<p>Australia have retained the same 13-man squad for the remaining two matches in Melbourne and Sydney after beating India in the second Test in Perth, the country's cricket board said on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The hosts beat the world's top-ranked Test side by 146 runs at the Perth Stadium to level the series at 1-1 after the opening loss in Adelaide.</p>

<p>Uncapped paceman Chris Tremain will continue to remain out of the squad after being released before the Perth match, Cricket Australia (CA) said in a statement.</p>

<p>"With Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Peter Siddle in the squad we believe we have enough fast bowlers to choose from, so we've made the decision to stick with the 13 person squad for the remaining two Test matches against India," national selector Trevor Hohns said.</p>

<p>"We believe it's important to keep this group together to build on the momentum we have established in Perth."</p>

<p>Melbourne will host the traditional Boxing Day Test before the final match is played at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3.</p>

<p><strong>Squad:</strong> Pat Cummins, Aaron Finch, Peter Handscomb, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Shaun Marsh, Tim Paine (captain), Peter Siddle, Mitchell Starc</p>


Australia have retained the same 13-man squad for the remaining two matches in Melbourne and Sydney after beating India in the second Test in Perth, the country's cricket board said on Tuesday.

Australia have retained the same 13-man squad for the remaining two matches in Melbourne and Sydney after beating India in the second Test in Perth, the country's cricket board said on Tuesday. The hosts beat the world's top-ranked Test side by 146 runs at the Perth Stadium to level the series at 1-1 after the opening loss in Adelaide. Uncapped paceman Chris Tremain will continue to remain out of the squad after being released before the Perth match, Cricket Australia (CA) said in a statement. "With Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Peter Siddle in the squad we believe we have enough fast bowlers to choose from, so we've made the decision to stick with the 13 person squad for the remaining two Test matches against India," national selector Trevor Hohns said. "We believe it's important to keep this group together to build on the momentum we have established in Perth." Melbourne will host the traditional Boxing Day Test before the final match is played at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3. Squad: Pat Cummins, Aaron Finch, Peter Handscomb, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Shaun Marsh, Tim Paine (captain), Peter Siddle, Mitchell Starc

Australia rely on unchanged squad for last two India Tests

<p>Warring captains Virat Kohli and Tim Paine on Monday resumed their verbal duel, forcing on-field umpire Chris Gaffaney to warn both the players on the fourth morning of the second Test between India and Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the 71st over bowled by Jasprit Bumrah, the respective captains were seen exchanging words after Kohli decided to field close to the non-striker and Gaffaney had to step in.</p>

<p>"You're the one that lost it yesterday. Why are you trying to be cool today" Paine told Kohli.</p>

<p>"That's enough, that's enough," Gaffaney interrupted.</p>

<p>"Come on, play the game. You guys are the captains. Tim, you're the captain."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Paine replied: "We're just having a conversation. There's no swearing ... Keep your cool Virat."</p>

<p><strong>Also Watch: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-stump-mic-reveals-on-pitch-chats-between-virat-kohli-and-tim-paine-in-perth-test-184628">Stump mic reveals ugly on-pitch chats between Kohli and Paine in Perth Test</a></strong></p>

<p>Kohli said something which couldn't be picked up by the microphones.</p>

<p>A couple of balls later, the warring duo almost came close to chest bumping when the India skipper walked in front of Paine while he was completing a run.</p>

<p>Kohli later appeared to plead his case to square-leg umpire Kumar Dharmasena as Paine and Usman Khawaja continued to extend Australia's second-innings lead.</p>

<p>"I reckon it's a sign Kohli is starting to lose it," former Test bowler Damien Fleming said on SEN radio.</p>

<p>India commentator Sanjay Manjrekar wasn't too pleased with Kohli's behaviour but former Australian skippers Ricky Ponting and Michael Clarke said they had no issue with the verbal exchange between the two captains and that no line has been crossed so far.</p>


Warring captains Virat Kohli and Tim Paine on Monday resumed their verbal duel, forcing on-field umpire Chris Gaffaney to warn both the players on the fourth morning of the second Test between India and Australia.

Warring captains Virat Kohli and Tim Paine on Monday resumed their verbal duel, forcing on-field umpire Chris Gaffaney to warn both the players on the fourth morning of the second Test between India and Australia. During the 71st over bowled by Jasprit Bumrah, the respective captains were seen exchanging words after Kohli decided to field close to the non-striker and Gaffaney had to step in. "You're the one that lost it yesterday. Why are you trying to be cool today" Paine told Kohli. "That's enough, that's enough," Gaffaney interrupted. "Come on, play the game. You guys are the captains. Tim, you're the captain." Paine replied: "We're just having a conversation. There's no swearing ... Keep your cool Virat." Also Watch: Stump mic reveals ugly on-pitch chats between Kohli and Paine in Perth Test Kohli said something which couldn't be picked up by the microphones. A couple of balls later, the warring duo almost came close to chest bumping when the India skipper walked in front of Paine while he was completing a run. Kohli later appeared to plead his case to square-leg umpire Kumar Dharmasena as Paine and Usman Khawaja continued to extend Australia's second-innings lead. "I reckon it's a sign Kohli is starting to lose it," former Test bowler Damien Fleming said on SEN radio. India commentator Sanjay Manjrekar wasn't too pleased with Kohli's behaviour but former Australian skippers Ricky Ponting and Michael Clarke said they had no issue with the verbal exchange between the two captains and that no line has been crossed so far.

India vs Australia: Umpire issues warning to Kohli, Paine as their on-pitch chat continued on Day 4

<p>Former Australian cricketer Mike Hussey has said that Indian skipper <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> is out of control and that he does not like his attitude.</p>

<p>"Kohli is out of control... I don't like his attitude at the moment," Hussey was quoted as saying by Macquarie Sports Radio.</p>

<p>Virat's behaviour has been questioned of late&nbsp;after he was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-stump-mic-reveals-on-pitch-chats-between-virat-kohli-and-tim-paine-in-perth-test-184628">heard exchanging words</a> with Australian skipper Tim Paine on day&nbsp;three of the Perth Test. The stump mic revealed an ugly war of words between the two captains.</p>

<p>The match got spiced up on the third day when Virat Kohli completed his 25th Test hundred got India to 283 runs but caught at second slip after a controversial catch by Peter Handscomb.</p>

<p>Virat looked unhappy with the decision and tensions flared-up when Australia started batting in their second innings.</p>

<p>Kohli was his usual animated self but his on-field antics did not go down well with former Australian players Mike Hussey and Allan Border.</p>

<p>"Kohli is out of control ... I don't like his attitude at the moment," Hussey was quoted as saying by Macquarie Sports Radio, while former captain&nbsp;</p>

<p>Border told Fox Cricket: "I don't think I've ever seen any captain carry on like that."</p>

<p>Virat Kohli and Tim Paine on Monday resumed their verbal duel, forcing on-field umpire Chris Gaffaney to warn both the players on the fourth morning of the second Test between India and Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the 71st over bowled by Jasprit Bumrah, the respective captains were seen exchanging words after Kohli decided to field close to the non-striker and Gaffaney had to step in.</p>

<p>Indian commentator Sanjay Manjrekar wasn't too pleased with Kohli's behaviour but former Australian skippers Ricky Ponting and Michael Clarke said they had no issue with the verbal exchange between the two captains and that no line has been crossed so far.&nbsp;</p>


Former Australian cricketer Mike Hussey has said that Indian skipper Virat Kohli is out of control and that he does not like his attitude. "Kohli is out of control.

Former Australian cricketer Mike Hussey has said that Indian skipper Virat Kohli is out of control and that he does not like his attitude. "Kohli is out of control... I don't like his attitude at the moment," Hussey was quoted as saying by Macquarie Sports Radio. Virat's behaviour has been questioned of late after he was heard exchanging words with Australian skipper Tim Paine on day three of the Perth Test. The stump mic revealed an ugly war of words between the two captains. The match got spiced up on the third day when Virat Kohli completed his 25th Test hundred got India to 283 runs but caught at second slip after a controversial catch by Peter Handscomb. Virat looked unhappy with the decision and tensions flared-up when Australia started batting in their second innings. Kohli was his usual animated self but his on-field antics did not go down well with former Australian players Mike Hussey and Allan Border. "Kohli is out of control ... I don't like his attitude at the moment," Hussey was quoted as saying by Macquarie Sports Radio, while former captain Border told Fox Cricket: "I don't think I've ever seen any captain carry on like that." Virat Kohli and Tim Paine on Monday resumed their verbal duel, forcing on-field umpire Chris Gaffaney to warn both the players on the fourth morning of the second Test between India and Australia. During the 71st over bowled by Jasprit Bumrah, the respective captains were seen exchanging words after Kohli decided to field close to the non-striker and Gaffaney had to step in. Indian commentator Sanjay Manjrekar wasn't too pleased with Kohli's behaviour but former Australian skippers Ricky Ponting and Michael Clarke said they had no issue with the verbal exchange between the two captains and that no line has been crossed so far.

'Kohli is out of control... I don't like his attitude,' says former Australian cricketer Mike Hussey

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<h5>Charisma seems to me a limited asset to a captain... (C)harisma does not imply steadiness, patience, concentration, or considerateness, all invaluable in a captain: Mike Brealey on the "Art of Captaincy"</h5>
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<p>Sachin Tendulkar has the best batting record in the world, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-stump-mic-reveals-on-pitch-chats-between-virat-kohli-and-tim-paine-in-perth-test-184628">the Mumbai maestro is no doubt</a> a legend. However, history shows the best batsman in the team almost always makes the worst captain.</p>

<p>Tendulkar's record as captain in 1997 was generally regarded as a blot on his career. The Mumbai legend won just 4 Tests and lost 9 during his captaincy, a dismal 16 per cent win-loss record. In ODIs, Sachin was no better winning just 31 per cent of the matches for India.</p>

<p>India at the time was in transition between the near-end of the Azhar era(which dragged on till the 1999 World Cup because there were no captaincy claimants) and the yet-to-begin Saurav, Dravid era.</p>

<p>Sachin at the time did not look the part and after Saurav came into the scene quickly faded as a possible captaincy candidate.</p>

<p>India is witnessing somewhat the same era like the 1990s, Virat Kohli is India's best batsman, he is no doubt ahead of Sachin on current form and statistics prove it, however, his captaincy skills are still debatable.</p>

<p>The decision to go in with four fast bowlers at the WACA when the highest wicket-taker in the first innings at Perth was Nathan Lyon, ignoring Jadeja even as it was common knowledge that rough areas would develop on the pitch, clearly the innovation of Saurav and Dhoni are missing in the current captain.</p>

<p>No one should blame Kohli, after all, he leads from the front and has been India's principal run-getter, in fact, statistics show his run-gathering ability has improved since he became captain of Team India.</p>

<p>However, critics and cricket commentators have a problem with his decision-making skills. The tactical awareness and ability to make quick "instinctive" changes have been missing in Kohli.</p>

<p>Kohli has been unable to solve India's "opening riddle", the team's permanent Achilles heel.</p>

<p>Murli Vijay has consistently let the team down away from home and KL Rahul has proved he does not have "Test ability" at the highest level. Kohli should look at the facts and move on.</p>

<p>Remember how Sourav upgraded Sehwag from No-6 in ODIs straight into the opening slot in Tests which at the time was considered a masterstroke.</p>

<p>Kohli is yet to come up with a selection masterstroke - the hallmark of a great captain.</p>

<p>Cricket matches, like life, are dependent on seizing the initiative, Kohli the batsman is a master at it, however, he still hasn't captured the imagination in as far as his captaincy is concerned.</p>

<p>Mike Brealey recently said although Kohli was brilliant as a captain but seemed "detached" and "uninvolved" during the Oval Test in the recently concluded India-England series when Team India was under the gun. It is a dangerous precedent, especially for India which has one of the worst records in world cricket while playing abroad.</p>

<p>Cricket is also the art of theatre, sometimes it is a platform to "out-sledge" an opponent or team, and for a captain "charisma" counts but India can ill-afford its best batsman to be concentrating on small qualities and not look at the big picture.</p>

<p>Remember, World Cup final is less than six months away and the world will remember Kohli not as a batsman if India fails but as a captain. A real petty!</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)</em></p>


Charisma seems to me a limited asset to a captain... (C)harisma does not imply steadiness, patience, concentration, or considerateness, all invaluable in a captain: Mike Brealey on the "Art of Captaincy" × Sachin Tendulkar has the best batting record in the world, the Mumbai maestro is no doubt a legend.

Charisma seems to me a limited asset to a captain... (C)harisma does not imply steadiness, patience, concentration, or considerateness, all invaluable in a captain: Mike Brealey on the "Art of Captaincy" × Sachin Tendulkar has the best batting record in the world, the Mumbai maestro is no doubt a legend. However, history shows the best batsman in the team almost always makes the worst captain. Tendulkar's record as captain in 1997 was generally regarded as a blot on his career. The Mumbai legend won just 4 Tests and lost 9 during his captaincy, a dismal 16 per cent win-loss record. In ODIs, Sachin was no better winning just 31 per cent of the matches for India. India at the time was in transition between the near-end of the Azhar era(which dragged on till the 1999 World Cup because there were no captaincy claimants) and the yet-to-begin Saurav, Dravid era. Sachin at the time did not look the part and after Saurav came into the scene quickly faded as a possible captaincy candidate. India is witnessing somewhat the same era like the 1990s, Virat Kohli is India's best batsman, he is no doubt ahead of Sachin on current form and statistics prove it, however, his captaincy skills are still debatable. The decision to go in with four fast bowlers at the WACA when the highest wicket-taker in the first innings at Perth was Nathan Lyon, ignoring Jadeja even as it was common knowledge that rough areas would develop on the pitch, clearly the innovation of Saurav and Dhoni are missing in the current captain. No one should blame Kohli, after all, he leads from the front and has been India's principal run-getter, in fact, statistics show his run-gathering ability has improved since he became captain of Team India. However, critics and cricket commentators have a problem with his decision-making skills. The tactical awareness and ability to make quick "instinctive" changes have been missing in Kohli. Kohli has been unable to solve India's "opening riddle", the team's permanent Achilles heel. Murli Vijay has consistently let the team down away from home and KL Rahul has proved he does not have "Test ability" at the highest level. Kohli should look at the facts and move on. Remember how Sourav upgraded Sehwag from No-6 in ODIs straight into the opening slot in Tests which at the time was considered a masterstroke. Kohli is yet to come up with a selection masterstroke - the hallmark of a great captain. Cricket matches, like life, are dependent on seizing the initiative, Kohli the batsman is a master at it, however, he still hasn't captured the imagination in as far as his captaincy is concerned. Mike Brealey recently said although Kohli was brilliant as a captain but seemed "detached" and "uninvolved" during the Oval Test in the recently concluded India-England series when Team India was under the gun. It is a dangerous precedent, especially for India which has one of the worst records in world cricket while playing abroad. Cricket is also the art of theatre, sometimes it is a platform to "out-sledge" an opponent or team, and for a captain "charisma" counts but India can ill-afford its best batsman to be concentrating on small qualities and not look at the big picture. Remember, World Cup final is less than six months away and the world will remember Kohli not as a batsman if India fails but as a captain. A real petty! (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

How 'Sachin syndrome' traumatises captain Virat Kohli

<p>Andrew Symonds says India spinner Harbhajan Singh "broke down crying" while making peace after the infamous 'monkeygate' episode had sent the former Australian all-rounder into a downward spiral.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A decade on from the ugly incident in the 2008 Sydney Test, where Harbhajan was accused of calling Symonds a "monkey".</p>

<p>However, the Australian said they emotionally called a truce three years later and&nbsp;buried the hatchet while turning up for Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/australia-india-the-classic-rivalry-here-are-5-memorable-test-clashes-181903">Australia-India, the classic rivalry: Here are 5 memorable Test clashes</a></strong></p>

<p>"...He actually broke down crying, and I could just see that was a huge weight off his shoulders, he had to get rid of it. We shook hands and I gave him a hug and said: 'Mate, it's all good. It's dealt with'," Symonds told 'Fox Sports'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Harbhajan, who at the time denied any wrongdoing, was suspended for three matches. But the ban was overturned after the visiting team, feeling hard-done-by, lodged a protest in what was an all-time low in India-Australia cricket relations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Symonds' recent revelation,&nbsp;Harbhajan called him "a good fiction writer".</p>

<p>He tweeted, "I thought he was a very good cricketer but Symonds has turned out to be a good fiction writer - he sold a story then (2008) and he is ‘selling a story’ now (2018)."</p>

<p>He also wrote, "Mate, the world has come of age in these 10 years and it’s time you also grew up."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I thought he was a very good cricketer but Symonds has turned out to be a good fiction writer - he sold a story then (2008) and he is ‘selling a story’ now (2018). Mate, the world has come of age in these 10 years and it’s time you also grew up</p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1074275607561809920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Sydney Test 2018 is remembered as one of the most controversial and spiteful Test matches played between the two nations,</p>

<p>It was dubbed the "Monkeygate" affair, marred by wrong umpiring decisions and accusations of poor sportsmanship.</p>

<p>The infamous incident surfaced again when Symonds revealed recently while talking to a sports channel.</p>

<p>He said, "We go to a very wealthy man's place for a barbecue, drinks and dinner one night and the whole team's there and he had guests there, and Harbhajan said 'mate, can I speak to you for a minute out in the garden out the front'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He goes, 'look, I've got to say sorry to you for what I did to you in Sydney. I apologise, I hope I didn't cause you, your family, your friends too much harm and I really apologise for what I said, I shouldn't have said it'."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Symonds, who was born in England with one of his parents of West Indian background, has previously recounted how his life went downhill after the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The burly all-rounder, who felt let down by the system, started drinking heavily and in June 2009 his Cricket Australia contract was withdrawn after he was sent home from the World T20 following the latest in a series of alcohol-related indiscretions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I suppose this would be the moment where my whole persona to cricket changed," Symonds, who is commentating on India's current tour of Australia, said of 'monkeygate'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I didn't realise how powerful one player, one incident, how much money was at stake and the ramifications."</p>


Andrew Symonds says India spinner Harbhajan Singh "broke down crying" while making peace after the infamous 'monkeygate' episode had sent the former Australian all-rounder into a downward spiral.

Andrew Symonds says India spinner Harbhajan Singh "broke down crying" while making peace after the infamous 'monkeygate' episode had sent the former Australian all-rounder into a downward spiral. A decade on from the ugly incident in the 2008 Sydney Test, where Harbhajan was accused of calling Symonds a "monkey". However, the Australian said they emotionally called a truce three years later and buried the hatchet while turning up for Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League. Also read: Australia-India, the classic rivalry: Here are 5 memorable Test clashes "...He actually broke down crying, and I could just see that was a huge weight off his shoulders, he had to get rid of it. We shook hands and I gave him a hug and said: 'Mate, it's all good. It's dealt with'," Symonds told 'Fox Sports'. Harbhajan, who at the time denied any wrongdoing, was suspended for three matches. But the ban was overturned after the visiting team, feeling hard-done-by, lodged a protest in what was an all-time low in India-Australia cricket relations. After Symonds' recent revelation, Harbhajan called him "a good fiction writer". He tweeted, "I thought he was a very good cricketer but Symonds has turned out to be a good fiction writer - he sold a story then (2008) and he is ‘selling a story’ now (2018)." He also wrote, "Mate, the world has come of age in these 10 years and it’s time you also grew up." I thought he was a very good cricketer but Symonds has turned out to be a good fiction writer - he sold a story then (2008) and he is ‘selling a story’ now (2018). Mate, the world has come of age in these 10 years and it’s time you also grew up — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) December 16, 2018 × The Sydney Test 2018 is remembered as one of the most controversial and spiteful Test matches played between the two nations, It was dubbed the "Monkeygate" affair, marred by wrong umpiring decisions and accusations of poor sportsmanship. The infamous incident surfaced again when Symonds revealed recently while talking to a sports channel. He said, "We go to a very wealthy man's place for a barbecue, drinks and dinner one night and the whole team's there and he had guests there, and Harbhajan said 'mate, can I speak to you for a minute out in the garden out the front'. "He goes, 'look, I've got to say sorry to you for what I did to you in Sydney. I apologise, I hope I didn't cause you, your family, your friends too much harm and I really apologise for what I said, I shouldn't have said it'." Symonds, who was born in England with one of his parents of West Indian background, has previously recounted how his life went downhill after the incident. The burly all-rounder, who felt let down by the system, started drinking heavily and in June 2009 his Cricket Australia contract was withdrawn after he was sent home from the World T20 following the latest in a series of alcohol-related indiscretions. "I suppose this would be the moment where my whole persona to cricket changed," Symonds, who is commentating on India's current tour of Australia, said of 'monkeygate'. "I didn't realise how powerful one player, one incident, how much money was at stake and the ramifications."

Harbhajan 'broke down' while 'apologising' for monkeygate: Symonds

<p>Australia opener Aaron Finch has been cleared of a serious finger injury and is set to resume his innings on a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-2nd-test-day-4-india-vs-australia-184637">pivotal day four</a> on Monday as the hosts look to set India a formidable target in the second test.</p>

<p>There were fears Finch's series might be over after he received a nasty blow on his right glove from a searing short ball from Mohammed Shami on the stroke of tea on day three.</p>

<p>Finch, who retired hurt on 25, went to hospital for X-Rays amid concern that he had suffered a fracture to his right index finger.</p>

<p>Scans confirmed there was no fracture and he batted in the Perth Stadium nets before play resumed on the fourth day.</p>

<p>Australia, 1-0 down in the four-match series, were 132 for four in their second innings overnight with a lead of 175 runs.</p>


Australia opener Aaron Finch has been cleared of a serious finger injury and is set to resume his innings on a pivotal day four on Monday as the hosts look to set India a formidable target in the second test.

Australia opener Aaron Finch has been cleared of a serious finger injury and is set to resume his innings on a pivotal day four on Monday as the hosts look to set India a formidable target in the second test. There were fears Finch's series might be over after he received a nasty blow on his right glove from a searing short ball from Mohammed Shami on the stroke of tea on day three. Finch, who retired hurt on 25, went to hospital for X-Rays amid concern that he had suffered a fracture to his right index finger. Scans confirmed there was no fracture and he batted in the Perth Stadium nets before play resumed on the fourth day. Australia, 1-0 down in the four-match series, were 132 for four in their second innings overnight with a lead of 175 runs.

India vs Australia: Aaron Finch cleared to bat on crucial fourth day

<p>The stump&nbsp;mic has revealed the ugly war of words between Indian captain Virat Kohli and Australian skipper Tim Paine on the third day of Perth Test on Sunday.</p>

<p>The match got spiced up on the third day when Virat Kohli completed his&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-virat-kohli-slams-25th-test-century-in-perth-test-184408">25th Test</a> hundred got India to 283 runs but&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-out-or-not-out-debate-over-virat-kohlis-wicket-is-on-184445">caught at second slip</a>&nbsp;after a controversial catch by Peter Handscomb.</p>

<p>Virat looked unhappy with the decision and tensions flared-up when Australia started batting in their second innings.</p>

<p>Both the captains,&nbsp;Virat Kohli and Tim Paine, kept exchanging words, which carried on until stumps.</p>

<p>The hosts finished 175 runs ahead on day three.</p>

<p>Virat was heard yelling at Paine,&nbsp;"If he messes it up, it's 2-0."</p>

<p>The chats were picked up by the microphone after he and his teammates made a loud caught-behind appeal for Paine in the final over of the day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Australian captain did not hold himself back and replied: "You've got to bat first, **** head".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">KOHLI : If u mess it up it's 2-0<br />
<br />
PAINE : You Got to Bat First D***Head<br />
<br />
Verbals from Skippers😂😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Bjtx6VTT2B">pic.twitter.com/Bjtx6VTT2B</a></p>
— karthick shivaraman (@ISkarthi) <a href="https://twitter.com/ISkarthi/status/1074292853742829569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The hosts star-spinner Nathan Lyon, however, played down the incident.</p>

<p>"I think Tim just asked him where he was going for dinner that's all. I've played enough cricket against Virat to know what he's like, and I'm not worried about what he's doing or what India's doing," said Lyon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Virat is a great player, he plays on emotion, we all know that, and to be honest I'm not too concerned how Virat reacts or the way he conducts himself. I'm just worried about what we can control in the Australian dressing room and I thought as bowlers we came out today and performed pretty well," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lyon said: "The wicket seems like it's starting to play a few more little tricks. We were expecting the cracks to play a little bit more, but with that rain yesterday it probably softened our ball up quite a fair bit. I know as bowlers the ball in cricket terms felt like it had no air left in it, so it lost a little bit of zip off the wicket.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But we were pretty happy with the way we bowled and we know that come the second dig we can bowl much better than that. So we can take a few lessons off that first innings," he added.&nbsp;</p>


The stump mic has revealed the ugly war of words between Indian captain Virat Kohli and Australian skipper Tim Paine on the third day of Perth Test on Sunday. The match got spiced up on the third day when Virat Kohli completed his 25th Test hundred got India to 283 runs but caught at second slip after a controversial catch by Peter Handscomb.

The stump mic has revealed the ugly war of words between Indian captain Virat Kohli and Australian skipper Tim Paine on the third day of Perth Test on Sunday. The match got spiced up on the third day when Virat Kohli completed his 25th Test hundred got India to 283 runs but caught at second slip after a controversial catch by Peter Handscomb. Virat looked unhappy with the decision and tensions flared-up when Australia started batting in their second innings. Both the captains, Virat Kohli and Tim Paine, kept exchanging words, which carried on until stumps. The hosts finished 175 runs ahead on day three. Virat was heard yelling at Paine, "If he messes it up, it's 2-0." The chats were picked up by the microphone after he and his teammates made a loud caught-behind appeal for Paine in the final over of the day. The Australian captain did not hold himself back and replied: "You've got to bat first, **** head". Watch the video: KOHLI : If u mess it up it's 2-0 PAINE : You Got to Bat First D***Head Verbals from Skippers😂😂#AUSvIND #AUSvsIND pic.twitter.com/Bjtx6VTT2B — karthick shivaraman (@ISkarthi) December 16, 2018 × The hosts star-spinner Nathan Lyon, however, played down the incident. "I think Tim just asked him where he was going for dinner that's all. I've played enough cricket against Virat to know what he's like, and I'm not worried about what he's doing or what India's doing," said Lyon. "Virat is a great player, he plays on emotion, we all know that, and to be honest I'm not too concerned how Virat reacts or the way he conducts himself. I'm just worried about what we can control in the Australian dressing room and I thought as bowlers we came out today and performed pretty well," he said. Lyon said: "The wicket seems like it's starting to play a few more little tricks. We were expecting the cracks to play a little bit more, but with that rain yesterday it probably softened our ball up quite a fair bit. I know as bowlers the ball in cricket terms felt like it had no air left in it, so it lost a little bit of zip off the wicket. "But we were pretty happy with the way we bowled and we know that come the second dig we can bowl much better than that. So we can take a few lessons off that first innings," he added.

Watch: Stump mic reveals ugly on-pitch chats between Kohli and Paine in Perth Test

<p>After former Australian cricketer Mike Hussey criticised Virat Kohli for his attitude on ground, Bollywood actor Naseeruddin Shah on Monday called the Indian skipper 'world's worst behaved player'.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Kohli, who is currently Down Under for the ongoing Test series, has been in the news lately for his war of words with his Australian counterpart Tim Paine.</p>

<p>Taking to Facebook, the 'Ishqiya' actor wrote: "Virat K is not only the world's best batsman but also the world's worst behaved player. His cricketing brilliance pales beside his arrogance and bad manners.. And I have no intention of leaving the country by the way."&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Shah's post received mixed response with some fans defending the cricketer, saying that the aggression was required to beat Australians, while some agreed with the actor.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Earlier in the day, Kohli and Paine came close to chest bumping when the Indian captain walked in front of Paine while he was close to completing a run.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The skippers’ verbal duel had forced on-field umpire Chris Gaffaney to warn both the players during the fourth day of the second Test.&nbsp;</p>


After former Australian cricketer Mike Hussey criticised Virat Kohli for his attitude on ground, Bollywood actor Naseeruddin Shah on Monday called the Indian skipper 'world's worst behaved player'.

After former Australian cricketer Mike Hussey criticised Virat Kohli for his attitude on ground, Bollywood actor Naseeruddin Shah on Monday called the Indian skipper 'world's worst behaved player'. Kohli, who is currently Down Under for the ongoing Test series, has been in the news lately for his war of words with his Australian counterpart Tim Paine. Taking to Facebook, the 'Ishqiya' actor wrote: "Virat K is not only the world's best batsman but also the world's worst behaved player. His cricketing brilliance pales beside his arrogance and bad manners.. And I have no intention of leaving the country by the way." × Shah's post received mixed response with some fans defending the cricketer, saying that the aggression was required to beat Australians, while some agreed with the actor. × × × Earlier in the day, Kohli and Paine came close to chest bumping when the Indian captain walked in front of Paine while he was close to completing a run. The skippers’ verbal duel had forced on-field umpire Chris Gaffaney to warn both the players during the fourth day of the second Test.

Naseeruddin Shah calls Virat Kohli 'world's worst behaved player', Twitter gets upset

<p>Pacer Mohammed Shami Monday said India missed a trick in not playing a full-time spinner on a pitch where Australia tweaker Nathan Lyon has already bagged seven wickets.</p>

<p>Chasing 287, India were reduced to 112 for five at stumps on day four of the second Test at the Optus Stadium.</p>

<p>Australia finished with 243 in their second innings, with Shami taking a career-best haul of 6-56 but the match went away from India for the lack of a balanced bowling attack.</p>

<p>"The team management makes these decisions. We can't do anything about it. We had one spinner who didn't bowl badly. (But) If you ask me, I feel there should have been a spinner, but these things depend on your management," said Shami.</p>

<p>"After such a long time we have an Indian pace attack where all the bowlers are fast and are bowling good lines and lengths. Four years ago we weren't even this experienced. You must have seen the difference in our accuracy from four years ago."</p>

<p>India lead the four-match series 1-0 after their 31-run win in the opening Test at Adelaide.</p>

<p>"It helps a lot to have a good bowler at the other end, who has the same mentality as you and is keeping things tight.</p>

<p>"This keeps the pressure up, and sometimes you don't even realise when the game turns your way. The bowler at the other end is sometimes just as important," he added, heaping praise on the fast-bowling unit.</p>

<p>Talking about his career-best spell, the pacer said, "I always try to bowl a good line and length. Rest is up to your luck, how many wickets you get or not. Your approach has to be good. If you are playing Test cricket, you have to focus on your line and length. You will get the wickets automatically.</p>

<p>"Sometimes when you have a long partnership, you have to wait, especially on a wicket like this where we were beating them again and again. It wasn't as if we were bowling bad balls, but even on bowling good lengths we were not getting wickets. As soon as we got a wicket the momentum changed and we used it."</p>

<p>India have Hanuma Vihari and Rishabh Pant at the crease, and need 175 runs for victory. The visitors were reduced 55 for four at one stage, with Nathan Lyon dismissing Virat Kohli and Murali Vijay in the space of three overs.</p>

<p>Shami said winning or losing isn't important as the team competed well on a tough Perth wicket, which is proving very challenging to batsmen of both sides.</p>

<p>"It is part of the game. Winning and losing happens. We will just look forward.</p>

<p>"You can see first two days the wicket was very good. But third day it was going a little up and down, and there was uneven bounce as well. And the ball is keeping low at times as well.</p>

<p>"But it is like a normal Perth wicket and that's how it has played so far. It is in everybody's minds that on days 3 and 4 there will be some up and down and we are getting to see this so far," he said.</p>

<p>Apart from India's collapse the other talking point of the day was the continuing exchange between skipper Tim Paine and Virat Kohli. Umpire Chris Gaffaney had to separate the two at one point.</p>

<p>"We cannot say much about it. It is part of the game, but nothing too serious. When you play Test cricket it is a long match and you have a long time so a little bit aggression is there and sometimes you react on the moment.</p>

<p>"We don't need to mind these things too much. It is part of the game. If these things don't happen in the match then I think the match won't be interesting either."</p>

<p>"Maybe in that moment, things get heated up but it is not something to be made a big issue out of. According to me, we should leave this here.</p>

<p>The saga continued even when Kohli was dismissed, with Paine sledging Vijay in Kohli's name. Shami said these things shouldn't be taken personally.</p>

<p>"I have said earlier too that this is a part of the game and we don't take it personally. If there is no sledging, you won't enjoy the game and the public won't enjoy the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If there is aggression, the match becomes more interesting. It is part of the game as it should be," he said, of the Paine comment.</p>

<p>"What happens on the outside, what the opposition does, it doesn't affect us. We have to focus on our game and we have to improve our game. Not what step of ours is being watched and what is not," he signed off.</p>


Pacer Mohammed Shami Monday said India missed a trick in not playing a full-time spinner on a pitch where Australia tweaker Nathan Lyon has already bagged seven wickets.

Pacer Mohammed Shami Monday said India missed a trick in not playing a full-time spinner on a pitch where Australia tweaker Nathan Lyon has already bagged seven wickets. Chasing 287, India were reduced to 112 for five at stumps on day four of the second Test at the Optus Stadium. Australia finished with 243 in their second innings, with Shami taking a career-best haul of 6-56 but the match went away from India for the lack of a balanced bowling attack. "The team management makes these decisions. We can't do anything about it. We had one spinner who didn't bowl badly. (But) If you ask me, I feel there should have been a spinner, but these things depend on your management," said Shami. "After such a long time we have an Indian pace attack where all the bowlers are fast and are bowling good lines and lengths. Four years ago we weren't even this experienced. You must have seen the difference in our accuracy from four years ago." India lead the four-match series 1-0 after their 31-run win in the opening Test at Adelaide. "It helps a lot to have a good bowler at the other end, who has the same mentality as you and is keeping things tight. "This keeps the pressure up, and sometimes you don't even realise when the game turns your way. The bowler at the other end is sometimes just as important," he added, heaping praise on the fast-bowling unit. Talking about his career-best spell, the pacer said, "I always try to bowl a good line and length. Rest is up to your luck, how many wickets you get or not. Your approach has to be good. If you are playing Test cricket, you have to focus on your line and length. You will get the wickets automatically. "Sometimes when you have a long partnership, you have to wait, especially on a wicket like this where we were beating them again and again. It wasn't as if we were bowling bad balls, but even on bowling good lengths we were not getting wickets. As soon as we got a wicket the momentum changed and we used it." India have Hanuma Vihari and Rishabh Pant at the crease, and need 175 runs for victory. The visitors were reduced 55 for four at one stage, with Nathan Lyon dismissing Virat Kohli and Murali Vijay in the space of three overs. Shami said winning or losing isn't important as the team competed well on a tough Perth wicket, which is proving very challenging to batsmen of both sides. "It is part of the game. Winning and losing happens. We will just look forward. "You can see first two days the wicket was very good. But third day it was going a little up and down, and there was uneven bounce as well. And the ball is keeping low at times as well. "But it is like a normal Perth wicket and that's how it has played so far. It is in everybody's minds that on days 3 and 4 there will be some up and down and we are getting to see this so far," he said. Apart from India's collapse the other talking point of the day was the continuing exchange between skipper Tim Paine and Virat Kohli. Umpire Chris Gaffaney had to separate the two at one point. "We cannot say much about it. It is part of the game, but nothing too serious. When you play Test cricket it is a long match and you have a long time so a little bit aggression is there and sometimes you react on the moment. "We don't need to mind these things too much. It is part of the game. If these things don't happen in the match then I think the match won't be interesting either." "Maybe in that moment, things get heated up but it is not something to be made a big issue out of. According to me, we should leave this here. The saga continued even when Kohli was dismissed, with Paine sledging Vijay in Kohli's name. Shami said these things shouldn't be taken personally. "I have said earlier too that this is a part of the game and we don't take it personally. If there is no sledging, you won't enjoy the game and the public won't enjoy the game. "If there is aggression, the match becomes more interesting. It is part of the game as it should be," he said, of the Paine comment. "What happens on the outside, what the opposition does, it doesn't affect us. We have to focus on our game and we have to improve our game. Not what step of ours is being watched and what is not," he signed off.

IND vs AUS: There should have been a spinner, feels Mohammed Shami

<p>Baroda captain Kedar Devdhar Monday informed that all-rounder Hardik Pandya is all set to go to Australia and will be unavailable for the team's next Ranji Trophy game.</p>

<p>Hardik, who has sustained a back injury during the Asia Cup in September, returned to competitive cricket by featuring in the Ranji Trophy game against Mumbai at the Wankhede Stadium here, which ended in a tame draw.</p>

<p>Pandya senior shone with both the bat and ball, grabbing a five-wicket haul in the first innings (5-81) and two wickets (2-21) in the second essay, bowling 10 overs.</p>

<p>Hardik also made a patient 73 off 137 balls, but could not ensure first-innings lead for his home team.</p>

<p>"Hardik (Pandya) is going to Australia," Devdhar told reporters after the Baroda-Mumbai Ranji Trophy game when asked about's Hardik's status for the next game.</p>

<p>Baroda take on Railways in their next Ranji Trophy game from December 30.</p>

<p>Asked whether Hardik has informed Baroda, Devdhar replied by saying, "He isn't available for the next match."</p>

<p>Asked about the impact of Hardik in the drawn game, Devdhar said, "Performances wise Hardik has done better. Our two batsmen also played well. In bowling, Hardik has picked two wickets at the start in the second innings and also grabbed five wickets. Obviously, we were going to be helped by him in batting."</p>

<p>However, there is no official confirmation from the BCCI yet on Hardik travelling Down Under.</p>


Baroda captain Kedar Devdhar Monday informed that all-rounder Hardik Pandya is all set to go to Australia and will be unavailable for the team's next Ranji Trophy game.

Baroda captain Kedar Devdhar Monday informed that all-rounder Hardik Pandya is all set to go to Australia and will be unavailable for the team's next Ranji Trophy game. Hardik, who has sustained a back injury during the Asia Cup in September, returned to competitive cricket by featuring in the Ranji Trophy game against Mumbai at the Wankhede Stadium here, which ended in a tame draw. Pandya senior shone with both the bat and ball, grabbing a five-wicket haul in the first innings (5-81) and two wickets (2-21) in the second essay, bowling 10 overs. Hardik also made a patient 73 off 137 balls, but could not ensure first-innings lead for his home team. "Hardik (Pandya) is going to Australia," Devdhar told reporters after the Baroda-Mumbai Ranji Trophy game when asked about's Hardik's status for the next game. Baroda take on Railways in their next Ranji Trophy game from December 30. Asked whether Hardik has informed Baroda, Devdhar replied by saying, "He isn't available for the next match." Asked about the impact of Hardik in the drawn game, Devdhar said, "Performances wise Hardik has done better. Our two batsmen also played well. In bowling, Hardik has picked two wickets at the start in the second innings and also grabbed five wickets. Obviously, we were going to be helped by him in batting." However, there is no official confirmation from the BCCI yet on Hardik travelling Down Under.

Hardik Pandya to soon join Indian team in Australia

<p>Australia need five wickets in the second test to secure a series-levelling victory with India's daunting run chase on a menacing pitch teetering at stumps on day four on Monday.</p>

<p>Chasing 287 runs after bowling out Australia’s second innings for 243, India reached the close at 112 for five with Hanuma Vihari 24 not out and Rishabh Pant unbeaten on nine.</p>

<p>Struggling on the Perth Stadium pitch marked by widening cracks, India made a poor start losing the key wickets of Lokesh Rahul for a fourth-ball duck and Cheteshwar Pujara, India’s first test hero in Adelaide, for four.</p>

<p>India’s faint hopes rested on captain Virat Kohli who counter-attacked with several flowing drives in reminiscent fashion to his masterful first innings of 123.</p>

<p>Kohli combined with opener Murali Vijay to stabilise India before he edged a straight Nathan Lyon delivery to Usman Khawaja at slip for 17, sparking scenes of jubilation from the Australian players.</p>

<p>The off-spinner claimed the India talisman for a record seventh time, the most by a bowler, and in his next over bowled Vijay for 20 off an inside edge.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Lyon and Hazlewood strike in the final session of day four to put Australia in a strong position to level the series in Perth. India are 112/5 at stumps, needing 175 runs on the final day to claim victory.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> scorecard ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc">https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc</a> <a href="https://t.co/edmRkR9Mqr">pic.twitter.com/edmRkR9Mqr</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1074604124208009216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Lyon continued his stranglehold over India, continually troubling the batsmen by targeting the expansive rough patches.</p>

<p>Ajinkya Rahane played his strokes and combined well with Vihari before the India vice-captain fell just before stumps, slashing a Josh Hazlewood delivery straight to point for 30.</p>

<p>The bowling onslaught has Australia on the cusp of snapping a barren six-test run without a win and providing skipper Tim Paine with his first triumph as captain.</p>

<p>Australia's bowlers regained firm control of the match after their batsmen had crumbled against quick Mohammed Shami in the middle session.</p>

<p>After a wicketless morning session, India came alive through blistering short-pitched bowling from Shami, who made the ball steeple off the deteriorating wicket to finish with a career-best 6-56.</p>

<p>Australia spectacularly lost four wickets for six runs starting with Paine (37) falling to a vicious short ball from Shami, which spat off the pitch hitting the glove and ballooned to slip.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Australia pick two quick wickets, and India are 15/2 at Tea. Starc &amp; Hazlewood pick one wicket each. Kohli 0*, Vijay 6* <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/eKdq5ELmIw">pic.twitter.com/eKdq5ELmIw</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1074561545605017600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Shami was on a hat-trick when he had Aaron Finch caught behind down the leg-side in a fleeting resumption for the opener.</p>

<p>Finch retired hurt on day three on 25 after being struck on the glove by a searing short ball from Shami but X-Rays cleared him of serious injury to his right index finger.</p>

<p>Shami was denied the hat-trick but soon claimed his fifth wicket with another menacing bouncer that caught Khawaja's glove to be caught behind for 72.</p>

<p>Australia's lead was 250 before Hazlewood (17 not out) and Mitchell Starc (14) added an invaluable 36 runs for the last wicket.</p>

<p>The pyrotechnics contrasted a sedate morning session dominated by Australia, who grabbed control of a fluctuating match with Khawaja and Paine batting through to lunch.</p>


Australia need five wickets in the second test to secure a series-levelling victory with India's daunting run chase on a menacing pitch teetering at stumps on day four on Monday.

Australia need five wickets in the second test to secure a series-levelling victory with India's daunting run chase on a menacing pitch teetering at stumps on day four on Monday. Chasing 287 runs after bowling out Australia’s second innings for 243, India reached the close at 112 for five with Hanuma Vihari 24 not out and Rishabh Pant unbeaten on nine. Struggling on the Perth Stadium pitch marked by widening cracks, India made a poor start losing the key wickets of Lokesh Rahul for a fourth-ball duck and Cheteshwar Pujara, India’s first test hero in Adelaide, for four. India’s faint hopes rested on captain Virat Kohli who counter-attacked with several flowing drives in reminiscent fashion to his masterful first innings of 123. Kohli combined with opener Murali Vijay to stabilise India before he edged a straight Nathan Lyon delivery to Usman Khawaja at slip for 17, sparking scenes of jubilation from the Australian players. The off-spinner claimed the India talisman for a record seventh time, the most by a bowler, and in his next over bowled Vijay for 20 off an inside edge. Lyon and Hazlewood strike in the final session of day four to put Australia in a strong position to level the series in Perth. India are 112/5 at stumps, needing 175 runs on the final day to claim victory.#AUSvIND scorecard ➡️ https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc pic.twitter.com/edmRkR9Mqr — ICC (@ICC) December 17, 2018 × Lyon continued his stranglehold over India, continually troubling the batsmen by targeting the expansive rough patches. Ajinkya Rahane played his strokes and combined well with Vihari before the India vice-captain fell just before stumps, slashing a Josh Hazlewood delivery straight to point for 30. The bowling onslaught has Australia on the cusp of snapping a barren six-test run without a win and providing skipper Tim Paine with his first triumph as captain. Australia's bowlers regained firm control of the match after their batsmen had crumbled against quick Mohammed Shami in the middle session. After a wicketless morning session, India came alive through blistering short-pitched bowling from Shami, who made the ball steeple off the deteriorating wicket to finish with a career-best 6-56. Australia spectacularly lost four wickets for six runs starting with Paine (37) falling to a vicious short ball from Shami, which spat off the pitch hitting the glove and ballooned to slip. Australia pick two quick wickets, and India are 15/2 at Tea. Starc & Hazlewood pick one wicket each. Kohli 0*, Vijay 6* #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/eKdq5ELmIw — BCCI (@BCCI) December 17, 2018 × Shami was on a hat-trick when he had Aaron Finch caught behind down the leg-side in a fleeting resumption for the opener. Finch retired hurt on day three on 25 after being struck on the glove by a searing short ball from Shami but X-Rays cleared him of serious injury to his right index finger. Shami was denied the hat-trick but soon claimed his fifth wicket with another menacing bouncer that caught Khawaja's glove to be caught behind for 72. Australia's lead was 250 before Hazlewood (17 not out) and Mitchell Starc (14) added an invaluable 36 runs for the last wicket. The pyrotechnics contrasted a sedate morning session dominated by Australia, who grabbed control of a fluctuating match with Khawaja and Paine batting through to lunch.

India vs Australia, 2nd Test, Day 4: Australia five wickets away from winning

<p>Australian skipper Tim Paine has been involved in a war of words with Indian counterpart Virat Kohli and there seems to be no end in sight.</p>

<p>After the umpire intervened and separated the two when Paine was batting, the Australian, when fielding, turned to Murali Vijay taking a jibe at the Indian captain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I know he's your captain but you can't seriously like him as a bloke," a tweet quoted Paine as telling Murali Vijay about Virat Kohli.</p>

<p>The Kohli-Paine war of words began on Day 3 after the visitors went for a huge caught-behind appeal in the final over of the day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The stump microphones picked up Virat Kohli saying, "if he messes it up, it's 2-0," while referring to the Test series lead. Tim Paine promptly replied: "You've got to bat first, big head".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">More cheeky banter caught on the TV stump mic! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/pDbuJIfJJI">pic.twitter.com/pDbuJIfJJI</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1074582652554899456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The argument continued on Day 4 and umpire Chris Gaffaney had to intervene as Virat Kohli and Paine got involved in another argument.</p>

<p>Chasing 287 runs after bowling out Australia’s second innings for 243, India reached the close at 112 for five with Hanuma Vihari 24 not out and Rishabh Pant unbeaten on nine.</p>


Australian skipper Tim Paine has been involved in a war of words with Indian counterpart Virat Kohli and there seems to be no end in sight. After the umpire intervened and separated the two when Paine was batting, the Australian, when fielding, turned to Murali Vijay taking a jibe at the Indian captain.

Australian skipper Tim Paine has been involved in a war of words with Indian counterpart Virat Kohli and there seems to be no end in sight. After the umpire intervened and separated the two when Paine was batting, the Australian, when fielding, turned to Murali Vijay taking a jibe at the Indian captain. "I know he's your captain but you can't seriously like him as a bloke," a tweet quoted Paine as telling Murali Vijay about Virat Kohli. The Kohli-Paine war of words began on Day 3 after the visitors went for a huge caught-behind appeal in the final over of the day. The stump microphones picked up Virat Kohli saying, "if he messes it up, it's 2-0," while referring to the Test series lead. Tim Paine promptly replied: "You've got to bat first, big head". More cheeky banter caught on the TV stump mic! #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/pDbuJIfJJI — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 17, 2018 × The argument continued on Day 4 and umpire Chris Gaffaney had to intervene as Virat Kohli and Paine got involved in another argument. Chasing 287 runs after bowling out Australia’s second innings for 243, India reached the close at 112 for five with Hanuma Vihari 24 not out and Rishabh Pant unbeaten on nine.

'You can't like Virat Kohli as a man: Paine caught saying to Murali Vijay on stump mic

<p>Mohammed Shami took a five-wicket haul as&nbsp;Australia were all out for 243 in the middle session on the fourth day on Monday in Perth Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shami picked up a career-best 6-56 as the hosts lost six wickets for 51 runs before a 36-run last-wicket partnership between Mitchell Starc (14) and Josh Hazlewood (17 not out) boosted their tally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Usman Khawaja top-scored for Australia with 72, while Aaron Finch (25) was dismissed on the first ball by Shami on the resumption of his innings after retiring hurt on day three.</p>

<p>At lunch on the fourth day, the home side were 190 for four in their second innings, an overall advantage of 233 runs.</p>

<p>But lost quick wickets just after returning from lunch break.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Six-wicket haul and career-best figures for Mohammed Shami! 👏<br />
<br />
He adds the scalp of Lyon to his list to trigger Australia's collapse after lunch. He has 6/41 for now – his best figures.<br />
<br />
Australia 207/9, a lead of 250. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE<br />
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc">https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc</a> <a href="https://t.co/iyo0AyIT2c">pic.twitter.com/iyo0AyIT2c</a></p>
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<p>India lead the series 1-0 after winning the first Test in Adelaide.</p>

<p><strong>The scoreboard at the end of Australia's second innings:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Australia 1st innings</strong> 326 (M. Harris 70, T. Head 58; Sharma 4-41)</p>

<p><strong>India 1st innings</strong> 283 (V Kohli 123, A Rahane 51; Lyon 5-67)</p>

<p><strong>Australia 2nd innings</strong> (overnight 132-4)</p>

<p>M. Harris b Bumrah &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;20</p>

<p>A. Finch c Pant b Shami &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;25</p>

<p>U. Khawaja c Pant b Shami &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;72</p>

<p>S. Marsh c Pant b Shami &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5</p>

<p>P. Handscomb lbw Sharma &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;13</p>

<p>T. Head c Sharma b Shami &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;19</p>

<p>T. Paine&nbsp;c Kohli b Shami &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;37</p>

<p>P. Cummins b Bumrah &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1</p>

<p>M. Starc b Bumrah &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;14</p>

<p>N. Lyon c Vihari b Shami &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;5</p>

<p>J. Hazlewood not out &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;17</p>

<p>Extras (b8, lb3, w4) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;15</p>

<p><strong>Total (all out, 93.2 overs) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;243</strong></p>

<p><strong>Fall of wickets:</strong> 1-59 (Harris), 2-64 (Marsh), 3-85 (Handscomb), 4-120 (Head), 5-192 (Paine), 6-192 (Finch), 7-198 (Khawaja), 8-198 (Cummins), 9-207 (Lyon), 10-243 (Starc)</p>

<p><strong>Bowling:</strong> Sharma 16-1-45-1, Bumrah 25.2-10-39-3, Shami 24-8-56-6 (2w), Yadav 14-0-61-0 (2w), Vihari 14-4-31-0</p>


Mohammed Shami took a five-wicket haul as Australia were all out for 243 in the middle session on the fourth day on Monday in Perth Test. Shami picked up a career-best 6-56 as the hosts lost six wickets for 51 runs before a 36-run last-wicket partnership between Mitchell Starc (14) and Josh Hazlewood (17 not out) boosted their tally.

Mohammed Shami took a five-wicket haul as Australia were all out for 243 in the middle session on the fourth day on Monday in Perth Test. Shami picked up a career-best 6-56 as the hosts lost six wickets for 51 runs before a 36-run last-wicket partnership between Mitchell Starc (14) and Josh Hazlewood (17 not out) boosted their tally. Usman Khawaja top-scored for Australia with 72, while Aaron Finch (25) was dismissed on the first ball by Shami on the resumption of his innings after retiring hurt on day three. At lunch on the fourth day, the home side were 190 for four in their second innings, an overall advantage of 233 runs. But lost quick wickets just after returning from lunch break. Six-wicket haul and career-best figures for Mohammed Shami! 👏 He adds the scalp of Lyon to his list to trigger Australia's collapse after lunch. He has 6/41 for now – his best figures. Australia 207/9, a lead of 250. #AUSvIND LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc pic.twitter.com/iyo0AyIT2c — ICC (@ICC) December 17, 2018 × India lead the series 1-0 after winning the first Test in Adelaide. The scoreboard at the end of Australia's second innings: Australia 1st innings 326 (M. Harris 70, T. Head 58; Sharma 4-41) India 1st innings 283 (V Kohli 123, A Rahane 51; Lyon 5-67) Australia 2nd innings (overnight 132-4) M. Harris b Bumrah 20 A. Finch c Pant b Shami 25 U. Khawaja c Pant b Shami 72 S. Marsh c Pant b Shami 5 P. Handscomb lbw Sharma 13 T. Head c Sharma b Shami 19 T. Paine c Kohli b Shami 37 P. Cummins b Bumrah 1 M. Starc b Bumrah 14 N. Lyon c Vihari b Shami 5 J. Hazlewood not out 17 Extras (b8, lb3, w4) 15 Total (all out, 93.2 overs) 243 Fall of wickets: 1-59 (Harris), 2-64 (Marsh), 3-85 (Handscomb), 4-120 (Head), 5-192 (Paine), 6-192 (Finch), 7-198 (Khawaja), 8-198 (Cummins), 9-207 (Lyon), 10-243 (Starc) Bowling: Sharma 16-1-45-1, Bumrah 25.2-10-39-3, Shami 24-8-56-6 (2w), Yadav 14-0-61-0 (2w), Vihari 14-4-31-0

INDvsAUS: Australia all out for 243, India need 287 to win Perth Test

<p>Virat Kohli Sunday became the second fastest to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-virat-kohli-slams-25th-test-century-in-perth-test-184408">25 Test centuries</a> with his sixth ton in Australia, joining boyhood hero Sachin Tendulkar, and celebrated by suggesting he lets his bat do the talking.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In reply to Australia's first-innings total of 326 all out, India were 252 for seven at lunch on the third day, with Kohli doing the bulk of the scoring.</p>

<p>On reaching the three-figure mark, Kohli removed his helmet and placed it on the green turf at the Optus Stadium.</p>

<p>The Indian fans roared from the stands as their hero pointed at his bat and gestured with his fingers in a manner that suggested: 'I let the bat do the talking' rather than the mouth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The innovative celebration caught the attention of the cricket world.</p>

<p>"If anyone has seen a better player across all the different formats then I haven't seen him .. @imVkohli is incredible ... Loved his 'let the Bat do the talking' celebration !!" former England captain Michael Vaughan tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If anyone has seen a better player across all the different formats then I haven’t seen him .. <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> is incredible ... Loved his ‘let the Bat do the talking ‘ celebration !! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Perth?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Perth</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1074143247054790656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Spin legend Shane Warne wrote on his twitter handle, "Congrats to @imVkohli on another magnificent 100. A completely different class to any other batsman playing international cricket &amp; on the planet. An absolute joy to watch - well played!"&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congrats to <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> on another magnificent 100. A completely different class to any other batsman playing international cricket &amp; on the planet. An absolute joy to watch - well played ! India now have their noses ahead, 2nd new ball again an issue for the Aussies !</p>
— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne/status/1074143787687993345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Countryman Sachin Tendulkar is third with 130, while Don Bradman managed it in just 68.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Well played <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>. One of your finest innings. This knock will be remembered for a long time. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/Gj1dSN4k4p">pic.twitter.com/Gj1dSN4k4p</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1074164869388218369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>It was also Kohli's sixth century in Australia, lifting him equal with Tendulkar as the only Indian batsmen to reach that tally, and gave him the honour of becoming the first Test centurion at the new Perth Stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli is now the 11th batsman to complete 1000 Test runs in a calendar year overseas and the third Indian to achieve the mark after Rahul Dravid (1137 runs in 18 innings in 2002) and Mohinder Amarnath (1065 runs in 16 innings in 1983).&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli is also the first Indian skipper to breach the milestone and the third overall captain after Australia's Bob Simpson and South Africa's Graeme Smith.</p>


Virat Kohli Sunday became the second fastest to 25 Test centuries with his sixth ton in Australia, joining boyhood hero Sachin Tendulkar, and celebrated by suggesting he lets his bat do the talking.

Virat Kohli Sunday became the second fastest to 25 Test centuries with his sixth ton in Australia, joining boyhood hero Sachin Tendulkar, and celebrated by suggesting he lets his bat do the talking. In reply to Australia's first-innings total of 326 all out, India were 252 for seven at lunch on the third day, with Kohli doing the bulk of the scoring. On reaching the three-figure mark, Kohli removed his helmet and placed it on the green turf at the Optus Stadium. The Indian fans roared from the stands as their hero pointed at his bat and gestured with his fingers in a manner that suggested: 'I let the bat do the talking' rather than the mouth. The innovative celebration caught the attention of the cricket world. "If anyone has seen a better player across all the different formats then I haven't seen him .. @imVkohli is incredible ... Loved his 'let the Bat do the talking' celebration !!" former England captain Michael Vaughan tweeted. If anyone has seen a better player across all the different formats then I haven’t seen him .. @imVkohli is incredible ... Loved his ‘let the Bat do the talking ‘ celebration !! #AUSvIND #Perth — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) December 16, 2018 × Spin legend Shane Warne wrote on his twitter handle, "Congrats to @imVkohli on another magnificent 100. A completely different class to any other batsman playing international cricket & on the planet. An absolute joy to watch - well played!" Congrats to @imVkohli on another magnificent 100. A completely different class to any other batsman playing international cricket & on the planet. An absolute joy to watch - well played ! India now have their noses ahead, 2nd new ball again an issue for the Aussies ! — Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) December 16, 2018 × Countryman Sachin Tendulkar is third with 130, while Don Bradman managed it in just 68. Well played @imVkohli. One of your finest innings. This knock will be remembered for a long time. #INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/Gj1dSN4k4p — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) December 16, 2018 × It was also Kohli's sixth century in Australia, lifting him equal with Tendulkar as the only Indian batsmen to reach that tally, and gave him the honour of becoming the first Test centurion at the new Perth Stadium. Kohli is now the 11th batsman to complete 1000 Test runs in a calendar year overseas and the third Indian to achieve the mark after Rahul Dravid (1137 runs in 18 innings in 2002) and Mohinder Amarnath (1065 runs in 16 innings in 1983). Kohli is also the first Indian skipper to breach the milestone and the third overall captain after Australia's Bob Simpson and South Africa's Graeme Smith.

India vs Australia: Twitter reaction on Virat Kohli's magnificent 123-run knock

<p>India captain Virat Kohli slammed his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-virat-kohli-slams-25th-test-century-in-perth-test-184408">63 international century</a> playing against Australia in the second Test of a four-match series.</p>

<p>Master batsman Kohli brought up his 25th Test century, smashing a four off Mitchell Starc in Perth.</p>

<p>His brilliant innings of 123 came to an end when he edged Pat Cummins to a forward-diving Peter Handscomb at second slip.</p>

<p>While the debate over the accuracy of the catch is still on.</p>

<p>There were some confusion and the on-field umpire referred the decision to the third umpire.</p>

<p>The third umpire&nbsp;signalled it out after reviewing it from all the possible angles.</p>

<p>He hit 11 fours in the battling 214-ball knock after coming to the crease with his team in trouble after losing two early wickets.</p>

<p><em>Watch the video here:</em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Virat Kohli was given OUT but was it a clean catch? 🤔🤔🤔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FoxCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FoxCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/SAIv1kkX6N">pic.twitter.com/SAIv1kkX6N</a></p>
— Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxCricket/status/1074160545631096832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It's not out <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/MxpwwDcXXg">pic.twitter.com/MxpwwDcXXg</a></p>
— Prem chand 🇮🇳💪 (@gprema21) <a href="https://twitter.com/gprema21/status/1074160492157886464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>However, Virat was not happy with umpire's decision and reacted aggressively.</p>

<p>In the first innings,&nbsp;India were bowled out for 283 after lunch as Australia gained a valuable 43-run first innings lead.</p>

<p>Kohli top-scored and spinner Nathan Lyon took 5-67 for Australia on the grassy Perth Stadium wicket.</p>


India captain Virat Kohli slammed his 63 international century playing against Australia in the second Test of a four-match series. Master batsman Kohli brought up his 25th Test century, smashing a four off Mitchell Starc in Perth.

India captain Virat Kohli slammed his 63 international century playing against Australia in the second Test of a four-match series. Master batsman Kohli brought up his 25th Test century, smashing a four off Mitchell Starc in Perth. His brilliant innings of 123 came to an end when he edged Pat Cummins to a forward-diving Peter Handscomb at second slip. While the debate over the accuracy of the catch is still on. There were some confusion and the on-field umpire referred the decision to the third umpire. The third umpire signalled it out after reviewing it from all the possible angles. He hit 11 fours in the battling 214-ball knock after coming to the crease with his team in trouble after losing two early wickets. Watch the video here: Virat Kohli was given OUT but was it a clean catch? 🤔🤔🤔#FoxCricket #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/SAIv1kkX6N — Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) December 16, 2018 × It's not out @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/MxpwwDcXXg — Prem chand 🇮🇳💪 (@gprema21) December 16, 2018 × However, Virat was not happy with umpire's decision and reacted aggressively. In the first innings, India were bowled out for 283 after lunch as Australia gained a valuable 43-run first innings lead. Kohli top-scored and spinner Nathan Lyon took 5-67 for Australia on the grassy Perth Stadium wicket.

Watch: Out or not out? Debate over Virat Kohli's wicket is on

<p>India captain <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> completed his 25th Test century after smashing a four off Mitchell Starc to reach triple figures on day three of the second Test in Perth.</p>

<p>Playing in his 75th Test, the Indian run-machine did it in style with a classic straight drive against Australia in the second Test of a four-match series at Perth Stadium on Sunday.</p>

<p>He hit 11 fours in the battling 214-ball knock after coming to the crease with his team in trouble after losing two early wickets.</p>

<p>It was his sixth ton in Australia, putting him in the elite company of Sachin Tendulkar.</p>

<p>Kohli has scored five, which is the highest Test centuries so far in the year 2018. He smashed a total of 11 international centuries in this year.</p>

<p>He also became the first ever batsman to record&nbsp;11 tons&nbsp;in two calendar years.</p>

<p>With&nbsp;total 63 international centuries and is only behind Ricky Ponting (71) and Tendulkar (100).</p>

<p>When Virat completed his ton, India were at 207 for the loss of four wickets in the ongoing match.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Captain Kohli notches his 25th Test ton. One of the finest from King Kohli 👑😎👌🏻 <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/LisPQ6pobc">pic.twitter.com/LisPQ6pobc</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1074140446379565056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, In reply to Australia's first innings of 326, India fought back on the green-tinged Perth Stadium pitch to reach stumps at 172 for three with Kohli 82 not out and his deputy Ajinkya Rahane unbeaten on 51.</p>

<p>"We feel confident when he is batting," said India quick Ishant Sharma of Kohli. "We finished the day in a strong position. Hopefully, tomorrow we will win the first session."</p>

<p>The home side bowled accurately but the much-hyped pitch, marked with widening cracks, settled down late in the day.</p>


India captain Virat Kohli completed his 25th Test century after smashing a four off Mitchell Starc to reach triple figures on day three of the second Test in Perth.

India captain Virat Kohli completed his 25th Test century after smashing a four off Mitchell Starc to reach triple figures on day three of the second Test in Perth. Playing in his 75th Test, the Indian run-machine did it in style with a classic straight drive against Australia in the second Test of a four-match series at Perth Stadium on Sunday. He hit 11 fours in the battling 214-ball knock after coming to the crease with his team in trouble after losing two early wickets. It was his sixth ton in Australia, putting him in the elite company of Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli has scored five, which is the highest Test centuries so far in the year 2018. He smashed a total of 11 international centuries in this year. He also became the first ever batsman to record 11 tons in two calendar years. With total 63 international centuries and is only behind Ricky Ponting (71) and Tendulkar (100). When Virat completed his ton, India were at 207 for the loss of four wickets in the ongoing match. Captain Kohli notches his 25th Test ton. One of the finest from King Kohli 👑😎👌🏻 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/LisPQ6pobc — BCCI (@BCCI) December 16, 2018 × Earlier, In reply to Australia's first innings of 326, India fought back on the green-tinged Perth Stadium pitch to reach stumps at 172 for three with Kohli 82 not out and his deputy Ajinkya Rahane unbeaten on 51. "We feel confident when he is batting," said India quick Ishant Sharma of Kohli. "We finished the day in a strong position. Hopefully, tomorrow we will win the first session." The home side bowled accurately but the much-hyped pitch, marked with widening cracks, settled down late in the day.

India vs Australia: Virat Kohli slams 25th Test century in Perth Test

<p>Australia battled through an onslaught from India's fiery fast bowlers on the third day of the second Test, building an ominous 175-run lead with six wickets in hand on a menacing Perth Stadium pitch that is expected to deteriorate further.</p>

<p>The hosts reached stumps at 132 for four in their second innings on Sunday with Usman Khawaja 41 not out and captain Tim Paine unbeaten on eight.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2018-19-schedule-teams-time-and-venue-177740">Australia</a>, desperate to level the series after narrowly losing the opener in Adelaide, could be without the services of opener Aaron Finch, who retired hurt on the stroke of tea with a possible fractured right index finger.</p>

<p>Under overcast skies, Australia's batsmen faced torrid bowling from India's fired-up quicks with Finch, who was unbeaten on 25, forced off after being hit by a searing delivery from Mohammed Shami.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Another fascinating day of Test cricket! Australia close day three in Perth on 132/4 in their second innings, with a lead of 175 runs over India after the visitors were dismissed for 283. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> scorecard ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc">https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc</a> <a href="https://t.co/F3zt6p9jXV">pic.twitter.com/F3zt6p9jXV</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1074242503300313089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Marcus Harris, Finch's opening partner, had earlier been hit on the helmet attempting to evade a sharp bouncer from paceman Jasprit Bumrah, who bowled superbly in favourable conditions.</p>

<p>A bewildered Harris fell after the tea break clean bowled by Bumrah for 20 after not offering a shot, and locally-bred Shaun Marsh was caught behind for five while rashly attempting a pull shot off Shami.</p>

<p>Australia's inexperienced batting-order struggled under pressure with Peter Handscomb making an unconvincing 13 before being trapped leg before after shuffling across his stumps to Ishant Sharma, who bowled without luck initially.</p>

<p>Travis Head was dismissed before the close for 19 after needlessly guiding a wide Shami delivery to deep third man, in a mirror-image of his first innings dismissal.</p>

<p>Khawaja, Australia's most accomplished batsman, survived several nerve-jangling moments to compile his highest score in the series.</p>

<p>Australia's impulsive batting almost squandered their advantage after bowling out India for 283 to gain a handy first innings lead of 43 runs, despite a brilliant century from India captain Virat Kohli.</p>

<p>An enthralling morning session belonged to the peerless Kohli, whose 123 came to an end at the stroke of lunch when he edged Pat Cummins to a forward-diving Handscomb at second slip.</p>

<p>Whether Handscomb got his fingers under the ball will be a matter of debate for days to come but the onfield official's soft signal was out and the third umpire did not reverse the decision on review.</p>

<p>Kohli had reached his 25th century in style with a flowing off-drive to the boundary and then placed his helmet on the ground, pointed to his bat and made a yapping gesture with his gloved hand.</p>

<p>It was his sixth century in Australia, which matches the tally of the great Sachin Tendulkar, and ended a drought against Australia with just 83 runs in his past seven Test innings against them.</p>

<p>Kohli showed no lasting ill-effects from an earlier injury scare when he was struck on the forearm by a searing Mitchell Starc bouncer and required treatment.</p>

<p>Spinner Nathan Lyon targeted the pitch's expansive rough patches and cleaned up the tail to finish with 5-67.</p>


Australia battled through an onslaught from India's fiery fast bowlers on the third day of the second Test, building an ominous 175-run lead with six wickets in hand on a menacing Perth Stadium pitch that is expected to deteriorate further.

Australia battled through an onslaught from India's fiery fast bowlers on the third day of the second Test, building an ominous 175-run lead with six wickets in hand on a menacing Perth Stadium pitch that is expected to deteriorate further. The hosts reached stumps at 132 for four in their second innings on Sunday with Usman Khawaja 41 not out and captain Tim Paine unbeaten on eight. Australia, desperate to level the series after narrowly losing the opener in Adelaide, could be without the services of opener Aaron Finch, who retired hurt on the stroke of tea with a possible fractured right index finger. Under overcast skies, Australia's batsmen faced torrid bowling from India's fired-up quicks with Finch, who was unbeaten on 25, forced off after being hit by a searing delivery from Mohammed Shami. Another fascinating day of Test cricket! Australia close day three in Perth on 132/4 in their second innings, with a lead of 175 runs over India after the visitors were dismissed for 283. #AUSvIND scorecard ➡️ https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc pic.twitter.com/F3zt6p9jXV — ICC (@ICC) December 16, 2018 × Marcus Harris, Finch's opening partner, had earlier been hit on the helmet attempting to evade a sharp bouncer from paceman Jasprit Bumrah, who bowled superbly in favourable conditions. A bewildered Harris fell after the tea break clean bowled by Bumrah for 20 after not offering a shot, and locally-bred Shaun Marsh was caught behind for five while rashly attempting a pull shot off Shami. Australia's inexperienced batting-order struggled under pressure with Peter Handscomb making an unconvincing 13 before being trapped leg before after shuffling across his stumps to Ishant Sharma, who bowled without luck initially. Travis Head was dismissed before the close for 19 after needlessly guiding a wide Shami delivery to deep third man, in a mirror-image of his first innings dismissal. Khawaja, Australia's most accomplished batsman, survived several nerve-jangling moments to compile his highest score in the series. Australia's impulsive batting almost squandered their advantage after bowling out India for 283 to gain a handy first innings lead of 43 runs, despite a brilliant century from India captain Virat Kohli. An enthralling morning session belonged to the peerless Kohli, whose 123 came to an end at the stroke of lunch when he edged Pat Cummins to a forward-diving Handscomb at second slip. Whether Handscomb got his fingers under the ball will be a matter of debate for days to come but the onfield official's soft signal was out and the third umpire did not reverse the decision on review. Kohli had reached his 25th century in style with a flowing off-drive to the boundary and then placed his helmet on the ground, pointed to his bat and made a yapping gesture with his gloved hand. It was his sixth century in Australia, which matches the tally of the great Sachin Tendulkar, and ended a drought against Australia with just 83 runs in his past seven Test innings against them. Kohli showed no lasting ill-effects from an earlier injury scare when he was struck on the forearm by a searing Mitchell Starc bouncer and required treatment. Spinner Nathan Lyon targeted the pitch's expansive rough patches and cleaned up the tail to finish with 5-67.

INDvsAUS, 2nd Test, Day 3: Australia build vital lead against India in Perth

<p>Australia were bowled out for 326 against India in their first innings before lunch on the second day of the second Test at Perth Stadium.</p>

<p>While the highlight remained Virat Kohli's stunning catch that he took to dismiss Peter Handscomb on the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-2nd-test-day-1-india-vs-australia-183864">first day</a>.</p>

<p>Skipper Kohli snared a spectacular full-stretched, one-handed catch off Ishant Sharma the video of which went viral on social networking sites.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"It was meant to happen" - Have another look at THAT catch from Virat Kohli <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/MZqybK5XwG">pic.twitter.com/MZqybK5XwG</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1073544462079385600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wow, What a stunning catch from India captain Virat Kohli! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/HpO8m4L8in">pic.twitter.com/HpO8m4L8in</a></p>
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<p>In the first innings, recalled spin-bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari and quick Ishant Sharma claimed two wickets apiece to get the tourists back into the contest after the Australians had won the toss and batted through the first session without losing a wicket.</p>

<p>Harris and Finch put together a 112-run opening partnership before India, playing four seamers with no specialist spinner, separated them when the pitch came roaring to life after lunch.</p>

<p>The Indian tactics of targeting Finch's pads were rewarded when quick Jasprit Bumrah trapped him lbw for 50 with a searing, full delivery in the midst of a probing spell.</p>

<p>Usman Khawaja, who made an excruciating five off 38 balls, was the second batsman to fall, rashly cutting Umesh Yadav in a desperate attempt to break the shackles after being tied down by the Indian bowlers.</p>

<p>Harris also departed before the second break to a rising delivery from Vihari, the opener steering the ball to first slip to end his 141-ball knock of 70.</p>

<p>Kohli ensured that India maintained the pressure after tea the spectacular catch off Sharma to dismiss Handscomb for seven as Australia crashed to 148-4.</p>

<p>On the second day, India fought back with four wickets in five overs to rein in team India for 326 in their first innings before lunch on the second day</p>

<p>The Test is the first at the ground after a 47-year run at the WACA and Australia will be keen to christen their new home by ending a run of six tests without a victory against an India side seeking a first series win Down Under.</p>


Australia were bowled out for 326 against India in their first innings before lunch on the second day of the second Test at Perth Stadium. While the highlight remained Virat Kohli's stunning catch that he took to dismiss Peter Handscomb on the first day.

Australia were bowled out for 326 against India in their first innings before lunch on the second day of the second Test at Perth Stadium. While the highlight remained Virat Kohli's stunning catch that he took to dismiss Peter Handscomb on the first day. Skipper Kohli snared a spectacular full-stretched, one-handed catch off Ishant Sharma the video of which went viral on social networking sites. Watch the video here: "It was meant to happen" - Have another look at THAT catch from Virat Kohli #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/MZqybK5XwG — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 14, 2018 × Wow, What a stunning catch from India captain Virat Kohli! #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/HpO8m4L8in — Sachin Padwal (@sachin140778) December 14, 2018 × In the first innings, recalled spin-bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari and quick Ishant Sharma claimed two wickets apiece to get the tourists back into the contest after the Australians had won the toss and batted through the first session without losing a wicket. Harris and Finch put together a 112-run opening partnership before India, playing four seamers with no specialist spinner, separated them when the pitch came roaring to life after lunch. The Indian tactics of targeting Finch's pads were rewarded when quick Jasprit Bumrah trapped him lbw for 50 with a searing, full delivery in the midst of a probing spell. Usman Khawaja, who made an excruciating five off 38 balls, was the second batsman to fall, rashly cutting Umesh Yadav in a desperate attempt to break the shackles after being tied down by the Indian bowlers. Harris also departed before the second break to a rising delivery from Vihari, the opener steering the ball to first slip to end his 141-ball knock of 70. Kohli ensured that India maintained the pressure after tea the spectacular catch off Sharma to dismiss Handscomb for seven as Australia crashed to 148-4. On the second day, India fought back with four wickets in five overs to rein in team India for 326 in their first innings before lunch on the second day The Test is the first at the ground after a 47-year run at the WACA and Australia will be keen to christen their new home by ending a run of six tests without a victory against an India side seeking a first series win Down Under.

INDvsAUS: Australia all out for 326, Kohli's stunning catch to dismiss Handscomb remains highlight

<p>Former India skipper Bishan Singh Bedi praised Ajinkya Rahane for his attacking unbeaten half-century Saturday in the second Test against Australia at Perth.</p>

<p>"Ajinkya Rahane played a superb knock (51 not out) today. Absolutely brilliant...The captain (Virat Kohli) and the vice-captain (Rahane) were complementing each other. It was a lovely sight and today was very absorbing cricket," Bedi said.</p>

<p>"This sort of cricket cannot be replaced by any other gimmick -- whether it is T20 or I don't know -- 100 balls (cricket)," said the 72-year-old Bedi at the Bombay Gymkhana here.</p>

<p>Kohli played a pivotal role with a responsible knock of 82 not out, lifting India from a double blow at the beginning of their innings to 172 for three in the company of Rahane.</p>

<p>Bedi refrained from commenting on whether it was the best chance for India to win a Test series in Australia.</p>

<p>"We can only find out after the end of the series. I don't want to be a predictor," the great left-arm slow bowler and member of the famous Indian spin quartet said.</p>

<p>At the event, Bedi was in conversation with former Mumbai skipper Shishir Hattangadi to commemorate the 85th anniversary of the first Test match played in India from December 15 to 18, 1933 at the Gymkhana.</p>

<p>During the conversation, Bedi praised the work done by Justice R M Lodha, whose panel suggested a slew of reforms in cricket administration, most of which were incorporated by the Supreme Court.</p>

<p>"....The work done by Justice Lodha -- to my mind he is deserving (of the) highest honour of the country," he said.&nbsp;</p>


Former India skipper Bishan Singh Bedi praised Ajinkya Rahane for his attacking unbeaten half-century Saturday in the second Test against Australia at Perth. "Ajinkya Rahane played a superb knock (51 not out) today.

Former India skipper Bishan Singh Bedi praised Ajinkya Rahane for his attacking unbeaten half-century Saturday in the second Test against Australia at Perth. "Ajinkya Rahane played a superb knock (51 not out) today. Absolutely brilliant...The captain (Virat Kohli) and the vice-captain (Rahane) were complementing each other. It was a lovely sight and today was very absorbing cricket," Bedi said. "This sort of cricket cannot be replaced by any other gimmick -- whether it is T20 or I don't know -- 100 balls (cricket)," said the 72-year-old Bedi at the Bombay Gymkhana here. Kohli played a pivotal role with a responsible knock of 82 not out, lifting India from a double blow at the beginning of their innings to 172 for three in the company of Rahane. Bedi refrained from commenting on whether it was the best chance for India to win a Test series in Australia. "We can only find out after the end of the series. I don't want to be a predictor," the great left-arm slow bowler and member of the famous Indian spin quartet said. At the event, Bedi was in conversation with former Mumbai skipper Shishir Hattangadi to commemorate the 85th anniversary of the first Test match played in India from December 15 to 18, 1933 at the Gymkhana. During the conversation, Bedi praised the work done by Justice R M Lodha, whose panel suggested a slew of reforms in cricket administration, most of which were incorporated by the Supreme Court. "....The work done by Justice Lodha -- to my mind he is deserving (of the) highest honour of the country," he said.

Bedi praises Rahane's Perth knock, says T20 can't replace this

<p>Australia remain confident of grabbing a valuable first-innings lead over India in the second test despite being stonewalled by visiting captain Virat Kohli on a grassy Perth Stadium wicket that failed to match the hype on day two.</p>

<p>After Australia made a competitive 326 in their first innings, spearheads Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood started spectacularly with the ball by dismissing India openers Murali Vijay and Lokesh Rahul inside the opening six overs.</p>

<p>But Kohli rescued India through half-century partnership&nbsp;with the in-form Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane.</p>

<p>India reached stumps on a more comfortable 172 for three with Kohli 82 not out and his deputy Rahane unbeaten on 51 to leave the match evenly poised.<br />
Australia bowled accurately but the pitch, marked with widening cracks, settled down late in the day.</p>

<p>Australia batsman Usman Khawaja believed there was enough spice in the wicket for the bowlers to exploit in the crucial third morning session.</p>

<p>“It had (some) patches today, which were still doing a bit,” Khawaja told reporters. “I think we bowled well but we probably could have been more disciplined. Hopefully tomorrow we can be just a little bit better.”</p>

<p>Beyond Kohli and Rahane, who have shared an unbeaten 90-run partnership, India’s batting order contains inexperienced pair Hanuma Vihari and Rishabh Pant, and a fragile lower-order.</p>

<p>“I think one or two wickets in the first session tomorrow will be pretty big for us,” Khawaja said. “It isn’t an easy wicket to bat on. We have to start well and then we can have a chance at that tail.”</p>

<p>Khawaja praised Kohli's determined 181-ball knock, but reckoned Australia would have opportunities to knock over the India talisman.</p>

<p>“He was on early today and we gave him a couple of full balls and he hit us,” Khawaja said. “He got away but he will have to start again tomorrow and we will have another chance.”</p>

<p>India lead the four-match series after a nail-biting 31-run victory in Adelaide.</p>


Australia remain confident of grabbing a valuable first-innings lead over India in the second test despite being stonewalled by visiting captain Virat Kohli on a grassy Perth Stadium wicket that failed to match the hype on day two.

Australia remain confident of grabbing a valuable first-innings lead over India in the second test despite being stonewalled by visiting captain Virat Kohli on a grassy Perth Stadium wicket that failed to match the hype on day two. After Australia made a competitive 326 in their first innings, spearheads Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood started spectacularly with the ball by dismissing India openers Murali Vijay and Lokesh Rahul inside the opening six overs. But Kohli rescued India through half-century partnership with the in-form Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. India reached stumps on a more comfortable 172 for three with Kohli 82 not out and his deputy Rahane unbeaten on 51 to leave the match evenly poised. Australia bowled accurately but the pitch, marked with widening cracks, settled down late in the day. Australia batsman Usman Khawaja believed there was enough spice in the wicket for the bowlers to exploit in the crucial third morning session. “It had (some) patches today, which were still doing a bit,” Khawaja told reporters. “I think we bowled well but we probably could have been more disciplined. Hopefully tomorrow we can be just a little bit better.” Beyond Kohli and Rahane, who have shared an unbeaten 90-run partnership, India’s batting order contains inexperienced pair Hanuma Vihari and Rishabh Pant, and a fragile lower-order. “I think one or two wickets in the first session tomorrow will be pretty big for us,” Khawaja said. “It isn’t an easy wicket to bat on. We have to start well and then we can have a chance at that tail.” Khawaja praised Kohli's determined 181-ball knock, but reckoned Australia would have opportunities to knock over the India talisman. “He was on early today and we gave him a couple of full balls and he hit us,” Khawaja said. “He got away but he will have to start again tomorrow and we will have another chance.” India lead the four-match series after a nail-biting 31-run victory in Adelaide.

IND vs AUS: Australia confident despite India's ominous Kohli

<p>India and Australia will play their second Test match of a four-match series at the brand new in Perth's Optus Stadium, which has a drop-in pitch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Perth Stadium, which has a sitting capacity of 60,000, has succeeded the WACA as the city's premier venue for internationals.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-2nd-test-day-1-india-vs-australia-183864">All actions from India vs Australia second Test</a></p>

<p>A drop-in pitch is a pitch that is prepared away from the ground or venue in which it is used, and "dropped" into place for a match to take place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This allows multi-purpose venues to host other sports and events with more versatility than a dedicated cricket ground would allow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pitch's curator Brett Sipthorpe is trying to produce the 'bounciest' pitch he can and that could very well work in India's favour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Weighing around 30 tons, the depth of a drop-in pitch is 20-cm. It is maintained and prepared in a steel frame.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Perth - We are here! 😎👍🏻 <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/AHeGmgKVVQ">pic.twitter.com/AHeGmgKVVQ</a></p>
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<p>Not everyone is a drop-in fan. Purists warn such pitches -- which some grounds now favour so they can host multiple sports -- remove the characteristics of different fields that made matches more unpredictable, and therefore exciting.</p>

<p>"With the drop-in pitch, there's more of the sameness about things from city to city, and place to place," Australian cricket historian Bernard Whimpress told AFP.</p>

<p>"Which makes me sort of think, why don't they just forget about the drop-in pitch and put in artificial turf or something."</p>


India and Australia will play their second Test match of a four-match series at the brand new in Perth's Optus Stadium, which has a drop-in pitch. Perth Stadium, which has a sitting capacity of 60,000, has succeeded the WACA as the city's premier venue for internationals.

India and Australia will play their second Test match of a four-match series at the brand new in Perth's Optus Stadium, which has a drop-in pitch. Perth Stadium, which has a sitting capacity of 60,000, has succeeded the WACA as the city's premier venue for internationals. Also Read: All actions from India vs Australia second Test A drop-in pitch is a pitch that is prepared away from the ground or venue in which it is used, and "dropped" into place for a match to take place. This allows multi-purpose venues to host other sports and events with more versatility than a dedicated cricket ground would allow. Pitch's curator Brett Sipthorpe is trying to produce the 'bounciest' pitch he can and that could very well work in India's favour. Weighing around 30 tons, the depth of a drop-in pitch is 20-cm. It is maintained and prepared in a steel frame. Perth - We are here! 😎👍🏻 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/AHeGmgKVVQ — BCCI (@BCCI) December 13, 2018 × Not everyone is a drop-in fan. Purists warn such pitches -- which some grounds now favour so they can host multiple sports -- remove the characteristics of different fields that made matches more unpredictable, and therefore exciting. "With the drop-in pitch, there's more of the sameness about things from city to city, and place to place," Australian cricket historian Bernard Whimpress told AFP. "Which makes me sort of think, why don't they just forget about the drop-in pitch and put in artificial turf or something."

India vs Australia, 2nd Test: All you need to know about Perth's drop-in pitch

<p>Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has said his team is "more excited than nervous" by the lively&nbsp;Perth pitch&nbsp;as the team&nbsp;held its final training sessions on Thursday before the second Test <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2018-19-schedule-teams-time-and-venue-177740">against Australia</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We certainly get more excited than nervous looking at lively pitches now because we understand that we do have a bowling attack which can, you know, bowl the opposition out. As much as they are convinced about their attack," Reuters quoted Kohli as saying at the pre-match press conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-second-test-tim-paine-fit-aussies-unchanged-for-perth-test-183713">Tim Paine fit, Aussies unchanged for Perth Test</a></p>

<p>Kohli told the media that the days when the Indians walked out on to a fiery track with fear were long gone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's a very exciting phase to be in but something that we need to build on. As I said, we cannot be complacent or satisfied with one win. We have to keep repeating good things to be able to win series."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An exciting contest awaits at Perth with a lot on offer for the quicks 🔥🔥 <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/k3Y7CQ8DQF">pic.twitter.com/k3Y7CQ8DQF</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1073098519928401920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Kohli said he thought both sides had an equal chance of winning the Test, as Indian batsman Rohit Sharma and spinner Ravichandran Ashwin were ruled out of the second Test against Australia by injury.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are definitely confident of the percentage of chances that we have and we want to build on that."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Perth - We are here! 😎👍🏻 <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/AHeGmgKVVQ">pic.twitter.com/AHeGmgKVVQ</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1073039877329973248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Obviously, Australia is going to be a strong team at their home conditions and on a wicket like Perth which probably offers you more than other pitches in Australia but as I said, we have an equal chance in the game."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia have kept their team unchanged, with Australia team Captain Tim Paine declaring himself fit and ready. Paine suffered a finger injury in the series-opening loss to India when he was struck on the glove by a short Mohammed Shami ball on the final day of play in Adelaide.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from Reuters)</em></p>


Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has said his team is "more excited than nervous" by the lively Perth pitch as the team held its final training sessions on Thursday before the second Test against Australia.

Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has said his team is "more excited than nervous" by the lively Perth pitch as the team held its final training sessions on Thursday before the second Test against Australia. "We certainly get more excited than nervous looking at lively pitches now because we understand that we do have a bowling attack which can, you know, bowl the opposition out. As much as they are convinced about their attack," Reuters quoted Kohli as saying at the pre-match press conference. Also Read: Tim Paine fit, Aussies unchanged for Perth Test Kohli told the media that the days when the Indians walked out on to a fiery track with fear were long gone. "It's a very exciting phase to be in but something that we need to build on. As I said, we cannot be complacent or satisfied with one win. We have to keep repeating good things to be able to win series." An exciting contest awaits at Perth with a lot on offer for the quicks 🔥🔥 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/k3Y7CQ8DQF — BCCI (@BCCI) December 13, 2018 × Kohli said he thought both sides had an equal chance of winning the Test, as Indian batsman Rohit Sharma and spinner Ravichandran Ashwin were ruled out of the second Test against Australia by injury. "We are definitely confident of the percentage of chances that we have and we want to build on that." Perth - We are here! 😎👍🏻 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/AHeGmgKVVQ — BCCI (@BCCI) December 13, 2018 × "Obviously, Australia is going to be a strong team at their home conditions and on a wicket like Perth which probably offers you more than other pitches in Australia but as I said, we have an equal chance in the game." Australia have kept their team unchanged, with Australia team Captain Tim Paine declaring himself fit and ready. Paine suffered a finger injury in the series-opening loss to India when he was struck on the glove by a short Mohammed Shami ball on the final day of play in Adelaide. (With inputs from Reuters)

Time when India approached lively pitches with fear gone: Kohli before Perth Test

<p>Australia skipper Tim Paine declared himself fit and ready to go for the second Test against India on Thursday, with the hosts naming an unchanged side for the Perth Stadium clash.</p>

<p>Paine suffered a finger injury in the series-opening loss to India in Adelaide but the 34-year-old wicketkeeper confirmed he would line up in an unchanged batting order when the match starts on Friday.</p>

<p>"Yeah, no I'm fine. I've got a few niggles everywhere but I'm not alone there, I don't think, at my age. Finger is fine, yeah," Paine told a news conference.</p>

<p>Paceman Mitchell Starc retains his place in the side despite what was perceived to be a sub-par performance in Adelaide, and will be looking for a strong performance in conditions which are expected to favour his skills at the new Perth Stadium.</p>

<p>"Starcy's been good for us. I thought the criticism he got this week's been pretty unfair to be honest," Paine said of the left-arm quick, who took five for 103 in the first Test.</p>

<p>"Barring two or three overs where he got his radar wrong, I think he's bowled pretty well. We know his best is the best so we're pretty pumped to have him in our team."</p>

<p>Aaron Finch also keeps his place at the top of the order despite mustering only 11 runs in his two innings in the first of four Tests in the series.</p>

<p>"He just needs that one big score at Test level to give him that confidence he has at international level in T20s and ODIs," Paine added.</p>

<p>Australia, still without Steve Smith and David Warner after they were banned for their part in March's ball-tampering scandal, have never lost a Test series at home to India.</p>

<p>Australia team: Aaron Finch, Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Peter Handscomb, Travis Head, Tim Paine (captain), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon.</p>


Australia skipper Tim Paine declared himself fit and ready to go for the second Test against India on Thursday, with the hosts naming an unchanged side for the Perth Stadium clash.

Australia skipper Tim Paine declared himself fit and ready to go for the second Test against India on Thursday, with the hosts naming an unchanged side for the Perth Stadium clash. Paine suffered a finger injury in the series-opening loss to India in Adelaide but the 34-year-old wicketkeeper confirmed he would line up in an unchanged batting order when the match starts on Friday. "Yeah, no I'm fine. I've got a few niggles everywhere but I'm not alone there, I don't think, at my age. Finger is fine, yeah," Paine told a news conference. Paceman Mitchell Starc retains his place in the side despite what was perceived to be a sub-par performance in Adelaide, and will be looking for a strong performance in conditions which are expected to favour his skills at the new Perth Stadium. "Starcy's been good for us. I thought the criticism he got this week's been pretty unfair to be honest," Paine said of the left-arm quick, who took five for 103 in the first Test. "Barring two or three overs where he got his radar wrong, I think he's bowled pretty well. We know his best is the best so we're pretty pumped to have him in our team." Aaron Finch also keeps his place at the top of the order despite mustering only 11 runs in his two innings in the first of four Tests in the series. "He just needs that one big score at Test level to give him that confidence he has at international level in T20s and ODIs," Paine added. Australia, still without Steve Smith and David Warner after they were banned for their part in March's ball-tampering scandal, have never lost a Test series at home to India. Australia team: Aaron Finch, Marcus Harris, Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Peter Handscomb, Travis Head, Tim Paine (captain), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon.

India vs Australia, second Test: Tim Paine fit, Aussies unchanged for Perth Test

<p>In a once-dominant team humbled by a cheating scandal and still racked with doubts about its identity, spinner Nathan Lyon has been a reassuring throwback to an age of hard-bitten Australian cricketers who talked the talk and walked the walk.</p>

<p>After India completed a 31-run victory in the series opener on Monday, few of captain Tim Paine's players will report for duty at the Perth second test with enhanced reputations.</p>

<p>Lyon, however, is not one of them as he burnished his stature at Adelaide Oval by anchoring a gritty tail-end push for a final day victory after he had taken eight wickets with the ball.</p>

<p>Australia may have failed in their bid to pull off an unlikely victory, but Lyon ended the match unbeaten on 38 as he ran out of partners at a venue where he wore overalls as a groundsman eight years ago.</p>

<p>A cult hero in Australia, the 31-year-old has been nicknamed the 'GOAT' -- "Greatest of All Time" -- for good reason.</p>

<p>His 326 test wickets is a record for an Australian off-spinner, more than double the 141 taken by Hugh Trumble more than a century ago.</p>

<p>But the man known as "Gazza" to his teammates has become much more than a sum of his statistics and seems to add a new string to his bow every season.</p>

<p>Last year under captain Steve Smith, who is currently serving a suspension for ball-tampering, Lyon became the team's unofficial sledger-in-chief in the lead-up to the Ashes.</p>

<p>He first tore into the 2013-14 England team that were whitewashed 5-0 and spoke of "ending careers" in Joe Root's side on their subsequent tour Down Under in a rant that was denounced widely in British newspapers.</p>

<p>He backed up his words with 21 wickets as Australia thrashed England 4-0 to regain the urn they had relinquished in 2015.</p>

<p>Lyon also marked himself as an elite fielder in the series, with a stunning, one-handed caught-and-bowled effort to dismiss Moeen Ali at Adelaide Oval emerging as the highlight of several brilliant plays.</p>

<p>A year later, Lyon appears to have enhanced his overall repertoire with an improved batting technique.</p>

<p>Against India, Australia were staring down the barrel at 104 for four at stumps on day four, still 219 runs short of their victory target, when Lyon issued a rallying cry.</p>

<p>"We've got a massive sniff here, I believe anyway, in this test match," he told reporters after taking 6-122 to limit India to 307 in their second innings.</p>

<p>He called on his team mates to be "heroes" but nearly became one himself in a mature 47-ball knock that was at odds with the usual tail-end slog-fest.</p>

<p>It was a result of a winter batting sessions with his brother Brendan Lyon, who runs a coaching school for juniors, state radio reported.</p>

<p>Australia head into Friday's test plagued with doubts about its batting and the wayward form of pace spearhead Mitchell Starc.</p>

<p>But with Lyon in the side, they at least have a model for inspiration and grit, qualities sorely needed to turn the four-match series around and deny India a first ever victorious tour Down Under.</p>


In a once-dominant team humbled by a cheating scandal and still racked with doubts about its identity, spinner Nathan Lyon has been a reassuring throwback to an age of hard-bitten Australian cricketers who talked the talk and walked the walk.

In a once-dominant team humbled by a cheating scandal and still racked with doubts about its identity, spinner Nathan Lyon has been a reassuring throwback to an age of hard-bitten Australian cricketers who talked the talk and walked the walk. After India completed a 31-run victory in the series opener on Monday, few of captain Tim Paine's players will report for duty at the Perth second test with enhanced reputations. Lyon, however, is not one of them as he burnished his stature at Adelaide Oval by anchoring a gritty tail-end push for a final day victory after he had taken eight wickets with the ball. Australia may have failed in their bid to pull off an unlikely victory, but Lyon ended the match unbeaten on 38 as he ran out of partners at a venue where he wore overalls as a groundsman eight years ago. A cult hero in Australia, the 31-year-old has been nicknamed the 'GOAT' -- "Greatest of All Time" -- for good reason. His 326 test wickets is a record for an Australian off-spinner, more than double the 141 taken by Hugh Trumble more than a century ago. But the man known as "Gazza" to his teammates has become much more than a sum of his statistics and seems to add a new string to his bow every season. Last year under captain Steve Smith, who is currently serving a suspension for ball-tampering, Lyon became the team's unofficial sledger-in-chief in the lead-up to the Ashes. He first tore into the 2013-14 England team that were whitewashed 5-0 and spoke of "ending careers" in Joe Root's side on their subsequent tour Down Under in a rant that was denounced widely in British newspapers. He backed up his words with 21 wickets as Australia thrashed England 4-0 to regain the urn they had relinquished in 2015. Lyon also marked himself as an elite fielder in the series, with a stunning, one-handed caught-and-bowled effort to dismiss Moeen Ali at Adelaide Oval emerging as the highlight of several brilliant plays. A year later, Lyon appears to have enhanced his overall repertoire with an improved batting technique. Against India, Australia were staring down the barrel at 104 for four at stumps on day four, still 219 runs short of their victory target, when Lyon issued a rallying cry. "We've got a massive sniff here, I believe anyway, in this test match," he told reporters after taking 6-122 to limit India to 307 in their second innings. He called on his team mates to be "heroes" but nearly became one himself in a mature 47-ball knock that was at odds with the usual tail-end slog-fest. It was a result of a winter batting sessions with his brother Brendan Lyon, who runs a coaching school for juniors, state radio reported. Australia head into Friday's test plagued with doubts about its batting and the wayward form of pace spearhead Mitchell Starc. But with Lyon in the side, they at least have a model for inspiration and grit, qualities sorely needed to turn the four-match series around and deny India a first ever victorious tour Down Under.

IND vs AUS: Australia need more Lyon-hearted performances

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