Shaun Marsh slammed a patient century to lift Australia while wickets kept falling at the other hand in the second ODI against India on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Playing at an economy of 106.5, Marsh hit 131 runs in123 balls to set India a target of 299 runs. The 35-year-old, however, lost his wicket by giving an easy catch to Ravindra Jadeja while trying to hit a six off Bhuneshwar Kumar. &nbsp;

Marsh found an ally in Glenn Maxwell, who got lucky twice but was finally dismissed for 48 runs off Bhuneshwar. Australia, who stood at 218 for the loss of five wickets at 42 overs, lost four more wickets in the following eight overs.&nbsp;

Australia lost its third wicket in the form of Usman Khawaja, who was run-out by Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. The fourth damage was caused after Peter Handscomb was dismissed by Dhoni off Jadeja only

Indian pacers Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami on Tuesday struck early to dismiss Australian openers Aaron Finch and Alex Carey respectively, not allowing them to cause much damage with the bat.&nbsp;

Bhuvneshwar drew the first blood for his side as he bowled skipper Finch for just 6 runs. In the next over of Shami, wicketkeeper-batsman Carey was sent back to the pavilion for 18 runs.

Bhuvneshwar, who is a death-over specialist, ended his 10 overs with four wickets and giving away 45 runs. Mohammed Shami to clinched three wickets and gave away 58 runs in his 10 overs.&nbsp;

Earlier, Finch won the toss and opted to bat first as India take on the hosts in a do-or-die second ODI, in their bid to keep the three-match series alive.

The Kohli-led team lost the first ODI by 34 runs despite a remarkable century and slow half-century by Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni respectively.&nbsp;

Shaun Marsh slammed a patient century to lift Australia while wickets kept falling at the other hand in the second ODI against India on Tuesday. Playing at an economy of 106.

Shaun Marsh slammed a patient century to lift Australia while wickets kept falling at the other hand in the second ODI against India on Tuesday. Playing at an economy of 106.5, Marsh hit 131 runs in123 balls to set India a target of 299 runs. The 35-year-old, however, lost his wicket by giving an easy catch to Ravindra Jadeja while trying to hit a six off Bhuneshwar Kumar. Marsh found an ally in Glenn Maxwell, who got lucky twice but was finally dismissed for 48 runs off Bhuneshwar. Australia, who stood at 218 for the loss of five wickets at 42 overs, lost four more wickets in the following eight overs. Australia lost its third wicket in the form of Usman Khawaja, who was run-out by Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. The fourth damage was caused after Peter Handscomb was dismissed by Dhoni off Jadeja only Indian pacers Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami on Tuesday struck early to dismiss Australian openers Aaron Finch and Alex Carey respectively, not allowing them to cause much damage with the bat. Bhuvneshwar drew the first blood for his side as he bowled skipper Finch for just 6 runs. In the next over of Shami, wicketkeeper-batsman Carey was sent back to the pavilion for 18 runs. Bhuvneshwar, who is a death-over specialist, ended his 10 overs with four wickets and giving away 45 runs. Mohammed Shami to clinched three wickets and gave away 58 runs in his 10 overs. Earlier, Finch won the toss and opted to bat first as India take on the hosts in a do-or-die second ODI, in their bid to keep the three-match series alive. The Kohli-led team lost the first ODI by 34 runs despite a remarkable century and slow half-century by Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni respectively.

IND vs AUS: Shaun Marsh's patient 131 powers Australia to mammoth 298 in 2nd ODI

Shaun Marsh slammed a patient century to lift Australia while wickets kept falling at the other hand in the second ODI against India on Tuesday.&nbsp;

After 42 overs, Australia's score stands at 218 for the loss of five wickets with Shaun Marsh and Peter Handscomb at the crease.

Australia lost its third wicket in the form of Usman Khawaja, who was run-out by Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. The fourth damage was caused after Peter Handscomb was dismissed by Dhoni off Jadeja only

Indian pacers Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami on Tuesday struck early to dismiss Australian openers Aaron Finch and Alex Carey respectively, not allowing them to cause much damage with the bat.&nbsp;

Bhuvneshwar drew the first blood for his side as he bowled skipper Finch for just 6 runs. In the next over of Shami, wicketkeeper-batsman Carey was sent back to the pavilion for 18 runs.

After 10 overs, Australia's score stands at 38 for the loss of two wickets.

Earlier, Finch won the toss and opted to bat first as India take on the hosts in a do-or-die second ODI, in their bid to keep the three-match series alive.

The Kohli-led team lost the first ODI by 34 runs despite a remarkable century and slow half-century by Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni respectively.&nbsp;

Shaun Marsh slammed a patient century to lift Australia while wickets kept falling at the other hand in the second ODI against India on Tuesday. After 42 overs, Australia's score stands at 218 for the loss of five wickets with Shaun Marsh and Peter Handscomb at the crease.

Shaun Marsh slammed a patient century to lift Australia while wickets kept falling at the other hand in the second ODI against India on Tuesday. After 42 overs, Australia's score stands at 218 for the loss of five wickets with Shaun Marsh and Peter Handscomb at the crease. Australia lost its third wicket in the form of Usman Khawaja, who was run-out by Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. The fourth damage was caused after Peter Handscomb was dismissed by Dhoni off Jadeja only Indian pacers Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami on Tuesday struck early to dismiss Australian openers Aaron Finch and Alex Carey respectively, not allowing them to cause much damage with the bat. Bhuvneshwar drew the first blood for his side as he bowled skipper Finch for just 6 runs. In the next over of Shami, wicketkeeper-batsman Carey was sent back to the pavilion for 18 runs. After 10 overs, Australia's score stands at 38 for the loss of two wickets. Earlier, Finch won the toss and opted to bat first as India take on the hosts in a do-or-die second ODI, in their bid to keep the three-match series alive. The Kohli-led team lost the first ODI by 34 runs despite a remarkable century and slow half-century by Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni respectively.

IND vs AUS: Marsh's ton propels Australia as India struggle

City-based Khar Gymkhana has revoked all-rounder Hardik Pandya's honorary membership of the club.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-kl-rahul-out-from-1st-odi-amid-recommendation-of-suspension-189599">The cricketer, along with opener KL Rahul, was earlier suspended pending</a> an inquiry by the BCCI for making sexist comments on a television show.

"The three-year honorary membership was given to Hardik Pandya in October 2018. But the club's Managing Committee Monday evening decided to revoke the membership," Khar Gymkhana's honorary general secretary Gaurav Kapadia told PTI.

Kapadia informed that such honorary memberships were given to sportspersons by the club.

Another club official said the committee took up the issue following the backlash over the comments. Khar Gymkhana is one of the better-known clubs in Mumbai.

A <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-issues-showcause-notice-against-hardik-pandya-k-l-rahul-for-comments-on-women-in-tv-show-189173">BCCI official had Monday </a>said the two suspended cricketers had tendered apologies.

Pandya and Rahul, during an appearance on the 'Koffee with Karan' show, spoke about hookups with multiple women and being casual about it even with their parents.&nbsp;

City-based Khar Gymkhana has revoked all-rounder Hardik Pandya's honorary membership of the club. The cricketer, along with opener KL Rahul, was earlier suspended pending an inquiry by the BCCI for making sexist comments on a television show.

City-based Khar Gymkhana has revoked all-rounder Hardik Pandya's honorary membership of the club. The cricketer, along with opener KL Rahul, was earlier suspended pending an inquiry by the BCCI for making sexist comments on a television show. "The three-year honorary membership was given to Hardik Pandya in October 2018. But the club's Managing Committee Monday evening decided to revoke the membership," Khar Gymkhana's honorary general secretary Gaurav Kapadia told PTI. Kapadia informed that such honorary memberships were given to sportspersons by the club. Another club official said the committee took up the issue following the backlash over the comments. Khar Gymkhana is one of the better-known clubs in Mumbai. A BCCI official had Monday said the two suspended cricketers had tendered apologies. Pandya and Rahul, during an appearance on the 'Koffee with Karan' show, spoke about hookups with multiple women and being casual about it even with their parents.

Hardik Pandya loses Mumbai's Khar Gymkhana membership over his sexist comments on TV show

Jasprit Bumrah is India's resident yorker specialist but in his absence, the team management has entrusted the task of firing in the toe-crushers on his new-ball partner Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

Bhuvneshwar was seen bowling in the nets keeping a shoe at the base of the stumps in order to perfect his yorker ahead of the second ODI against Australia here Tuesday.

The UP seamer, who rarely bowls yorkers like Bumrah, is trying to add the delivery in his repertoire in order to avoid getting hit in the slog overs. &nbsp;

"The skills (required to bowl yorkers) are also different. I was practising bowling yorkers at the shoes, and I was practising for the end (slog) overs to take wickets or block some runs," Bhuvneshwar told media persons here.

"This (keeping shoes on the pitch) is something that I have been doing for some time," he added.&nbsp;

The seamer said that he wasn't practising yorkers as he wasn't playing Test matches and also because the delivery is rarely used in longest format.

"I didn't practice that for almost a month now because in Tests, we hardly needed that. And I didn't play a match. Going into an ODI or T20I series, you need that (yorker) thing. So I was practising that," he said.

The yorker becomes all the more necessary in the death as blockhole deliveries or slower ones work with old balls (two new balls being used in ODIs).

"The skills needed are totally different (with new and old balls). You are trying to swing the new-ball and take wickets. With the old ball, you are looking to bowl yorkers or slower balls. But they are both difficult.&nbsp;

"When you are bowling with a new-ball, there are only two fielders outside the circle. With the old-ball, batsmen don't care how many guys are outside the circle."

Jasprit Bumrah is India's resident yorker specialist but in his absence, the team management has entrusted the task of firing in the toe-crushers on his new-ball partner Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

Jasprit Bumrah is India's resident yorker specialist but in his absence, the team management has entrusted the task of firing in the toe-crushers on his new-ball partner Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Bhuvneshwar was seen bowling in the nets keeping a shoe at the base of the stumps in order to perfect his yorker ahead of the second ODI against Australia here Tuesday. The UP seamer, who rarely bowls yorkers like Bumrah, is trying to add the delivery in his repertoire in order to avoid getting hit in the slog overs. "The skills (required to bowl yorkers) are also different. I was practising bowling yorkers at the shoes, and I was practising for the end (slog) overs to take wickets or block some runs," Bhuvneshwar told media persons here. "This (keeping shoes on the pitch) is something that I have been doing for some time," he added. The seamer said that he wasn't practising yorkers as he wasn't playing Test matches and also because the delivery is rarely used in longest format. "I didn't practice that for almost a month now because in Tests, we hardly needed that. And I didn't play a match. Going into an ODI or T20I series, you need that (yorker) thing. So I was practising that," he said. The yorker becomes all the more necessary in the death as blockhole deliveries or slower ones work with old balls (two new balls being used in ODIs). "The skills needed are totally different (with new and old balls). You are trying to swing the new-ball and take wickets. With the old ball, you are looking to bowl yorkers or slower balls. But they are both difficult. "When you are bowling with a new-ball, there are only two fielders outside the circle. With the old-ball, batsmen don't care how many guys are outside the circle."

IND vs AUS: In Jasprit Bumrah's absence, Bhuvneshwar gets down to perfecting yorkers

India are slated to play home series against Australia from February 24 to March 13."The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and Cricket Australia announce the schedule for the upcoming home series against Australia set to be played from February 24 to March 13, 2019.

The series will comprise two T20Is that will start at 1 PM (IST) and five ODIs, which will start from 7 PM (IST)," a BCCI statement said on Thursday.

The two-match T20Is will be played on February 24 in Bengaluru and February 27 in Visakhapatnam, followed by five-match ODIs on March 2 in Hyderabad, March 5 in Nagpur, March 8 in Ranchi, March 10 in Mohali and March 13 in Delhi.

India are preparing to take on Australia in their away series. The first ODI will be played on January 12 at Sydney, followed by second ODI on January 15 at Adelaide and third ODI on January 18 at Melbourne.&nbsp;

India are slated to play home series against Australia from February 24 to March 13."The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and Cricket Australia announce the schedule for the upcoming home series against Australia set to be played from February 24 to March 13, 2019.

India are slated to play home series against Australia from February 24 to March 13."The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and Cricket Australia announce the schedule for the upcoming home series against Australia set to be played from February 24 to March 13, 2019. The series will comprise two T20Is that will start at 1 PM (IST) and five ODIs, which will start from 7 PM (IST)," a BCCI statement said on Thursday. The two-match T20Is will be played on February 24 in Bengaluru and February 27 in Visakhapatnam, followed by five-match ODIs on March 2 in Hyderabad, March 5 in Nagpur, March 8 in Ranchi, March 10 in Mohali and March 13 in Delhi. India are preparing to take on Australia in their away series. The first ODI will be played on January 12 at Sydney, followed by second ODI on January 15 at Adelaide and third ODI on January 18 at Melbourne.

BCCI announces fixtures for home series against Australia

It was meant to be a fun, no-holds-barred interaction but cricketer Hardik Pandya, by his own admission, got "carried away".

Appearing on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-issues-showcause-notice-against-hardik-pandya-k-l-rahul-for-comments-on-women-in-tv-show-189173">"Koffee with Karan", hosted by filmmaker Karan Johar, with teammate K L Rahul</a>, Pandya's apparent loose talk on women and his sexuality took many by surprise.&nbsp;

Rahul was relatively restrained but Johar did manage to get him talking about condoms in his pocket as an 18-year-old that led to a dressing down from parents.

Three days after the celebrity chat show aired on Sunday, the two cricketers on Wednesday were issued show cause notices by the BCCI, which took note of the massive outrage on social media and elsewhere.

For most of the show, it was Pandya, who issued an apology for the remarks called sexist and misogynistic, who took it upon himself to say the most outrageous things, mostly on women.&nbsp;

Sample this: "Why don't you ask women's names at nightclubs?" asked Johar when Pandya spoke about his struggle in remembering names of the women he interacts with in parties.

"I like to watch and observe how they move. I'm little from the Black side so I need to see how they move," responded Pandya.

From that to talk on his sex life, Pandya's brashness did not taper down.&nbsp;

"When I lost my virginity, I came home and said, "Main karke aaya hai aaj (I did it today)," was his response to a question on how "cool" he is with his family members.

"At a party my parents asked me acha tera wala (women) kaun sa hai (Which are your women)? I said yeh, yeh, yeh (pointing out women) and they were like waah proud of you beta," he went on to add to stress on the "cool quotient" of his family.

The line of questioning to the two cricketers also seemed excessively focussed on women -- the ones they have dated, those they wish to date and which of them was the more attractive one.&nbsp;

"If you all hit on the same women, then how do you decide?" asked the filmmaker.&nbsp;

Rahul's response was, "up to the woman."

Pandya was more outspoken.&nbsp;

"Nahi nahi aisa kuch nahi hai, talent pe hota hai. Jisko mila woh leke jao (Nothing like that, it's about talent, whoever gets them, takes them)," said the all-rounder with a little shrug of the shoulders.&nbsp;

The 25-year-old later said he got carried away by the "nature of the show" and is currently busy drafting a response to the BCCI show cause notice.

Rahul's comments on the show have not drawn any criticism but the fact that the duo appeared together perhaps also had him caught in the social media storm.&nbsp;

Ironically, Rahul was questioned about his thoughts on social media on the show, whether he thought of it is a blessing or a curse.&nbsp;

"It's a bit of both. It's how you see it," he stated.&nbsp;

To that same question, Pandya, with a wink, responded, "blessing."&nbsp;

Pandya later posted his apology on Twitter.

"After reflecting on my comments on Koffee with Karan, I would like to apologise to everyone concerned who I may have hurt in any way," he said.

"Honestly, I got a bit carried away with the nature of the show. In no way did I mean to disrespect or hurt anyone's sentiments. Respect," the cricketer added.&nbsp;

It was meant to be a fun, no-holds-barred interaction but cricketer Hardik Pandya, by his own admission, got "carried away". Appearing on "Koffee with Karan", hosted by filmmaker Karan Johar, with teammate K L Rahul, Pandya's apparent loose talk on women and his sexuality took many by surprise.

It was meant to be a fun, no-holds-barred interaction but cricketer Hardik Pandya, by his own admission, got "carried away". Appearing on "Koffee with Karan", hosted by filmmaker Karan Johar, with teammate K L Rahul, Pandya's apparent loose talk on women and his sexuality took many by surprise. Rahul was relatively restrained but Johar did manage to get him talking about condoms in his pocket as an 18-year-old that led to a dressing down from parents. Three days after the celebrity chat show aired on Sunday, the two cricketers on Wednesday were issued show cause notices by the BCCI, which took note of the massive outrage on social media and elsewhere. For most of the show, it was Pandya, who issued an apology for the remarks called sexist and misogynistic, who took it upon himself to say the most outrageous things, mostly on women. Sample this: "Why don't you ask women's names at nightclubs?" asked Johar when Pandya spoke about his struggle in remembering names of the women he interacts with in parties. "I like to watch and observe how they move. I'm little from the Black side so I need to see how they move," responded Pandya. From that to talk on his sex life, Pandya's brashness did not taper down. "When I lost my virginity, I came home and said, "Main karke aaya hai aaj (I did it today)," was his response to a question on how "cool" he is with his family members. "At a party my parents asked me acha tera wala (women) kaun sa hai (Which are your women)? I said yeh, yeh, yeh (pointing out women) and they were like waah proud of you beta," he went on to add to stress on the "cool quotient" of his family. The line of questioning to the two cricketers also seemed excessively focussed on women -- the ones they have dated, those they wish to date and which of them was the more attractive one. "If you all hit on the same women, then how do you decide?" asked the filmmaker. Rahul's response was, "up to the woman." Pandya was more outspoken. "Nahi nahi aisa kuch nahi hai, talent pe hota hai. Jisko mila woh leke jao (Nothing like that, it's about talent, whoever gets them, takes them)," said the all-rounder with a little shrug of the shoulders. The 25-year-old later said he got carried away by the "nature of the show" and is currently busy drafting a response to the BCCI show cause notice. Rahul's comments on the show have not drawn any criticism but the fact that the duo appeared together perhaps also had him caught in the social media storm. Ironically, Rahul was questioned about his thoughts on social media on the show, whether he thought of it is a blessing or a curse. "It's a bit of both. It's how you see it," he stated. To that same question, Pandya, with a wink, responded, "blessing." Pandya later posted his apology on Twitter. "After reflecting on my comments on Koffee with Karan, I would like to apologise to everyone concerned who I may have hurt in any way," he said. "Honestly, I got a bit carried away with the nature of the show. In no way did I mean to disrespect or hurt anyone's sentiments. Respect," the cricketer added.

How Hardik Pandya got 'carried away'; the comments that led to a storm and show cause notice

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/see-babysitter-pants-photo-with-tim-paines-kids-187732">Days after Australian skipper Tim Paine</a> asked Rishabh Pant to babysit his kids, India's ODI star Rohit Sharma has also urged<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-hilarious-song-composed-for-rishabh-pant-by-fans-188365"> India's young wicketkeeper-batsman to babysit</a> his newborn daughter Samaira.

Replying to Pant's 'Good Morning' post on Twitter, the Hitman wrote, "Morning buddy. Heard you're a good baby sitter, need one right now. Ritika will be quite happy @RishabPant777."

Rohit, who was on the tour of Australia, missed the fourth Test and flew back to Mumbai soon after his wife Ritika delivered the baby, last week. The couple tied the knot in December 2015.

During the Melbourne Test, Paine asked Pant to babysit his kids while he takes his wife out for a movie.&nbsp;

The on-field banter was taken way too seriously by Paine's wife Bonnie as she posted a picture captioned "Best Babysitter" of the Indian wicket-keeper with her kids.

On the Australian soil, Pant ended the five-Test series as the second-highest run-scorer after Cheteshwar Pujara, notching 350 runs in seven innings.&nbsp;

While behind the stumps, he broke the record for most catches (20) by an Indian wicket-keeper in a Test series.

Days after Australian skipper Tim Paine asked Rishabh Pant to babysit his kids, India's ODI star Rohit Sharma has also urged India's young wicketkeeper-batsman to babysit his newborn daughter Samaira.

Days after Australian skipper Tim Paine asked Rishabh Pant to babysit his kids, India's ODI star Rohit Sharma has also urged India's young wicketkeeper-batsman to babysit his newborn daughter Samaira. Replying to Pant's 'Good Morning' post on Twitter, the Hitman wrote, "Morning buddy. Heard you're a good baby sitter, need one right now. Ritika will be quite happy @RishabPant777." Rohit, who was on the tour of Australia, missed the fourth Test and flew back to Mumbai soon after his wife Ritika delivered the baby, last week. The couple tied the knot in December 2015. During the Melbourne Test, Paine asked Pant to babysit his kids while he takes his wife out for a movie. The on-field banter was taken way too seriously by Paine's wife Bonnie as she posted a picture captioned "Best Babysitter" of the Indian wicket-keeper with her kids. On the Australian soil, Pant ended the five-Test series as the second-highest run-scorer after Cheteshwar Pujara, notching 350 runs in seven innings. While behind the stumps, he broke the record for most catches (20) by an Indian wicket-keeper in a Test series.

After Tim Paine, Rohit Sharma asks Rishabh Pant to babysit his newborn daughter

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

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

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

BCCI announces cash awards for triumphant Team India members

Why team India will miss Jasprit Bumrah in ODIs against Australia

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

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

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

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

Coach Ravi Shastri on Monday called India’s maiden Test series win in Australia a bigger achievement than the 1983 World Cup victory for him.

While addressing a press conference after India's win, Shastri said, “I will tell you how satisfying this is for me. World Cup 1983, World Championship 1985...this is as big or even bigger because this is in the truest format of the game, that is Test cricket.”

Virat Kohli-led side ended a 71-year wait for a Test series victory Down Under. Their 2-1 victory confirmed when the rain-affected fourth and final test ended in a draw at Sydney Cricket Ground early on Monday afternoon.

Wins in the first test in Adelaide and third in Melbourne ensured they could not lose the series and their batsmen, led by a 193 from Cheteshwar Pujara, batted Australia out of the fourth match with a daunting 622-7 declared total in the first innings.&nbsp;

That all but destroyed home hopes of a face-saving victory and India's spinners then got to work to drive home the advantage in the field against an Australia side that failed to muster a single century over the series.

The hosts were duly dismissed for 300 and Kohli did not hesitate to go for the jugular by enforcing the follow-on -- the first time in 30 years Australia had suffered such ignominy on home soil.

Ultimately, it was the Sydney weather that saved Australia from a 3-1 humiliation with no play possible after tea on day four, when they had mustered up six runs without loss in their second innings.

Coach Ravi Shastri on Monday called India’s maiden Test series win in Australia a bigger achievement than the 1983 World Cup victory for him. While addressing a press conference after India's win, Shastri said, “I will tell you how satisfying this is for me.

Coach Ravi Shastri on Monday called India’s maiden Test series win in Australia a bigger achievement than the 1983 World Cup victory for him. While addressing a press conference after India's win, Shastri said, “I will tell you how satisfying this is for me. World Cup 1983, World Championship 1985...this is as big or even bigger because this is in the truest format of the game, that is Test cricket.” Virat Kohli-led side ended a 71-year wait for a Test series victory Down Under. Their 2-1 victory confirmed when the rain-affected fourth and final test ended in a draw at Sydney Cricket Ground early on Monday afternoon. Wins in the first test in Adelaide and third in Melbourne ensured they could not lose the series and their batsmen, led by a 193 from Cheteshwar Pujara, batted Australia out of the fourth match with a daunting 622-7 declared total in the first innings. That all but destroyed home hopes of a face-saving victory and India's spinners then got to work to drive home the advantage in the field against an Australia side that failed to muster a single century over the series. The hosts were duly dismissed for 300 and Kohli did not hesitate to go for the jugular by enforcing the follow-on -- the first time in 30 years Australia had suffered such ignominy on home soil. Ultimately, it was the Sydney weather that saved Australia from a 3-1 humiliation with no play possible after tea on day four, when they had mustered up six runs without loss in their second innings.

Watch: India's victory in Australia 'bigger' than 1983 World Cup win, says Shastri

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mayank Agarwal rose to the occasion and hit another half-century to give India a decent start on day 1 of the fourth and final test against Australia, before losing his wicket to Nathan Lyon while trying to hit a big shot.

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

IND vs AUS, 4th Test: Kohli falls soon after Tea break, India 186/3 after 54 overs

Renowned cricket coach Ramakant Achrekar, who died due to age-related ailments, was cremated here on Thursday with his most famous ward Sachin Tendulkar in attendance for a tearful adieu.

Archrekar, the childhood coach of Tendulkar, passed away at 87 on Wednesday at his Shivaji Park residence in Dadar in Central Mumbai.

His body was kept at Shivaji Park, where he coached aspiring cricketers, and then taken to a nearby crematorium.

When the body was taken outside the ground, young boys, who practice there, gave a guard of honour amid chants of 'Amar Rahe'.

Tendulkar, along with Achrekar's other wards like Vinod Kambli, Balwinder Singh Sandhu and Chandrakant Pandit, took part in the procession to the crematorium, where his body was consigned to flames.

Earlier, the body was kept at his residence for people to pay their last respects to the Dronacharya and Padma Shri award-winning coach.

Mumbai cricketers such as Atul Ranade, Amol Mazumdar Ramesh Powar, Paras Mhambrey, Ranji coach Vinayak Samant, Nilesh Kulkarni, Vinod Raghvan, were also there along with fans.

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You’ll always be in our hearts. <a href="https://t.co/0UIJemo5oM">pic.twitter.com/0UIJemo5oM</a>
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Former Rajasthan coach Pradeep Sundaram, office-bearers of the Mumbai Cricket Association, veteran cricket administrator Prof Ratnakar Shetty also paid their last respects.

Among politicians, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray, MLA and BJP leader Ashish Shelar, Mayor Vishwanath Mahadeshwar also paid tributes to the decorated coach.&nbsp;

Renowned cricket coach Ramakant Achrekar, who died due to age-related ailments, was cremated here on Thursday with his most famous ward Sachin Tendulkar in attendance for a tearful adieu.

Renowned cricket coach Ramakant Achrekar, who died due to age-related ailments, was cremated here on Thursday with his most famous ward Sachin Tendulkar in attendance for a tearful adieu. Archrekar, the childhood coach of Tendulkar, passed away at 87 on Wednesday at his Shivaji Park residence in Dadar in Central Mumbai. His body was kept at Shivaji Park, where he coached aspiring cricketers, and then taken to a nearby crematorium. When the body was taken outside the ground, young boys, who practice there, gave a guard of honour amid chants of 'Amar Rahe'. Tendulkar, along with Achrekar's other wards like Vinod Kambli, Balwinder Singh Sandhu and Chandrakant Pandit, took part in the procession to the crematorium, where his body was consigned to flames. Earlier, the body was kept at his residence for people to pay their last respects to the Dronacharya and Padma Shri award-winning coach. Mumbai cricketers such as Atul Ranade, Amol Mazumdar Ramesh Powar, Paras Mhambrey, Ranji coach Vinayak Samant, Nilesh Kulkarni, Vinod Raghvan, were also there along with fans. You’ll always be in our hearts. pic.twitter.com/0UIJemo5oM — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) January 2, 2019 × Former Rajasthan coach Pradeep Sundaram, office-bearers of the Mumbai Cricket Association, veteran cricket administrator Prof Ratnakar Shetty also paid their last respects. Among politicians, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray, MLA and BJP leader Ashish Shelar, Mayor Vishwanath Mahadeshwar also paid tributes to the decorated coach.

Ramakant Achrekar cremated, tearful Tendulkar in attendance

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

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

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

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

Virat Kohli, the number one batsman, smashed 11 international centuries, including six in one-dayers in 2018, to underline why he is considered one of the best batsman of his era.&nbsp;

Top-ranked in both the Test and one-day internationals, Kohli in 2018 was especially dominating in the 50-over format with a 133-plus average

India’s fifth and final ODI against Windies was Kohli's LAST 50-over game of the year. He was at the crease after making unbeaten 33 when the game was won.&nbsp;

Apart from it, Kohli has produced some exceptional feats in 2018.&nbsp;

In ODIs, Kohli has scored 1202 runs at an average of 133.55 in 14 innings this year. In Tests, so far, Kohli has scored 1240 runs in 12 games at an average of 56.36.

In the 50-over format, only two more batsmen – Rohit Sharma (1030 in 19 innings) and Jonny Bairstow (1025 in 22 innings) - have crossed 1000 runs in 2018.

No one has scored more hundreds than Kohli’s six. Rohit with five is at number two on the list. &nbsp;

Kohli is also amongst the five batsmen who have faced the least proportion of dot balls in ODI cricket in 2018. His dot-ball percentage of 41.81% is the fourth-lowest after Kevin O’Brien (34.96%), Thisara Perera (36.49%) and Ross Taylor (38.81%).&nbsp;

Kohli was the leading run-scorer with the highest average in South Africa and against West Indies at home. Only Joe Root scored more runs than him in the ODI series in England.

&nbsp;Kohli also notched up his 38th century and became the first Indian to score three consecutive centuries (against Windies) in One-day Internationals (ODI). &nbsp;Other than him, only three other batsmen have scored three consecutive hundreds in a bilateral series - Pakistan's Zaheer Abbas (against India), Quinton de Kock of South Africa (against India) and Babar Azam of Pakistan (against the West Indies).

&nbsp;He also surpassed batting legend Sachin Tendulkar to become the fastest player to reach 10,000 ODI runs.

&nbsp;This year, Kohli also became the fastest to reach 1000-run milestone in a calendar year after he hit an unbeaten 157 against West Indies at Vizag on October 24. He achieved the feat in 11 innings. He broke the record (15 innings) held jointly by him and Hashim Amla.

With such numbers, one thing is sure that Kohli has played a dominant inning this year and promises to play more such in coming days, keeping in mind the 2019 World Cup. &nbsp;

Virat Kohli, the number one batsman, smashed 11 international centuries, including six in one-dayers in 2018, to underline why he is considered one of the best batsman of his era.

Virat Kohli, the number one batsman, smashed 11 international centuries, including six in one-dayers in 2018, to underline why he is considered one of the best batsman of his era. Top-ranked in both the Test and one-day internationals, Kohli in 2018 was especially dominating in the 50-over format with a 133-plus average India’s fifth and final ODI against Windies was Kohli's LAST 50-over game of the year. He was at the crease after making unbeaten 33 when the game was won. Apart from it, Kohli has produced some exceptional feats in 2018. In ODIs, Kohli has scored 1202 runs at an average of 133.55 in 14 innings this year. In Tests, so far, Kohli has scored 1240 runs in 12 games at an average of 56.36. In the 50-over format, only two more batsmen – Rohit Sharma (1030 in 19 innings) and Jonny Bairstow (1025 in 22 innings) - have crossed 1000 runs in 2018. No one has scored more hundreds than Kohli’s six. Rohit with five is at number two on the list. Kohli is also amongst the five batsmen who have faced the least proportion of dot balls in ODI cricket in 2018. His dot-ball percentage of 41.81% is the fourth-lowest after Kevin O’Brien (34.96%), Thisara Perera (36.49%) and Ross Taylor (38.81%). Kohli was the leading run-scorer with the highest average in South Africa and against West Indies at home. Only Joe Root scored more runs than him in the ODI series in England. Kohli also notched up his 38th century and became the first Indian to score three consecutive centuries (against Windies) in One-day Internationals (ODI). Other than him, only three other batsmen have scored three consecutive hundreds in a bilateral series - Pakistan's Zaheer Abbas (against India), Quinton de Kock of South Africa (against India) and Babar Azam of Pakistan (against the West Indies). He also surpassed batting legend Sachin Tendulkar to become the fastest player to reach 10,000 ODI runs. This year, Kohli also became the fastest to reach 1000-run milestone in a calendar year after he hit an unbeaten 157 against West Indies at Vizag on October 24. He achieved the feat in 11 innings. He broke the record (15 innings) held jointly by him and Hashim Amla. With such numbers, one thing is sure that Kohli has played a dominant inning this year and promises to play more such in coming days, keeping in mind the 2019 World Cup.

Virat Kohli's reign of dominance over the world cricket in 2018

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

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

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

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

Debutant Mayank Agarwal displayed some brilliant cricketing skills to reach his half-century and give India a steady start on the first day of the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday.

The opener came down the track and drilled it back past the non-striker for a four to reach his maiden fifty.&nbsp;After the loss of one wicket, India's score stands at 113 after 50 overs.

India lost its first wicket with opener Hanuma Vihari returning to the crease after contributing just eight runs.&nbsp;Vihari, who played 66 balls, lost his wicket to Pat Cummins when India's score reached 40.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Earlier, Rookies Hanuma Vihari and Mayank Agarwal survived the first 10 overs in the Boxing Day Test, promising a new opening pair for the Indian cricket team.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat in the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne on Wednesday.

Speaking after the toss, Kohli said, " We will make the first use of this surface. This pitch looks like a nice one but it looks bit dry. So, it is going to become slower and slower. We are taking this Test as the last Test of this tour. We want to be at our best for this match."

"We have made three changes to the team. Hanuma Vihari has batted at three all his life, he has shown good technique and he will open. We considered opening with Rohit but he is so dangerous with the tail-enders so we wanted him to play freely. Jadeja has come in place of Umesh Yadav."

The hosts defeated India in the second Test to level the series 1-1.

Talking about their strategy for today, captain Tim Paine said, " I wasn't too sure what to do so I am happy to be bowling. We have a pretty inexperienced group so a win certainly helps. I would have laughed if someone would have told me last year that I will be the skipper for the Australian team in the next Boxing Day Test. Archie wanted to bat 100% but I told him that I was not entirely sure."

Debutant Mayank Agarwal displayed some brilliant cricketing skills to reach his half-century and give India a steady start on the first day of the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday.

Debutant Mayank Agarwal displayed some brilliant cricketing skills to reach his half-century and give India a steady start on the first day of the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday. The opener came down the track and drilled it back past the non-striker for a four to reach his maiden fifty. After the loss of one wicket, India's score stands at 113 after 50 overs. India lost its first wicket with opener Hanuma Vihari returning to the crease after contributing just eight runs. Vihari, who played 66 balls, lost his wicket to Pat Cummins when India's score reached 40. Earlier, Rookies Hanuma Vihari and Mayank Agarwal survived the first 10 overs in the Boxing Day Test, promising a new opening pair for the Indian cricket team. Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat in the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne on Wednesday. Speaking after the toss, Kohli said, " We will make the first use of this surface. This pitch looks like a nice one but it looks bit dry. So, it is going to become slower and slower. We are taking this Test as the last Test of this tour. We want to be at our best for this match." "We have made three changes to the team. Hanuma Vihari has batted at three all his life, he has shown good technique and he will open. We considered opening with Rohit but he is so dangerous with the tail-enders so we wanted him to play freely. Jadeja has come in place of Umesh Yadav." The hosts defeated India in the second Test to level the series 1-1. Talking about their strategy for today, captain Tim Paine said, " I wasn't too sure what to do so I am happy to be bowling. We have a pretty inexperienced group so a win certainly helps. I would have laughed if someone would have told me last year that I will be the skipper for the Australian team in the next Boxing Day Test. Archie wanted to bat 100% but I told him that I was not entirely sure."

IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Mayank Agarwal scores 50 on debut, India are 113/1 after 50 overs

Rookies Hanuma Vihari and Mayank Agarwal have survived the first 10 overs in the Boxing Day Test, promising a new opening pair for the Indian cricket team.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Debutant Mayanak, who got his Test cap today by skipper Virat Kohli, will be the player to look out for.

After 13 overs at the crease, the two have managed to put up 31 runs with Mayank scoring 23 and Hanuma making three runs so far.

Earlier, Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat in the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne on Wednesday.

Speaking after the toss, Kohli said, " We will make the first use of this surface. This pitch looks like a nice one but it looks bit dry. So, it is going to become slower and slower. We are taking this Test as the last Test of this tour. We want to be at our best for this match."

"We have made three changes to the team. Hanuma Vihari has batted at three all his life, he has shown good technique and he will open. We considered opening with Rohit but he is so dangerous with the tail-enders so we wanted him to play freely. Jadeja has come in place of Umesh Yadav."

The hosts defeated India in the second Test to level the series 1-1.

Talking about their strategy for today, captain Tim Paine said, " I wasn't too sure what to do so I am happy to be bowling. We have a pretty inexperienced group so a win certainly helps. I would have laughed if someone would have told me last year that I will be the skipper for the Australian team in the next Boxing Day Test. Archie wanted to bat 100% but I told him that I was not entirely sure."

Teams: 
Australia (Playing XI):Marcus Harris, Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Tim Paine(w/c), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

India (Playing XI): Mayank Agarwal, Hanuma Vihari, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli(c), Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant(w), Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah

Rookies Hanuma Vihari and Mayank Agarwal have survived the first 10 overs in the Boxing Day Test, promising a new opening pair for the Indian cricket team. Debutant Mayanak, who got his Test cap today by skipper Virat Kohli, will be the player to look out for.

Rookies Hanuma Vihari and Mayank Agarwal have survived the first 10 overs in the Boxing Day Test, promising a new opening pair for the Indian cricket team. Debutant Mayanak, who got his Test cap today by skipper Virat Kohli, will be the player to look out for. After 13 overs at the crease, the two have managed to put up 31 runs with Mayank scoring 23 and Hanuma making three runs so far. Earlier, Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat in the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne on Wednesday. Speaking after the toss, Kohli said, " We will make the first use of this surface. This pitch looks like a nice one but it looks bit dry. So, it is going to become slower and slower. We are taking this Test as the last Test of this tour. We want to be at our best for this match." "We have made three changes to the team. Hanuma Vihari has batted at three all his life, he has shown good technique and he will open. We considered opening with Rohit but he is so dangerous with the tail-enders so we wanted him to play freely. Jadeja has come in place of Umesh Yadav." The hosts defeated India in the second Test to level the series 1-1. Talking about their strategy for today, captain Tim Paine said, " I wasn't too sure what to do so I am happy to be bowling. We have a pretty inexperienced group so a win certainly helps. I would have laughed if someone would have told me last year that I will be the skipper for the Australian team in the next Boxing Day Test. Archie wanted to bat 100% but I told him that I was not entirely sure." Teams: Australia (Playing XI):Marcus Harris, Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Tim Paine(w/c), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood India (Playing XI): Mayank Agarwal, Hanuma Vihari, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli(c), Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant(w), Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah

3rd Test: India 31 for no loss after 13 overs

Their patchy performance has stuck out like a sore thumb during the first two Tests and India skipper Virat Kohli urged his batsmen to complement the superb effort of his bowling unit in the upcoming Boxing Day Test against Australia starting Wednesday.

While Kohli gave a batting masterclass on a challenging track in Perth, Cheteshwar Pujara had played a decisive role in team's win Adelaide but other batsmen have not contributed much unlike bowlers, who have picked 40 wickets in four innings.&nbsp;

"It is very important for batsmen to stand up, because as everyone can see, our bowling has been performing really well. Otherwise, the bowlers won't be able to do anything with the totals that we have been compiling," skipper Kohli said on the eve of the third Test.

"If we are batting second, we will try to take the lead or get as close to the opposition total as possible. If you equal a big score, then it becomes a second-innings' match and if you take a good first-innings lead, then you can capitalize on that.&nbsp;

"The batsmen must step up collectively. I won't say individually whether someone needs to do that or not, but as a batting unit, we have to definitely put up a better performance," Kohli sent out a loud and clear message for his batting unit.

The Indian captain made it clear that neither his team's Adelaide victory nor the Perth defeat will have any bearing when Melbourne Test starts.

"As a team, I don't think whether you are 2-0 up or 2-0 down or 1-1, what's happened in the past has no significance at all to what's going to happen in the next two Tests or what's going to happen in the next Test which is quite immediate.&nbsp;

"The key is to stay in the moment, stay in the present, understand and remember why you won the first Test, which was because of us being in the present moment," the skipper reiterated what he has often stressed.

Nathan Lyon with 16 wickets in two Tests have been India's chief tormentor so far and Kohli praised the off-spinner for his effort. &nbsp;

"Lyon is a very good bowler. He consistently bowls in good areas. So we have to have our plans against such a bowler so that we can also explore scoring options because if he is allowed to bowl at one spot for a long time, he becomes even more dangerous.&nbsp;

"These things you need to figure out constantly - who is bowling well in a particular series and what your plans should be against him. He has definitely bowled very well from the opposition."

What makes Lyon special is the fact that he plays most of his Test matches in Australia.

"For a spinner to bowl so well in Australia is a huge thing. We are taking it as a challenge, and we definitely want to improve our play against him. We have put in the effort in practice, it now matters who we execute those on the field.&nbsp;

"As I said, if there is a challenge coming your way, you try and counter it. That's our effort - if we have been dismissed in a particular way, not repeat that mode of dismissal. As cricketers, that is all you can do," he added.

Last time when India played at the MCG, the Test ended in a draw even though Kohli and Rahane had scored hundreds.

"Last time the pitch played a big part in not being able to have a result either ways, for both sides. But seeing the pitch now, it has much more grass than it had last time and I hope that it is a lively pitch.&nbsp;

"I hope it does as much as it did in the first two games because as a side, you always know that you are in for a result that way. The surface, what I saw yesterday, looked pretty dry underneath. There is a good coverage of grass, which should keep the surface intact," Kohli seemed hopeful.

For Kohli, a pitch should have enough in it to keep the bowlers interested on all five days of a Test match.

"I think it should have enough for the bowlers to stay interested on all days of the Test match and hopefully, it's a much more lively wicket than the last time we played here," he opined.

Kohli will be playing his second Boxing Day Test Down Under and seemed pretty excited about it.

"It's amazing (as an occasion). Obviously, day one is the most anticipated day and we are expecting a lot of people to come in, maybe 80,000-plus. So I have experienced that twice before.&nbsp;

"It's definitely a magical day to step on the field, the national anthems for both teams, and you can sense the energy in the stadium. For me, that is my most favourite personal moment of the Boxing Day, when the anthems are sung, you are standing on the field and there are so many people around you. Definitely, it is one of the most iconic Test matches and we are very happy to be a part of that," he added.&nbsp;

Their patchy performance has stuck out like a sore thumb during the first two Tests and India skipper Virat Kohli urged his batsmen to complement the superb effort of his bowling unit in the upcoming Boxing Day Test against Australia starting Wednesday.

Their patchy performance has stuck out like a sore thumb during the first two Tests and India skipper Virat Kohli urged his batsmen to complement the superb effort of his bowling unit in the upcoming Boxing Day Test against Australia starting Wednesday. While Kohli gave a batting masterclass on a challenging track in Perth, Cheteshwar Pujara had played a decisive role in team's win Adelaide but other batsmen have not contributed much unlike bowlers, who have picked 40 wickets in four innings. "It is very important for batsmen to stand up, because as everyone can see, our bowling has been performing really well. Otherwise, the bowlers won't be able to do anything with the totals that we have been compiling," skipper Kohli said on the eve of the third Test. "If we are batting second, we will try to take the lead or get as close to the opposition total as possible. If you equal a big score, then it becomes a second-innings' match and if you take a good first-innings lead, then you can capitalize on that. "The batsmen must step up collectively. I won't say individually whether someone needs to do that or not, but as a batting unit, we have to definitely put up a better performance," Kohli sent out a loud and clear message for his batting unit. The Indian captain made it clear that neither his team's Adelaide victory nor the Perth defeat will have any bearing when Melbourne Test starts. "As a team, I don't think whether you are 2-0 up or 2-0 down or 1-1, what's happened in the past has no significance at all to what's going to happen in the next two Tests or what's going to happen in the next Test which is quite immediate. "The key is to stay in the moment, stay in the present, understand and remember why you won the first Test, which was because of us being in the present moment," the skipper reiterated what he has often stressed. Nathan Lyon with 16 wickets in two Tests have been India's chief tormentor so far and Kohli praised the off-spinner for his effort. "Lyon is a very good bowler. He consistently bowls in good areas. So we have to have our plans against such a bowler so that we can also explore scoring options because if he is allowed to bowl at one spot for a long time, he becomes even more dangerous. "These things you need to figure out constantly - who is bowling well in a particular series and what your plans should be against him. He has definitely bowled very well from the opposition." What makes Lyon special is the fact that he plays most of his Test matches in Australia. "For a spinner to bowl so well in Australia is a huge thing. We are taking it as a challenge, and we definitely want to improve our play against him. We have put in the effort in practice, it now matters who we execute those on the field. "As I said, if there is a challenge coming your way, you try and counter it. That's our effort - if we have been dismissed in a particular way, not repeat that mode of dismissal. As cricketers, that is all you can do," he added. Last time when India played at the MCG, the Test ended in a draw even though Kohli and Rahane had scored hundreds. "Last time the pitch played a big part in not being able to have a result either ways, for both sides. But seeing the pitch now, it has much more grass than it had last time and I hope that it is a lively pitch. "I hope it does as much as it did in the first two games because as a side, you always know that you are in for a result that way. The surface, what I saw yesterday, looked pretty dry underneath. There is a good coverage of grass, which should keep the surface intact," Kohli seemed hopeful. For Kohli, a pitch should have enough in it to keep the bowlers interested on all five days of a Test match. "I think it should have enough for the bowlers to stay interested on all days of the Test match and hopefully, it's a much more lively wicket than the last time we played here," he opined. Kohli will be playing his second Boxing Day Test Down Under and seemed pretty excited about it. "It's amazing (as an occasion). Obviously, day one is the most anticipated day and we are expecting a lot of people to come in, maybe 80,000-plus. So I have experienced that twice before. "It's definitely a magical day to step on the field, the national anthems for both teams, and you can sense the energy in the stadium. For me, that is my most favourite personal moment of the Boxing Day, when the anthems are sung, you are standing on the field and there are so many people around you. Definitely, it is one of the most iconic Test matches and we are very happy to be a part of that," he added.

Kohli's message to batsmen: Bowlers won't be able to do anything with totals we've been putting up

MS Dhoni Monday returned to India's T20 squad for the February series against New Zealand, while young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was dropped from the ODI squad.

Dhoni's return comes as a surprise since he was dropped from the T20s against Australia only last month. The reason cited by the selectors at that time was that they were looking for a second wicketkeeper in the format.

However, justifying the 37-year-old's selection, a BCCI official, on conditions of anonymity, told PTI, "Since there are only eight ODIs (three against Australia and five against New Zealand), selectors want to give MS as much game time as possible (before the World Cup). Three T20Is means 11 international matches through the next one month."

In the ODI squad, the 21-year-old Pant's axing is the only change that the selectors have made to the side that competed against the West Indies in a home series in October-November.

India are currently engaged in a Test series against Australia and will play three ODIs against them starting January 12 in Sydney.&nbsp;

This will be followed by a limited-overs engagement with New Zealand, starting with five ODIs from January 23. The three T20 Internationals against Kiwis are lined up from February 6.&nbsp;

The squads:

India's squad for ODI series against Australia and NZ: Virat Kohli (Capt), Rohit Sharma (VC), KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Ambati Rayudu, Dinesh Karthik, Kedar Jadhav, MS Dhoni (WK), Hardik Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Khaleel Ahmed, Mohammed Shami.

 
India's squad for T20I series against NZ: Virat Kohli(Capt), Rohit Sharma (vc), KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Kedar Jadhav, MS Dhoni (WK), Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Khaleel Ahmed.

MS Dhoni Monday returned to India's T20 squad for the February series against New Zealand, while young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was dropped from the ODI squad.

MS Dhoni Monday returned to India's T20 squad for the February series against New Zealand, while young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was dropped from the ODI squad. Dhoni's return comes as a surprise since he was dropped from the T20s against Australia only last month. The reason cited by the selectors at that time was that they were looking for a second wicketkeeper in the format. However, justifying the 37-year-old's selection, a BCCI official, on conditions of anonymity, told PTI, "Since there are only eight ODIs (three against Australia and five against New Zealand), selectors want to give MS as much game time as possible (before the World Cup). Three T20Is means 11 international matches through the next one month." In the ODI squad, the 21-year-old Pant's axing is the only change that the selectors have made to the side that competed against the West Indies in a home series in October-November. India are currently engaged in a Test series against Australia and will play three ODIs against them starting January 12 in Sydney. This will be followed by a limited-overs engagement with New Zealand, starting with five ODIs from January 23. The three T20 Internationals against Kiwis are lined up from February 6. The squads: India's squad for ODI series against Australia and NZ: Virat Kohli (Capt), Rohit Sharma (VC), KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Ambati Rayudu, Dinesh Karthik, Kedar Jadhav, MS Dhoni (WK), Hardik Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Khaleel Ahmed, Mohammed Shami. India's squad for T20I series against NZ: Virat Kohli(Capt), Rohit Sharma (vc), KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Kedar Jadhav, MS Dhoni (WK), Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Khaleel Ahmed.

MS Dhoni returns in India's squad for Australia and NZ ODIs; Pant dropped

Indian cricket team vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Monday said his rhythm and counter-attacking mindset could help him slam a century or double century at the Boxing Day Test, starting Wednesday.&nbsp;

Rahane has so far hit two fifties in his 164 runs from the first two Tests but a three-figure score is yet to be seen coming from his bat. He last scored a century against Sri Lanka in Colombo last year.

While speaking to the media, Rahane said, "I am sure it will come in this match. The way I am batting, from Adelaide to Perth, the mindset I was in to counter-attack and the rhythm I was batting in, maybe 100 or even 200 can come,"&nbsp;

However, the 30-year-old soon added that personal milestones can be achieved later as well.

"I think it is more important for me not to think about it. I have to continue batting the way I am. I can read the situation a bit better and if I can play like that it will be better for the team. Personal milestones can be achieved later as well."

"I am really happy (to return here for Boxing Day Test). We all know how big it is and to come here at 1-1 is really good. We had our chances in Perth but it is important to stay in the present right now and give our best starting from December 26," he concluded.

After defeating Australia in the first test, India lost the second by a huge margin of 146 runs, where Virat Kohli and his men were dismissed for a mere 140 in the second innings.&nbsp;

When asked what changes he would want to see in the team for the third Test, Rahane said the batting unit needs to step up and support the bowlers if they are to win consistently overseas.&nbsp;

India are currently tied 1-1 with the hosts in the four-match Test series.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Indian cricket team vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Monday said his rhythm and counter-attacking mindset could help him slam a century or double century at the Boxing Day Test, starting Wednesday.

Indian cricket team vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Monday said his rhythm and counter-attacking mindset could help him slam a century or double century at the Boxing Day Test, starting Wednesday. Rahane has so far hit two fifties in his 164 runs from the first two Tests but a three-figure score is yet to be seen coming from his bat. He last scored a century against Sri Lanka in Colombo last year. While speaking to the media, Rahane said, "I am sure it will come in this match. The way I am batting, from Adelaide to Perth, the mindset I was in to counter-attack and the rhythm I was batting in, maybe 100 or even 200 can come," However, the 30-year-old soon added that personal milestones can be achieved later as well. "I think it is more important for me not to think about it. I have to continue batting the way I am. I can read the situation a bit better and if I can play like that it will be better for the team. Personal milestones can be achieved later as well." "I am really happy (to return here for Boxing Day Test). We all know how big it is and to come here at 1-1 is really good. We had our chances in Perth but it is important to stay in the present right now and give our best starting from December 26," he concluded. After defeating Australia in the first test, India lost the second by a huge margin of 146 runs, where Virat Kohli and his men were dismissed for a mere 140 in the second innings. When asked what changes he would want to see in the team for the third Test, Rahane said the batting unit needs to step up and support the bowlers if they are to win consistently overseas. India are currently tied 1-1 with the hosts in the four-match Test series.

May score '100 or even 200' in Boxing Day Test, says Ajinkya Rahane

Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar on Sunday disagreed with the International Cricket Council (ICC) decision to rate the pitch for the second Test between <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-ashwin-jadeja-in-race-to-be-fit-for-boxing-day-test-185950">India and Australia </a>at Perth as 'average'.

Instead, the master blaster demanded more pitches like the one at Perth to truly test <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/smith-has-eye-on-world-cup-and-ashes-expects-english-backlash-185641">the skills of batsmen </a>and bowlers and revive the game of Test cricket.&nbsp;

Taking to his Twitter, Sachin stressed the Perth 'pitch was by no means average'.

"Pitches play a crucial role, especially in Test cricket. In order to revive Test cricket and generate excitement, we need to provide more pitches like the one at Perth, where the skills of batsmen and bowlers are truly TESTed. This pitch was by no means "Average"."

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Pitches play a crucial role, especially in Test cricket. In order to revive Test cricket and generate excitement, we need to provide more pitches like the one at Perth, where the skills of batsmen and bowlers are truly TESTed. This pitch was by no means “Average”.
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1076716250582183936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, former Australia leg-spinner Shane Warne has also blasted the ICCC for its 'terrible decision' and declared it a 'wonderful cricket pitch'&nbsp;

The average mark is the lowest possible pass mark, handed down by the ICC when they rate the pitch and outfield of Test grounds.

Meanwhile, Australia had pulled off a stunning 141-run win to level the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-is-the-energy-of-indian-team-brad-hogg-185861">four-Test series against India</a>.&nbsp;The hosts will next face the 'Men in Blue' at Melbourne Cricket Ground, on December 26.&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar on Sunday disagreed with the International Cricket Council (ICC) decision to rate the pitch for the second Test between India and Australia at Perth as 'average'.

Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar on Sunday disagreed with the International Cricket Council (ICC) decision to rate the pitch for the second Test between India and Australia at Perth as 'average'. Instead, the master blaster demanded more pitches like the one at Perth to truly test the skills of batsmen and bowlers and revive the game of Test cricket. Taking to his Twitter, Sachin stressed the Perth 'pitch was by no means average'. "Pitches play a crucial role, especially in Test cricket. In order to revive Test cricket and generate excitement, we need to provide more pitches like the one at Perth, where the skills of batsmen and bowlers are truly TESTed. This pitch was by no means "Average"." Pitches play a crucial role, especially in Test cricket. In order to revive Test cricket and generate excitement, we need to provide more pitches like the one at Perth, where the skills of batsmen and bowlers are truly TESTed. This pitch was by no means “Average”. — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) December 23, 2018 × Earlier, former Australia leg-spinner Shane Warne has also blasted the ICCC for its 'terrible decision' and declared it a 'wonderful cricket pitch' The average mark is the lowest possible pass mark, handed down by the ICC when they rate the pitch and outfield of Test grounds. Meanwhile, Australia had pulled off a stunning 141-run win to level the four-Test series against India. The hosts will next face the 'Men in Blue' at Melbourne Cricket Ground, on December 26.

Sachin Tendulkar also disagrees with ICC, says Perth 'pitch was by no means average'

Cricket Australia on Sunday introduced a seven-year-old&nbsp;Archie Schille, who is expected&nbsp;to lead the hosts in the iconic Boxing Day Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

As per reports, Schiller, who suffers from a rare heart condition, will be co-captain alongside Tim Paine starting Wednesday. The leg-spinner, who turned seven on Saturday, from Adelaide is set to partner his idol Nathan Lyon.&nbsp;

Schiller was named in Australia's squad for the Boxing Day Test last month. He trained with the Australian players in Adelaide ahead of the first Test and was also given the team jersey.

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Meet the newest member of the Australian Test team: <a href="https://t.co/vmcqkK0tqE">https://t.co/vmcqkK0tqE</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MakeAWishAust?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MakeAWishAust</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/0EMBSu4yEm">pic.twitter.com/0EMBSu4yEm</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1076661900170022913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The hosts go into the third Test of the four-match series on a high after their series-levelling victory at the Optus stadium in Perth. 
&nbsp;

Cricket Australia on Sunday introduced a seven-year-old Archie Schille, who is expected to lead the hosts in the iconic Boxing Day Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Cricket Australia on Sunday introduced a seven-year-old Archie Schille, who is expected to lead the hosts in the iconic Boxing Day Test against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. As per reports, Schiller, who suffers from a rare heart condition, will be co-captain alongside Tim Paine starting Wednesday. The leg-spinner, who turned seven on Saturday, from Adelaide is set to partner his idol Nathan Lyon. Schiller was named in Australia's squad for the Boxing Day Test last month. He trained with the Australian players in Adelaide ahead of the first Test and was also given the team jersey. Meet the newest member of the Australian Test team: https://t.co/vmcqkK0tqE @MakeAWishAust | #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/0EMBSu4yEm — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 23, 2018 × The hosts go into the third Test of the four-match series on a high after their series-levelling victory at the Optus stadium in Perth.

IND vs AUS: Hosts add 7-year old leg-spinner to their squad for 3rd Test against India

Virat Kohli has been lately making headlines for his altercation with his &nbsp;Australian counterpart Tim Paine and today he is again in news but this time for his swashbuckling batting.&nbsp;

Indian cricket team captain, who scored a brilliant hundred in the 2nd Test, has retained his place as the top-ranked batsman in the ICC Test rankings.&nbsp;

The right-handed batsman's 123-run inning on a bounce and pace-rich Perth Stadium has helped Kohli accumulate 14 points and reach a total of 934, three away from his career-best Test rating points.

Kohli on Thursday has further extended his lead over New Zealand batsman Kane Williamson from seven to nineteen points. Kane, who became the first Kiwi cricketer to break the 900-point barrier in the ICC Player Rankings for Test Batsmen, enjoys a tally of 915 points.&nbsp;

The 28-year-old also helped his side register their first win in an away series against an Asian side in 49 years, following excellent performances against Pakistan recently.

Meanwhile, Indian vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has gained two spots to finish 15th in the rankings while wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has jumped 11 places to a career-best 48th.&nbsp;

Amongst the bowlers, South African pacer Kagiso Rabada leads the charts with 882 points with English fast-bowler James Anderson closely trailing him.

Indian pacer Mohammad Shami jumped two spots to finish 24th in the rankings while Jasprit Bumrah gained five places to a career-best 28th. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Ravindra Jadeja is placed 5th in the rankings with 796 points alongside spinner Ravichandran Ashwin who has finished 6th having accumulated 778 points. &nbsp;

Top 10 Test batsman

Kane Williamson 
Steve Smith 
Cheteshwar Pujara 
Joe Root 
David Warner 
Dimuth Karunaratne 
Dean Elgar 
Azhar Ali 
Henry Nicholls

Top 10 Test bowlers

Kagiso Rabada 
James Anderson 
Vernon Philander 
Mohammad Abbas 
Ravindra Jadeja 
R Ashwin 
Nathan Lyon 
Pat Cummins 
Josh Hazlewood 
Yasir Shah

Virat Kohli has been lately making headlines for his altercation with his Australian counterpart Tim Paine and today he is again in news but this time for his swashbuckling batting.

Virat Kohli has been lately making headlines for his altercation with his Australian counterpart Tim Paine and today he is again in news but this time for his swashbuckling batting. Indian cricket team captain, who scored a brilliant hundred in the 2nd Test, has retained his place as the top-ranked batsman in the ICC Test rankings. The right-handed batsman's 123-run inning on a bounce and pace-rich Perth Stadium has helped Kohli accumulate 14 points and reach a total of 934, three away from his career-best Test rating points. Kohli on Thursday has further extended his lead over New Zealand batsman Kane Williamson from seven to nineteen points. Kane, who became the first Kiwi cricketer to break the 900-point barrier in the ICC Player Rankings for Test Batsmen, enjoys a tally of 915 points. The 28-year-old also helped his side register their first win in an away series against an Asian side in 49 years, following excellent performances against Pakistan recently. Meanwhile, Indian vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has gained two spots to finish 15th in the rankings while wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has jumped 11 places to a career-best 48th. Amongst the bowlers, South African pacer Kagiso Rabada leads the charts with 882 points with English fast-bowler James Anderson closely trailing him. Indian pacer Mohammad Shami jumped two spots to finish 24th in the rankings while Jasprit Bumrah gained five places to a career-best 28th. Ravindra Jadeja is placed 5th in the rankings with 796 points alongside spinner Ravichandran Ashwin who has finished 6th having accumulated 778 points. Top 10 Test batsman Kane Williamson Steve Smith Cheteshwar Pujara Joe Root David Warner Dimuth Karunaratne Dean Elgar Azhar Ali Henry Nicholls Top 10 Test bowlers Kagiso Rabada James Anderson Vernon Philander Mohammad Abbas Ravindra Jadeja R Ashwin Nathan Lyon Pat Cummins Josh Hazlewood Yasir Shah

Virat Kohli extends dominance as No.1 Test batsman, Bumrah reaches career-best 28th in latest ICC rankings

Captain Virat Kohli has thrown his weight behind India's struggling openers but the tourists' defeat in Perth showed they have yet to find a solution to their top order woes.

Lokesh Rahul and Murali Vijay have managed only one double-digit stand midway through the four-test series in Australia, hardly the starts that would help bring India a first test series win Down Under.

Their struggles have intensified pressure on the middle order of a team with a lengthy tail, and number three Cheteshwar Pujara has had to walk out to bat inside four overs on three of the four occasions.

Opening stands made telling difference in Perth, where Australia prevailed by 146 runs to square the four-test series.

The 112-run first innings stand between Marcus Harris and Aaron Finch laid the platform for Australia's 300-plus total in a low-scoring contest and they raised 59 in the second to help set India a target which the tourists could not achieve.

Rahul, who has managed 48 in four innings, has looked like a sitting duck, with batting great Sunil Gavaskar demanding the 26-year-old be sent home to work on his game.

"I think he should come back and play Ranji Trophy for Karnataka," the former India captain told Aaj Tak channel.

"It is not just that he is out of form, he is just not there and you can see that."

Rahul has not managed a fifty in his last seven test outings and equally worrying has been the manner of his dismissals, with the right hander either bowled or trapped LBW in 11 of his last 14 innings.

India batting coach Sanjay Bangar lamented last month that the opener was "finding new ways to get out" and many believe Rahul needs to work out the flaws with his technique.

Opening partner Vijay has not covered himself in glory either on his return to the squad after he and fellow opener Shikhar Dhawan were dropped following modest returns in England.

Vijay has managed 49 runs from four innings but may still continue as opener purely because India have lost the exciting Prithvi Shaw to an ankle injury for the entire series.

"I'm sure those guys have figured out what's gone wrong in this game especially and they're very keen to correct it themselves," Kohli said in Perth of his misfiring openers.

The tourists have flown in Mayank Agarwal as replacement, rewarding the uncapped opener for his consistency in domestic cricket.

The series shifts to the traditional Boxing Day test in Melbourne followed by the finale in Sydney.

Captain Virat Kohli has thrown his weight behind India's struggling openers but the tourists' defeat in Perth showed they have yet to find a solution to their top order woes.

Captain Virat Kohli has thrown his weight behind India's struggling openers but the tourists' defeat in Perth showed they have yet to find a solution to their top order woes. Lokesh Rahul and Murali Vijay have managed only one double-digit stand midway through the four-test series in Australia, hardly the starts that would help bring India a first test series win Down Under. Their struggles have intensified pressure on the middle order of a team with a lengthy tail, and number three Cheteshwar Pujara has had to walk out to bat inside four overs on three of the four occasions. Opening stands made telling difference in Perth, where Australia prevailed by 146 runs to square the four-test series. The 112-run first innings stand between Marcus Harris and Aaron Finch laid the platform for Australia's 300-plus total in a low-scoring contest and they raised 59 in the second to help set India a target which the tourists could not achieve. Rahul, who has managed 48 in four innings, has looked like a sitting duck, with batting great Sunil Gavaskar demanding the 26-year-old be sent home to work on his game. "I think he should come back and play Ranji Trophy for Karnataka," the former India captain told Aaj Tak channel. "It is not just that he is out of form, he is just not there and you can see that." Rahul has not managed a fifty in his last seven test outings and equally worrying has been the manner of his dismissals, with the right hander either bowled or trapped LBW in 11 of his last 14 innings. India batting coach Sanjay Bangar lamented last month that the opener was "finding new ways to get out" and many believe Rahul needs to work out the flaws with his technique. Opening partner Vijay has not covered himself in glory either on his return to the squad after he and fellow opener Shikhar Dhawan were dropped following modest returns in England. Vijay has managed 49 runs from four innings but may still continue as opener purely because India have lost the exciting Prithvi Shaw to an ankle injury for the entire series. "I'm sure those guys have figured out what's gone wrong in this game especially and they're very keen to correct it themselves," Kohli said in Perth of his misfiring openers. The tourists have flown in Mayank Agarwal as replacement, rewarding the uncapped opener for his consistency in domestic cricket. The series shifts to the traditional Boxing Day test in Melbourne followed by the finale in Sydney.

IND vs AUS: Opening woes continue to blight India Down Under

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.&nbsp;

"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.

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

International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday released its Test rankings for batsmen and bowlers where Indian captain Virat Kohli retained the top position.

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, who smashed a brilliant century in first supported by another crucial half-century in the second inning of the first test match against Australia, made a jump to acquire the fourth spot.

Pujara surpassed Joe Root and David Warner and is left behind by third-ranked Steve Smith by 55 points. Smith is facing a one year ban for his involvement in the ball-tampering case in South Africa this year.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in bowling, Jasprit Bumrah ranked his career-best at 33rd position. After his three wickets apiece in both the innings at Adelaide, he rose by five ranks to surpass Pakistan's Mohammad Amir and Wahab Riaz.

New Zealand's Kane Williamson scored 89 and 139 in Abu Dhabi last week which made him the first Kiwi batsman and 32nd overall to break the 900-point barrier in the ICC Player Rankings for Test Batsmen.&nbsp;

Williamson is just seven points behind Kohli to acquire the No.1 spot.&nbsp;

Williamson's neck-throat competition with Kohli puts the Indian captain under strain to perform strongly in the second Test starting in Perth from Friday.&nbsp;

The Adelaide Test also became a game changer for Ajinkya Rahane and Mitchell Starc who are now at 17th (up by two places) and 16th (up by two places) respectively.

Amongst the newcomers, Australian Batsman Marcus Harris has filled in 116th position, while amongst the bowlers, off-spinner William Somerville of New Zealand has gained the 63rd place with Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Afridi springing up to 111th.&nbsp;

International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday released its Test rankings for batsmen and bowlers where Indian captain Virat Kohli retained the top position. Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, who smashed a brilliant century in first supported by another crucial half-century in the second inning of the first test match against Australia, made a jump to acquire the fourth spot.

International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday released its Test rankings for batsmen and bowlers where Indian captain Virat Kohli retained the top position. Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, who smashed a brilliant century in first supported by another crucial half-century in the second inning of the first test match against Australia, made a jump to acquire the fourth spot. Pujara surpassed Joe Root and David Warner and is left behind by third-ranked Steve Smith by 55 points. Smith is facing a one year ban for his involvement in the ball-tampering case in South Africa this year. Meanwhile, in bowling, Jasprit Bumrah ranked his career-best at 33rd position. After his three wickets apiece in both the innings at Adelaide, he rose by five ranks to surpass Pakistan's Mohammad Amir and Wahab Riaz. New Zealand's Kane Williamson scored 89 and 139 in Abu Dhabi last week which made him the first Kiwi batsman and 32nd overall to break the 900-point barrier in the ICC Player Rankings for Test Batsmen. Williamson is just seven points behind Kohli to acquire the No.1 spot. Williamson's neck-throat competition with Kohli puts the Indian captain under strain to perform strongly in the second Test starting in Perth from Friday. The Adelaide Test also became a game changer for Ajinkya Rahane and Mitchell Starc who are now at 17th (up by two places) and 16th (up by two places) respectively. Amongst the newcomers, Australian Batsman Marcus Harris has filled in 116th position, while amongst the bowlers, off-spinner William Somerville of New Zealand has gained the 63rd place with Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Afridi springing up to 111th.

Virat Kohli remains No.1, Pujara returns to top five in latest ICC Test rankings