNSportsIndia — Jason Dsouza (@jdnats) December 27, 2018 × In reply to India's mammoth 443, Australia were eight for no loss at stumps after Virat Kohli declared his side's inning to make the hosts bat for the remaining six overs of Day 2 of the third Test match at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Watch: Tim Paine sledges Rohit with IPL banter, Twitterati can't stop laughing

In reply to India's mammoth 443, Australia were eight for no loss at stumps after Virat Kohli declared his side's inning to make the hosts bat for the remaining six overs of Day 2 of the third Test match at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Openers Marcus Harris (5) and Aaron Finch (3) were at the crease at close of play.

India's massive total was powered by a classic century from Cheteshwar Pujara (106) and half-centuries from skipper Virat Kohli (82), debutant opener Mayank Agarwal (76) and Rohit Sharma (63 not out).

Pujara's brilliant inning ended after the right-handed batsman lost his wicket to a low ball of Australian pacer Pat Cummins. The 30-year old was sent back to the pavilion minutes after Indian skipper Virat Kohli was dismissed by Mitchell Starc.

India reached 277 for loss of two wickets at lunch on the second day. Pujara, who resumed the inning on Day 2 at 68, went on to hit his 17th Test century to put India in a dominating position while skipper Kohli reached his half-century early today.

Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane made 34 while and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant contributed 39 to add to Australia's woes.&nbsp;

For the hosts, pacer Pat Cummins emerged the hero returning with figures of 3/72 while Mitchell Starc contributed with two wickets. Josh Hazlewood and lone spinner Nathan Lyon worked hard for their one wicket apiece.

In reply to India's mammoth 443, Australia were eight for no loss at stumps after Virat Kohli declared his side's inning to make the hosts bat for the remaining six overs of Day 2 of the third Test match at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

In reply to India's mammoth 443, Australia were eight for no loss at stumps after Virat Kohli declared his side's inning to make the hosts bat for the remaining six overs of Day 2 of the third Test match at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Openers Marcus Harris (5) and Aaron Finch (3) were at the crease at close of play. India's massive total was powered by a classic century from Cheteshwar Pujara (106) and half-centuries from skipper Virat Kohli (82), debutant opener Mayank Agarwal (76) and Rohit Sharma (63 not out). Pujara's brilliant inning ended after the right-handed batsman lost his wicket to a low ball of Australian pacer Pat Cummins. The 30-year old was sent back to the pavilion minutes after Indian skipper Virat Kohli was dismissed by Mitchell Starc. India reached 277 for loss of two wickets at lunch on the second day. Pujara, who resumed the inning on Day 2 at 68, went on to hit his 17th Test century to put India in a dominating position while skipper Kohli reached his half-century early today. Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane made 34 while and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant contributed 39 to add to Australia's woes. For the hosts, pacer Pat Cummins emerged the hero returning with figures of 3/72 while Mitchell Starc contributed with two wickets. Josh Hazlewood and lone spinner Nathan Lyon worked hard for their one wicket apiece.

3rd Test: Australia 8 for no loss at stumps on day 2, India declare at 443/7

Mayank Agarwal made an early mark in Test cricket as he notched up 76 runs on debut against Australia on day one of the ongoing the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara established 92-run stand to take India's scorecard to 215 at the loss of two wickets at stumps.&nbsp;

While Pujara slammed his 21st Test half-century, Kohli is three runs short to reach the 50-digit mark. The two will resume the game on Day 2.

Pujara, who will resume the game at 68 tomorrow, played a patient inning to keep the team's momentum going after India lost debutant Mayank Agarwal, who scored crucial 76 runs.&nbsp;

Amid the opening combination chaos, Mayank's 161-ball inning provided India with a steady start on day one.&nbsp;

It was Australian pacer Pat Cummins who dismissed both the openers &nbsp;- Mayank and Hanuman Vihari. Spinner Nathan Lyon was the costliest bowler of the day as he gave away 59 runs in his 21 overs. 
&nbsp; 
Vihari's wicket was the first blood which Australian drew in the initial hours of the Boxing Day Test. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Mayank, who found a perfect partner in Chesteshwar Pujara, was composed throughout his inning and hit some shots which highlight talent the young batsman possess.&nbsp; 
To reach his maiden fifty, the opener came down the track and drilled it back past the non-striker for a four.

Earlier, Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat in the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne on Wednesday.

Earlier, Virat Kohli had won the toss and opted to bat first. The hosts defeated India in the second Test to level the series 1-1. 
&nbsp;

Mayank Agarwal made an early mark in Test cricket as he notched up 76 runs on debut against Australia on day one of the ongoing the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday.

Mayank Agarwal made an early mark in Test cricket as he notched up 76 runs on debut against Australia on day one of the ongoing the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara established 92-run stand to take India's scorecard to 215 at the loss of two wickets at stumps. While Pujara slammed his 21st Test half-century, Kohli is three runs short to reach the 50-digit mark. The two will resume the game on Day 2. Pujara, who will resume the game at 68 tomorrow, played a patient inning to keep the team's momentum going after India lost debutant Mayank Agarwal, who scored crucial 76 runs. Amid the opening combination chaos, Mayank's 161-ball inning provided India with a steady start on day one. It was Australian pacer Pat Cummins who dismissed both the openers - Mayank and Hanuman Vihari. Spinner Nathan Lyon was the costliest bowler of the day as he gave away 59 runs in his 21 overs. Vihari's wicket was the first blood which Australian drew in the initial hours of the Boxing Day Test. Mayank, who found a perfect partner in Chesteshwar Pujara, was composed throughout his inning and hit some shots which highlight talent the young batsman possess. To reach his maiden fifty, the opener came down the track and drilled it back past the non-striker for a four. Earlier, Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat in the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne on Wednesday. Earlier, Virat Kohli had won the toss and opted to bat first. The hosts defeated India in the second Test to level the series 1-1.

IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Mayank Agarwal shines on debut, India are 215/2 at stumps on Day 1

Australian pacer Pat Cummins stuck for the second time to dismiss debutant Mayank Agarwal, who slammed a brilliant half-century to put India in a commanding position against Australia on the first day of the third Test match in Melbourne.

Agarwal, who opened along with Hanuma Vihari, departed after making crucial 76 runs on his debut game. His 161-ball inning included eight boundaries and a six.

Vihari's wicket was the first blood which Australian drew in the initial hours of the Boxing Day Test. 
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Mayank, who found a perfect partner in Chesteshwar Pujara, was composed throughout his inning and hit some shots which highlight talent the young batsman possess. To reach his maiden fifty, the opener came down the track and drilled it back past the non-striker for a four.

Pujara, on the other hand, went on to hit his 21st Test half-century. He reached the 50-digit mark after facing 154 balls.&nbsp;

After 71 overs, India's total stands at 174 for the loss of two wickets.&nbsp;

Earlier, Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat in the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne on Wednesday.

Speaking after the toss, Kohli said, " We will make the first use of this surface. This pitch looks like a nice one but it looks bit dry. So, it is going to become slower and slower. We are taking this Test as the last Test of this tour. We want to be at our best for this match."

"We have made three changes to the team. Hanuma Vihari has batted at three all his life, he has shown good technique and he will open. We considered opening with Rohit but he is so dangerous with the tail-enders so we wanted him to play freely. Jadeja has come in place of Umesh Yadav."

The hosts defeated India in the second Test to level the series 1-1.

Australian pacer Pat Cummins stuck for the second time to dismiss debutant Mayank Agarwal, who slammed a brilliant half-century to put India in a commanding position against Australia on the first day of the third Test match in Melbourne.

Australian pacer Pat Cummins stuck for the second time to dismiss debutant Mayank Agarwal, who slammed a brilliant half-century to put India in a commanding position against Australia on the first day of the third Test match in Melbourne. Agarwal, who opened along with Hanuma Vihari, departed after making crucial 76 runs on his debut game. His 161-ball inning included eight boundaries and a six. Vihari's wicket was the first blood which Australian drew in the initial hours of the Boxing Day Test. Mayank, who found a perfect partner in Chesteshwar Pujara, was composed throughout his inning and hit some shots which highlight talent the young batsman possess. To reach his maiden fifty, the opener came down the track and drilled it back past the non-striker for a four. Pujara, on the other hand, went on to hit his 21st Test half-century. He reached the 50-digit mark after facing 154 balls. After 71 overs, India's total stands at 174 for the loss of two wickets. Earlier, Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat in the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne on Wednesday. Speaking after the toss, Kohli said, " We will make the first use of this surface. This pitch looks like a nice one but it looks bit dry. So, it is going to become slower and slower. We are taking this Test as the last Test of this tour. We want to be at our best for this match." "We have made three changes to the team. Hanuma Vihari has batted at three all his life, he has shown good technique and he will open. We considered opening with Rohit but he is so dangerous with the tail-enders so we wanted him to play freely. Jadeja has come in place of Umesh Yadav." The hosts defeated India in the second Test to level the series 1-1.

IND vs AUS: Pujara hits 21st Test fifty, India 174/2 after 71 overs

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