Hit hard by an unexpected controversy after the high of the Test triumph, India will look to fine-tune their World Cup preparations in the three-match ODI series against an under-fire Australia, beginning here on Saturday.&nbsp;

On the eve of the opening game, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-sends-suspension-notes-to-hardik-pandya-over-misconduct-and-indiscipline-189663">BCCI suspended Hardik Pandya</a> and KL Rahul pending an inquiry for their inappropriate remarks on women during a TV show, effectively ruling them out of the series.&nbsp;

While Pandya was a certainty in the playing XI, an out-of-form Rahul was not in contention to play on Saturday.&nbsp;

Skipper Virat Kohli on Friday condemned the comments made by his two teammates and said the team does not align with the "individual opinions".&nbsp;

"The two concerned players (have) felt what has gone wrong and they have understood the magnitude of what's happened," he said in the pre-match press conference.&nbsp;

Rahul was unlikely to get a go owing to both his poor form and the presence of a well-settled opening pair in Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. More significant is Pandya's absence as the all-rounder provides crucial balance to the ODI side with his ability to bowl 10 overs as well as bat in the middle order.&nbsp;

Pandya's absence means that India will have to rejig their attack. Jasprit Bumrah has already been rested for this series, as well as the tour of New Zealand, and this allows the think-tank to conduct one final experimentation with their bowling attack.&nbsp;

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It's time for ODI cricket. Who do you reckon will lift this trophy after the end of the 3rd game.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/ESskDamvDj">pic.twitter.com/ESskDamvDj</a>
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Bhuvneshwar Kumar is a shoe-in, and thereafter it depends if Kohli wants to go in with a three-man pace attack to compensate for Pandya's loss.&nbsp;

In such a scenario, Mohammed Shami and Khaleel Ahmed are expected to get the nod, as India continue zeroing on the pace quartet for the World Cup squad. There is a sprinkling of grass on the SCG pitch and it could push the Indian skipper to opt for a three-pacer and two-spinner combination.&nbsp;

Kohli also stated that, in Pandya's absence, Ravindra Jadeja would step up as the all-rounder. He would partner up with left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav as India's five-pronged attack, with Kedar Jadhav fulfilling any part-time bowling duties if needed.&nbsp;

With the two openers, and Kohli at number three, the remaining batting line-up picks itself. Jadhav, MS Dhoni and Ambati Rayudu will form the middle order, and there will be keen interest in the latter duo's form here.&nbsp;

Dhoni had an off-colour 2018, managing 275 runs in 20 ODIs at average 25 without a half-century. While this is a meagre return for a batsman of his stature, the worrying aspect is Dhoni's strike-rate of 71.42, which is remarkably lower than his ODI career strike-rate of 87.89.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India brought in Rayudu for the all-important number four role, and since the Asia Cup last September, have given him a long run in the middle order. In this interim, Rayudu scored 392 runs in 11 ODIs in the Asia Cup and against West Indies at average 56 including a hundred and three half-centuries.&nbsp;

While he put in a more consistent showing than any of the other previously tried contenders, this run came in conditions different from those in England.

As such, how Rayudu fares on this twin tour of Australia and New Zealand will be a closer representation of whether the Indian team has finally cracked the number four quandary.&nbsp;

Similar middle-order issues plagued the visitors when they last toured here for an ODI contest, losing 4-1 in January 2016 when Dhoni was still captain. Sharma and Kohli topped the charts with 441 and 381 runs in the five-match series, respectively, while Dhawan also scored 287 runs.&nbsp;

But there were no sizeable contributions from the middle, and only Manish Pandey's fighting hundred in the final ODI had saved India from a 5-0 scoreline.&nbsp;

India's ODI record in Australia is quite poor. Apart from the 1985 World Championship and 2008 CB Series wins, they have lost 35 out of 48 ODIs played against Australia on their home soil.&nbsp;

The absence of David Warner (220 runs in three matches in 2016) and Steve Smith (315 runs in five matches in 2016) might help them again though, as also the absence of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, with the trio rested from this series.&nbsp;

Australia have named their playing eleven ahead of the first ODI, with Nathan Lyon featuring as the lone spinner and Peter Siddle returning to this format for the first time since 2010. Keeper-batsman Alex Carey will open in ODI cricket for the first time, and will pair up with skipper Aaron Finch, while Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh and Peter Handscomb will form the middle order.&nbsp;

The hosts bat deep with Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell lined up at numbers six and seven, albeit their pace attack seems weak on paper. With Siddle returning to the format after eight years, left-arm pacer Jason Behrendorff will make his ODI debut on Saturday.&nbsp;

Hit hard by an unexpected controversy after the high of the Test triumph, India will look to fine-tune their World Cup preparations in the three-match ODI series against an under-fire Australia, beginning here on Saturday.

Hit hard by an unexpected controversy after the high of the Test triumph, India will look to fine-tune their World Cup preparations in the three-match ODI series against an under-fire Australia, beginning here on Saturday. On the eve of the opening game, the BCCI suspended Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul pending an inquiry for their inappropriate remarks on women during a TV show, effectively ruling them out of the series. While Pandya was a certainty in the playing XI, an out-of-form Rahul was not in contention to play on Saturday. Skipper Virat Kohli on Friday condemned the comments made by his two teammates and said the team does not align with the "individual opinions". "The two concerned players (have) felt what has gone wrong and they have understood the magnitude of what's happened," he said in the pre-match press conference. Rahul was unlikely to get a go owing to both his poor form and the presence of a well-settled opening pair in Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. More significant is Pandya's absence as the all-rounder provides crucial balance to the ODI side with his ability to bowl 10 overs as well as bat in the middle order. Pandya's absence means that India will have to rejig their attack. Jasprit Bumrah has already been rested for this series, as well as the tour of New Zealand, and this allows the think-tank to conduct one final experimentation with their bowling attack. It's time for ODI cricket. Who do you reckon will lift this trophy after the end of the 3rd game.#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/ESskDamvDj — BCCI (@BCCI) January 11, 2019 × Bhuvneshwar Kumar is a shoe-in, and thereafter it depends if Kohli wants to go in with a three-man pace attack to compensate for Pandya's loss. In such a scenario, Mohammed Shami and Khaleel Ahmed are expected to get the nod, as India continue zeroing on the pace quartet for the World Cup squad. There is a sprinkling of grass on the SCG pitch and it could push the Indian skipper to opt for a three-pacer and two-spinner combination. Kohli also stated that, in Pandya's absence, Ravindra Jadeja would step up as the all-rounder. He would partner up with left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav as India's five-pronged attack, with Kedar Jadhav fulfilling any part-time bowling duties if needed. With the two openers, and Kohli at number three, the remaining batting line-up picks itself. Jadhav, MS Dhoni and Ambati Rayudu will form the middle order, and there will be keen interest in the latter duo's form here. Dhoni had an off-colour 2018, managing 275 runs in 20 ODIs at average 25 without a half-century. While this is a meagre return for a batsman of his stature, the worrying aspect is Dhoni's strike-rate of 71.42, which is remarkably lower than his ODI career strike-rate of 87.89. India brought in Rayudu for the all-important number four role, and since the Asia Cup last September, have given him a long run in the middle order. In this interim, Rayudu scored 392 runs in 11 ODIs in the Asia Cup and against West Indies at average 56 including a hundred and three half-centuries. While he put in a more consistent showing than any of the other previously tried contenders, this run came in conditions different from those in England. As such, how Rayudu fares on this twin tour of Australia and New Zealand will be a closer representation of whether the Indian team has finally cracked the number four quandary. Similar middle-order issues plagued the visitors when they last toured here for an ODI contest, losing 4-1 in January 2016 when Dhoni was still captain. Sharma and Kohli topped the charts with 441 and 381 runs in the five-match series, respectively, while Dhawan also scored 287 runs. But there were no sizeable contributions from the middle, and only Manish Pandey's fighting hundred in the final ODI had saved India from a 5-0 scoreline. India's ODI record in Australia is quite poor. Apart from the 1985 World Championship and 2008 CB Series wins, they have lost 35 out of 48 ODIs played against Australia on their home soil. The absence of David Warner (220 runs in three matches in 2016) and Steve Smith (315 runs in five matches in 2016) might help them again though, as also the absence of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, with the trio rested from this series. Australia have named their playing eleven ahead of the first ODI, with Nathan Lyon featuring as the lone spinner and Peter Siddle returning to this format for the first time since 2010. Keeper-batsman Alex Carey will open in ODI cricket for the first time, and will pair up with skipper Aaron Finch, while Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh and Peter Handscomb will form the middle order. The hosts bat deep with Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell lined up at numbers six and seven, albeit their pace attack seems weak on paper. With Siddle returning to the format after eight years, left-arm pacer Jason Behrendorff will make his ODI debut on Saturday.

India vs Australia: After Test high, India begin final preparations for World Cup

Indian cricketers Hardik Pandya and K L Rahul were Friday suspended pending an inquiry into their <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-issues-showcause-notice-against-hardik-pandya-k-l-rahul-for-comments-on-women-in-tv-show-189173">comments on women</a> during a TV show, the Committee of Administrators (CoA) chairman Vinod Rai told PTI.&nbsp;

The cricketers, who have been in the eye of a storm following their sexist&nbsp;remarks on 'Koffee with Karan', will be returning from Australia where they were to compete in an ODI series starting Saturday.&nbsp;

The two had been omitted from the line-up for the opening match in Sydney.&nbsp;

"Both Pandya and Rahul have been suspended pending an inquiry," Rai said.&nbsp;

"Whether it will be an internal committee of the BCCI or an ad hoc ombudsman who will conduct an inquiry, is yet to be ascertained," the official said.&nbsp;

"The Indian team management will take a call on whether they would want to keep the two with the team or send them back. There is a school of thought that they be kept with the team as the backlash back home could be severe but majority in BCCI brass is against the decision," he added.&nbsp;

"It won't be surprising if two from Vijay Shankar, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey or Rishabh Pant are flown Down Under," the source said.&nbsp;

<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-says-kl-rahul-hardik-pandya-comments-not-supported-by-teammates-189573">Watch: Virat Kohli says, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya comments not supported by teammates</a>

On Friday, Edulji called for suspension of the two players pending inquiry after the BCCI legal team refused to declare their outrage-evoking comments on women a violation of the code of conduct.&nbsp;

"It is imperative that players be put under suspension till further course of action is decided for this misconduct as was done in case of (BCCI) CEO (Rahul Johri) when he was sent on leave on sexual harassment matter," read Edulji's response to the legal opinion which is in possession of PTI.&nbsp;

In the pre-match media interaction, India captain Virat Kohli condemned the comments made by Pandya and Rahul, calling them "inappropriate".&nbsp;

"From the Indian cricket team point of view, any inappropriate comments that are made in that scenario are something that we definitely don't support...And that has been communicated (to the two players)," said Kohli.&nbsp;

"...We definitely don't align with those views and those are purely individual views. The two concerned players (have) felt what has gone wrong and they have understood the magnitude of what's happened."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Hotstar has taken down the episode of "Koffee With Karan" featuring cricketers Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul after it got widespread criticism for "inappropriate" comments by Pandya.&nbsp;

"Certain remarks/comments made by the guests on the episode 12 of Koffee with Karan may hurt the sentiments of our users/viewers. As a responsible platform, we have removed the episode from Hotstar with immediate effect," Hotstar tweeted on Friday.&nbsp;

Indian cricketers Hardik Pandya and K L Rahul were Friday suspended pending an inquiry into their comments on women during a TV show, the Committee of Administrators (CoA) chairman Vinod Rai told PTI.

Indian cricketers Hardik Pandya and K L Rahul were Friday suspended pending an inquiry into their comments on women during a TV show, the Committee of Administrators (CoA) chairman Vinod Rai told PTI. The cricketers, who have been in the eye of a storm following their sexist remarks on 'Koffee with Karan', will be returning from Australia where they were to compete in an ODI series starting Saturday. The two had been omitted from the line-up for the opening match in Sydney. "Both Pandya and Rahul have been suspended pending an inquiry," Rai said. "Whether it will be an internal committee of the BCCI or an ad hoc ombudsman who will conduct an inquiry, is yet to be ascertained," the official said. "The Indian team management will take a call on whether they would want to keep the two with the team or send them back. There is a school of thought that they be kept with the team as the backlash back home could be severe but majority in BCCI brass is against the decision," he added. "It won't be surprising if two from Vijay Shankar, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey or Rishabh Pant are flown Down Under," the source said. Watch: Virat Kohli says, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya comments not supported by teammates On Friday, Edulji called for suspension of the two players pending inquiry after the BCCI legal team refused to declare their outrage-evoking comments on women a violation of the code of conduct. "It is imperative that players be put under suspension till further course of action is decided for this misconduct as was done in case of (BCCI) CEO (Rahul Johri) when he was sent on leave on sexual harassment matter," read Edulji's response to the legal opinion which is in possession of PTI. In the pre-match media interaction, India captain Virat Kohli condemned the comments made by Pandya and Rahul, calling them "inappropriate". "From the Indian cricket team point of view, any inappropriate comments that are made in that scenario are something that we definitely don't support...And that has been communicated (to the two players)," said Kohli. "...We definitely don't align with those views and those are purely individual views. The two concerned players (have) felt what has gone wrong and they have understood the magnitude of what's happened." Meanwhile, Hotstar has taken down the episode of "Koffee With Karan" featuring cricketers Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul after it got widespread criticism for "inappropriate" comments by Pandya. "Certain remarks/comments made by the guests on the episode 12 of Koffee with Karan may hurt the sentiments of our users/viewers. As a responsible platform, we have removed the episode from Hotstar with immediate effect," Hotstar tweeted on Friday.

Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul suspended pending inquiry

Indian cricketers <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-backlash-hardik-pandya-apologises-for-comments-on-tv-show-189131">Hardik Pandya and K L Rahul</a> were on Wednesday issued showcause notices by the BCCI for their comments on women on a TV show that triggered a massive outrage and might prompt the board to bar players from such appearances.

Pandya, whose remarks <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-hardik-pandya-say-kohli-better-batsman-than-sachin-tendulkar-twitterati-tear-them-apart-188672">on 'Koffee with Karan' was criticised</a> as sexist, apologised for his remarks, saying he got "carried away by the nature" of the show. Rahul, on the other hand, has not yet responded to the criticism.

"We have sent showcause notices to Hardik Pandya and K L Rahul for their comments. They have been given 24 hours to give an explanation," chairman of the committee of administrators that runs the BCCI, Vinod Rai, said.

The 25-year-old all-rounder and Rahul appeared on the celebrity chat show, hosted by filmmaker Karan Johar, together.

Taking to Twitter, Pandya posted, "After reflecting on my comments on Koffee with Karan, I would like to apologise to everyone concerned who I may have hurt in any way.

"Honestly, I got a bit carried away with the nature of the show. In no way did I mean to disrespect or hurt anyone's sentiments. Respect."

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<a href="https://t.co/O0UlpFm43o">pic.twitter.com/O0UlpFm43o</a>
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On the show, Pandya boasted about hooking up with multiple women and also how open he has been about it with his parents.

When asked why he didn't ask women their name in a club, Pandya responded by saying, "I like to watch and observe how they (women) move. I'm little from the black side so I need to see how they move."

Criticism started coming Pandya's way soon after and it is learnt that he was ticked off by the BCCI top brass.

According to a source, his comments were deemed "crass and cringe worthy" and might have a bearing on whether Indian cricketers appear on "such non-cricket shows" after this.

"It will be considered whether players should even be allowed to appear on such shows which have got nothing to do with cricket," a BCCI source said.

Pandya is currently with the Indian team in Australia where it recently recorded a historic maiden Test series win.

Pandya had joined the team before the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne after recovering from a back injury which he had suffered during the Asia Cup in UAE last year.

He will be seen in action in the three-match ODI series against Australia which starts on January 12 in Sydney.

Indian cricketers Hardik Pandya and K L Rahul were on Wednesday issued showcause notices by the BCCI for their comments on women on a TV show that triggered a massive outrage and might prompt the board to bar players from such appearances.

Indian cricketers Hardik Pandya and K L Rahul were on Wednesday issued showcause notices by the BCCI for their comments on women on a TV show that triggered a massive outrage and might prompt the board to bar players from such appearances. Pandya, whose remarks on 'Koffee with Karan' was criticised as sexist, apologised for his remarks, saying he got "carried away by the nature" of the show. Rahul, on the other hand, has not yet responded to the criticism. "We have sent showcause notices to Hardik Pandya and K L Rahul for their comments. They have been given 24 hours to give an explanation," chairman of the committee of administrators that runs the BCCI, Vinod Rai, said. The 25-year-old all-rounder and Rahul appeared on the celebrity chat show, hosted by filmmaker Karan Johar, together. Taking to Twitter, Pandya posted, "After reflecting on my comments on Koffee with Karan, I would like to apologise to everyone concerned who I may have hurt in any way. "Honestly, I got a bit carried away with the nature of the show. In no way did I mean to disrespect or hurt anyone's sentiments. Respect." pic.twitter.com/O0UlpFm43o — hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) January 9, 2019 × On the show, Pandya boasted about hooking up with multiple women and also how open he has been about it with his parents. When asked why he didn't ask women their name in a club, Pandya responded by saying, "I like to watch and observe how they (women) move. I'm little from the black side so I need to see how they move." Criticism started coming Pandya's way soon after and it is learnt that he was ticked off by the BCCI top brass. According to a source, his comments were deemed "crass and cringe worthy" and might have a bearing on whether Indian cricketers appear on "such non-cricket shows" after this. "It will be considered whether players should even be allowed to appear on such shows which have got nothing to do with cricket," a BCCI source said. Pandya is currently with the Indian team in Australia where it recently recorded a historic maiden Test series win. Pandya had joined the team before the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne after recovering from a back injury which he had suffered during the Asia Cup in UAE last year. He will be seen in action in the three-match ODI series against Australia which starts on January 12 in Sydney.

BCCI issues showcause notice against Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul for comments on women in TV show

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday congratulated Indian skipper Virat Kohli and his team for their historic test series win in Australia.&nbsp;

Imran, who is also the World Cup winning captain for Pakistan, took to his Twitter handle to extend his wishes to the Indian team and cricket fans.

"Congratulations to Virat Kohli and the Indian cricket team for the first ever win by a subcontinent team in a test series in Australia," Imran tweeted.

Virat Kohli-led side ended a 71-year wait for a Test series victory Down Under. Their 2-1 victory was confirmed when the rain-affected fourth and final test ended in a draw at Sydney Cricket Ground early on Monday afternoon. 
&nbsp; 
In the fourth and final test, India opted to bat and scored a mammoth 622-7 declared total in the first innings.&nbsp;

The hosts were duly dismissed for 300 and Kohli did not hesitate to go for the jugular by enforcing the follow-on -- the first time in 30 years Australia had suffered such ignominy on home soil.

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Congratulations to Virat Kohli and the Indian cricket team for the first ever win by a subcontinent team in a test series in Australia
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1082518483756298240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Ultimately, it was the Sydney weather that saved Australia from a 3-1 humiliation with no play possible after tea on day four, when they had mustered up six runs without loss in their second innings.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday congratulated Indian skipper Virat Kohli and his team for their historic test series win in Australia. Imran, who is also the World Cup winning captain for Pakistan, took to his Twitter handle to extend his wishes to the Indian team and cricket fans.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday congratulated Indian skipper Virat Kohli and his team for their historic test series win in Australia. Imran, who is also the World Cup winning captain for Pakistan, took to his Twitter handle to extend his wishes to the Indian team and cricket fans. "Congratulations to Virat Kohli and the Indian cricket team for the first ever win by a subcontinent team in a test series in Australia," Imran tweeted. Virat Kohli-led side ended a 71-year wait for a Test series victory Down Under. Their 2-1 victory was confirmed when the rain-affected fourth and final test ended in a draw at Sydney Cricket Ground early on Monday afternoon. In the fourth and final test, India opted to bat and scored a mammoth 622-7 declared total in the first innings. The hosts were duly dismissed for 300 and Kohli did not hesitate to go for the jugular by enforcing the follow-on -- the first time in 30 years Australia had suffered such ignominy on home soil. Congratulations to Virat Kohli and the Indian cricket team for the first ever win by a subcontinent team in a test series in Australia — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) January 8, 2019 × Ultimately, it was the Sydney weather that saved Australia from a 3-1 humiliation with no play possible after tea on day four, when they had mustered up six runs without loss in their second innings.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan congratulates Virat Kohli and team India for 'first ever win' in Test series in Australia

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who was amongst the highest wicket-takers in the historic 2-1 Test series victory against Australia, has been rested for the upcoming ODI series Down Under.

He has also been rested for India's next tour in New Zealand which starts from January 23.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mohammed Siraj has been announced as Bumrah's replacement in the squad for both Australia and New Zealand tour. Even Siddarth Kaul has also been drafted into the squad for the 3-match T20I series against the latter.&nbsp;

Siraj, who has played three T20Is, picked up seven wickets for Hyderabad in their last Ranji Trophy clash against Punjab. The right-arm paceman has been constantly performing for India A and recently had a decent tour of New Zealand with them.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Kaul too has been in superb form for his state Punjab in the Ranji Trophy. The 24-year-old also travelled with India A to New Zealand where he took seven wickets in three 50-over encounters. Kaul has so far played three ODIs and two T20Is.

As per reports, the decision was taken after considering the workload of the bowler. It was deemed fit to give him adequate rest keeping in mind 2019 ODI World Cup in England.

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Update: Jasprit Bumrah has been rested for the upcoming ODI series against Australia and India's Tour of New Zealand. Mohammed Siraj to replace him. <a href="https://twitter.com/sidkaul22?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sidkaul22</a> added to India's T20I squad. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 
 
Details: <a href="https://t.co/tc4yndy40I">https://t.co/tc4yndy40I</a> <a href="https://t.co/92E0hpuF5a">pic.twitter.com/92E0hpuF5a</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1082505841977090048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Bumrah scalped 21 wickets in India's 2-1 victory over Australia in the four-match series and bowled a total of 157.1 overs - more than any other Indian bowlers.&nbsp;

Only Nathan Lyon (242.1) bowled more overs than him in the series.

Australia will next host Virat Kohli-led side in the first ODI on Saturday (January 12).

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who was amongst the highest wicket-takers in the historic 2-1 Test series victory against Australia, has been rested for the upcoming ODI series Down Under.

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who was amongst the highest wicket-takers in the historic 2-1 Test series victory against Australia, has been rested for the upcoming ODI series Down Under. He has also been rested for India's next tour in New Zealand which starts from January 23. Mohammed Siraj has been announced as Bumrah's replacement in the squad for both Australia and New Zealand tour. Even Siddarth Kaul has also been drafted into the squad for the 3-match T20I series against the latter. Siraj, who has played three T20Is, picked up seven wickets for Hyderabad in their last Ranji Trophy clash against Punjab. The right-arm paceman has been constantly performing for India A and recently had a decent tour of New Zealand with them. Meanwhile, Kaul too has been in superb form for his state Punjab in the Ranji Trophy. The 24-year-old also travelled with India A to New Zealand where he took seven wickets in three 50-over encounters. Kaul has so far played three ODIs and two T20Is. As per reports, the decision was taken after considering the workload of the bowler. It was deemed fit to give him adequate rest keeping in mind 2019 ODI World Cup in England. Update: Jasprit Bumrah has been rested for the upcoming ODI series against Australia and India's Tour of New Zealand. Mohammed Siraj to replace him. @sidkaul22 added to India's T20I squad. #TeamIndia Details: https://t.co/tc4yndy40I pic.twitter.com/92E0hpuF5a — BCCI (@BCCI) January 8, 2019 × Bumrah scalped 21 wickets in India's 2-1 victory over Australia in the four-match series and bowled a total of 157.1 overs - more than any other Indian bowlers. Only Nathan Lyon (242.1) bowled more overs than him in the series. Australia will next host Virat Kohli-led side in the first ODI on Saturday (January 12).

IND vs AUS: Jasprit Bumrah rested for Australia ODIs and New Zealand tour, Mohammed Siraj named replacement

Wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav's sensational show at his maiden Test on Australian soil makes him India's first-choice spinner when it comes to selecting the playing XI for the upcoming World Cup in England feels team coach Ravi Shastri.&nbsp;

Kuldeep returned with a five-wicket haul in the first innings of the drawn fourth Test in Sydney against Australia and the wrist-spinner received huge accolades from the India coach.&nbsp;

"Kuldeep comes into the mix big time now (in the World Cup)," Shastri told 'India Today' TV channel.&nbsp;

"He might be in every Indian XI that plays (in the World Cup) because he has the advantage of a wrist spinner. We might need to choose between the other two finger spinners because wrist spinner now is the priority."&nbsp;

Young wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant also impressed by scoring 350 runs at an average of 58.33 to emerge as the second leading run-scorer for India during the four-match Test series against Australia. India won the contest 2-1 to clinch their maiden Test series win on Australian soil.&nbsp;

However, the 21-year-old Pant, who scored an unbeaten 159 in Sydney, was not included in the squad for the Australia and New Zealand ODIs.&nbsp;

Shastri said Pant has been given a specific job of learning to finish games, which will be important for India during the World Cup.&nbsp;

"We have asked him to go back because he has been playing non-stop cricket. I think he needs a break for a couple of weeks and then join the India A team," the India coach said.&nbsp;

"He has been asked to do a specific job, to get into the habit of finishing off matches and he will be right there in the mix," he added.&nbsp;

Shastri again slammed the critics for "jabbering away".&nbsp;

"Who cares what people say? Look at the scoreboard, look at the results and rests is history, you can keep jabbering away." he said. 
"I always believed the people who jabber away are in the minority. You don't know the millions of fans that this Indian team has, you outnumber the jabbering crowd." 
Virat Kohli and Co. Will now take on Australia in the three-match one-day series starting in Sydney on Saturday.

Wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav's sensational show at his maiden Test on Australian soil makes him India's first-choice spinner when it comes to selecting the playing XI for the upcoming World Cup in England feels team coach Ravi Shastri.

Wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav's sensational show at his maiden Test on Australian soil makes him India's first-choice spinner when it comes to selecting the playing XI for the upcoming World Cup in England feels team coach Ravi Shastri. Kuldeep returned with a five-wicket haul in the first innings of the drawn fourth Test in Sydney against Australia and the wrist-spinner received huge accolades from the India coach. "Kuldeep comes into the mix big time now (in the World Cup)," Shastri told 'India Today' TV channel. "He might be in every Indian XI that plays (in the World Cup) because he has the advantage of a wrist spinner. We might need to choose between the other two finger spinners because wrist spinner now is the priority." Young wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant also impressed by scoring 350 runs at an average of 58.33 to emerge as the second leading run-scorer for India during the four-match Test series against Australia. India won the contest 2-1 to clinch their maiden Test series win on Australian soil. However, the 21-year-old Pant, who scored an unbeaten 159 in Sydney, was not included in the squad for the Australia and New Zealand ODIs. Shastri said Pant has been given a specific job of learning to finish games, which will be important for India during the World Cup. "We have asked him to go back because he has been playing non-stop cricket. I think he needs a break for a couple of weeks and then join the India A team," the India coach said. "He has been asked to do a specific job, to get into the habit of finishing off matches and he will be right there in the mix," he added. Shastri again slammed the critics for "jabbering away". "Who cares what people say? Look at the scoreboard, look at the results and rests is history, you can keep jabbering away." he said. "I always believed the people who jabber away are in the minority. You don't know the millions of fans that this Indian team has, you outnumber the jabbering crowd." Virat Kohli and Co. Will now take on Australia in the three-match one-day series starting in Sydney on Saturday.

Kuldeep Yadav comes into World Cup mix big time: Ravi Shastri

The BCCI on Tuesday announced cash awards of Rs 15 lakhs per match for each of the playing eleven that featured in India's maiden Test series win on Australian soil.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli and Co. defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-match Test series Down Under, ending India's 71-year-old wait for the rare achievement.

Congratulated the team, the BCCI also announced cash awards for all the reserve players, as well as the members of the support staff.

"The bonuses will be equivalent to the actual match-fee payable: which is INR 15 Lakhs per match for Playing XI and INR 7.5 Lakhs per match for the reserve players," the BCCI said in a release.

The coaches will be awarded with Rs 25 lakh each, while the non-coaching support staff will receive bonuses which will be equivalent to the pro-rata salary/professional fee.&nbsp;

India had won the first and third Test in Adelaide and Melbourne respectively, while the hosts emerged victorious in the second match in Perth. The fourth and final Test in Sydney ended in a draw due to inclement weather.&nbsp;

The BCCI on Tuesday announced cash awards of Rs 15 lakhs per match for each of the playing eleven that featured in India's maiden Test series win on Australian soil.

The BCCI on Tuesday announced cash awards of Rs 15 lakhs per match for each of the playing eleven that featured in India's maiden Test series win on Australian soil. Virat Kohli and Co. defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-match Test series Down Under, ending India's 71-year-old wait for the rare achievement. Congratulated the team, the BCCI also announced cash awards for all the reserve players, as well as the members of the support staff. "The bonuses will be equivalent to the actual match-fee payable: which is INR 15 Lakhs per match for Playing XI and INR 7.5 Lakhs per match for the reserve players," the BCCI said in a release. The coaches will be awarded with Rs 25 lakh each, while the non-coaching support staff will receive bonuses which will be equivalent to the pro-rata salary/professional fee. India had won the first and third Test in Adelaide and Melbourne respectively, while the hosts emerged victorious in the second match in Perth. The fourth and final Test in Sydney ended in a draw due to inclement weather.

BCCI announces cash awards for triumphant Team India members

Former England captain Michael Vaughan feels Australia, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/historic-india-win-maiden-test-series-in-australia-188678">beaten for the first time in a home Test series against India</a>, are "kidding themselves if they think everything will be rosy when Steve Smith and David Warner come back".&nbsp;

In his column for 'The Daily Telegraph' following India's maiden Test series triumph Down Under, Vaughan wrote that Australia's issues run far deeper than the absence of suspended Smith and Warner.&nbsp;

"If you think Australia's problems will be solved the moment Steve Smith and David Warner are available for selection again then you are wrong... Batting, bowling, selection and tactics were poor against India, and Australia have to admit they were just not good enough," wrote Vaughan.&nbsp;

"Clearly, if you take the two best players out of any team they will struggle. But losing Smith and Warner is an easy excuse to hide behind.&nbsp;

India were beaten 4-1 in English conditions last summer, although the matches were closer than the final score suggests, but would have beaten Australia 3-1 had it not rained in Sydney for the last two days."&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/not-indias-fault-that-steve-smith-and-david-warner-were-not-picked-sunil-gavaskar-slams-critics-188822">Not India's fault that Steve Smith and David Warner were not picked: Sunil Gavaskar slams critics</a>

Considering the current scenario, Vaughan can't see Australia beating England in the away Ashes to be held after the 2019 World Cup.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"...Unless they assess themselves brutally. Batting techniques have to be better and they need to be more consistent with the ball. Every facet of their Test team has to improve. They are kidding themselves if they think everything will be rosy when Smith and Warner come back.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"On flat, good batting pitches, Australia really struggled as it is on those tracks that weaknesses are highlighted. A batting unit's defences are tested because it is necessary to bat for long periods. They look like a team who can score 250-300, and that is good enough on sporting pitches, but not when it is flat."&nbsp;

Improvement is also needed in the bowling department, reckoned Vaughan.&nbsp;

"The bowling is not as good as they think. They are very good when conditions are in their favour or well ahead in the game. But there is room for them to become a much more skilful and consistent bowling attack.&nbsp;

"For the Ashes this summer, Australia have to look at breaking up Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. They need a more skilful bowler, such as a Peter Siddle or Trent Copeland. They need someone who can match England's consistency and skill with the Duke ball and bowl the fuller length," he said.&nbsp;

Vaughan said the support staff must be blamed for the below-par bowling performance.&nbsp;

"A ridiculously low percentage of balls bowled by Australia against India were going on to hit the stumps. They took only one wicket lbw in the whole series.&nbsp;

"The bowlers and the coaching staff have to take the blame for that and ask how they can improve. To beat England in England, they have to bowl more intelligently," he added.&nbsp;

Former England captain Michael Vaughan feels Australia, beaten for the first time in a home Test series against India, are "kidding themselves if they think everything will be rosy when Steve Smith and David Warner come back".

Former England captain Michael Vaughan feels Australia, beaten for the first time in a home Test series against India, are "kidding themselves if they think everything will be rosy when Steve Smith and David Warner come back". In his column for 'The Daily Telegraph' following India's maiden Test series triumph Down Under, Vaughan wrote that Australia's issues run far deeper than the absence of suspended Smith and Warner. "If you think Australia's problems will be solved the moment Steve Smith and David Warner are available for selection again then you are wrong... Batting, bowling, selection and tactics were poor against India, and Australia have to admit they were just not good enough," wrote Vaughan. "Clearly, if you take the two best players out of any team they will struggle. But losing Smith and Warner is an easy excuse to hide behind. India were beaten 4-1 in English conditions last summer, although the matches were closer than the final score suggests, but would have beaten Australia 3-1 had it not rained in Sydney for the last two days." Also Read: Not India's fault that Steve Smith and David Warner were not picked: Sunil Gavaskar slams critics Considering the current scenario, Vaughan can't see Australia beating England in the away Ashes to be held after the 2019 World Cup. "...Unless they assess themselves brutally. Batting techniques have to be better and they need to be more consistent with the ball. Every facet of their Test team has to improve. They are kidding themselves if they think everything will be rosy when Smith and Warner come back. "On flat, good batting pitches, Australia really struggled as it is on those tracks that weaknesses are highlighted. A batting unit's defences are tested because it is necessary to bat for long periods. They look like a team who can score 250-300, and that is good enough on sporting pitches, but not when it is flat." Improvement is also needed in the bowling department, reckoned Vaughan. "The bowling is not as good as they think. They are very good when conditions are in their favour or well ahead in the game. But there is room for them to become a much more skilful and consistent bowling attack. "For the Ashes this summer, Australia have to look at breaking up Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. They need a more skilful bowler, such as a Peter Siddle or Trent Copeland. They need someone who can match England's consistency and skill with the Duke ball and bowl the fuller length," he said. Vaughan said the support staff must be blamed for the below-par bowling performance. "A ridiculously low percentage of balls bowled by Australia against India were going on to hit the stumps. They took only one wicket lbw in the whole series. "The bowlers and the coaching staff have to take the blame for that and ask how they can improve. To beat England in England, they have to bowl more intelligently," he added.

Aussies kidding themselves if they think all will be rosy when Steve Smith, David Warner return: Michael Vaughan

While <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Virat+Kohli">Virat Kohli</a>'s historic success in Australia has been greeted with jubilation in India, it has also sparked a feverish debate: is he even better than the nation's cricket god <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Sachin+Tendulkar">Sachin Tendulkar</a>?

Kohli, the world's top-ranked batsman in all three formats of the game, on Monday led India to their first-ever Test series win in Australia, after seven decades of trying.

Already known as "King Kohli" before the tour, there are those who say the Indian captain deserves promotion.

But his Test teammates Hardik Pandya and Lokesh Rahul were mercilessly trolled on Indian social media after saying on a TV chat show that Kohli was a better batsman than Tendulkar.&nbsp;

Watch: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-by-far-my-best-achievement-says-kohli-after-maiden-test-victory-in-australia-188699">'By far my best achievement,' says Kohli after maiden Test victory in Australia</a>

The pair were blasted for being "pathetic" and "cringeworthy" by Twitter users in a mass tirade.&nbsp;

While Tendulkar has maintained a god-like status in the Indian public's eye since his retirement in 2013, he never managed to guide India to a Test series win in Australia.&nbsp;

Kohli, 30, was born a year before Tendulkar made his India debut in 1989. He is the run machine of modern cricket with more 19,000 runs in Test, one-day and T20 games. He last year became the fastest to reach 10,000 runs in 50-over internationals -- beating Tendulkar's record.

Kohli's biographer Vijay Lokapally said there should not be a comparison between players of different generations, but hailed Kohli's achievements.

"As a captain he sets an example with his fitness, his batting and his leadership," Lokapally told AFP.

"His batting is absolutely top class. He doesn't need a certificate from anyone. And there is no better person to lead the Indian team in any format."

He added: "As far as comparisons go, I think it's unfair to disregard the efforts of former players like Vijay Hazare or Sunil Gavaskar and compare eras.

"Gavaskar was a star of his times, Tendulkar ruled his era and Kohli is the new generation star. So they are all champions in their own place."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pandya and Rahul set off hostilities with Tendulkar fans in their off-the-cuff comments on Indian television aired Sunday.

Tendulkar had been named as the best batsman by a string of luminaries including Don Bradman, Viv Richards and Sunil Gavaskar, one Twitter user noted in response. "Every true cricket fan knows who is best!"

Praise from Pakistan

Few doubt however that Kohli has given the world's number one Test nation an even stronger dominance by completing the 2-1 series win in Australia.

World Cup-winning Kohli rated the triumph his "best achievement" so far, and Indian papers hailed the captain for his "Thunder Down Under".

The Times of India newspaper headlined its report "The Reign Men", while the Hindustan Times said "This win will make India invincible", headlining the opinion of their columnist Ian Chappell.

Even Pakistan's prime minister Imran Khan congratulated India on their historic achievement.&nbsp;

"Congratulations to Virat Kohli and the Indian cricket team for the first ever win by a subcontinent team in a test series in Australia," the former cricketer wrote on his party's Twitter account.

India coach Ravi Shastri said Kohli's leadership skills had "made all the difference" but sought to shoot down all references to deities.

"This is not a team of gods and demigods, seniors or juniors. This is an Indian cricket team that will readily jump off a cliff to win a match for the country," said Shastri.

While Virat Kohli's historic success in Australia has been greeted with jubilation in India, it has also sparked a feverish debate: is he even better than the nation's cricket god Sachin Tendulkar?

While Virat Kohli's historic success in Australia has been greeted with jubilation in India, it has also sparked a feverish debate: is he even better than the nation's cricket god Sachin Tendulkar? Kohli, the world's top-ranked batsman in all three formats of the game, on Monday led India to their first-ever Test series win in Australia, after seven decades of trying. Already known as "King Kohli" before the tour, there are those who say the Indian captain deserves promotion. But his Test teammates Hardik Pandya and Lokesh Rahul were mercilessly trolled on Indian social media after saying on a TV chat show that Kohli was a better batsman than Tendulkar. Watch: 'By far my best achievement,' says Kohli after maiden Test victory in Australia The pair were blasted for being "pathetic" and "cringeworthy" by Twitter users in a mass tirade. While Tendulkar has maintained a god-like status in the Indian public's eye since his retirement in 2013, he never managed to guide India to a Test series win in Australia. Kohli, 30, was born a year before Tendulkar made his India debut in 1989. He is the run machine of modern cricket with more 19,000 runs in Test, one-day and T20 games. He last year became the fastest to reach 10,000 runs in 50-over internationals -- beating Tendulkar's record. Kohli's biographer Vijay Lokapally said there should not be a comparison between players of different generations, but hailed Kohli's achievements. "As a captain he sets an example with his fitness, his batting and his leadership," Lokapally told AFP. "His batting is absolutely top class. He doesn't need a certificate from anyone. And there is no better person to lead the Indian team in any format." He added: "As far as comparisons go, I think it's unfair to disregard the efforts of former players like Vijay Hazare or Sunil Gavaskar and compare eras. "Gavaskar was a star of his times, Tendulkar ruled his era and Kohli is the new generation star. So they are all champions in their own place." Pandya and Rahul set off hostilities with Tendulkar fans in their off-the-cuff comments on Indian television aired Sunday. Tendulkar had been named as the best batsman by a string of luminaries including Don Bradman, Viv Richards and Sunil Gavaskar, one Twitter user noted in response. "Every true cricket fan knows who is best!" Praise from Pakistan Few doubt however that Kohli has given the world's number one Test nation an even stronger dominance by completing the 2-1 series win in Australia. World Cup-winning Kohli rated the triumph his "best achievement" so far, and Indian papers hailed the captain for his "Thunder Down Under". The Times of India newspaper headlined its report "The Reign Men", while the Hindustan Times said "This win will make India invincible", headlining the opinion of their columnist Ian Chappell. Even Pakistan's prime minister Imran Khan congratulated India on their historic achievement. "Congratulations to Virat Kohli and the Indian cricket team for the first ever win by a subcontinent team in a test series in Australia," the former cricketer wrote on his party's Twitter account. India coach Ravi Shastri said Kohli's leadership skills had "made all the difference" but sought to shoot down all references to deities. "This is not a team of gods and demigods, seniors or juniors. This is an Indian cricket team that will readily jump off a cliff to win a match for the country," said Shastri.

Is Virat Kohli really better than Sachin Tendulkar? Nation wants to know

Team India achieved the momentous Test series win on Australian soil since India started touring&nbsp;Australia in 1947-48. The Virat Kohli-led team clinched the series 2-1 after a 71-year wait.

After the fourth and final weather-affected match at the Sydney Cricket Ground finished in a draw, Team India accomplished what former Indian teams were unable to do. With a great performance in both batting and bowling departments, Team India justified their No-1 status in Test ranking.&nbsp;

Despite Cheteshwar Pujara's classic show throughout the series, the rising star was, no doubt, Rishabh Pant.&nbsp;

From on-field banters to hitting an unbeaten century, the 21-year-old gutsy Pant proved that he is the one for the future. Pant, who possesses a good sense of humour, enjoyed a colourful Test series and remained in the headlines.&nbsp;

This Test series will definitely be an important landmark in his career.&nbsp;

Pant scripted history when he became the first Indian wicket-keeper to score a century in Australia. He scored an unbeaten 159 off 189 balls at Sydney to record the highest ever score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an away Test. It was the highest score by an Asian wicket-keeper outside sub-continent. With a total of 350, he was also the second highest run-getter after Pujara in Australia.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-attains-career-best-icc-test-ranking-surpasses-dhoni-and-equals-farokh-engineers-feat-188968">Rishabh Pant attains career-best ICC Test ranking, surpasses Dhoni and equals Farokh Engineer’s feat</a>

Besides batting, Pant impressed with his gloves too as he broke the record for most catches - 20 - by an Indian wicketkeeper in a Test series.&nbsp;

When Indian lower batting order struggled to score runs, Pant came at the seventh spot, quickly got into the groove and struck some crisp shots to contribute crucial runs for the team lower down the order.&nbsp;

The type of game Pant has displayed Down Under, has inspired youngsters and fulfilled what is required to build a stronger team.&nbsp;

In his Test debut year, Pant has scored a Test hundred each in England and Australia within months and scored a total of 696 runs.&nbsp;

Apart from Tests, Pant has been outstanding so far in Indian Premier League (IPL) as he scored 1,248 runs in 38 matches with a strike rate of 162.71 and in T20 Internationals he has played 10 matches and amassed 157 runs.&nbsp;

However, Pant is yet to prove himself in the one-day format since he has played just three ODIs scoring 41 runs.&nbsp;

Moreover, he is the top contender to be India's permanent wicket-keeper in all formats of the game when MS Dhoni bids goodbye to ODIs having already pulled out from Tests.

Now, the real "test" for selectors is whether to pick Pant in the World Cup, maybe the upcoming ODI series against Australia and New Zealand will decide where Dhoni will be under the scanner.

May the best man win.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Team India achieved the momentous Test series win on Australian soil since India started touring Australia in 1947-48. The Virat Kohli-led team clinched the series 2-1 after a 71-year wait.

Team India achieved the momentous Test series win on Australian soil since India started touring Australia in 1947-48. The Virat Kohli-led team clinched the series 2-1 after a 71-year wait. After the fourth and final weather-affected match at the Sydney Cricket Ground finished in a draw, Team India accomplished what former Indian teams were unable to do. With a great performance in both batting and bowling departments, Team India justified their No-1 status in Test ranking. Despite Cheteshwar Pujara's classic show throughout the series, the rising star was, no doubt, Rishabh Pant. From on-field banters to hitting an unbeaten century, the 21-year-old gutsy Pant proved that he is the one for the future. Pant, who possesses a good sense of humour, enjoyed a colourful Test series and remained in the headlines. This Test series will definitely be an important landmark in his career. Pant scripted history when he became the first Indian wicket-keeper to score a century in Australia. He scored an unbeaten 159 off 189 balls at Sydney to record the highest ever score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an away Test. It was the highest score by an Asian wicket-keeper outside sub-continent. With a total of 350, he was also the second highest run-getter after Pujara in Australia. Also Read: Rishabh Pant attains career-best ICC Test ranking, surpasses Dhoni and equals Farokh Engineer’s feat Besides batting, Pant impressed with his gloves too as he broke the record for most catches - 20 - by an Indian wicketkeeper in a Test series. When Indian lower batting order struggled to score runs, Pant came at the seventh spot, quickly got into the groove and struck some crisp shots to contribute crucial runs for the team lower down the order. The type of game Pant has displayed Down Under, has inspired youngsters and fulfilled what is required to build a stronger team. In his Test debut year, Pant has scored a Test hundred each in England and Australia within months and scored a total of 696 runs. Apart from Tests, Pant has been outstanding so far in Indian Premier League (IPL) as he scored 1,248 runs in 38 matches with a strike rate of 162.71 and in T20 Internationals he has played 10 matches and amassed 157 runs. However, Pant is yet to prove himself in the one-day format since he has played just three ODIs scoring 41 runs. Moreover, he is the top contender to be India's permanent wicket-keeper in all formats of the game when MS Dhoni bids goodbye to ODIs having already pulled out from Tests. Now, the real "test" for selectors is whether to pick Pant in the World Cup, maybe the upcoming ODI series against Australia and New Zealand will decide where Dhoni will be under the scanner. May the best man win. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

ICC World Cup 2019: Who should keep wickets for India, Rishabh Pant or MS Dhoni

India's wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant attained new highs in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Test rankings after his superb century in the drawn final Test against Australia in Sydney took him to 17th place, on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The 21-year-old left-handed batsman gained 21 slots to share the space with legendary Farokh Engineer, who did so in January 1973.

Pant's aggregate of 673 rating points are the highest by an Indian wicket-keeper, with Mahendra Singh Dhoni having the next highest aggregate of 662 points and Engineer 619 points.&nbsp;

Dhoni's highest Test ranking was 19th.

Pant moved into the top-20 only his ninth Test match with an unbeaten 159. Pant had started the Australia tour in 59th place and made rapid progress, scoring 350 runs in a series that also saw him take 20 catches.

Meanwhile, Cheteshwar Pujara, who scored 521 runs to help beat Australia 2-1 and claim the player of the series award, is another batsman to gain in the latest rankings update.

Pujara has gained one slot to reach third position while all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja (up six places to 57th) and rookie opener Mayank Agarwal (up five places to 62nd) are the others from his team to advance at the end of a historic series win.

Among bowlers, left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav gained seven slots to reach a career-best 45th position after registering figures of five for 99 in Australia's first innings in the fourth Test. &nbsp;

Jasprit Bumrah has held on to 16th position and Mohammed Shami has gained one place to take the 22nd slot.

Jadeja has gained one place to reach fifth among bowlers and has also leapfrogged Windies captain Jason Holder into second place among all-rounders.

For Australia, opener Marcus Harris has advanced 21 places to take a career-best 69th position after a fine 79 in the first innings while off-spinner Nathan Lyon has inched up from 14th to 13th position. 
&nbsp;

India's wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant attained new highs in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Test rankings after his superb century in the drawn final Test against Australia in Sydney took him to 17th place, on Tuesday.

India's wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant attained new highs in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Test rankings after his superb century in the drawn final Test against Australia in Sydney took him to 17th place, on Tuesday. The 21-year-old left-handed batsman gained 21 slots to share the space with legendary Farokh Engineer, who did so in January 1973. Pant's aggregate of 673 rating points are the highest by an Indian wicket-keeper, with Mahendra Singh Dhoni having the next highest aggregate of 662 points and Engineer 619 points. Dhoni's highest Test ranking was 19th. Pant moved into the top-20 only his ninth Test match with an unbeaten 159. Pant had started the Australia tour in 59th place and made rapid progress, scoring 350 runs in a series that also saw him take 20 catches. Meanwhile, Cheteshwar Pujara, who scored 521 runs to help beat Australia 2-1 and claim the player of the series award, is another batsman to gain in the latest rankings update. Pujara has gained one slot to reach third position while all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja (up six places to 57th) and rookie opener Mayank Agarwal (up five places to 62nd) are the others from his team to advance at the end of a historic series win. Among bowlers, left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav gained seven slots to reach a career-best 45th position after registering figures of five for 99 in Australia's first innings in the fourth Test. Jasprit Bumrah has held on to 16th position and Mohammed Shami has gained one place to take the 22nd slot. Jadeja has gained one place to reach fifth among bowlers and has also leapfrogged Windies captain Jason Holder into second place among all-rounders. For Australia, opener Marcus Harris has advanced 21 places to take a career-best 69th position after a fine 79 in the first innings while off-spinner Nathan Lyon has inched up from 14th to 13th position.

Rishabh Pant attains career-best ICC Test ranking, surpasses Dhoni and equals Farokh Engineer’s feat

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/historic-india-win-maiden-test-series-in-australia-188678">India ended a 71-year wait for a Test series victory in Australia</a> on Monday.&nbsp;Their 2-1 victory Down Under was confirmed when the rain-affected fourth and final test ended in a draw at Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

Wins in the first test in Adelaide and third in Melbourne ensured they could not lose the series and their batsmen, led by a 193 from Cheteshwar Pujara, batted Australia out of the fourth match with a daunting 622-7 declared total in the first innings.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/india-vs-australia-list-of-records-made-on-day-2-of-sydney-test-188237">Australia </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/india-vs-australia-list-of-records-made-on-day-2-of-sydney-test-188237">were</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/india-vs-australia-list-of-records-made-on-day-2-of-sydney-test-188237"> all-out for 300 in their first inning</a>, which witnessed the hosts&nbsp;follow-on at home for the first time in 30 years.

Kohli, who is on cloud nine, kissed the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and termed the victory as his best achievement by far.

"I've never been more proud of a team than this one. The culture we've been able to build over the last 12 months. Our transition started here when I became the captain for the first time. Only one word to say, I'm proud. To lead these players is an honour and a privilege. They make the captain look good."&nbsp;

By far this is my best achievement. Has to be on top of the pile. When we won the World Cup, I was a young player. I saw the others getting emotional."

When asked what importance does this victory hold for the Indian cricket team, Kohli said, "This series will give us a different identity as a team. What we've been able to achieve is something to be really proud of. That's something that we spoke about, just wanted to go back to basics, not be flamboyant."

Kohli also gave a special mention to Cheteshwar Pujara, who played some remarkable innings, saying he's one guy always willing to accept things. He's the nicest man around.&nbsp;

Kohli also gave a special mention to Mayank Agarwal, who started his international career with a brilliant half-century in the first inning followed by a crucial 42 runs in his second inning in the third Test against Australia.

In India's first inning in the fourth Test also, Mayank hit his second International fifty. He made 77 runs which included seven boundaries and two huge sixes.

Kohli also praised his bowling line saying the way the bowlers have dictated terms in this series and the previous two tours as well, he has not seen that happen in Indian cricket.&nbsp;

"It's a revelation for Indian cricket and learning for the other bowlers back home. They definitely deserve to be here and breaking record of the great West Indian fast bowlers is no mean feat. Definitely, this is just the stepping stone for us. The average age in the team is quite low. The most important thing for us have been belief. Our intent has always been good, and that is to take Indian cricket forward", Kohli concluded.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Australian skipper Tim Paine congratulated Virat and coach Ravi Shastri, saying the current Indian team have got some talent.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India ended a 71-year wait for a Test series victory in Australia on Monday. Their 2-1 victory Down Under was confirmed when the rain-affected fourth and final test ended in a draw at Sydney Cricket Ground.

India ended a 71-year wait for a Test series victory in Australia on Monday. Their 2-1 victory Down Under was confirmed when the rain-affected fourth and final test ended in a draw at Sydney Cricket Ground. Wins in the first test in Adelaide and third in Melbourne ensured they could not lose the series and their batsmen, led by a 193 from Cheteshwar Pujara, batted Australia out of the fourth match with a daunting 622-7 declared total in the first innings. Australia were all-out for 300 in their first inning, which witnessed the hosts follow-on at home for the first time in 30 years. Kohli, who is on cloud nine, kissed the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and termed the victory as his best achievement by far. "I've never been more proud of a team than this one. The culture we've been able to build over the last 12 months. Our transition started here when I became the captain for the first time. Only one word to say, I'm proud. To lead these players is an honour and a privilege. They make the captain look good." By far this is my best achievement. Has to be on top of the pile. When we won the World Cup, I was a young player. I saw the others getting emotional." When asked what importance does this victory hold for the Indian cricket team, Kohli said, "This series will give us a different identity as a team. What we've been able to achieve is something to be really proud of. That's something that we spoke about, just wanted to go back to basics, not be flamboyant." Kohli also gave a special mention to Cheteshwar Pujara, who played some remarkable innings, saying he's one guy always willing to accept things. He's the nicest man around. Kohli also gave a special mention to Mayank Agarwal, who started his international career with a brilliant half-century in the first inning followed by a crucial 42 runs in his second inning in the third Test against Australia. In India's first inning in the fourth Test also, Mayank hit his second International fifty. He made 77 runs which included seven boundaries and two huge sixes. Kohli also praised his bowling line saying the way the bowlers have dictated terms in this series and the previous two tours as well, he has not seen that happen in Indian cricket. "It's a revelation for Indian cricket and learning for the other bowlers back home. They definitely deserve to be here and breaking record of the great West Indian fast bowlers is no mean feat. Definitely, this is just the stepping stone for us. The average age in the team is quite low. The most important thing for us have been belief. Our intent has always been good, and that is to take Indian cricket forward", Kohli concluded. Meanwhile, Australian skipper Tim Paine congratulated Virat and coach Ravi Shastri, saying the current Indian team have got some talent.

Watch: 'By far my best achievement,' says Kohli after maiden Test victory in Australia

Incessant drizzling ruin the start of the fifth day game between India vs Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Monday.&nbsp;

Only 27.3 overs were possible on the fourth day which witnessed Australia follow-on at home for the first time in 30 years. On day 4 the first session was declared washed out due to bad light and rain and it seems the case will be the same today also.

Openers Usman Khawaja (4) and Marcus Harris (2) safely negotiated four overs until bad light and light drizzle forced an early end to an already heavily rain-disrupted day just before the re-scheduled tea break.

Australia will resume on six without loss on Monday, still without a century in the series and 316 runs adrift of India's mammoth first innings effort of 622-7 declared.

The tourists, leading 2-1 in the four-test series, only need a draw to secure a breakthrough triumph in Australia.

Play at the Sydney Cricket Ground had finally got underway after a rain delay of almost four hours and India needed just 80 minutes to take the last four wickets at a cost of 64 runs.

Incessant drizzling ruin the start of the fifth day game between India vs Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Monday. Only 27.3 overs were possible on the fourth day which witnessed Australia follow-on at home for the first time in 30 years.

Incessant drizzling ruin the start of the fifth day game between India vs Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Monday. Only 27.3 overs were possible on the fourth day which witnessed Australia follow-on at home for the first time in 30 years. On day 4 the first session was declared washed out due to bad light and rain and it seems the case will be the same today also. Openers Usman Khawaja (4) and Marcus Harris (2) safely negotiated four overs until bad light and light drizzle forced an early end to an already heavily rain-disrupted day just before the re-scheduled tea break. Australia will resume on six without loss on Monday, still without a century in the series and 316 runs adrift of India's mammoth first innings effort of 622-7 declared. The tourists, leading 2-1 in the four-test series, only need a draw to secure a breakthrough triumph in Australia. Play at the Sydney Cricket Ground had finally got underway after a rain delay of almost four hours and India needed just 80 minutes to take the last four wickets at a cost of 64 runs.

IND vs AUS: Rain continues to mar fifth day's play, Aus 6/0

Virat Kohli-led team achieved&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/historic-india-win-maiden-test-series-in-australia-188678">Test series victory</a>&nbsp;on Australian soil since India started touring to Australia in 1947-48 as they clinched the series 2-1 after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After winning the historic Test series Virat said, "By far this is my best achievement. Has to be on top of the pile. When we won the World Cup, I was a young player. I saw the others getting emotional."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, former and current players along with administrators hailed the series win on various platforms.&nbsp;

Following are the reactions:

Sachin Tendulkar 
An amazing day for Indian cricket! The resilience and determination of #TeamIndia has made this a series to be cherished. Proud of the boys. Has been a wonderful series where the younger and senior players shared responsibilities to achieve something special. @Rishabpant777, who has gone from strength to strength and @imkuldeep18 are definitely ones to watch out for.&nbsp;

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An amazing day for Indian cricket! The resilience and determination of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> has made this a series to be cherished. Proud of the boys. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/qPPXhYnKzM">pic.twitter.com/qPPXhYnKzM</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1082179058069254145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Bishan Singh Bedi 
Kudos to Team Ind fr recovering lot of (sic) lost ground in (sic) Sth Afr/Eng-truly remarkable feat-beating Aust fr 1st time in (sic) their own backyard-2 guys @cheteshwar1 &amp; @Jaspritbumrah93 personified consistency-all playing X1's gr8 resolve/determination helped cross the Rubicon..Congrats All!

VVS Laxman 
Many congratulations #TeamIndia on this historic series win in Australia. It took a complete Team effort from every member of the side and it gives such an immense sense of satisfaction and joy to see what the boys have done on the field. Let's cherish this special series win

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Many congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> on this historic series win in Australia. It took a complete Team effort from every member of the side and it gives such an immense sense of satisfaction and joy to see what the boys have done on the field. Let’s cherish this special series win <a href="https://t.co/QFj7oJg47i">pic.twitter.com/QFj7oJg47i</a>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1082152051768020992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Virender Sehwag 
Congratulations #TeamIndia for this memorable win. Every cricket lover in India will be very proud of this one and a special effort by every member in the Team to ensure this result.

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Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> for this memorable win. Every cricket lover in India will be very proud of this one and a special effort by every member in the Team to ensure this result. <a href="https://t.co/GLUaQgLt4S">pic.twitter.com/GLUaQgLt4S</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1082150021594836992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Harbhajan Singh 
Proud of you guys Well done Team India for winning the test series in Australia.. Congratulations @cheteshwar1 for winning MOS u (sic) been a backbone of indian batting line up.. Keep it up @BCCI bowling wise @Jaspritbumrah93 has been phenomenal..Love ur work

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Proud of you guys🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳..Well done Team India for winning the test series in Australia.. congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cheteshwar1</a> for winning MOS u been a backbone of indian batting line up.. keep it up 🔥🏏<a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> bowling wise <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a> has been phenomenal..love ur work ⭐️💪
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1082121618263101440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Suresh Raina 
When was the last time you did something for the first time? Historic 1st Test Series win for India in Australia! Superb effort by #TeamIndia ! It may have ended in rain but that's not going to dampen the celebrations! Proud #INDvAUS

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When was the last time you did something for the first time? Historic 1st Test Series win for India in Australia! Superb effort by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> ! It may have ended in rain but that’s not going to dampen the celebrations! Proud <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/xVN9OZtye5">pic.twitter.com/xVN9OZtye5</a>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1082137310702026759?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Mitchell Johnson 
Congratulations to the Indian cricket team for making history, winning in Australia for the 1st time is a proud achievement for all of India. @cheteshwar1 &amp; the whole Indian bowling attack was just unstoppable this series. Was thrilling to watch @Jaspritbumrah93 bowling

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Congratulations to India for winning the Test series in Australia for the first time ever 👏🏼 <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jaspritbumrah93</a> I was so impressed with your performance throughout this series! Fast,… <a href="https://t.co/7fMSNEeJ1q">https://t.co/7fMSNEeJ1q</a>
— Mitchell Johnson (@MitchJohnson398) <a href="https://twitter.com/MitchJohnson398/status/1082132516125982722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Michael Clarke 
Congratulations team on a very well played Test Match series 2-1.&nbsp;

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Congratulations team 🇮🇳 on a very well played Test Match series 2-1 👏🏻🏏
— Michael Clarke (@MClarke23) <a href="https://twitter.com/MClarke23/status/1082120539756552193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Michael Vaughan 
Well done #India on a really good series Win Down Under .. High class Skill produced by many of the players .. But it's great for all players around the world to see @cheteshwar1 get Man of the Series for playing the Test Match way .. A lesson to all ...

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Well done <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> on a really good series Win Down Under .. High class Skill produced by many of the players .. but it’s great for all players around the world to see <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cheteshwar1</a> get Man of the Series for playing the Test Match way .. A lesson to all .. #2–1 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1082170985032355841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Glenn McGrath 
? Congratulations to @imVkohli &amp; his Indian Team on winning their first ever series in Australia. They outplayed @CAComms in all departments. Very well deserved.&nbsp;

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Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> &amp; his Indian Team on winning their first ever series in Australia. They outplayed <a href="https://twitter.com/cacomms?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CAComms</a> in all departments. Very well deserved. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pinktest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pinktest</a> <a href="https://t.co/UkEJcrzJ3I">https://t.co/UkEJcrzJ3I</a>
— Glenn McGrath (@glennmcgrath11) <a href="https://twitter.com/glennmcgrath11/status/1082121305481191424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Gautam Gambhir 
Congratulations India on a stupendous victory. It's a big day for us as sporting nation. For once,let's not debate or dissect the impact of absence of Warner/Smith, let's just savour the moment and be proud. Let's be together on this one at least!

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Congratulations India on a stupendous victory. It’s a big day for us as sporting nation. For once,let’s not debate or dissect the impact of absence of Warner/Smith, let’s just savour the moment and be proud. Let’s be together on this one at least! <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SPNSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SPNSportsIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1082135708100366341?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Vinod Rai (CoA chief)&nbsp; 
An amazing historic series win for the Indian team. A very comprehensive effort. Every member contributed. I congratulate the captain, the head coach and each player in the team for the remarkable performance put in by them. My heartiest accolades for the performance. Great show. 
 
CK Khanna (acting president, BCCI): I wish to congratulate the Indian team for their series win in Australia and Virat Kohli for his superb captaincy. He led from the front.&nbsp;

Diana Edulji (COA member)&nbsp;Congratulations to Team India on this great series victory.

Virat Kohli-led team achieved Test series victory on Australian soil since India started touring to Australia in 1947-48 as they clinched the series 2-1 after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday.

Virat Kohli-led team achieved Test series victory on Australian soil since India started touring to Australia in 1947-48 as they clinched the series 2-1 after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday. After winning the historic Test series Virat said, "By far this is my best achievement. Has to be on top of the pile. When we won the World Cup, I was a young player. I saw the others getting emotional." Meanwhile, former and current players along with administrators hailed the series win on various platforms. Following are the reactions: Sachin Tendulkar An amazing day for Indian cricket! The resilience and determination of #TeamIndia has made this a series to be cherished. Proud of the boys. Has been a wonderful series where the younger and senior players shared responsibilities to achieve something special. @Rishabpant777, who has gone from strength to strength and @imkuldeep18 are definitely ones to watch out for. An amazing day for Indian cricket! The resilience and determination of #TeamIndia has made this a series to be cherished. Proud of the boys. #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/qPPXhYnKzM — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) January 7, 2019 × Bishan Singh Bedi Kudos to Team Ind fr recovering lot of (sic) lost ground in (sic) Sth Afr/Eng-truly remarkable feat-beating Aust fr 1st time in (sic) their own backyard-2 guys @cheteshwar1 & @Jaspritbumrah93 personified consistency-all playing X1's gr8 resolve/determination helped cross the Rubicon..Congrats All! VVS Laxman Many congratulations #TeamIndia on this historic series win in Australia. It took a complete Team effort from every member of the side and it gives such an immense sense of satisfaction and joy to see what the boys have done on the field. Let's cherish this special series win Many congratulations #TeamIndia on this historic series win in Australia. It took a complete Team effort from every member of the side and it gives such an immense sense of satisfaction and joy to see what the boys have done on the field. Let’s cherish this special series win pic.twitter.com/QFj7oJg47i — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) January 7, 2019 × Virender Sehwag Congratulations #TeamIndia for this memorable win. Every cricket lover in India will be very proud of this one and a special effort by every member in the Team to ensure this result. Congratulations #TeamIndia for this memorable win. Every cricket lover in India will be very proud of this one and a special effort by every member in the Team to ensure this result. pic.twitter.com/GLUaQgLt4S — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) January 7, 2019 × Harbhajan Singh Proud of you guys Well done Team India for winning the test series in Australia.. Congratulations @cheteshwar1 for winning MOS u (sic) been a backbone of indian batting line up.. Keep it up @BCCI bowling wise @Jaspritbumrah93 has been phenomenal..Love ur work Proud of you guys🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳..Well done Team India for winning the test series in Australia.. congratulations @cheteshwar1 for winning MOS u been a backbone of indian batting line up.. keep it up 🔥🏏@BCCI bowling wise @Jaspritbumrah93 has been phenomenal..love ur work ⭐️💪 — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) January 7, 2019 × Suresh Raina When was the last time you did something for the first time? Historic 1st Test Series win for India in Australia! Superb effort by #TeamIndia ! It may have ended in rain but that's not going to dampen the celebrations! Proud #INDvAUS When was the last time you did something for the first time? Historic 1st Test Series win for India in Australia! Superb effort by #TeamIndia ! It may have ended in rain but that’s not going to dampen the celebrations! Proud #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/xVN9OZtye5 — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) January 7, 2019 × Mitchell Johnson Congratulations to the Indian cricket team for making history, winning in Australia for the 1st time is a proud achievement for all of India. @cheteshwar1 & the whole Indian bowling attack was just unstoppable this series. Was thrilling to watch @Jaspritbumrah93 bowling Congratulations to India for winning the Test series in Australia for the first time ever 👏🏼 @Jaspritbumrah93 I was so impressed with your performance throughout this series! Fast,… https://t.co/7fMSNEeJ1q — Mitchell Johnson (@MitchJohnson398) January 7, 2019 × Michael Clarke Congratulations team on a very well played Test Match series 2-1. Congratulations team 🇮🇳 on a very well played Test Match series 2-1 👏🏻🏏 — Michael Clarke (@MClarke23) January 7, 2019 × Michael Vaughan Well done #India on a really good series Win Down Under .. High class Skill produced by many of the players .. But it's great for all players around the world to see @cheteshwar1 get Man of the Series for playing the Test Match way .. A lesson to all ... Well done #India on a really good series Win Down Under .. High class Skill produced by many of the players .. but it’s great for all players around the world to see @cheteshwar1 get Man of the Series for playing the Test Match way .. A lesson to all .. #2–1 #AUSvIND — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) January 7, 2019 × Glenn McGrath ? Congratulations to @imVkohli & his Indian Team on winning their first ever series in Australia. They outplayed @CAComms in all departments. Very well deserved. Congratulations to @imVkohli & his Indian Team on winning their first ever series in Australia. They outplayed @CAComms in all departments. Very well deserved. #AUSvIND #pinktest https://t.co/UkEJcrzJ3I — Glenn McGrath (@glennmcgrath11) January 7, 2019 × Gautam Gambhir Congratulations India on a stupendous victory. It's a big day for us as sporting nation. For once,let's not debate or dissect the impact of absence of Warner/Smith, let's just savour the moment and be proud. Let's be together on this one at least! Congratulations India on a stupendous victory. It’s a big day for us as sporting nation. For once,let’s not debate or dissect the impact of absence of Warner/Smith, let’s just savour the moment and be proud. Let’s be together on this one at least! @BCCI @SPNSportsIndia #INDvAUS — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) January 7, 2019 × Vinod Rai (CoA chief) An amazing historic series win for the Indian team. A very comprehensive effort. Every member contributed. I congratulate the captain, the head coach and each player in the team for the remarkable performance put in by them. My heartiest accolades for the performance. Great show. CK Khanna (acting president, BCCI): I wish to congratulate the Indian team for their series win in Australia and Virat Kohli for his superb captaincy. He led from the front. Diana Edulji (COA member) Congratulations to Team India on this great series victory.

India vs Australia: Former and current players along with administrators hail India's series win

Virat Kohli-led team achieved <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/historic-india-win-maiden-test-series-in-australia-188678">Test series victory</a> on Australian soil since India started touring to Australia in 1947-48 as they clinched the series 2-1 after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After winning the historic Test series Virat said, "By far this is my best achievement. Has to be on top of the pile. When we won the World Cup, I was a young player. I saw the others getting emotional."&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant led the on-field celebrations with an unusual victory dance and the entire team joined in. The celebration became hilarious when the players asked Cheteshwar Pujara to shake a leg but he simply couldn't.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-wife-anushka-goes-on-victory-walk-with-virat-kohli-in-sydney-188785">Wife Anushka goes on ‘victory walk’ with Virat Kohli in Sydney</a>

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-wife-anushka-goes-on-victory-walk-with-virat-kohli-in-sydney-188785">India's victory in Australia 'bigger' than 1983 World Cup win, says Shastri</a>

Virat Kohli while interacting with media was asked about the victory dance, "Can you explain the dance that you and some of the guys did in front of Indian fans?"

Virat replied, "You'll have to ask Rishabh Pant that, he came up with that and we just went along. I don't know what he was trying to do to be honest. It just felt good, it was very easy but Pujara could not even do that. You can see how simple he is".

Watch the victory dance:&nbsp;

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#<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 
Dance Dance 🕺🕺🕺🕺🕺🕺🕺🏼🕺 
Celebrations have well and truly begun for Team India! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/0ambFZkqUX">pic.twitter.com/0ambFZkqUX</a>
— Ritika Sajdeh ™ (@ImRitika45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRitika45/status/1082153874771841029?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Get those feet tapping. The Bharat Army gave the team a welcome in their own style - and needless to say, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> joined in 😁😁 - - <a href="https://twitter.com/28anand?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@28anand</a> gets us visuals straight from the hotel 👌👌 
 
Watch the full video here ----&gt; <a href="https://t.co/a0vlmo5Gmg">https://t.co/a0vlmo5Gmg</a> <a href="https://t.co/N8likfSmDN">pic.twitter.com/N8likfSmDN</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1082210339662454785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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MUST WATCH: Virat &amp; Co. celebrate historic win in style 😎🇮🇳🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/scg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@scg</a> dressing room abuzz with cheers, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> thanking their fans &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> on the proudest moment of his life - <a href="https://twitter.com/28anand?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@28anand</a> has all bases covered here <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> 
 
Video Link -----&gt; <a href="https://t.co/boJL4z7d1O">https://t.co/boJL4z7d1O</a> <a href="https://t.co/MC82y3cdYF">pic.twitter.com/MC82y3cdYF</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1082192586209521664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Cheteshwar Pujara, who scored a century in all four Tests, was given the player of the match and also the player of the series.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli-led team achieved Test series victory on Australian soil since India started touring to Australia in 1947-48 as they clinched the series 2-1 after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday. After winning the historic Test series Virat said, "By far this is my best achievement. Has to be on top of the pile. When we won the World Cup, I was a young player. I saw the others getting emotional." Rishabh Pant led the on-field celebrations with an unusual victory dance and the entire team joined in. The celebration became hilarious when the players asked Cheteshwar Pujara to shake a leg but he simply couldn't. Watch: Wife Anushka goes on ‘victory walk’ with Virat Kohli in Sydney Watch: India's victory in Australia 'bigger' than 1983 World Cup win, says Shastri Virat Kohli while interacting with media was asked about the victory dance, "Can you explain the dance that you and some of the guys did in front of Indian fans?" Virat replied, "You'll have to ask Rishabh Pant that, he came up with that and we just went along. I don't know what he was trying to do to be honest. It just felt good, it was very easy but Pujara could not even do that. You can see how simple he is". Watch the victory dance: ##AUSvIND #TeamIndia Dance Dance 🕺🕺🕺🕺🕺🕺🕺🏼🕺 Celebrations have well and truly begun for Team India! #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/0ambFZkqUX — Ritika Sajdeh ™ (@ImRitika45) January 7, 2019 × Get those feet tapping. The Bharat Army gave the team a welcome in their own style - and needless to say, #TeamIndia joined in 😁😁 - - @28anand gets us visuals straight from the hotel 👌👌 Watch the full video here ----> https://t.co/a0vlmo5Gmg pic.twitter.com/N8likfSmDN — BCCI (@BCCI) January 7, 2019 × MUST WATCH: Virat & Co. celebrate historic win in style 😎🇮🇳🇮🇳@scg dressing room abuzz with cheers, #TeamIndia thanking their fans & @imVkohli on the proudest moment of his life - @28anand has all bases covered here #AUSvIND Video Link -----> https://t.co/boJL4z7d1O pic.twitter.com/MC82y3cdYF — BCCI (@BCCI) January 7, 2019 × Cheteshwar Pujara, who scored a century in all four Tests, was given the player of the match and also the player of the series.

Watch: India's unusual victory dance after historic Test series win against Australia that Cheteshwar Pujara can't do

Dominant team India registered their status as the world's number one team by winning a historic first-ever series in Australia after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday.&nbsp;

After scripting history, Virat-led was showered with praises from a former player Sunil Gavaskar. &nbsp;

He said, "India played the opposition they were presented with and it's a great achievement for them."

He further added, "It is not that teams that I was a part of didn't play to win. We also played to win but this team is at a different level in terms of fitness and the captain has shown the way. In our times, we used do our individual routines."&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-indias-unusual-victory-dance-after-historic-test-win-against-australia-that-cheteshwar-pujara-cant-do-188811">India's unusual victory dance after historic Test series win against Australia that Cheteshwar Pujara can't do</a>

Besides applauding the winning team, Gavaskar slammed the criticism that the historic win came against a weakened Australian team.&nbsp;

It was attributed to batting mainstays David Warner and Steve Smith's one-year ban on ball tampering charges but Gavaskar rejected the assertion.&nbsp;

"It is not India's fault that this Australian team was without David Warner and Steve Smith. Australia could have handed them shorter bans but obviously it was thought that one-year bans would be good for Australian cricket, that they needed to be made an example for anyone who brings the game into disrepute," Gavaskar said during a post-match show on 'Sony Six'.&nbsp;

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Some happy faces in the dressing room post the Historic win 🇮🇳🇮🇳📸 <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/nVosuIEwlt">pic.twitter.com/nVosuIEwlt</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1082155848628023296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Paine admitted his inexperienced side had been completely outplayed in the last two matches in Melbourne and Sydney but thought the series might have panned out differently had the Australians done better in the opener in Adelaide.&nbsp;

"We honestly feel that we let that Test match slip," he told reporters.&nbsp;

"We're really disappointed," Paine said. "We know we had some guys missing but we honestly felt coming into this series that, particularly in Australia, we could beat India."&nbsp;

Dominant team India registered their status as the world's number one team by winning a historic first-ever series in Australia after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday.

Dominant team India registered their status as the world's number one team by winning a historic first-ever series in Australia after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday. After scripting history, Virat-led was showered with praises from a former player Sunil Gavaskar. He said, "India played the opposition they were presented with and it's a great achievement for them." He further added, "It is not that teams that I was a part of didn't play to win. We also played to win but this team is at a different level in terms of fitness and the captain has shown the way. In our times, we used do our individual routines." Watch: India's unusual victory dance after historic Test series win against Australia that Cheteshwar Pujara can't do Besides applauding the winning team, Gavaskar slammed the criticism that the historic win came against a weakened Australian team. It was attributed to batting mainstays David Warner and Steve Smith's one-year ban on ball tampering charges but Gavaskar rejected the assertion. "It is not India's fault that this Australian team was without David Warner and Steve Smith. Australia could have handed them shorter bans but obviously it was thought that one-year bans would be good for Australian cricket, that they needed to be made an example for anyone who brings the game into disrepute," Gavaskar said during a post-match show on 'Sony Six'. Some happy faces in the dressing room post the Historic win 🇮🇳🇮🇳📸 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/nVosuIEwlt — BCCI (@BCCI) January 7, 2019 × Paine admitted his inexperienced side had been completely outplayed in the last two matches in Melbourne and Sydney but thought the series might have panned out differently had the Australians done better in the opener in Adelaide. "We honestly feel that we let that Test match slip," he told reporters. "We're really disappointed," Paine said. "We know we had some guys missing but we honestly felt coming into this series that, particularly in Australia, we could beat India."

Not India's fault that Steve Smith and David Warner were not picked: Sunil Gavaskar slams critics

Tim Paine's men did their utmost to avoid being the first Australia side to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/historic-india-win-maiden-test-series-in-australia-188678">lose a Test series to India</a> on home soil but were outplayed in the key moments that might have swung matters in their favour, the 34-year-old said on Monday.

India wrapped up a 2-1 series victory, their first in 71 years of trying, after the fourth and final Test petered out in a draw at a rain-drenched Sydney Cricket Ground on Monday.

Installed as captain in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year, Paine has now overseen seven Test matches and won just one -- the Perth victory that tied up the series at 1-1.

Paine admitted his inexperienced side had been completely outplayed in the last two matches in Melbourne and Sydney but thought the series might have panned out differently had the Australians done better in the opener in Adelaide.

"We honestly feel that we let that Test match slip," he told reporters.

Watch: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-wife-anushka-goes-on-victory-walk-with-virat-kohli-in-sydney-188785">Wife Anushka goes on ‘victory walk’ with Virat Kohli in Sydney</a>

Watch: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-wife-anushka-goes-on-victory-walk-with-virat-kohli-in-sydney-188785">India's victory in Australia 'bigger' than 1983 World Cup win, says Shastri</a>

"We thought had a number of opportunities in that Test to get ahead of the game, and when those key moments came up, India outplayed us.

"More often than not when those big moments came up, Virat (Kohli) scored a century or (Cheteshwar) Pujara scored one or (Jasprit) Bumrah bowled a great spell and got them through those moments.

"Their best players stood up in the big moments."

Paine said the Australians, still without their best two batsmen because of the bans handed out to Steve Smith and David Warner for their part in the Newlands scandal, needed to emulate the Indians when they take on Sri Lanka in a two-Test series.

"We can learn a lot from the way they went about it and we'll make sure we do," he said.

"We'll have a week off and get ready for the Sri Lanka series. We've got faith that the guys around the team are the right guys."

Paine said he had faith that senior batsmen Usman Khawaja and Shaun Marsh and the pace bowlers Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins would rediscover their best form after under-par series.

He thought that opener Marcus Harris and Travis Head, who probably got their chances because of the absence of Smith and Warner, had acquitted themselves well at Test level.

Paine conceded, however, that not scoring a century between the batting unit over the entire series was a serious setback.

"Clearly, we know we're not going to win too many any Test matches without scoring hundreds," he said.

"But when guys are in their third, fourth Test matches, it's hard. We had so many starts throughout this series, it's just the experience of learning how to convert them.

"(And the Indian) attack was seriously good. I don't think in Australia we've given them enough credit for how relentless they were. It was hard work batting even for seasoned Test players."

After a one-day series against India, Australia next take on Sri Lanka in Brisbane starting on Jan 24 followed by the second Test in Canberra.

"We're really disappointed," Paine said. "We know we had some guys missing but we honestly felt coming into this series that, particularly in Australia, we could beat India."

Tim Paine's men did their utmost to avoid being the first Australia side to lose a Test series to India on home soil but were outplayed in the key moments that might have swung matters in their favour, the 34-year-old said on Monday.

Tim Paine's men did their utmost to avoid being the first Australia side to lose a Test series to India on home soil but were outplayed in the key moments that might have swung matters in their favour, the 34-year-old said on Monday. India wrapped up a 2-1 series victory, their first in 71 years of trying, after the fourth and final Test petered out in a draw at a rain-drenched Sydney Cricket Ground on Monday. Installed as captain in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year, Paine has now overseen seven Test matches and won just one -- the Perth victory that tied up the series at 1-1. Paine admitted his inexperienced side had been completely outplayed in the last two matches in Melbourne and Sydney but thought the series might have panned out differently had the Australians done better in the opener in Adelaide. "We honestly feel that we let that Test match slip," he told reporters. Watch: Wife Anushka goes on ‘victory walk’ with Virat Kohli in Sydney Watch: India's victory in Australia 'bigger' than 1983 World Cup win, says Shastri "We thought had a number of opportunities in that Test to get ahead of the game, and when those key moments came up, India outplayed us. "More often than not when those big moments came up, Virat (Kohli) scored a century or (Cheteshwar) Pujara scored one or (Jasprit) Bumrah bowled a great spell and got them through those moments. "Their best players stood up in the big moments." Paine said the Australians, still without their best two batsmen because of the bans handed out to Steve Smith and David Warner for their part in the Newlands scandal, needed to emulate the Indians when they take on Sri Lanka in a two-Test series. "We can learn a lot from the way they went about it and we'll make sure we do," he said. "We'll have a week off and get ready for the Sri Lanka series. We've got faith that the guys around the team are the right guys." Paine said he had faith that senior batsmen Usman Khawaja and Shaun Marsh and the pace bowlers Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins would rediscover their best form after under-par series. He thought that opener Marcus Harris and Travis Head, who probably got their chances because of the absence of Smith and Warner, had acquitted themselves well at Test level. Paine conceded, however, that not scoring a century between the batting unit over the entire series was a serious setback. "Clearly, we know we're not going to win too many any Test matches without scoring hundreds," he said. "But when guys are in their third, fourth Test matches, it's hard. We had so many starts throughout this series, it's just the experience of learning how to convert them. "(And the Indian) attack was seriously good. I don't think in Australia we've given them enough credit for how relentless they were. It was hard work batting even for seasoned Test players." After a one-day series against India, Australia next take on Sri Lanka in Brisbane starting on Jan 24 followed by the second Test in Canberra. "We're really disappointed," Paine said. "We know we had some guys missing but we honestly felt coming into this series that, particularly in Australia, we could beat India."

India vs Australia: We were outplayed in key moments, says Australia captain Tim Paine

Australia were dismissed for 300 after lunch on the fourth day of the final test against India on Sunday, trailing the tourists' first innings of 622-7 declared by 322 and forced to follow-on.

India only need a draw to win the four-match series.

Spinner Kuldeep Yadav struck for his side to put an end to Australia's first inning. Yadav clinched five wickets and ended with figures 99/5 after bowling 31.5 overs.&nbsp;

Earlier, other Indian bowlers dismissed three Australian batsmen in quick succession after rain delay, on day 4 of the fourth test match.&nbsp;

Play got underway on Sunday after a rain delay of almost four hours at the Sydney Cricket Ground but India took 80 minutes to take the last four wickets at a cost of 64 runs.

Australia were reduced to 236-6 at stumps on day three when bad light had stopped play.

On days one and two, Cheteshwar Pujara (193) and Rishabh Pant (159 not out) helped India to a grand first innings' total of 622-7 declared.

India have an unassailable 2-1 series' lead after winning the first Test in Adelaide by 31 runs and the third Test in Melbourne by 137 runs. Australia had won the second Test in Perth by 146 runs.

Australia were dismissed for 300 after lunch on the fourth day of the final test against India on Sunday, trailing the tourists' first innings of 622-7 declared by 322 and forced to follow-on.

Australia were dismissed for 300 after lunch on the fourth day of the final test against India on Sunday, trailing the tourists' first innings of 622-7 declared by 322 and forced to follow-on. India only need a draw to win the four-match series. Spinner Kuldeep Yadav struck for his side to put an end to Australia's first inning. Yadav clinched five wickets and ended with figures 99/5 after bowling 31.5 overs. Earlier, other Indian bowlers dismissed three Australian batsmen in quick succession after rain delay, on day 4 of the fourth test match. Play got underway on Sunday after a rain delay of almost four hours at the Sydney Cricket Ground but India took 80 minutes to take the last four wickets at a cost of 64 runs. Australia were reduced to 236-6 at stumps on day three when bad light had stopped play. On days one and two, Cheteshwar Pujara (193) and Rishabh Pant (159 not out) helped India to a grand first innings' total of 622-7 declared. India have an unassailable 2-1 series' lead after winning the first Test in Adelaide by 31 runs and the third Test in Melbourne by 137 runs. Australia had won the second Test in Perth by 146 runs.

IND vs AUS, Day 4: Bad light stops play; Australia trail by 316 runs

Spinner Kuldeep Yadav&nbsp;struck for his side to end Australia's first inning for 300. Earlier, other Indian bowlers dismissed three Australian batsmen in quick succession after rain delay, on day 4 of the fourth test match.&nbsp;

Earlier, incessant rain and bad light washed out the first session of day four of the fourth Test between Australia and India.

At the Sydney Cricket Ground, play couldn't commence at the scheduled early 10 am local time start due to bad light and wet conditions from overnight heavy rain.

The light improved in some time and the two umpires stipulated 11 am local time as the start of play, but rain arrived to prevent that from happening.

The inclement weather didn't relent until lunchtime and the morning session was completely washed out.

Australia were reduced to 236-6 at stumps on day three when bad light had stopped play.

On days one and two, Cheteshwar Pujara (193) and Rishabh Pant (159 not out) helped India to a grand first innings' total of 622-7 declared.

India have an unassailable 2-1 series' lead after winning the first Test in Adelaide by 31 runs and the third Test in Melbourne by 137 runs. Australia had won the second Test in Perth by 146 runs.

Spinner Kuldeep Yadav struck for his side to end Australia's first inning for 300. Earlier, other Indian bowlers dismissed three Australian batsmen in quick succession after rain delay, on day 4 of the fourth test match.

Spinner Kuldeep Yadav struck for his side to end Australia's first inning for 300. Earlier, other Indian bowlers dismissed three Australian batsmen in quick succession after rain delay, on day 4 of the fourth test match. Earlier, incessant rain and bad light washed out the first session of day four of the fourth Test between Australia and India. At the Sydney Cricket Ground, play couldn't commence at the scheduled early 10 am local time start due to bad light and wet conditions from overnight heavy rain. The light improved in some time and the two umpires stipulated 11 am local time as the start of play, but rain arrived to prevent that from happening. The inclement weather didn't relent until lunchtime and the morning session was completely washed out. Australia were reduced to 236-6 at stumps on day three when bad light had stopped play. On days one and two, Cheteshwar Pujara (193) and Rishabh Pant (159 not out) helped India to a grand first innings' total of 622-7 declared. India have an unassailable 2-1 series' lead after winning the first Test in Adelaide by 31 runs and the third Test in Melbourne by 137 runs. Australia had won the second Test in Perth by 146 runs.

IND vs AUS: Kuldeep strikes to end Australia's first inning

Indian bowling coach Bharat Arun advocated for the use of pink ball while interacting with media after India's quest to clinch a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-bad-light-rain-force-early-stumps-on-day-four-australia-60-188512">first-ever Test series victo</a>ry in Australia was delayed when play was abandoned on day four of the fourth Test at Sydney Cricket Ground, due to bad light and rain.

"I think pink ball would eventually come in. I think sometime in future we would definitely be playing pink ball cricket. The fact we didn't play now was because we had hardly played with the pink ball. But eventually, yes. That could be the future of (Test) cricket."

Bad light and light drizzle forced an early end to an already heavily rain-disrupted day just before the rescheduled tea break. Australia will resume on six without loss on Monday, India requiring 10 wickets for victory

Australia&nbsp;were made to follow-on in a home match for the first time in 31 years have been all out for 300 in their first innings after an initial three-hour rain delay.&nbsp;

Only 25.2 overs were possible on Sunday, leaving Australia 316 runs behind with 10 wickets remaining.&nbsp;

With minutes left before the interval, the umpires pulled out the light meter and play was abruptly ended for a second successive day. &nbsp;

Bharat Arun also praised the SCG's pitch, he said, "This is probably one of the best wickets we have played on from the batsman's point of view. So, we were aware that to win this game we need that many overs to bowl it.&nbsp;

"So, and also the fact that, you know, the weather was much, it was a lot kinder than what it was in the first two-three days so and also the fact that it's a great opportunity for us to make it 3-1 scoreline. So that was a huge motivation for us to go and give all that we have to make it 3-1," he concluded.

Indian bowling coach Bharat Arun advocated for the use of pink ball while interacting with media after India's quest to clinch a first-ever Test series victory in Australia was delayed when play was abandoned on day four of the fourth Test at Sydney Cricket Ground, due to bad light and rain.

Indian bowling coach Bharat Arun advocated for the use of pink ball while interacting with media after India's quest to clinch a first-ever Test series victory in Australia was delayed when play was abandoned on day four of the fourth Test at Sydney Cricket Ground, due to bad light and rain. "I think pink ball would eventually come in. I think sometime in future we would definitely be playing pink ball cricket. The fact we didn't play now was because we had hardly played with the pink ball. But eventually, yes. That could be the future of (Test) cricket." Bad light and light drizzle forced an early end to an already heavily rain-disrupted day just before the rescheduled tea break. Australia will resume on six without loss on Monday, India requiring 10 wickets for victory Australia were made to follow-on in a home match for the first time in 31 years have been all out for 300 in their first innings after an initial three-hour rain delay. Only 25.2 overs were possible on Sunday, leaving Australia 316 runs behind with 10 wickets remaining. With minutes left before the interval, the umpires pulled out the light meter and play was abruptly ended for a second successive day. Bharat Arun also praised the SCG's pitch, he said, "This is probably one of the best wickets we have played on from the batsman's point of view. So, we were aware that to win this game we need that many overs to bowl it. "So, and also the fact that, you know, the weather was much, it was a lot kinder than what it was in the first two-three days so and also the fact that it's a great opportunity for us to make it 3-1 scoreline. So that was a huge motivation for us to go and give all that we have to make it 3-1," he concluded.

Pink ball cricket will be the future says, India bowling coach Bharat Arun

Day 4 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia was delayed due to incessant rain at the Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

Peter Handscomb, unbeaten on 28, and Pat Cummins, who had made 25, will resume the game today.&nbsp;

Australia's batting woes returned on the third day as they slumped to 236 for the loss of six wickets when bad light and rain brought an early end to their response to India's mammoth first-innings tally of 622-7 declared.

The Virat Kohli-led side only need a draw to claim a first series win in Australia and the home side's hopes of preventing even that faded as they blew a solid start to lose five wickets after lunch.

Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh and Travis Head were all dismissed after lunch and captain Tim Paine followed soon after the tea break.

Day 4 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia was delayed due to incessant rain at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Peter Handscomb, unbeaten on 28, and Pat Cummins, who had made 25, will resume the game today.

Day 4 of the fourth and final Test between India and Australia was delayed due to incessant rain at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Peter Handscomb, unbeaten on 28, and Pat Cummins, who had made 25, will resume the game today. Australia's batting woes returned on the third day as they slumped to 236 for the loss of six wickets when bad light and rain brought an early end to their response to India's mammoth first-innings tally of 622-7 declared. The Virat Kohli-led side only need a draw to claim a first series win in Australia and the home side's hopes of preventing even that faded as they blew a solid start to lose five wickets after lunch. Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh and Travis Head were all dismissed after lunch and captain Tim Paine followed soon after the tea break.

IND vs AUS: Bad light, rain delay start on day 4; Australia 236/6

Australia were forced to follow-on on home soil for the first time in 30 years after being dismissed for 300 as India went for the jugular in search of a maiden series triumph Down Under on the fourth day of the final test on Sunday.

Openers Usman Khawaja (4) and Marcus Harris (2) safely negotiated four overs until bad light and light drizzle forced an early end to an already heavily rain-disrupted day just before the re-scheduled tea break.

Australia will resume on six without loss on Monday, still without a century in the series and 316 runs adrift of India's mammoth first innings effort of 622-7 declared.

The tourists, leading 2-1 in the four-test series, only need a draw to secure a breakthrough triumph in Australia but skipper Virat Kohli did not hesitate to send the hosts back in when they fell well short of the 423 runs needed to avoid the follow-on.

Play at the Sydney Cricket Ground had finally got underway after a rain delay of almost four hours and India needed just 80 minutes to take the last four wickets at a cost of 64 runs.

Mohammed Shami immediately took the second new ball and removed Pat Cummins's off stump with the sixth delivery of the day to dismiss his fellow paceman for 25.

Peter Handscomb, recalled for his ability to play spin, followed for 37 after adding nine runs to his overnight tally, dragging the ball onto his stumps to give quick Jasprit Bumrah his first wicket of the match.

Nathan Lyon faced just five balls before he was adjudged lbw to fellow spinner Kuldeep Yadav for a duck, a decision Australia decided against reviewing despite a question mark over whether the ball would have hit the stumps.

Josh Hazlewood was dropped by Hanuma Vihari off Kuldeep's bowling when he had yet to score and he and fellow tailender Mitchell Starc (29 not out) fought a dogged rearguard to put on 42 for the final wicket.

Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep (5-99) finally got his man to secure a second five-wicket haul in his sixth test, though, trapping Hazlewood leg before wicket for 21, in a decision confirmed after a review.

England were the last team to force Australia to follow-on at home in the drawn 1988 Sydney test, a result the hosts are unlikely to repeat unless the weather intervenes decisively.

Australia were forced to follow-on on home soil for the first time in 30 years after being dismissed for 300 as India went for the jugular in search of a maiden series triumph Down Under on the fourth day of the final test on Sunday.

Australia were forced to follow-on on home soil for the first time in 30 years after being dismissed for 300 as India went for the jugular in search of a maiden series triumph Down Under on the fourth day of the final test on Sunday. Openers Usman Khawaja (4) and Marcus Harris (2) safely negotiated four overs until bad light and light drizzle forced an early end to an already heavily rain-disrupted day just before the re-scheduled tea break. Australia will resume on six without loss on Monday, still without a century in the series and 316 runs adrift of India's mammoth first innings effort of 622-7 declared. The tourists, leading 2-1 in the four-test series, only need a draw to secure a breakthrough triumph in Australia but skipper Virat Kohli did not hesitate to send the hosts back in when they fell well short of the 423 runs needed to avoid the follow-on. Play at the Sydney Cricket Ground had finally got underway after a rain delay of almost four hours and India needed just 80 minutes to take the last four wickets at a cost of 64 runs. Mohammed Shami immediately took the second new ball and removed Pat Cummins's off stump with the sixth delivery of the day to dismiss his fellow paceman for 25. Peter Handscomb, recalled for his ability to play spin, followed for 37 after adding nine runs to his overnight tally, dragging the ball onto his stumps to give quick Jasprit Bumrah his first wicket of the match. Nathan Lyon faced just five balls before he was adjudged lbw to fellow spinner Kuldeep Yadav for a duck, a decision Australia decided against reviewing despite a question mark over whether the ball would have hit the stumps. Josh Hazlewood was dropped by Hanuma Vihari off Kuldeep's bowling when he had yet to score and he and fellow tailender Mitchell Starc (29 not out) fought a dogged rearguard to put on 42 for the final wicket. Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep (5-99) finally got his man to secure a second five-wicket haul in his sixth test, though, trapping Hazlewood leg before wicket for 21, in a decision confirmed after a review. England were the last team to force Australia to follow-on at home in the drawn 1988 Sydney test, a result the hosts are unlikely to repeat unless the weather intervenes decisively.

IND vs AUS: Bad light, rain force early stumps on day four; Australia are 6/0

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting Sunday slammed the current team for showing "no desperation" after Nathan Lyon decided against reviewing his lbw decision on day four of the fourth Test against India here.&nbsp;

Lyon was adjudged LBW after being hit on the pad off a Kuldeep Yadav delivery. He asked non-striker Mitchell Starc if he should opt for a review, but the duo decided against it despite two reviews remaining in their innings and only two wickets left.

At stumps on day four, Australia were bundled out for 300 in the first innings after which India enforced the follow-on. The hosts then came out to bat in the second innings, trailing by 322 runs.

India had piled up a mammoth 622 in their first innings.

"That dismissal actually says a lot to me about the mindset of this Australian team at the moment. There's no desperation there whatsoever," Ponting said on Channel Seven, one of the host broadcasters.

"Why wouldn't they have had a look at that? They've still got the two reviews up their sleeve. There had to be some sort of doubt in that," Ponting added.

The former three-time World Cup winning cricketer also slammed pacer Starc, who was at the non-stricker's end, for not intervening.

"Given out straight away and Mitchell Starc just puts his hand out and says 'oh well, it's not me, it's up to you to make (a call)".

"Well, unfortunately, when you're out there together it's a partnership. You've got to do whatever you can to try and save your mate. And there was absolutely none of that there," he added.

Replays suggested the ball would have probably struck Lyon outside the line of off stump and he may have been adjudged not out if DRS was taken.

"And as it's shown already that would have been given not out. Slack and not desperate enough. You can see where Mitchell Starc is standing at the non-striker's end," he added.&nbsp;

"One, look how wide he's standing. There's no need to be that wide in the first place. Nathan Lyon looks up, 'Oh what do you reckon?' 'Oh I don't know mate. Yeah I don't know. But let's not bother looking. We've only got two (reviews) up our sleeve," Ponting said.&nbsp;

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting Sunday slammed the current team for showing "no desperation" after Nathan Lyon decided against reviewing his lbw decision on day four of the fourth Test against India here.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting Sunday slammed the current team for showing "no desperation" after Nathan Lyon decided against reviewing his lbw decision on day four of the fourth Test against India here. Lyon was adjudged LBW after being hit on the pad off a Kuldeep Yadav delivery. He asked non-striker Mitchell Starc if he should opt for a review, but the duo decided against it despite two reviews remaining in their innings and only two wickets left. At stumps on day four, Australia were bundled out for 300 in the first innings after which India enforced the follow-on. The hosts then came out to bat in the second innings, trailing by 322 runs. India had piled up a mammoth 622 in their first innings. "That dismissal actually says a lot to me about the mindset of this Australian team at the moment. There's no desperation there whatsoever," Ponting said on Channel Seven, one of the host broadcasters. "Why wouldn't they have had a look at that? They've still got the two reviews up their sleeve. There had to be some sort of doubt in that," Ponting added. The former three-time World Cup winning cricketer also slammed pacer Starc, who was at the non-stricker's end, for not intervening. "Given out straight away and Mitchell Starc just puts his hand out and says 'oh well, it's not me, it's up to you to make (a call)". "Well, unfortunately, when you're out there together it's a partnership. You've got to do whatever you can to try and save your mate. And there was absolutely none of that there," he added. Replays suggested the ball would have probably struck Lyon outside the line of off stump and he may have been adjudged not out if DRS was taken. "And as it's shown already that would have been given not out. Slack and not desperate enough. You can see where Mitchell Starc is standing at the non-striker's end," he added. "One, look how wide he's standing. There's no need to be that wide in the first place. Nathan Lyon looks up, 'Oh what do you reckon?' 'Oh I don't know mate. Yeah I don't know. But let's not bother looking. We've only got two (reviews) up our sleeve," Ponting said.

Ricky Ponting lashes out at Australia for showing 'no desperation'

Indian batsman Rohit Sharma, who recently became father of a baby girl, on Sunday revealed the name of his daughter.&nbsp;

The 31-year-old revealed the name on his Twitter handle.&nbsp;“I spent last night On the last flight to you Took a whole day up Trying to get way up Baby Samaira,” Rohit wrote.&nbsp;

Along with the post, Rohit shared an adorable picture of his family. He shared the photo with the words of popular Maroon 5 song 'Girls like you' as the caption.

Rohit, who was on the tour of Australia, missed the fourth Test and flew back to Mumbai soon after his wife Ritika delivered the baby, last week.&nbsp;The couple tied the knot in December 2015.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I spent last night 
On the last flight to you ❤️ 
Took a whole day up 
Trying to get way up 
 
Baby Samaira ❤️<a href="https://t.co/xR2fjlvwOr">https://t.co/xR2fjlvwOr</a> This video never fails to give me goosebumps <a href="https://twitter.com/adamlevine?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@adamlevine</a> <a href="https://t.co/XPNtfwS4qX">pic.twitter.com/XPNtfwS4qX</a>
— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45/status/1081800286232924160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in a statement announced that Rohit will join the squad on January 8, when the team begins its preparation for the One-day International (ODI) series starting on January 12.

Indian batsman Rohit Sharma, who recently became father of a baby girl, on Sunday revealed the name of his daughter. The 31-year-old revealed the name on his Twitter handle.

Indian batsman Rohit Sharma, who recently became father of a baby girl, on Sunday revealed the name of his daughter. The 31-year-old revealed the name on his Twitter handle. “I spent last night On the last flight to you Took a whole day up Trying to get way up Baby Samaira,” Rohit wrote. Along with the post, Rohit shared an adorable picture of his family. He shared the photo with the words of popular Maroon 5 song 'Girls like you' as the caption. Rohit, who was on the tour of Australia, missed the fourth Test and flew back to Mumbai soon after his wife Ritika delivered the baby, last week. The couple tied the knot in December 2015. I spent last night On the last flight to you ❤️ Took a whole day up Trying to get way up Baby Samaira ❤️https://t.co/xR2fjlvwOr This video never fails to give me goosebumps @adamlevine pic.twitter.com/XPNtfwS4qX — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) January 6, 2019 × The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in a statement announced that Rohit will join the squad on January 8, when the team begins its preparation for the One-day International (ODI) series starting on January 12.

Rohit Sharma reveals newborn daughter's name on Twitter, shares adorable photo

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