Australia's batting woes returned on the third day of the fourth Test on Saturday and they had slumped to 236 for six when bad light and rain brought an early end to their response to India's mammoth first-innings tally of 622-7 declared.

The tourists 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.

Peter Handscomb, unbeaten on 28, and fast bowler Pat Cummins, who had made 25, were at the crease when the rainclouds gathered over a Sydney Cricket Ground swathed in pink for the McGrath Foundation breast cancer support charity day.

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Play on Day 3 has been abandoned due to rain! 🌧️ 
 
Australia finish the day on 236/6, trailing by 386 runs, and we will have an early start tomorrow.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> SCORECARD ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/c2fCH8UcMc">https://t.co/c2fCH8UcMc</a> <a href="https://t.co/eUSH2Woxo6">pic.twitter.com/eUSH2Woxo6</a>
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India spinners picked up five wickets out of the six that fell on a rain-affected Day 3 of the final Test at the SCG. 
 
Marcus Harris top-scored with 79 for Australia.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> REPORT 🔽<a href="https://t.co/zq4nC9UXGw">https://t.co/zq4nC9UXGw</a> <a href="https://t.co/YQBtzyMCsr">pic.twitter.com/YQBtzyMCsr</a>
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Most of the Australian batsmen made starts but only opener Harris was able to get past the half-century mark -- his 79 the highest score by the home side in a series during which India have pillaged five centuries.

The left-hander showed plenty of intent but just when it seemed he could be heading for a maiden Test ton he calamitously played the ball onto his own stumps off the bowling of Ravindra Jadeja.

India's disciplined pace attack played a leading role in the victories in Adelaide and Melbourne that gave the tourists a 2-1 series lead coming to Sydney but it was the spinners who did most of the damage on Saturday.

Jadeja (2-62) also accounted for Marsh, who must surely have exhausted his supply of Test recalls after departing for eight having left his bat hanging to gift Ajinkya Rahane the simplest of catches at first slip.

Rahane had to work considerably harder for the catch at short midwicket that dismissed Labuschagne (38), diving low to his left to grab the ball with both hands off the bowling of quick Mohammed Shami.

Kuldeep Yadav (3-71) made Travis Head his second victim of the day shortly before tea, the batsman charging down the track to take on the left-arm wrist spinner only to send the ball straight back to him for the catch.

Paine gave the 24-year-old his third wicket, a peach of a delivery that clean bowled the Australia captain through his gaping gate for five.

The surface that India's batsmen had plundered almost at will for two days was still offering little movement for the bowlers and the Australians will be cursing themselves for some soft dismissals after the solid start to the day.

The openers had put on 72 when Usman Khawaja, moved up from number three to replace the dropped Aaron Finch, miscued a slog off Kuldeep to depart for 27 in the opening session.

Australia's batting woes returned on the third day of the fourth Test on Saturday and they had slumped to 236 for six when bad light and rain brought an early end to their response to India's mammoth first-innings tally of 622-7 declared.

Australia's batting woes returned on the third day of the fourth Test on Saturday and they had slumped to 236 for six when bad light and rain brought an early end to their response to India's mammoth first-innings tally of 622-7 declared. The tourists 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. Peter Handscomb, unbeaten on 28, and fast bowler Pat Cummins, who had made 25, were at the crease when the rainclouds gathered over a Sydney Cricket Ground swathed in pink for the McGrath Foundation breast cancer support charity day. Play on Day 3 has been abandoned due to rain! 🌧️ Australia finish the day on 236/6, trailing by 386 runs, and we will have an early start tomorrow.#AUSvIND SCORECARD ⬇️https://t.co/c2fCH8UcMc pic.twitter.com/eUSH2Woxo6 — ICC (@ICC) January 5, 2019 × India spinners picked up five wickets out of the six that fell on a rain-affected Day 3 of the final Test at the SCG. Marcus Harris top-scored with 79 for Australia.#AUSvIND REPORT 🔽https://t.co/zq4nC9UXGw pic.twitter.com/YQBtzyMCsr — ICC (@ICC) January 5, 2019 × Most of the Australian batsmen made starts but only opener Harris was able to get past the half-century mark -- his 79 the highest score by the home side in a series during which India have pillaged five centuries. The left-hander showed plenty of intent but just when it seemed he could be heading for a maiden Test ton he calamitously played the ball onto his own stumps off the bowling of Ravindra Jadeja. India's disciplined pace attack played a leading role in the victories in Adelaide and Melbourne that gave the tourists a 2-1 series lead coming to Sydney but it was the spinners who did most of the damage on Saturday. Jadeja (2-62) also accounted for Marsh, who must surely have exhausted his supply of Test recalls after departing for eight having left his bat hanging to gift Ajinkya Rahane the simplest of catches at first slip. Rahane had to work considerably harder for the catch at short midwicket that dismissed Labuschagne (38), diving low to his left to grab the ball with both hands off the bowling of quick Mohammed Shami. Kuldeep Yadav (3-71) made Travis Head his second victim of the day shortly before tea, the batsman charging down the track to take on the left-arm wrist spinner only to send the ball straight back to him for the catch. Paine gave the 24-year-old his third wicket, a peach of a delivery that clean bowled the Australia captain through his gaping gate for five. The surface that India's batsmen had plundered almost at will for two days was still offering little movement for the bowlers and the Australians will be cursing themselves for some soft dismissals after the solid start to the day. The openers had put on 72 when Usman Khawaja, moved up from number three to replace the dropped Aaron Finch, miscued a slog off Kuldeep to depart for 27 in the opening session.

India vs Australia, 4th Test, Day 3: Australia stumble in reply to India's mammoth total

Rishabh Pant and Tim Paine's good-humoured on-field banter has been lapped up by the television viewers and the Indian described it as a way of maintaining intensity during long on-field hours.&nbsp;

The official broadcasters of ongoing India versus Australia series Fox Cricket has kept the stump microphone on and some of the interesting exchanges between Paine and Pant have been recorded.&nbsp;

Pant, whose picture of holding Tim Paine's son along with the Australian skipper's wife Bonnie went viral after the "babysitter" banter, didn't mind that stump mic is on.&nbsp;

"That (banter) is also one of the methods to keep yourself positive and to keep yourself busy. When you are fielding for a long time, everyone's body does get tired but you need to find a way to keep yourself positive and stay concentrated. My method is this, and it works for me, and that's why I am doing it," Pant told the media on Friday.&nbsp;

"As a player, I don't think about any of these things (stump microphone being turned up). Whatever I feel like at that moment, I say it. That's the only way," he added.&nbsp;

It all started during the Melbourne Test when Pant was batting.&nbsp;

"Big MS (Dhoni) is back in the one-day squad too, we might get him (Pant) down to the (Hobart) Hurricanes we need a batter. Fancy that, Pantsy? Extend your little Aussie holiday. Beautiful town Hobart too, I'll get you a nice apartment on the waterfront. (I'll) have him over for dinner. Can you babysit? I'll take the wife to the movies one night and you'll look after the kids," Paine was heard saying on the stump mic.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant and Tim Paine's good-humoured on-field banter has been lapped up by the television viewers and the Indian described it as a way of maintaining intensity during long on-field hours.

Rishabh Pant and Tim Paine's good-humoured on-field banter has been lapped up by the television viewers and the Indian described it as a way of maintaining intensity during long on-field hours. The official broadcasters of ongoing India versus Australia series Fox Cricket has kept the stump microphone on and some of the interesting exchanges between Paine and Pant have been recorded. Pant, whose picture of holding Tim Paine's son along with the Australian skipper's wife Bonnie went viral after the "babysitter" banter, didn't mind that stump mic is on. "That (banter) is also one of the methods to keep yourself positive and to keep yourself busy. When you are fielding for a long time, everyone's body does get tired but you need to find a way to keep yourself positive and stay concentrated. My method is this, and it works for me, and that's why I am doing it," Pant told the media on Friday. "As a player, I don't think about any of these things (stump microphone being turned up). Whatever I feel like at that moment, I say it. That's the only way," he added. It all started during the Melbourne Test when Pant was batting. "Big MS (Dhoni) is back in the one-day squad too, we might get him (Pant) down to the (Hobart) Hurricanes we need a batter. Fancy that, Pantsy? Extend your little Aussie holiday. Beautiful town Hobart too, I'll get you a nice apartment on the waterfront. (I'll) have him over for dinner. Can you babysit? I'll take the wife to the movies one night and you'll look after the kids," Paine was heard saying on the stump mic.

Rishabh Pant explains importance of good-humoured on-field banter

Indian batsman KL Rahul won hearts by his act of honesty while fielding on the third day of fourth and final Test of India-Australia series at Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

The incident happened when Australian batsman Marcus Harris survived a close call batting on 24 when a diving KL Rahul narrowly missed a catch.&nbsp;

Rahul immediately signalled that it didn't carry and was bounced. He ensured that the umpires don't waste time going to the third umpire.

On-field umpire&nbsp;Ian Gould appreciated Rahul's honest act and gave him a thumbs up when other players started celebrating the wicket.&nbsp;

Opener Harris quickly found a groove with some crisp shots&nbsp;and&nbsp;went on to score&nbsp;79 off 120.

Watch the catch here:

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A good effort from Rahul and he immediately says it bounced. Great stuff. Umpire Gould a big fan of it <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CloseMatters?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CloseMatters</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/GilletteAU?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GilletteAU</a> <a href="https://t.co/7nA0H5Lsc7">pic.twitter.com/7nA0H5Lsc7</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1081338419425337344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This looked out for all money, but brilliant honesty from KL Rahul to not hesitate in ruling it out. 
 
Umpire Ian Gould was certainly impressed. 
 
📺 Watch LIVE on Fox Cricket &amp; 📰 join our match centre: <a href="https://t.co/seDJz2Ba9X">https://t.co/seDJz2Ba9X</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/FFcpp84AyI">pic.twitter.com/FFcpp84AyI</a>
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Australia were left struggling at 236 for a loss of six wickets in their first innings in reply to India's colossal score of 622-7 when bad light stopped the play and early stumps on third day.&nbsp;

Play will start 30 minutes early on Sunday.&nbsp;

When the players walked off the field, Peter Handscomb and Pat Cummins were batting on 28 and 25, respectively, as Australia trailed India's first-innings total by 386 runs.&nbsp;

Unless Australia win, India will claim a first-ever series victory Down Under since they began touring here in 1947-48.&nbsp;

Indian batsman KL Rahul won hearts by his act of honesty while fielding on the third day of fourth and final Test of India-Australia series at Sydney Cricket Ground.

Indian batsman KL Rahul won hearts by his act of honesty while fielding on the third day of fourth and final Test of India-Australia series at Sydney Cricket Ground. The incident happened when Australian batsman Marcus Harris survived a close call batting on 24 when a diving KL Rahul narrowly missed a catch. Rahul immediately signalled that it didn't carry and was bounced. He ensured that the umpires don't waste time going to the third umpire. On-field umpire Ian Gould appreciated Rahul's honest act and gave him a thumbs up when other players started celebrating the wicket. Opener Harris quickly found a groove with some crisp shots and went on to score 79 off 120. Watch the catch here: A good effort from Rahul and he immediately says it bounced. Great stuff. Umpire Gould a big fan of it #CloseMatters#AUSvIND | @GilletteAU pic.twitter.com/7nA0H5Lsc7 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 4, 2019 × This looked out for all money, but brilliant honesty from KL Rahul to not hesitate in ruling it out. Umpire Ian Gould was certainly impressed. 📺 Watch LIVE on Fox Cricket & 📰 join our match centre: https://t.co/seDJz2Ba9X #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/FFcpp84AyI — Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) January 4, 2019 × Australia were left struggling at 236 for a loss of six wickets in their first innings in reply to India's colossal score of 622-7 when bad light stopped the play and early stumps on third day. Play will start 30 minutes early on Sunday. When the players walked off the field, Peter Handscomb and Pat Cummins were batting on 28 and 25, respectively, as Australia trailed India's first-innings total by 386 runs. Unless Australia win, India will claim a first-ever series victory Down Under since they began touring here in 1947-48.

Watch: KL Rahul earns praise from umpire for his honesty in Sydney Test, Twitter applauds

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting praised young wicketkeeper-batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=rishabh+pant">Rishabh Pant</a>, so much so that he called him "another" Adam Gilchrist after the Indian's blistering 159 in the fourth Test.&nbsp;

"He is a real talent and an incredibly good ball striker. He has got a really good game sense as well. I have been lucky enough to coach him at Delhi (Capitals)," said Ponting, who had worked with the Indian during his stint with Delhi franchise at the Indian Premier League.

"He has got to do a bit of work on his keeping and he will also become a better batsman.

"We talk about him in the commentary box and he is sort of like another Adam Gilchrist," Ponting told cricket.Com.Au.

Gilchrist, the legendary Australian wicket-keeper batsman, has played 96 Tests, scoring 5570 runs at an average of 47.6. He also represented his country in 287 ODIs, amassing 9619 runs at 35.89.

Watch: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-hilarious-song-composed-for-rishabh-pant-by-fans-188365">Hilarious song composed for Rishabh Pant by fans</a>

On Friday, Pant became the only Indian wicketkeeper to score a century on Australia soil when he smashed an unbeaten 159 and shared a 204-run stand with Ravindra Jadeja, as the visitors declared at 622 runs for seven.

The 21-year-old also surpassed Mahendra Singh Dhoni's 13-year-old record of highest individual Test score by an Indian wicketkeeper. The former India skipper had scored 148 runs against Pakistan in 2006.

Ponting believes Pant will score more Test centuries than his predecessor Dhoni.

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"He is sort of like another Adam Gilchrist" – Ricky Ponting on Rishabh Pant after the India wicket-keeper batsman hit an entertaining 💯 at the SCG. 
 
READ 👇<a href="https://t.co/fofFrxgqLi">https://t.co/fofFrxgqLi</a> <a href="https://t.co/7CsO9ITloR">pic.twitter.com/7CsO9ITloR</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1081419132564717569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"We talk about MS Dhoni all the time and his impact on Indian cricket. He played a lot of Tests for India but made only six Test hundreds. This kid (Rishabh Pant) will make a lot more Test hundreds than that," Ponting said.&nbsp;

"He has already scored his second Test ton and a couple of 90s to go with it. Look he is someone who could play a lot of Test cricket for India across formats. Pant is only 21 and is already into his ninth Test."

Gilchrist also praised Pant for pacing his innings well.

"He played a beautiful innings today (Friday)," Gilchrist told foxsports.Com.Au.

"We probably all expected him to bat aggressively from ball one but he showed he can build an inning and then by the end of it allowed himself to play with all the freedom that we know he's got.

"It was entertaining. He's a cricketer that I would happily pay to watch."

Gilchrist believes Pant has the talent to become a successful Test cricketer.

"He's a cricketer that is at the start of his journey so he'll learn these particular parts of the game and he'll learn that there's always more time than what you think, but he's got a great foundation to be a successful Test cricketer," he said.

Though he shone with the bat, Pant's keeping wasn't always up to the mark as he dropped Usman Khawaja off Mohammed Shami late on the second day.

However, Gilchrist said Pant will become a reliable keeper as he learns from his mistakes.

"Although he's missed a few opportunities with the gloves, he's certainly held onto more than he's spilt. If he's prepared to work on his game, I'm sure he'll develop and become a really reliable keeper," Gilchrist said.

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting praised young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, so much so that he called him "another" Adam Gilchrist after the Indian's blistering 159 in the fourth Test.

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting praised young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, so much so that he called him "another" Adam Gilchrist after the Indian's blistering 159 in the fourth Test. "He is a real talent and an incredibly good ball striker. He has got a really good game sense as well. I have been lucky enough to coach him at Delhi (Capitals)," said Ponting, who had worked with the Indian during his stint with Delhi franchise at the Indian Premier League. "He has got to do a bit of work on his keeping and he will also become a better batsman. "We talk about him in the commentary box and he is sort of like another Adam Gilchrist," Ponting told cricket.Com.Au. Gilchrist, the legendary Australian wicket-keeper batsman, has played 96 Tests, scoring 5570 runs at an average of 47.6. He also represented his country in 287 ODIs, amassing 9619 runs at 35.89. Watch: Hilarious song composed for Rishabh Pant by fans On Friday, Pant became the only Indian wicketkeeper to score a century on Australia soil when he smashed an unbeaten 159 and shared a 204-run stand with Ravindra Jadeja, as the visitors declared at 622 runs for seven. The 21-year-old also surpassed Mahendra Singh Dhoni's 13-year-old record of highest individual Test score by an Indian wicketkeeper. The former India skipper had scored 148 runs against Pakistan in 2006. Ponting believes Pant will score more Test centuries than his predecessor Dhoni. "He is sort of like another Adam Gilchrist" – Ricky Ponting on Rishabh Pant after the India wicket-keeper batsman hit an entertaining 💯 at the SCG. READ 👇https://t.co/fofFrxgqLi pic.twitter.com/7CsO9ITloR — ICC (@ICC) January 5, 2019 × "We talk about MS Dhoni all the time and his impact on Indian cricket. He played a lot of Tests for India but made only six Test hundreds. This kid (Rishabh Pant) will make a lot more Test hundreds than that," Ponting said. "He has already scored his second Test ton and a couple of 90s to go with it. Look he is someone who could play a lot of Test cricket for India across formats. Pant is only 21 and is already into his ninth Test." Gilchrist also praised Pant for pacing his innings well. "He played a beautiful innings today (Friday)," Gilchrist told foxsports.Com.Au. "We probably all expected him to bat aggressively from ball one but he showed he can build an inning and then by the end of it allowed himself to play with all the freedom that we know he's got. "It was entertaining. He's a cricketer that I would happily pay to watch." Gilchrist believes Pant has the talent to become a successful Test cricketer. "He's a cricketer that is at the start of his journey so he'll learn these particular parts of the game and he'll learn that there's always more time than what you think, but he's got a great foundation to be a successful Test cricketer," he said. Though he shone with the bat, Pant's keeping wasn't always up to the mark as he dropped Usman Khawaja off Mohammed Shami late on the second day. However, Gilchrist said Pant will become a reliable keeper as he learns from his mistakes. "Although he's missed a few opportunities with the gloves, he's certainly held onto more than he's spilt. If he's prepared to work on his game, I'm sure he'll develop and become a really reliable keeper," Gilchrist said.

Rishabh Pant is another Adam Gilchrist, says Ricky Ponting

Indian wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant has been magnificent so far in the Test series against Australia. He slammed his second Test century in the first innings of the final Test on Friday at Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

The 21-year-old scored an unbeaten 159 runs off 189 balls to record the highest ever score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an away Test.&nbsp;

He also became the first Indian wicket-keeper to score a hundred on Australia soil.

In the ongoing Test series, Pant earned praises for his batting, wicket-keeping skills and good-humoured on-pitch banter.

Apart from that, the Sydney Test became even more interesting for Pant when a bunch of Indian fans started chanting his name from the SCG stands,&nbsp; singing a hilarious song.&nbsp;

The lyrics of the song goes as: 
"We've got Pant 
Rishab Pant 
I just don't think you’ll understand&nbsp; 
He'll hit you for a six 
He'll babysit your kids&nbsp; 
We’ve got Rishab Pant

The video was posted via the Twitter handle of @thebharatarmy [The Bharat Army], that claims to be the global Indian cricket supporters group.

Watch the song here:

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> 
We’ve got Pant 
Rishab Pant 
I just don’t think you’ll understand 
He’ll hit you for a six 
He’ll babysit your kids 
We’ve got Rishab Pant 
. 
. 
.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BharatArmySongBook?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BharatArmySongBook</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabPant777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabPant777</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BharatArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BharatArmy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/12thMan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#12thMan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeveGotPant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeveGotPant</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COTI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COTI</a> 🇮🇳👶🍼 <a href="https://t.co/ZiXaPWqi6M">pic.twitter.com/ZiXaPWqi6M</a>
— The Bharat Army (@thebharatarmy) <a href="https://twitter.com/thebharatarmy/status/1080987378590728193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier Pant, whose picture of holding Tim Paine's son along with the Australian skipper's wife Bonnie went viral after the "babysitter" banter by Paine.&nbsp;

The incident happened when Pant was batting in the Melbourne Test.&nbsp;

"Big MS (Dhoni) is back in the one-day squad too, we might get him (Pant) down to the (Hobart) Hurricanes we need a batter. Fancy that, Pantsy? Extend your little Aussie holiday. Beautiful town Hobart too, I'll get you a nice apartment on the waterfront. (I'll) have him over for dinner. Can you babysit? I'll take the wife to the movies one night and you'll look after the kids," Paine was heard saying on the stump mic.&nbsp;

However, Pant said, "That (banter) is also one of the methods to keep yourself positive and to keep yourself busy. "

Indian wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant has been magnificent so far in the Test series against Australia. He slammed his second Test century in the first innings of the final Test on Friday at Sydney Cricket Ground.

Indian wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant has been magnificent so far in the Test series against Australia. He slammed his second Test century in the first innings of the final Test on Friday at Sydney Cricket Ground. The 21-year-old scored an unbeaten 159 runs off 189 balls to record the highest ever score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an away Test. He also became the first Indian wicket-keeper to score a hundred on Australia soil. In the ongoing Test series, Pant earned praises for his batting, wicket-keeping skills and good-humoured on-pitch banter. Apart from that, the Sydney Test became even more interesting for Pant when a bunch of Indian fans started chanting his name from the SCG stands, singing a hilarious song. The lyrics of the song goes as: "We've got Pant Rishab Pant I just don't think you’ll understand He'll hit you for a six He'll babysit your kids We’ve got Rishab Pant The video was posted via the Twitter handle of @thebharatarmy [The Bharat Army], that claims to be the global Indian cricket supporters group. Watch the song here: #AUSvIND We’ve got Pant Rishab Pant I just don’t think you’ll understand He’ll hit you for a six He’ll babysit your kids We’ve got Rishab Pant . . .#BharatArmySongBook @RishabPant777 #BharatArmy #TeamIndia #12thMan #WeveGotPant #COTI 🇮🇳👶🍼 pic.twitter.com/ZiXaPWqi6M — The Bharat Army (@thebharatarmy) January 4, 2019 × Earlier Pant, whose picture of holding Tim Paine's son along with the Australian skipper's wife Bonnie went viral after the "babysitter" banter by Paine. The incident happened when Pant was batting in the Melbourne Test. "Big MS (Dhoni) is back in the one-day squad too, we might get him (Pant) down to the (Hobart) Hurricanes we need a batter. Fancy that, Pantsy? Extend your little Aussie holiday. Beautiful town Hobart too, I'll get you a nice apartment on the waterfront. (I'll) have him over for dinner. Can you babysit? I'll take the wife to the movies one night and you'll look after the kids," Paine was heard saying on the stump mic. However, Pant said, "That (banter) is also one of the methods to keep yourself positive and to keep yourself busy. "

Watch: Hilarious song composed for Rishabh Pant by fans

Australia scored a major breakthrough by snaring the key wicket of Cheteshwar Pujara soon after lunch at the fourth Test in Sydney Friday, with the classy Indian falling for 193.

The number three resumed on 130 after completing his third century of the summer on Thursday and hardly played a false stroke before he was caught and bowled by spinner Nathan Lyon. It left India on 418 for six.

It was a heartbreaking end for the stoic right-hander who just missed out a fourth Test double century. His knock lasted a marathon 373 balls with 22 fours.

He survived a review decision for caught behind on 12 and was dropped on 192 by Usman Khawaja from a difficult chance, but was otherwise faultless.

Pujara came to the crease when opener KL Rahul was out for nine and, as he has done all series, quickly dug in, soaking up the pressure and counter-attacking when he sees an opportunity.

Australia scored a major breakthrough by snaring the key wicket of Cheteshwar Pujara soon after lunch at the fourth Test in Sydney Friday, with the classy Indian falling for 193.

Australia scored a major breakthrough by snaring the key wicket of Cheteshwar Pujara soon after lunch at the fourth Test in Sydney Friday, with the classy Indian falling for 193. The number three resumed on 130 after completing his third century of the summer on Thursday and hardly played a false stroke before he was caught and bowled by spinner Nathan Lyon. It left India on 418 for six. It was a heartbreaking end for the stoic right-hander who just missed out a fourth Test double century. His knock lasted a marathon 373 balls with 22 fours. He survived a review decision for caught behind on 12 and was dropped on 192 by Usman Khawaja from a difficult chance, but was otherwise faultless. Pujara came to the crease when opener KL Rahul was out for nine and, as he has done all series, quickly dug in, soaking up the pressure and counter-attacking when he sees an opportunity.

India vs Australia, 4th Test: Cheteshwar Pujara misses double century, falls for 193

Seamer Peter Siddle has been recalled to Australia's one-day international squad for the upcoming three-match series against India after an absence of more than eight years.

Senior batsman Usman Khawaja was also called up after a layoff of nearly two years as Australia look to find the formula to turn around a poor run of form in time for their World Cup defence in England later this year.

Siddle, 34, played his last ODI against Sri Lanka in January 2010 and his inclusion will allow Australia to rest the pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood after a long test series against India.

"It's wonderful to have Peter back in the squad for the first time since 2010," said head selector Trevor Hohns.

"His white ball cricket has improved considerably the older he has got, and his selection is great reward for his professionalism and strong leadership qualities.

"With a focus on improving our ability to post competitive totals we've recalled Usman Khawaja, Peter Handscomb and Mitch Marsh to the squad."

Aaron Finch retains his captaincy despite being dropped with Mitchell Marsh for the fourth test against India currently ongoing at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Steve Smith and David Warner, banned for a year for their roles in the Newlands ball-tampering scandal, will not be available for selection until April.

"Travis Head, Darcy Short and Chris Lynn have been unlucky to&nbsp;miss out," Hohns added.

"All three have had opportunities to cement their spots, but unfortunately, they have not been as productive as we would have liked in recent times when playing ODI cricket for Australia."

The series against India begins at the SCG on January 12 with matches in Adelaide and Melbourne to follow.

Squad: Aaron&nbsp;Finch (captain),&nbsp;Usman Khawaja,&nbsp;Shaun Marsh,&nbsp;Peter Handscomb,&nbsp;Glenn Maxwell,&nbsp;Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Marsh,&nbsp;Alex Carey,&nbsp;Jhye Richardson,&nbsp;Billy Stanlake,&nbsp;Jason Behrendorff,&nbsp;Peter Siddle,&nbsp;Nathan Lyon,&nbsp;Adam Zampa.

Seamer Peter Siddle has been recalled to Australia's one-day international squad for the upcoming three-match series against India after an absence of more than eight years.

Seamer Peter Siddle has been recalled to Australia's one-day international squad for the upcoming three-match series against India after an absence of more than eight years. Senior batsman Usman Khawaja was also called up after a layoff of nearly two years as Australia look to find the formula to turn around a poor run of form in time for their World Cup defence in England later this year. Siddle, 34, played his last ODI against Sri Lanka in January 2010 and his inclusion will allow Australia to rest the pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood after a long test series against India. "It's wonderful to have Peter back in the squad for the first time since 2010," said head selector Trevor Hohns. "His white ball cricket has improved considerably the older he has got, and his selection is great reward for his professionalism and strong leadership qualities. "With a focus on improving our ability to post competitive totals we've recalled Usman Khawaja, Peter Handscomb and Mitch Marsh to the squad." Aaron Finch retains his captaincy despite being dropped with Mitchell Marsh for the fourth test against India currently ongoing at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Steve Smith and David Warner, banned for a year for their roles in the Newlands ball-tampering scandal, will not be available for selection until April. "Travis Head, Darcy Short and Chris Lynn have been unlucky to miss out," Hohns added. "All three have had opportunities to cement their spots, but unfortunately, they have not been as productive as we would have liked in recent times when playing ODI cricket for Australia." The series against India begins at the SCG on January 12 with matches in Adelaide and Melbourne to follow. Squad: Aaron Finch (captain), Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Peter Handscomb, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey, Jhye Richardson, Billy Stanlake, Jason Behrendorff, Peter Siddle, Nathan Lyon, Adam Zampa.

Peter Siddle, Usman Khawaja return to Australia one day squad for India series

India vs Australia: List of records made on Day 2 of Sydney Test

Rishabh Pant slammed his second Test century while playing against Australia in the first innings of the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-4th-test-day-2-india-vs-australia-188106">final Test</a>&nbsp;on Friday at Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

He scored an unbeaten 159 runs off 189 balls to record the highest ever score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an away Test.&nbsp;

Pant overtook former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who had smashed 148 runs off 153 against Pakistan&nbsp;is 2006.&nbsp;

A list of highest scores by Asian wicket-keeper outside sub-continent:

159* Rishabh Pant in Sydney, 2019 
159 Mushfiqur Rahim, Wellington, 2017 
137 Moin Khan, Hamilton, 2003 
126 Dinesh Chandimal, Chester-le-Street, 2016

Earlier, he became the first India wicket-keeper to score a hundred in England, repeating the same, Pant also became the first India wicket-keeper to score a hundred in Australia.&nbsp;

The previous highest was Farokh Engineer's 89 at Adelaide in 1967.&nbsp;

Also, he's gone past Virat Kohli's tally this series and became the second-highest run-getter with 350 from seven innings.&nbsp;

Pant, whose innings featured 15 boundaries and one six and his ton came from a four off spinner Marnus Labuschagne.&nbsp;

With a marvellous feat at SCG, Pant completed his highest score in his fledging nine-Test career so far, earlier it&nbsp;was at the Oval against England last year when he hit 114.&nbsp;

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A marathon 193 by Cheteshwar Pujara and a quick-fire unbeaten 88 from Rishabh Pant steered India into a dominant position at the final Test Friday with Australia rapidly seeing their hopes of saving the series evaporate.&nbsp;

Calm and collected number three Pujara was finally caught and bowled by spinner Nathan Lyon after a batting masterclass that spanned a day-and-a-half and 373 balls.&nbsp;

The visitors lead the series 2-1 after winning the opening clash in Adelaide and the third one in Melbourne. Australia claimed victory in Perth.&nbsp;

If India, the world's top-ranked nation, win or draw in Sydney they will clinch the first-ever series in Australia since they began touring Down Under in 1947-48.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant slammed his second Test century while playing against Australia in the first innings of the final Test on Friday at Sydney Cricket Ground. He scored an unbeaten 159 runs off 189 balls to record the highest ever score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an away Test.

Rishabh Pant slammed his second Test century while playing against Australia in the first innings of the final Test on Friday at Sydney Cricket Ground. He scored an unbeaten 159 runs off 189 balls to record the highest ever score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an away Test. Pant overtook former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who had smashed 148 runs off 153 against Pakistan is 2006. A list of highest scores by Asian wicket-keeper outside sub-continent: 159* Rishabh Pant in Sydney, 2019 159 Mushfiqur Rahim, Wellington, 2017 137 Moin Khan, Hamilton, 2003 126 Dinesh Chandimal, Chester-le-Street, 2016 Earlier, he became the first India wicket-keeper to score a hundred in England, repeating the same, Pant also became the first India wicket-keeper to score a hundred in Australia. The previous highest was Farokh Engineer's 89 at Adelaide in 1967. Also, he's gone past Virat Kohli's tally this series and became the second-highest run-getter with 350 from seven innings. Pant, whose innings featured 15 boundaries and one six and his ton came from a four off spinner Marnus Labuschagne. With a marvellous feat at SCG, Pant completed his highest score in his fledging nine-Test career so far, earlier it was at the Oval against England last year when he hit 114. Rishabh Pant brings up his second Test century! A fantastic knock from the youngster to put India in a strong position! #AUSvIND LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/c2fCH8CBUE pic.twitter.com/JdPfBWSKCE — ICC (@ICC) January 4, 2019 × A marathon 193 by Cheteshwar Pujara and a quick-fire unbeaten 88 from Rishabh Pant steered India into a dominant position at the final Test Friday with Australia rapidly seeing their hopes of saving the series evaporate. Calm and collected number three Pujara was finally caught and bowled by spinner Nathan Lyon after a batting masterclass that spanned a day-and-a-half and 373 balls. The visitors lead the series 2-1 after winning the opening clash in Adelaide and the third one in Melbourne. Australia claimed victory in Perth. If India, the world's top-ranked nation, win or draw in Sydney they will clinch the first-ever series in Australia since they began touring Down Under in 1947-48.

Rishabh Pant becomes first Indian wicket-keeper to slam century in Australia

Cheteshwar Pujara ground out a masterful 193 and Rishabh Pant smashed a magnificent unbeaten 159 as Australia's hopes of winning the match and saving the series were washed away by a torrent of Indian runs on day two of the fourth test on Friday.

Virat Kohli declared on 622 for seven an hour before the close of play when Ravindra Jadeja was dismissed for 81 and Usman Khawaja (5) and Marcus Harris (19) ushered Australia to stumps on 24 without loss.

Pujara came up seven runs short of his fourth double century but there can be little doubt that his nine-hour, 373-ball knock will almost certainly deliver India's first test series victory in Australia.

After a beautifully crafted innings, Pujara went with a whimper rather than a bang before tea, scooping the ball back down the wicket to be caught and bowled by wily off-spinner Nathan Lyon.

The 30-year-old's centuries in Adelaide and Melbourne went a long way to giving India a 2-1 series lead and there was relief as well as admiration in the standing ovation he received from the crowd when he finally headed back to the Member's Stand.

Once he had departed, Pant and Jadeja initially maintained his circumspection before throwing off the shackles and hammering home India's advantage with a partnership of 204.

Pant had a bit of a scare six runs short of his second test century when he was close to being run out but made his ground safely and reached the milestone off 137 balls with his eighth four - the first Indian wicketkeeper to do so in Australia.

Jadeja was soon twirling his bat in his trademark celebration of a half century, his 10th in tests, and for while it looked like Pant would overhaul Pujara with a maiden double century.

Australia's much vaunted pace attack were exhausted after two days' toiling for little reward in the Sydney heat and the wicket that finally precipitated the declaration came again from Lyon (4-178).

Jadeja stepped down the wicket to try and dominate the spinner but was deceived by the flight of the ball and bowled to end a 114-ball innings featuring seven fours and a six.

The hosts had started the day with hopes of making major inroads into India's batting order but were largely frustrated, even if Lyon removed Hanuma Vihari for 42 to break the 101-partnership with Pujara.

Pujara's almost chanceless innings -- he was dropped in the slips on 192 -- featured 22 fours and took his tally over the series to 521 runs at an average of 74.42.

Pant, whose innings featured 15 boundaries and one six, blotted his copy book in the final hour by dropping Khawaja behind the wickets but nothing was going to mar another dominant day for the tourists.

Cheteshwar Pujara ground out a masterful 193 and Rishabh Pant smashed a magnificent unbeaten 159 as Australia's hopes of winning the match and saving the series were washed away by a torrent of Indian runs on day two of the fourth test on Friday.

Cheteshwar Pujara ground out a masterful 193 and Rishabh Pant smashed a magnificent unbeaten 159 as Australia's hopes of winning the match and saving the series were washed away by a torrent of Indian runs on day two of the fourth test on Friday. Virat Kohli declared on 622 for seven an hour before the close of play when Ravindra Jadeja was dismissed for 81 and Usman Khawaja (5) and Marcus Harris (19) ushered Australia to stumps on 24 without loss. Pujara came up seven runs short of his fourth double century but there can be little doubt that his nine-hour, 373-ball knock will almost certainly deliver India's first test series victory in Australia. After a beautifully crafted innings, Pujara went with a whimper rather than a bang before tea, scooping the ball back down the wicket to be caught and bowled by wily off-spinner Nathan Lyon. The 30-year-old's centuries in Adelaide and Melbourne went a long way to giving India a 2-1 series lead and there was relief as well as admiration in the standing ovation he received from the crowd when he finally headed back to the Member's Stand. Once he had departed, Pant and Jadeja initially maintained his circumspection before throwing off the shackles and hammering home India's advantage with a partnership of 204. Pant had a bit of a scare six runs short of his second test century when he was close to being run out but made his ground safely and reached the milestone off 137 balls with his eighth four - the first Indian wicketkeeper to do so in Australia. Jadeja was soon twirling his bat in his trademark celebration of a half century, his 10th in tests, and for while it looked like Pant would overhaul Pujara with a maiden double century. Australia's much vaunted pace attack were exhausted after two days' toiling for little reward in the Sydney heat and the wicket that finally precipitated the declaration came again from Lyon (4-178). Jadeja stepped down the wicket to try and dominate the spinner but was deceived by the flight of the ball and bowled to end a 114-ball innings featuring seven fours and a six. The hosts had started the day with hopes of making major inroads into India's batting order but were largely frustrated, even if Lyon removed Hanuma Vihari for 42 to break the 101-partnership with Pujara. Pujara's almost chanceless innings -- he was dropped in the slips on 192 -- featured 22 fours and took his tally over the series to 521 runs at an average of 74.42. Pant, whose innings featured 15 boundaries and one six, blotted his copy book in the final hour by dropping Khawaja behind the wickets but nothing was going to mar another dominant day for the tourists.

India vs Australia, 4th Test, Day 2: Cheteshwar Pujara, Rishabh Pant put India in command of Sydney Test

Cheteshwar Pujara's patient century helped India go past 300 on day 1 of the fourth and final Test against Australia in Sydney. &nbsp;

The right-handed batsman has been in terrific form this series and have played a few magnificent innings on multiple occasions to save India from drowning. &nbsp;This is his 3rd century in the ongoing series.&nbsp;

Opener Mayank Agarwal also rose to the occasion and hit his second international half-century to give India a decent start, before losing his wicket to Nathan Lyon while trying to hit a big shot. &nbsp;

He departed after making a crucial 77 which includes seven boundaries and two sixes. His first fifty came in the third Test against Australia which was also his debut game.&nbsp;

KL Rahul, who had slammed a century when he last played in Sydney Cricket Ground in 2015, was dismissed for nine by Hazlewood.

Indian Skipper Virat Kohli also sent back to the pavilion after making 23 runs. Kohli won the toss and elected to bat.

Leading the series 2-1, India will aim to win this Test to clinch a first-ever series victory in Australia.

"It will be tougher to bat as the game goes on, so ideal for us to bat," said Kohli. "We haven't discussed the series win, we're focused on this game, and this is just an opportunity to win a Test," Kohli said after the toss.&nbsp;

Australia axed underperforming opener Aaron Finch with Usman Khawaja moved up from number three and middle-order batsman Peter Handscomb recalled to counter.&nbsp;

In a surprise, leg-spinning all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne has been called into the side and will bat at three. Mitch Marsh was also dropped.

Australia: Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh, Travis Head, Peter Handscomb, Tim Paine (capt), Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc

India: Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (capt), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

Cheteshwar Pujara's patient century helped India go past 300 on day 1 of the fourth and final Test against Australia in Sydney. The right-handed batsman has been in terrific form this series and have played a few magnificent innings on multiple occasions to save India from drowning.

Cheteshwar Pujara's patient century helped India go past 300 on day 1 of the fourth and final Test against Australia in Sydney. The right-handed batsman has been in terrific form this series and have played a few magnificent innings on multiple occasions to save India from drowning. This is his 3rd century in the ongoing series. Opener Mayank Agarwal also rose to the occasion and hit his second international half-century to give India a decent start, before losing his wicket to Nathan Lyon while trying to hit a big shot. He departed after making a crucial 77 which includes seven boundaries and two sixes. His first fifty came in the third Test against Australia which was also his debut game. KL Rahul, who had slammed a century when he last played in Sydney Cricket Ground in 2015, was dismissed for nine by Hazlewood. Indian Skipper Virat Kohli also sent back to the pavilion after making 23 runs. Kohli won the toss and elected to bat. Leading the series 2-1, India will aim to win this Test to clinch a first-ever series victory in Australia. "It will be tougher to bat as the game goes on, so ideal for us to bat," said Kohli. "We haven't discussed the series win, we're focused on this game, and this is just an opportunity to win a Test," Kohli said after the toss. Australia axed underperforming opener Aaron Finch with Usman Khawaja moved up from number three and middle-order batsman Peter Handscomb recalled to counter. In a surprise, leg-spinning all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne has been called into the side and will bat at three. Mitch Marsh was also dropped. Australia: Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh, Travis Head, Peter Handscomb, Tim Paine (capt), Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc India: Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (capt), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

IND vs AUS, 4th Test: Pujara masterclass wins the day, India 303/4 at stumps

Mayank Agarwal is close to registering his second international half-century as India end the first session at 69 for the loss of one wicket. His first fifty came in the third Test against Australia which was also his debut game.&nbsp;

Mayank is unbeaten at 42 while Cheteshwar Pujara is batting at 16. The two will resume the game after lunch.

Opener KL Rahul, who had slammed a century when he last played in Sydney Cricket Ground in 2015, was dismissed for nine by Hazlewood.

Earlier, India captain Virat Kohli won the toss and elected to bat in the fourth and final Test against Australia in Sydney.

Leading the series 2-1, India will aim to win this Test to clinch a first-ever series victory in Australia.

"It will be tougher to bat as the game goes on, so ideal for us to bat," said Kohli. "We haven't discussed the series win, we're focused on this game, and this is just an opportunity to win a Test," Kohli said after the toss.&nbsp;

Australia axed underperforming opener Aaron Finch with Usman Khawaja moved up from number three and middle-order batsman Peter Handscomb recalled to counter.&nbsp;

In a surprise, leg-spinning all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne has been called into the side and will bat at three. Mitch Marsh was also dropped.

Australia: Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh, Travis Head, Peter Handscomb, Tim Paine (capt), Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc

India: Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (capt), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

Mayank Agarwal is close to registering his second international half-century as India end the first session at 69 for the loss of one wicket. His first fifty came in the third Test against Australia which was also his debut game.

Mayank Agarwal is close to registering his second international half-century as India end the first session at 69 for the loss of one wicket. His first fifty came in the third Test against Australia which was also his debut game. Mayank is unbeaten at 42 while Cheteshwar Pujara is batting at 16. The two will resume the game after lunch. Opener KL Rahul, who had slammed a century when he last played in Sydney Cricket Ground in 2015, was dismissed for nine by Hazlewood. Earlier, India captain Virat Kohli won the toss and elected to bat in the fourth and final Test against Australia in Sydney. Leading the series 2-1, India will aim to win this Test to clinch a first-ever series victory in Australia. "It will be tougher to bat as the game goes on, so ideal for us to bat," said Kohli. "We haven't discussed the series win, we're focused on this game, and this is just an opportunity to win a Test," Kohli said after the toss. Australia axed underperforming opener Aaron Finch with Usman Khawaja moved up from number three and middle-order batsman Peter Handscomb recalled to counter. In a surprise, leg-spinning all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne has been called into the side and will bat at three. Mitch Marsh was also dropped. Australia: Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh, Travis Head, Peter Handscomb, Tim Paine (capt), Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc India: Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (capt), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

IND vs AUS, 4th Test: Mayank creeps up on second half-century

Virat Kohli failed to impress his fans with his batting as he was dismissed by Josh Hazlewood for 23 on Day 1 of the 4th Test in Sydney against Australia. However, the Indian skipper has bagged another major record to his name as he became the fastest to reach 19000 international runs, again surpassing his idol Sachin Tendulkar.&nbsp;

The Indian captain broke several records in 2018 and has started off the new year with another big one.

While Tendulkar reached the landmark in 432 innings, Kohli took 33 less as he reached the same point in his cricketing career in 399 innings.&nbsp;

Following the duo are West Indies' Brian Lara (433), Australia's Ricky Ponting (444) and South Africa's Jacques Kallis (458), in the top 5.

The 30-year-old Delhi lad ended 2018 with a total of 2735 international runs, which comprised 11 hundreds, to cap-off another stellar calendar year.

Having concluded the year with 1322 runs in 13 Tests, averaging over 55, Kohli hence ended the period as the top-scoring batsman in the format, justifying his position as the No. 1 Test batsman in the world.&nbsp;

In ODIs, meanwhile, Virat scored 1202 runs in 14 matches that brought about a total of 6 centuries.

Virat Kohli failed to impress his fans with his batting as he was dismissed by Josh Hazlewood for 23 on Day 1 of the 4th Test in Sydney against Australia. However, the Indian skipper has bagged another major record to his name as he became the fastest to reach 19000 international runs, again surpassing his idol Sachin Tendulkar.

Virat Kohli failed to impress his fans with his batting as he was dismissed by Josh Hazlewood for 23 on Day 1 of the 4th Test in Sydney against Australia. However, the Indian skipper has bagged another major record to his name as he became the fastest to reach 19000 international runs, again surpassing his idol Sachin Tendulkar. The Indian captain broke several records in 2018 and has started off the new year with another big one. While Tendulkar reached the landmark in 432 innings, Kohli took 33 less as he reached the same point in his cricketing career in 399 innings. Following the duo are West Indies' Brian Lara (433), Australia's Ricky Ponting (444) and South Africa's Jacques Kallis (458), in the top 5. The 30-year-old Delhi lad ended 2018 with a total of 2735 international runs, which comprised 11 hundreds, to cap-off another stellar calendar year. Having concluded the year with 1322 runs in 13 Tests, averaging over 55, Kohli hence ended the period as the top-scoring batsman in the format, justifying his position as the No. 1 Test batsman in the world. In ODIs, meanwhile, Virat scored 1202 runs in 14 matches that brought about a total of 6 centuries.

4th Test: Kohli surpasses Tendulkar to score fastest 19000 international runs

India captain Virat Kohli won the toss and elected to bat in the fourth and final Test against Australia in Sydney on Thursday.

The visitors lead the series 2-1 after winning the opening clash in Adelaide and the third one in Melbourne. Australia claimed victory in Perth.

If India, the world's top-ranked nation, win or draw in Sydney they will clinch a first-ever series victory in Australia.

Mayank Agarwal opens the batting with KL Rahul, with Hanuma Vihari dropping down to number six to cover for Rohit Sharma, who is unavailable after his wife gave birth.

First-choice spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was declared not fit, with wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the side to play alongside finger-spinner Ravindra Jadeja.

"It will be tougher to bat as the game goes on, so ideal for us to bat," said Kohli. "We haven't discussed the series win, we're focused on this game, and this is just an opportunity to win a Test."

Australia axed underperforming opener Aaron Finch with Usman Khawaja moved up from number three and middle-order batsman Peter Handscomb recalled to counter what is expected to be a turning Sydney Cricket Ground wicket.

In a surprise, leg-spinning all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne has been called into the side and will bat at three. Mitch Marsh was also dropped.

"We need to improve on all areas, need to do the basics better. Ball-by-ball, bit of an old-school cliche," said Australia skipper Tim Paine.

Australia: Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh, Travis Head, Peter Handscomb, Tim Paine (capt), Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc

India: Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (capt), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

Umpires: Richard Kettleborough (ENG), Ian Gould (ENG)

TV umpire: Marais Erasmus (RSA)

Match referee: Andy Pycroft (ZIM)

If India, the world's top-ranked nation, win or draw in Sydney they will clinch a first-ever series victory in Australia.

India captain Virat Kohli won the toss and elected to bat in the fourth and final Test against Australia in Sydney on Thursday. The visitors lead the series 2-1 after winning the opening clash in Adelaide and the third one in Melbourne. Australia claimed victory in Perth. If India, the world's top-ranked nation, win or draw in Sydney they will clinch a first-ever series victory in Australia. Mayank Agarwal opens the batting with KL Rahul, with Hanuma Vihari dropping down to number six to cover for Rohit Sharma, who is unavailable after his wife gave birth. First-choice spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was declared not fit, with wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the side to play alongside finger-spinner Ravindra Jadeja. "It will be tougher to bat as the game goes on, so ideal for us to bat," said Kohli. "We haven't discussed the series win, we're focused on this game, and this is just an opportunity to win a Test." Australia axed underperforming opener Aaron Finch with Usman Khawaja moved up from number three and middle-order batsman Peter Handscomb recalled to counter what is expected to be a turning Sydney Cricket Ground wicket. In a surprise, leg-spinning all-rounder Marnus Labuschagne has been called into the side and will bat at three. Mitch Marsh was also dropped. "We need to improve on all areas, need to do the basics better. Ball-by-ball, bit of an old-school cliche," said Australia skipper Tim Paine. Australia: Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Shaun Marsh, Travis Head, Peter Handscomb, Tim Paine (capt), Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc India: Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (capt), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah Umpires: Richard Kettleborough (ENG), Ian Gould (ENG) TV umpire: Marais Erasmus (RSA) Match referee: Andy Pycroft (ZIM)

Ind vs Aus, 4th Test: India win toss, bat in fourth Australia Test

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Focus on performance not preserving record against India: Paine

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

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

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

Ashwin has bowling session ahead of Sydney Test

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Virat Kohli-led India sniff maiden series win in Sydney

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

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

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

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

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