India and Australia's rivalry is known to all. The drama and the aggression always run high during an India vs Australia contest and the on-going tour is no short of it. Many reports suggest that Team India are reluctant to travel to Brisbane for the fourth and final Test versus hosts Australia. As per schedule, the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is to be held at The Gabba, Brisbane from January 15-19.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/five-players-in-team-india-placed-under-in-precautionary-isolation-over-alleged-breach-in-protocols-354052" hreflang="en">Five players in Team India placed under in precautionary isolation over alleged breach in protocols</a>

"If you look at it, we were quarantining for 14 days in Dubai before landing in Sydney and doing so for another 14 days. That means we were in a hard bubble for nearly a month before coming out. What we don't want now is to quarantine again at the end of the tour," a source in the Indian team told Cricbuzz.

He further opined, "We aren't keen on going to Brisbane if it means being stuck in the hotel again, except for going to the ground. Instead, we don't mind being in some other city, playing both Test matches there to complete the series and returning home.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/get-well-soon-dada-cricketing-stalwarts-wish-sourav-ganguly-a-speedy-recovery-354056" hreflang="en">'Get well soon Dada': Cricketing stalwarts wish Sourav Ganguly a speedy recovery</a>

"We understand the complexity of what's happening currently. Cricket Australia and we have cooperated at every step with regards to following the protocols within the bubble. But we were expecting to be treated in the same vein as 'normal Australians' in terms of restrictions once we completed that initial quarantine in Sydney," the source added.

He also stated, "All we're saying is the boys have been in various states of lockdowns and bubbles for nearly six months now. And it's not been easy for anyone. If you look at it, we are one of only two teams who have had zero issues while being on a tour during this pandemic. After all this time, what we don't want is to be sent into another hard bubble, which seems will be the case in Brisbane."

Recently, another controversy erupted as five players in Team India were placed under isolation as Cricket Australia (CA) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) are investigating allegations of breach of biosecurity protocols after a video surfaced showing the players eating at a Melbourne restaurant.

A video made rounds on social media where Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Navdeep Saini and Prithvi Shaw can be seen dining together. These allegations come amidst the Border-Gavaskar Trophy where India is scheduled to take on Australia for the third Test of the series.&nbsp;

India and Australia's rivalry is known to all. The drama and the aggression always run high during an India vs Australia contest and the on-going tour is no short of it.

India and Australia's rivalry is known to all. The drama and the aggression always run high during an India vs Australia contest and the on-going tour is no short of it. Many reports suggest that Team India are reluctant to travel to Brisbane for the fourth and final Test versus hosts Australia. As per schedule, the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is to be held at The Gabba, Brisbane from January 15-19. Also read: Five players in Team India placed under in precautionary isolation over alleged breach in protocols "If you look at it, we were quarantining for 14 days in Dubai before landing in Sydney and doing so for another 14 days. That means we were in a hard bubble for nearly a month before coming out. What we don't want now is to quarantine again at the end of the tour," a source in the Indian team told Cricbuzz. He further opined, "We aren't keen on going to Brisbane if it means being stuck in the hotel again, except for going to the ground. Instead, we don't mind being in some other city, playing both Test matches there to complete the series and returning home. Also read: 'Get well soon Dada': Cricketing stalwarts wish Sourav Ganguly a speedy recovery "We understand the complexity of what's happening currently. Cricket Australia and we have cooperated at every step with regards to following the protocols within the bubble. But we were expecting to be treated in the same vein as 'normal Australians' in terms of restrictions once we completed that initial quarantine in Sydney," the source added. He also stated, "All we're saying is the boys have been in various states of lockdowns and bubbles for nearly six months now. And it's not been easy for anyone. If you look at it, we are one of only two teams who have had zero issues while being on a tour during this pandemic. After all this time, what we don't want is to be sent into another hard bubble, which seems will be the case in Brisbane." Recently, another controversy erupted as five players in Team India were placed under isolation as Cricket Australia (CA) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) are investigating allegations of breach of biosecurity protocols after a video surfaced showing the players eating at a Melbourne restaurant. A video made rounds on social media where Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Navdeep Saini and Prithvi Shaw can be seen dining together. These allegations come amidst the Border-Gavaskar Trophy where India is scheduled to take on Australia for the third Test of the series.

Team India reluctant to travel to Brisbane for fourth Test against Australia

The drama continues to run high in the India vs Australia series as the latest development suggests the fourth Test match at the Gabba in Brisbane is slated to go on as per schedule, reported news agency PTI on Sunday.

According to Australia media reports, Team India were&nbsp;reluctant to travel Brisbane for the fourth Test there in view of stricter quarantine rules.

However, as of now, BCCI has not taken any call on asking CA to shift the Test match from Brisbane to Sydney.

“It’s a fluid situation. Let’s wait for a few more days,” a BCCI official told PTI.

Australia's Queensland has closed its borders for people travelling from New South Wales due to the rising cases of Covid-19 in Sydney and surrounding areas. The travel ban will not be imposed to the Test-playing players, however, the bio-bubble will be very strict like the ones in IPL.&nbsp;

It could well happen that in order to play the Test match in Brisbane, the Indian team would have to be in a stricter bio-bubble from Sydney (due to COVID-19 outbreak in the city)&nbsp;itself which would make for a hard quarantine (hotel-stadium-hotel) of around 15 days.

(With PTI inputs)

The drama continues to run high in the India vs Australia series as the latest development suggests the fourth Test match at the Gabba in Brisbane is slated to go on as per schedule, reported news agency PTI on Sunday.

The drama continues to run high in the India vs Australia series as the latest development suggests the fourth Test match at the Gabba in Brisbane is slated to go on as per schedule, reported news agency PTI on Sunday. According to Australia media reports, Team India were reluctant to travel Brisbane for the fourth Test there in view of stricter quarantine rules. However, as of now, BCCI has not taken any call on asking CA to shift the Test match from Brisbane to Sydney. “It’s a fluid situation. Let’s wait for a few more days,” a BCCI official told PTI. Australia's Queensland has closed its borders for people travelling from New South Wales due to the rising cases of Covid-19 in Sydney and surrounding areas. The travel ban will not be imposed to the Test-playing players, however, the bio-bubble will be very strict like the ones in IPL. It could well happen that in order to play the Test match in Brisbane, the Indian team would have to be in a stricter bio-bubble from Sydney (due to COVID-19 outbreak in the city) itself which would make for a hard quarantine (hotel-stadium-hotel) of around 15 days. (With PTI inputs)

The Gabba Test to go on as planned as there are no request to shift venues: Reports

India's interim skipper Ajinkya Rahane scored a gritty unbeaten century to keep the visitors on top for consecutive days in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/debutant-shubman-gill-enters-record-books-after-brave-45-runs-on-boxing-day-test-352699" hreflang="en">Debutant Shubman Gill enters record books after brave 45 runs on Boxing Day Test</a>

India ended Day 2 with a lead of 82 runs over Australia on Sunday after a 104-run partnership between Jadeja and Rahane. Hosts managed to take just four wickets in a frustrating day. India was down to 116/4 after Vihari was dismissed, however, Rahane's&nbsp;back-to-back good partnership with Pant and then Jadeja helped India make a comeback in remaining two sessions.&nbsp;

Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins managed to get two wickets apiece. Lyon had just one wicket after bowling 18 overs. With nine overs remaining, the day came to an end after strong wind and rain disrupted the play. At the end of Day 2, India finished at 277/5 in 91.3 overs. Rahane and Co. will be looking to breach the 300-mark on Day 3.

Australia Squad

Playing:&nbsp;Matthew Wade, Joe Burns, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Tim Paine (c &amp; wk), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

Bench: Marcus Harris, Moises Henriques, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Mitchell Swepson, Will Pucovski

India Squad

Playing:&nbsp;Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj

Bench:&nbsp;Prithvi Shaw, Wriddhiman Saha, Navdeep Saini, KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav

India's interim skipper Ajinkya Rahane scored a gritty unbeaten century to keep the visitors on top for consecutive days in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

India's interim skipper Ajinkya Rahane scored a gritty unbeaten century to keep the visitors on top for consecutive days in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Also read: Debutant Shubman Gill enters record books after brave 45 runs on Boxing Day Test India ended Day 2 with a lead of 82 runs over Australia on Sunday after a 104-run partnership between Jadeja and Rahane. Hosts managed to take just four wickets in a frustrating day. India was down to 116/4 after Vihari was dismissed, however, Rahane's back-to-back good partnership with Pant and then Jadeja helped India make a comeback in remaining two sessions. Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins managed to get two wickets apiece. Lyon had just one wicket after bowling 18 overs. With nine overs remaining, the day came to an end after strong wind and rain disrupted the play. At the end of Day 2, India finished at 277/5 in 91.3 overs. Rahane and Co. will be looking to breach the 300-mark on Day 3. Australia Squad Playing: Matthew Wade, Joe Burns, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Tim Paine (c & wk), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood Bench: Marcus Harris, Moises Henriques, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Mitchell Swepson, Will Pucovski India Squad Playing: Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj Bench: Prithvi Shaw, Wriddhiman Saha, Navdeep Saini, KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav

IND vs AUS, 2nd Test: Skipper Rahane's unbeaten century puts India on top on Day 2

Debutant Shubman Gill entered the record books after his brave 45 on the Day 2 of Boxing Day Test against Australian at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The 21-year-old batsman became the third-highest run-scorer on Test debut for India in Australia.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-gavaskar-doesnt-wish-to-talk-about-rahanes-captaincy-fearing-accusation-352592" hreflang="en">Ind vs Aus: Gavaskar doesn't wish to talk about Rahane's captaincy fearing accusation</a>

Shubman Gill stabilised the Indian innings after they lost Mayank Agarwal early. He scored 45 runs off 65 balls on Day 2 of the second Test before being dismissed by Pat Cummins.&nbsp;

Gill's opening partner, Mayank Agarwal tops the unique feat, who scored 76 on debut Down Under in 2018. Former Indian cricketer Dattu Phadkar is second, who had scored 51 runs on his debut in Sydney in December 1947.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-worked-really-hard-and-come-up-the-ranks-jasprit-bumrah-praises-fellow-paceman-siraj-352585" hreflang="en">'He has worked really hard and come up the ranks': Jasprit Bumrah praises fellow paceman Siraj</a>

Gill replaced out-of-form Prithvi Shaw for the second Test. He stitched a 61-run stand with Pujara to stabilise Indian innings.&nbsp;

India ended Day 2 well after taking a lead of 82 runs. Skipper Rahane led from the front after scoring a vital century. His 104-run partnership with Jadeja has been going strong as of now and the visitors might easily breach the 300-mark on Day 3.&nbsp;

Debutant Shubman Gill entered the record books after his brave 45 on the Day 2 of Boxing Day Test against Australian at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The 21-year-old batsman became the third-highest run-scorer on Test debut for India in Australia.

Debutant Shubman Gill entered the record books after his brave 45 on the Day 2 of Boxing Day Test against Australian at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The 21-year-old batsman became the third-highest run-scorer on Test debut for India in Australia. ALSO READ: Ind vs Aus: Gavaskar doesn't wish to talk about Rahane's captaincy fearing accusation Shubman Gill stabilised the Indian innings after they lost Mayank Agarwal early. He scored 45 runs off 65 balls on Day 2 of the second Test before being dismissed by Pat Cummins. Gill's opening partner, Mayank Agarwal tops the unique feat, who scored 76 on debut Down Under in 2018. Former Indian cricketer Dattu Phadkar is second, who had scored 51 runs on his debut in Sydney in December 1947. ALSO READ: 'He has worked really hard and come up the ranks': Jasprit Bumrah praises fellow paceman Siraj Gill replaced out-of-form Prithvi Shaw for the second Test. He stitched a 61-run stand with Pujara to stabilise Indian innings. India ended Day 2 well after taking a lead of 82 runs. Skipper Rahane led from the front after scoring a vital century. His 104-run partnership with Jadeja has been going strong as of now and the visitors might easily breach the 300-mark on Day 3.

Debutant Shubman Gill enters record books after brave 45 runs on Boxing Day Test

India struck all the right chords on Day 1 in the Boxing Day Test against Australia. They bundled out the hosts on 195 before stumps. Former India opener Gautam Gambhir feels that Australia's batting is ‘fragile’.

“With the kind of batting line-up that Australia have, they are very vulnerable at the top of the order. They are very fragile, apart from Labuschagne and Smith. Travis Head is very vulnerable. Cameron Green will probably be playing his second Test match,” Gambhir said on Sports Today on YouTube.

“Tim Paine, yes, he has done well in the previous game, but he has his own shortcomings as well, and then you are into the bowlers. So apart from two batters, No.3 and No.4, there is a lot of fragilities. So, India can actually look to exploit that.”

India's bowling unit had a great outing. Bumrah's four dismissals and Ashwin's three wickets wrapped the hosts to a modest total.&nbsp;

“When you have got people like Jasprit Bumrah who are world-class when you have Ravichandran Ashwin, you have Umesh Yadav who has played over 35-40 Test matches. So you expect Indian bowling line-up to actually come good,” Gambhir said.

“It is for the batters to put runs on the board and don’t think about putting 400 on the board, look to get 275 and give something to your bowlers. Because you have these world-class bowlers and 275 is good enough. You have got someone like Jasprit Bumrah who can probably win a game as well in his five-spell. Other bowlers need to complement him, they should not leak runs.”

India struck all the right chords on Day 1 in the Boxing Day Test against Australia. They bundled out the hosts on 195 before stumps. Former India opener Gautam Gambhir feels that Australia's batting is ‘fragile’.

India struck all the right chords on Day 1 in the Boxing Day Test against Australia. They bundled out the hosts on 195 before stumps. Former India opener Gautam Gambhir feels that Australia's batting is ‘fragile’. “With the kind of batting line-up that Australia have, they are very vulnerable at the top of the order. They are very fragile, apart from Labuschagne and Smith. Travis Head is very vulnerable. Cameron Green will probably be playing his second Test match,” Gambhir said on Sports Today on YouTube. “Tim Paine, yes, he has done well in the previous game, but he has his own shortcomings as well, and then you are into the bowlers. So apart from two batters, No.3 and No.4, there is a lot of fragilities. So, India can actually look to exploit that.” India's bowling unit had a great outing. Bumrah's four dismissals and Ashwin's three wickets wrapped the hosts to a modest total. “When you have got people like Jasprit Bumrah who are world-class when you have Ravichandran Ashwin, you have Umesh Yadav who has played over 35-40 Test matches. So you expect Indian bowling line-up to actually come good,” Gambhir said. “It is for the batters to put runs on the board and don’t think about putting 400 on the board, look to get 275 and give something to your bowlers. Because you have these world-class bowlers and 275 is good enough. You have got someone like Jasprit Bumrah who can probably win a game as well in his five-spell. Other bowlers need to complement him, they should not leak runs.”

'Look to get 275 and give something to your bowlers': Gautam Gambhir on India's performance on Day 1

India paceman Mohammed Siraj had an impressive debut after a scalping two vital wickets including a crucial in-form Labuschagne. Bumrah praised Siraj, saying the fast bowler deserves to play Test cricket for India.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-you-have-earned-this-test-cap-ashwins-motivating-speech-as-he-welcomes-siraj-in-playing-xi-352550" hreflang="en">WATCH- 'You have earned this Test cap': Ashwin's motivating speech as he welcomes Siraj in playing XI</a>

“He has worked really hard and come up the ranks. He was eager to bowl in the first session itself. There wasn’t a lot happening after lunch and he (Siraj) bowled with a lot of control,” he said. “Suddenly he started getting some movement and wanted to make the best of it. Playing his first Test match, he bowled really well and had confidence of using all his skills. It’s a heartening sign for us and hopefully, he will continue doing that.”

India ended Day 1 on a high note after restricting the hosts to 195 runs. In reply, India is currently at 36/1. Despite losing Agarwal early, Gill and Pujara have looked comfortable with the bowl.

Also read:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-2nd-test-team-india-end-day-1-on-a-high-note-as-australia-bowled-out-for-195-352533" hreflang="en">IND vs AUS, 2nd Test: Team India end Day 1 on a high note as Australia bowled out for 195</a>

Bumrah, who removed four Aussie batsmen, praised his bowling unit and talked about including the call to introduce spin early. “When we were bowling in the morning there was some moisture on the wicket, so you saw Ashwin and Jaddu (Ravindra Jadeja) got some spin. Because we wanted to make the most of the moisture, we were trying to use them, he (Ashwin) was getting good bounce,” Bumrah said.

“There were constant discussions going on between bowlers and the captain. The wicket changed after the first session. It got better to bat on in the second session and moisture went away. We were just trying to communicate what kind of lines we wanted to bowl so that we can set the field accordingly. When there was less help, we tried to change the line accordingly.”

“We don’t want to be conservative in our mindset and be positive. Control the controllables. Not being reckless but playing with confidence will be the motive going forward. We are trying to focus on things that are in our hands. The focus will be on the first session tomorrow,” he said.

India paceman Mohammed Siraj had an impressive debut after a scalping two vital wickets including a crucial in-form Labuschagne. Bumrah praised Siraj, saying the fast bowler deserves to play Test cricket for India.

India paceman Mohammed Siraj had an impressive debut after a scalping two vital wickets including a crucial in-form Labuschagne. Bumrah praised Siraj, saying the fast bowler deserves to play Test cricket for India. Also read: WATCH- 'You have earned this Test cap': Ashwin's motivating speech as he welcomes Siraj in playing XI “He has worked really hard and come up the ranks. He was eager to bowl in the first session itself. There wasn’t a lot happening after lunch and he (Siraj) bowled with a lot of control,” he said. “Suddenly he started getting some movement and wanted to make the best of it. Playing his first Test match, he bowled really well and had confidence of using all his skills. It’s a heartening sign for us and hopefully, he will continue doing that.” India ended Day 1 on a high note after restricting the hosts to 195 runs. In reply, India is currently at 36/1. Despite losing Agarwal early, Gill and Pujara have looked comfortable with the bowl. Also read: IND vs AUS, 2nd Test: Team India end Day 1 on a high note as Australia bowled out for 195 Bumrah, who removed four Aussie batsmen, praised his bowling unit and talked about including the call to introduce spin early. “When we were bowling in the morning there was some moisture on the wicket, so you saw Ashwin and Jaddu (Ravindra Jadeja) got some spin. Because we wanted to make the most of the moisture, we were trying to use them, he (Ashwin) was getting good bounce,” Bumrah said. “There were constant discussions going on between bowlers and the captain. The wicket changed after the first session. It got better to bat on in the second session and moisture went away. We were just trying to communicate what kind of lines we wanted to bowl so that we can set the field accordingly. When there was less help, we tried to change the line accordingly.” “We don’t want to be conservative in our mindset and be positive. Control the controllables. Not being reckless but playing with confidence will be the motive going forward. We are trying to focus on things that are in our hands. The focus will be on the first session tomorrow,” he said.

'He has worked really hard and come up the ranks': Jasprit Bumrah praises fellow paceman Siraj

Team India ended Day 1 of the second Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on a high as they bundled out Australia for 195 before stumps on Saturday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashwin-suffered-for-his-forthrightness-and-speaking-his-mind-at-meetings-sunil-gavaskar-352371" hreflang="en">'Ashwin suffered for his forthrightness and speaking his mind at meetings': Sunil Gavaskar</a>

India's pacer spearhead Jasprit Bumrah scalped four wickets including Burns and Head. Ashwin, on the other hand, took three vital wickets of Smith, Wade, Paine for Team India. Debutant Siraj removed two batsmen which include the man in form Labuschagne.&nbsp;

Australia lost their top order quickly and failed to capitalise despite winning the toss. Labuschagne scored of the runs for Australia before being dismissed by debutant Siraj on 48. Smith and Paine failed to perform on Day 1. India's clinical bowling performance and good fielding clean swept the Australians for 195.&nbsp;

In reply, India lost their opener, Mayank Agarwal, for a duck, whereas Shubman Gill's confident unbeaten 28 runs helped India finish the day with 36 runs and nine wickets in hand. He currently is in a steady partnership with Cheteshwar Pujara, who is currently on the crease with 7 runs off 23 balls. After the end of Day 1, India trail by 159 runs.&nbsp;

Australia Squad

Playing: Matthew Wade, Joe Burns, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Tim Paine (c &amp; wk), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

Bench: Marcus Harris, Moises Henriques, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Mitchell Swepson, Will Pucovski

India Squad

Playing: Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj

Bench: Prithvi Shaw, Wriddhiman Saha, Navdeep Saini, KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav&nbsp;

Team India ended Day 1 of the second Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on a high as they bundled out Australia for 195 before stumps on Saturday. Also read: 'Ashwin suffered for his forthrightness and speaking his mind at meetings': Sunil Gavaskar India's pacer spearhead Jasprit Bumrah scalped four wickets including Burns and Head.

Team India ended Day 1 of the second Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on a high as they bundled out Australia for 195 before stumps on Saturday. Also read: 'Ashwin suffered for his forthrightness and speaking his mind at meetings': Sunil Gavaskar India's pacer spearhead Jasprit Bumrah scalped four wickets including Burns and Head. Ashwin, on the other hand, took three vital wickets of Smith, Wade, Paine for Team India. Debutant Siraj removed two batsmen which include the man in form Labuschagne. Australia lost their top order quickly and failed to capitalise despite winning the toss. Labuschagne scored of the runs for Australia before being dismissed by debutant Siraj on 48. Smith and Paine failed to perform on Day 1. India's clinical bowling performance and good fielding clean swept the Australians for 195. In reply, India lost their opener, Mayank Agarwal, for a duck, whereas Shubman Gill's confident unbeaten 28 runs helped India finish the day with 36 runs and nine wickets in hand. He currently is in a steady partnership with Cheteshwar Pujara, who is currently on the crease with 7 runs off 23 balls. After the end of Day 1, India trail by 159 runs. Australia Squad Playing: Matthew Wade, Joe Burns, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Tim Paine (c & wk), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood Bench: Marcus Harris, Moises Henriques, Michael Neser, James Pattinson, Mitchell Swepson, Will Pucovski India Squad Playing: Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj Bench: Prithvi Shaw, Wriddhiman Saha, Navdeep Saini, KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav

IND vs AUS, 2nd Test: Team India end Day 1 on a high note as Australia bowled out for 195

Indian and Australian players will pay a special tribute to legendary cricketer Dean Jones on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Saturday.&nbsp;

Former Aussie great passed away in Mumbai in September during the Indian Premier League 2020. The special tribute will be held during the Tea break on Day 1 at the MCG.

Jones was a massively popular commentator and analyst and was roped in for the analysis show during Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 which is being held in UAE. Jones has commentated in leagues across the world and was a popular figure due to his classy takes on the match.

The former Aussie batsman played 52 Test matches while scoring 3631 runs at an average of 46.55. Jones had smashed 11 centuries including the highest score of 216. He was a crucial part of Allan Border's Australian side. Jones represented Australia in 164 ODIs and went on to score 6068 runs including seven centuries in 46 fifties.

Upon Dean's death, the former Aussie was given a private farewell lap at the MCG's hallowed turf. &nbsp;

Indian and Australian players will pay a special tribute to legendary cricketer Dean Jones on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Saturday.

Indian and Australian players will pay a special tribute to legendary cricketer Dean Jones on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Saturday. Former Aussie great passed away in Mumbai in September during the Indian Premier League 2020. The special tribute will be held during the Tea break on Day 1 at the MCG. Jones was a massively popular commentator and analyst and was roped in for the analysis show during Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 which is being held in UAE. Jones has commentated in leagues across the world and was a popular figure due to his classy takes on the match. The former Aussie batsman played 52 Test matches while scoring 3631 runs at an average of 46.55. Jones had smashed 11 centuries including the highest score of 216. He was a crucial part of Allan Border's Australian side. Jones represented Australia in 164 ODIs and went on to score 6068 runs including seven centuries in 46 fifties. Upon Dean's death, the former Aussie was given a private farewell lap at the MCG's hallowed turf.

Indian and Australian players to pay tribute to Dean Jones on Boxing Day Test

Team India has failed to establish their&nbsp;dominance in the series against Australia. Their mammoth collapse in the first Test raised several questions on the team's management, including Kohli's captaincy.&nbsp;Virat Kohli's departure at a time like this has not gone down with many former players, one of them being former left-arm spinner Dilip Doshi. According to Dilip, it is the captain's task to take charge of the ‘sinking ship’.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-are-going-to-blow-india-away-in-boxing-day-test-shane-warne-352036" hreflang="en">Australia are going to blow India away in Boxing Day Test: Shane Warne</a>

“To me, captaining India would be the prime-most thing on my mind. It’s a sinking ship. This is the time when they need their captain the most. If you leave at this time, you are leaving the side to your deputy with a lot of questions unanswered. I only hope and pray that the team shows enough character to come out of this,” Doshi told Sportskeeda in a video interview.

“I know this is a modern phenomenon that people believe that they ought to be by the side of their family and spouses when they deliver a child. I understand all that. But when you are on a national duty… If I put myself in his shoes, I wouldn’t have gone. For me, national duty comes before everything else.

Despite agreeing to the legality of the situation, he said that he 'personally' would chosen to stay and play for India.&nbsp;

“This is a highly individual and institutional approach. Legally, you cannot stop somebody doing that. The cricket board cannot have a rule saying the players cannot go and be on the side of their spouses for such an occasion. Personally, I wouldn’t have gone,” added Doshi.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/melbourne-on-standby-for-third-test-sydney-still-preferred-option-nick-hockley-352020" hreflang="en">Melbourne on standby for third Test, Sydney still preferred option: Nick Hockley</a>

Doshi went on to term Kohli as an 'outstanding player' but also said that the team will definitely miss Kohli the batsman that the skipper.&nbsp;

“He’s an outstanding player. The team will miss him as a player more than as a captain. Him being at the crease gives a lot of confidence to other people,” said the 73-year-old.

After a poor start to the series, India will take on Australia in the Boxing Day Test match where Ajinkya Rahane will lead the hosts.&nbsp;

Team India has failed to establish their dominance in the series against Australia. Their mammoth collapse in the first Test raised several questions on the team's management, including Kohli's captaincy.

Team India has failed to establish their dominance in the series against Australia. Their mammoth collapse in the first Test raised several questions on the team's management, including Kohli's captaincy. Virat Kohli's departure at a time like this has not gone down with many former players, one of them being former left-arm spinner Dilip Doshi. According to Dilip, it is the captain's task to take charge of the ‘sinking ship’. Also read: Australia are going to blow India away in Boxing Day Test: Shane Warne “To me, captaining India would be the prime-most thing on my mind. It’s a sinking ship. This is the time when they need their captain the most. If you leave at this time, you are leaving the side to your deputy with a lot of questions unanswered. I only hope and pray that the team shows enough character to come out of this,” Doshi told Sportskeeda in a video interview. “I know this is a modern phenomenon that people believe that they ought to be by the side of their family and spouses when they deliver a child. I understand all that. But when you are on a national duty… If I put myself in his shoes, I wouldn’t have gone. For me, national duty comes before everything else. Despite agreeing to the legality of the situation, he said that he 'personally' would chosen to stay and play for India. “This is a highly individual and institutional approach. Legally, you cannot stop somebody doing that. The cricket board cannot have a rule saying the players cannot go and be on the side of their spouses for such an occasion. Personally, I wouldn’t have gone,” added Doshi. Also read: Melbourne on standby for third Test, Sydney still preferred option: Nick Hockley Doshi went on to term Kohli as an 'outstanding player' but also said that the team will definitely miss Kohli the batsman that the skipper. “He’s an outstanding player. The team will miss him as a player more than as a captain. Him being at the crease gives a lot of confidence to other people,” said the 73-year-old. After a poor start to the series, India will take on Australia in the Boxing Day Test match where Ajinkya Rahane will lead the hosts.

'It's a sinking ship, I wouldn’t have gone': Dilip Doshi on Virat Kohli's paternity leave

India committed several mistakes during the first match in Adelaide, especially with the bat and fielding. &nbsp;Virat and Co. dropped some vital catches that could change the course of the match.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-goes-ahead-with-plans-for-sydney-test-match-despite-covid-19-surge-351178" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia goes ahead with plans for Sydney Test match despite COVID-19 surge</a>

In the second innings, Team India were heavily let down by their batting as they were&nbsp;all out for 36 runs. Former Aussie wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist feels India need to address their batting woes, starting with opener Prithvi Shaw.

“In both innings, Prithvi Shaw’s early dismissal put the team on the back foot. Shaw was part of the team during the last India series here, and there has been plenty of hype and build-up around the youngster. This has also meant that his technique has been scrutinised and there was a clear plan to exploit the gap between his bat and pad that is a matter of concern for the youngster,” Gilchrist wrote in his column for Mid-Day.

Shaw disappointed in both innings as he was out on a duck in the first and was removed for just four runs in the second. He was bowled both the times. “Shaw has also been prone to expansive shots which might backfire in Australian conditions because he will be liable to edging one to gully. While he is a talented youngster, his performance will put the selectors in a dilemma as they plan for the Boxing Day Test,” he added.

Gilchrist also added that Pujara was too defensive in the first innings. Pujara scored 43 off 160 balls with two fours at a strike-rate of 26.88.&nbsp;

“Looking back at the first innings, I would think that the seemingly slow batting from Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli was, in fact superb defensive batting. That was what India failed to replicate in the second innings,” Gilchrist wrote.

“In the first innings it had seemed that India were not looking for scoring opportunities, but Kohli’s masterclass of concentration alongside Pujara and later Ajinkya Rahane is what ensured that India reached 244.”

India committed several mistakes during the first match in Adelaide, especially with the bat and fielding. Virat and Co. dropped some vital catches that could change the course of the match.

India committed several mistakes during the first match in Adelaide, especially with the bat and fielding. Virat and Co. dropped some vital catches that could change the course of the match. Also read: Cricket Australia goes ahead with plans for Sydney Test match despite COVID-19 surge In the second innings, Team India were heavily let down by their batting as they were all out for 36 runs. Former Aussie wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist feels India need to address their batting woes, starting with opener Prithvi Shaw. “In both innings, Prithvi Shaw’s early dismissal put the team on the back foot. Shaw was part of the team during the last India series here, and there has been plenty of hype and build-up around the youngster. This has also meant that his technique has been scrutinised and there was a clear plan to exploit the gap between his bat and pad that is a matter of concern for the youngster,” Gilchrist wrote in his column for Mid-Day. Shaw disappointed in both innings as he was out on a duck in the first and was removed for just four runs in the second. He was bowled both the times. “Shaw has also been prone to expansive shots which might backfire in Australian conditions because he will be liable to edging one to gully. While he is a talented youngster, his performance will put the selectors in a dilemma as they plan for the Boxing Day Test,” he added. Gilchrist also added that Pujara was too defensive in the first innings. Pujara scored 43 off 160 balls with two fours at a strike-rate of 26.88. “Looking back at the first innings, I would think that the seemingly slow batting from Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli was, in fact superb defensive batting. That was what India failed to replicate in the second innings,” Gilchrist wrote. “In the first innings it had seemed that India were not looking for scoring opportunities, but Kohli’s masterclass of concentration alongside Pujara and later Ajinkya Rahane is what ensured that India reached 244.”

'His early dismissal put the team on the back foot': Adam Gilchrist talks about major worry for India

With Virat Kohli leaving for India, legendary Australian pacer Glenn McGrath suggested two vital changes in Team India's playing XI for the Boxing Day Test match against Australia in Melbourne that is scheduled to start on December 26.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-selectors-have-failed-tom-moody-feels-this-batsman-should-have-played-instead-of-prithvi-shaw-351020" hreflang="en">'The selectors have failed': Tom Moody feels this batsman should have played instead of Prithvi Shaw</a>

The bowler also commented on India's collapse during Day 3 of the first day-night Test in Adelaide despite taking a lead of 62 runs by the end of Day 2. It took the hosts only 21 overs to chase 90 runs to win the first Test by 8 wickets.&nbsp;

“India had to start well. They needed to get a win on the board, but unfortunately, that hasn’t happened. It was an unbelievable bowling performance by Australia,” said McGrath in the post-match show on Sony Sports Network.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nothing-wrong-with-the-indian-effort-today-sunil-gavaskar-comforts-virat-and-co-350994" hreflang="en">'Nothing wrong with the Indian effort today': Sunil Gavaskar comforts Virat and Co.</a>

“Virat Kohli is such an impact player. Without him, it leaves a big hole but at the same time it leaves an opportunity to other players to put their hand up,” McGrath said. The former Australia fast bowler named KL Rahul as Kohli’s replacement. “Maybe KL Rahul can come in for Virat Kohli,” he said.

McGrath suggested another change in the opening slot of the Indian batting order. “The other option India have is Shubman Gill, who actually came out looking positive in one-day series, he didn’t seemed to be overawed by the stage, that to me would be one potential change at the top,” McGrath added.

Prithvi Shaw's form has been a worry for the Men in Blue, former Aussie said: “They need to know internally how he’s going. The captain, the coaches, the support staff will have to know that. The thing that I’m worried about is that he got out in the same way in two innings. That is a concern against bowlers like Cummins, Hazlewood and Starc. They gonna come at you always. The internal people will know it.”

With Virat Kohli leaving for India, legendary Australian pacer Glenn McGrath suggested two vital changes in Team India's playing XI for the Boxing Day Test match against Australia in Melbourne that is scheduled to start on December 26.

With Virat Kohli leaving for India, legendary Australian pacer Glenn McGrath suggested two vital changes in Team India's playing XI for the Boxing Day Test match against Australia in Melbourne that is scheduled to start on December 26. ALSO READ: 'The selectors have failed': Tom Moody feels this batsman should have played instead of Prithvi Shaw The bowler also commented on India's collapse during Day 3 of the first day-night Test in Adelaide despite taking a lead of 62 runs by the end of Day 2. It took the hosts only 21 overs to chase 90 runs to win the first Test by 8 wickets. “India had to start well. They needed to get a win on the board, but unfortunately, that hasn’t happened. It was an unbelievable bowling performance by Australia,” said McGrath in the post-match show on Sony Sports Network. ALSO READ: 'Nothing wrong with the Indian effort today': Sunil Gavaskar comforts Virat and Co. “Virat Kohli is such an impact player. Without him, it leaves a big hole but at the same time it leaves an opportunity to other players to put their hand up,” McGrath said. The former Australia fast bowler named KL Rahul as Kohli’s replacement. “Maybe KL Rahul can come in for Virat Kohli,” he said. McGrath suggested another change in the opening slot of the Indian batting order. “The other option India have is Shubman Gill, who actually came out looking positive in one-day series, he didn’t seemed to be overawed by the stage, that to me would be one potential change at the top,” McGrath added. Prithvi Shaw's form has been a worry for the Men in Blue, former Aussie said: “They need to know internally how he’s going. The captain, the coaches, the support staff will have to know that. The thing that I’m worried about is that he got out in the same way in two innings. That is a concern against bowlers like Cummins, Hazlewood and Starc. They gonna come at you always. The internal people will know it.”

Glenn McGrath suggests two 'potential' changes in Team India's playing XI

Aussie great Allan Border sledged former bowling legend, Glenn McGrath, in the pre-match of the India vs Australia day-night Test in Adelaide.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thats-racist-fans-blast-shane-warne-for-calling-cheteshwar-pujara-as-steve-350428" hreflang="en">'That's racist!': Fans blast Shane Warne for calling Cheteshwar Pujara as 'Steve'</a>

On Thursday, McGrath asked Border for his opinion on all-rounder Cameron Green, who made his Test debut for Australia on Thursday. Border went on to praise the newbie, however, while doing that he took a cheeky dig at the former pacer and said that Green is probably 10 km/h quicker than what McGrath was when he first started playing first-class cricket.

“He’s an exciting young talent. What I like about him is that he as backed his potential with performance. He’s been scoring lots of runs in Sheffield Shield,” Border said on Sony Sports Network.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/adelaide-test-cheteshwar-pujara-scripts-unique-record-against-australia-in-test-cricket-350411" hreflang="en">Adelaide Test: Cheteshwar Pujara scripts unique record against Australia in Test cricket</a>

“Lot of people have said that he’s the best they’ve seen since Ricky Ponting. You went to the academy with Ponting, so you know what a quality youngster he was and turned out to be one of the greats of the game. So if Green is anywhere near that then we have found a really good cricketer then you throw in the fact he’s around 6 foot 6 and bowls a heavy ball. He’s probably around 10 km/h&nbsp;quicker than you pidgy! (McGrath’s nickname), bowls around 140. So he’s a real deal, don’t worry about that,” added Border.

“That is a proper sledge,” said Harsha Bhogle, the host of the show as he and the panellists Sanjay Manjrekar, and McGrath himself broke into laughter.

McGrath took the dig lightly and was quick to narrate how Border had a lot to say when he first started playing the Sheffield Shield for New South Wales.

Aussie great Allan Border sledged former bowling legend, Glenn McGrath, in the pre-match of the India vs Australia day-night Test in Adelaide. Also read: 'That's racist!

Aussie great Allan Border sledged former bowling legend, Glenn McGrath, in the pre-match of the India vs Australia day-night Test in Adelaide. Also read: 'That's racist!': Fans blast Shane Warne for calling Cheteshwar Pujara as 'Steve' On Thursday, McGrath asked Border for his opinion on all-rounder Cameron Green, who made his Test debut for Australia on Thursday. Border went on to praise the newbie, however, while doing that he took a cheeky dig at the former pacer and said that Green is probably 10 km/h quicker than what McGrath was when he first started playing first-class cricket. “He’s an exciting young talent. What I like about him is that he as backed his potential with performance. He’s been scoring lots of runs in Sheffield Shield,” Border said on Sony Sports Network. Also read: Adelaide Test: Cheteshwar Pujara scripts unique record against Australia in Test cricket “Lot of people have said that he’s the best they’ve seen since Ricky Ponting. You went to the academy with Ponting, so you know what a quality youngster he was and turned out to be one of the greats of the game. So if Green is anywhere near that then we have found a really good cricketer then you throw in the fact he’s around 6 foot 6 and bowls a heavy ball. He’s probably around 10 km/h quicker than you pidgy! (McGrath’s nickname), bowls around 140. So he’s a real deal, don’t worry about that,” added Border. “That is a proper sledge,” said Harsha Bhogle, the host of the show as he and the panellists Sanjay Manjrekar, and McGrath himself broke into laughter. McGrath took the dig lightly and was quick to narrate how Border had a lot to say when he first started playing the Sheffield Shield for New South Wales.

'He is 10 km/h quicker than you pidgy!': Allan Border sledges fellow Australian Glenn McGrath

Former Australia skipper Greg Chappell on Friday called the Indian captain Virat Kohli is the "most Australian non-Australian". Chappell went on to thank him for championing the cause of the Test format with his “all-out aggression“.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/where-are-shubman-gill-and-rishabh-pant-fans-question-team-india-playing-xi-350150" hreflang="en">Where are Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant? Fans question Team India playing XI</a>

Virat Kohli reacted to Chappell's comments during a press conference on the eve of the first Test against Australia on Thursday. Indian cricketer said that his character is the representation of a new India.

"I have always been myself. The way my personality and character is... it is the representation of a new India. For me, that's how I look at it. &nbsp;It's not a comparison of me being similar to an Australian mindset or anything like that. It's how we have started to stand up as a team, and my personality has always been like this from day one," Kohli said.

"We want to take up challenges and move forward with optimism and positivity, make sure that we are up for any challenges," Kohli&nbsp;added.

Fans have witnessed the best of Virat Kohli against Australia. However, Jasprit Bumrah also has a huge fanbase in Australia, especially after his brave bowling spells in the 2018-19 Test series.&nbsp;

"It's a wonderful place to play cricket. When you play well here, you earn the respect of the public and there is anticipation and chat around, wanting to see you play. Similarly with Jasprit as well. Last time, he performed really well, so there is going to be anticipation and excitement to watch him bowl," said the 32-year-old.

Former Australia skipper Greg Chappell on Friday called the Indian captain Virat Kohli is the "most Australian non-Australian". Chappell went on to thank him for championing the cause of the Test format with his “all-out aggression“.

Former Australia skipper Greg Chappell on Friday called the Indian captain Virat Kohli is the "most Australian non-Australian". Chappell went on to thank him for championing the cause of the Test format with his “all-out aggression“. Also read: Where are Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant? Fans question Team India playing XI Virat Kohli reacted to Chappell's comments during a press conference on the eve of the first Test against Australia on Thursday. Indian cricketer said that his character is the representation of a new India. "I have always been myself. The way my personality and character is... it is the representation of a new India. For me, that's how I look at it. It's not a comparison of me being similar to an Australian mindset or anything like that. It's how we have started to stand up as a team, and my personality has always been like this from day one," Kohli said. "We want to take up challenges and move forward with optimism and positivity, make sure that we are up for any challenges," Kohli added. Fans have witnessed the best of Virat Kohli against Australia. However, Jasprit Bumrah also has a huge fanbase in Australia, especially after his brave bowling spells in the 2018-19 Test series. "It's a wonderful place to play cricket. When you play well here, you earn the respect of the public and there is anticipation and chat around, wanting to see you play. Similarly with Jasprit as well. Last time, he performed really well, so there is going to be anticipation and excitement to watch him bowl," said the 32-year-old.

'My personality is the representation of a new India': Virat Kohli

Australia's pacer spearhead Mitchell Starc will be rejoining the squad in Adelaide on Monday to prepare for the first test against India after he withdrew from the T20 series due to a family illness.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-all-about-experimenting-kapil-dev-urges-kohli-to-promote-pandya-to-no4-in-t20is-349477" hreflang="en">Kapil Dev urges Virat Kohli to promote Hardik Pandya to No.4 in T20Is</a>

Cricket Australia on Sunday said that Starc will be travelling with several other members of the Australian side and the Indian team on a charter flight.&nbsp;

"We feel for Mitch at this difficult time and were happy he has taken time out to spend with his family," Australia coach Justin Langer said in a statement.

"We look forward to welcoming him back into the squad on Monday."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-shaun-marshs-time-is-done-brad-haddin-on-chances-of-veteran-aussies-selection-349465" hreflang="en">'I think Shaun Marsh’s time is done': Haddin on veteran Aussie's selection</a>

Starc's fellow paceman Josh Hazlewood also welcomed the fast bowler.&nbsp;

"It's obviously great news for us to have Starcy come in tomorrow," Hazlewood told reporters on Sunday. "He's a huge part of our team and a huge part of our attack.

"Everyone knows his numbers with the pink ball are pretty special so we welcome him with open arms."

Australia's pacer spearhead Mitchell Starc will be rejoining the squad in Adelaide on Monday to prepare for the first test against India after he withdrew from the T20 series due to a family illness.

Australia's pacer spearhead Mitchell Starc will be rejoining the squad in Adelaide on Monday to prepare for the first test against India after he withdrew from the T20 series due to a family illness. Also read: Kapil Dev urges Virat Kohli to promote Hardik Pandya to No.4 in T20Is Cricket Australia on Sunday said that Starc will be travelling with several other members of the Australian side and the Indian team on a charter flight. "We feel for Mitch at this difficult time and were happy he has taken time out to spend with his family," Australia coach Justin Langer said in a statement. "We look forward to welcoming him back into the squad on Monday." Also read: 'I think Shaun Marsh’s time is done': Haddin on veteran Aussie's selection Starc's fellow paceman Josh Hazlewood also welcomed the fast bowler. "It's obviously great news for us to have Starcy come in tomorrow," Hazlewood told reporters on Sunday. "He's a huge part of our team and a huge part of our attack. "Everyone knows his numbers with the pink ball are pretty special so we welcome him with open arms."

Mitchell Starc to rejoin the Australian squad after family illness

Virat Kohli's absence in the final three Test matches against Australia will leave a big void for Team India. Discussion on who will replace Kohli in the team's batting order has been heating up.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-the-team-needs-me-to-open-thats-what-i-will-do-labuschagne-on-his-batting-order-against-india-349281" hreflang="en">'If team needs me to open..': Labuschagne on his batting order against India</a>

According to India's batting legend Gavaskar, vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane should bat for the team at the crucial No.4 position after Kohli leaves for the birth of his first child.

“Virat’s obviously there only for the first Test then you’d expect Rahane to take over (as captain) but they (India) have to find someone to bat at No.4. Who do you expect to take that No.4 spot?” asked former Australia skipper Ponting, who was the host of the panel discussion aired on 7 cricket, the official broadcaster of India vs Australia Tests.

“It looks to me it could be KL Rahul. Or no, actually I think Rahane will go at No.4 once Virat goes away,” Gavaskar said in reply.

Gavaskar went on to talk about the No.5 situation, he said: “Then you might have Rahul bat at No.5 or Shubman Gill.”

Talking about the first the Test, Gavaskar said Australia have the experience of playing more pink-ball Tests.

“I would think whoever bats well is going to win the game. Australia has played a lot of (day-night) matches, they have the experience of knowing exactly what happens when the sun’s going down and how to bat and bowl at that particular point of time,” he said.

Virat Kohli's absence in the final three Test matches against Australia will leave a big void for Team India. Discussion on who will replace Kohli in the team's batting order has been heating up.

Virat Kohli's absence in the final three Test matches against Australia will leave a big void for Team India. Discussion on who will replace Kohli in the team's batting order has been heating up. Also read: 'If team needs me to open..': Labuschagne on his batting order against India According to India's batting legend Gavaskar, vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane should bat for the team at the crucial No.4 position after Kohli leaves for the birth of his first child. “Virat’s obviously there only for the first Test then you’d expect Rahane to take over (as captain) but they (India) have to find someone to bat at No.4. Who do you expect to take that No.4 spot?” asked former Australia skipper Ponting, who was the host of the panel discussion aired on 7 cricket, the official broadcaster of India vs Australia Tests. “It looks to me it could be KL Rahul. Or no, actually I think Rahane will go at No.4 once Virat goes away,” Gavaskar said in reply. Gavaskar went on to talk about the No.5 situation, he said: “Then you might have Rahul bat at No.5 or Shubman Gill.” Talking about the first the Test, Gavaskar said Australia have the experience of playing more pink-ball Tests. “I would think whoever bats well is going to win the game. Australia has played a lot of (day-night) matches, they have the experience of knowing exactly what happens when the sun’s going down and how to bat and bowl at that particular point of time,” he said.

Sunil Gavaskar picks this batsman who will bat at No.4 after Virat Kohli leaves

Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne on Saturday said that there are no talks about him opening against India, however, he is ready to open the innings for the hosts.&nbsp;

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Openers David Warner and Will Pucovski have been ruled out of the first Test which makes Labuschange's chances to open the innings for the home team even more.&nbsp;

“No, there has not been (any talk on batting position)... currently I think number three. But I am just preparing to bat, if that’s No.1 or No.3, it doesn’t matter. I am ready to face the ball, no matter what the circumstances are,” he said during a virtual press conference. “Look, I finished last summer at three, so hopefully at three. But my job is to face the ball that is coming down to me wherever I am batting,” said the 26-year-old, who has played 14 Tests so far.

Labuschagne said he is ready to do whatever is the best for the team. “If the team needs me to open, that’s what I will do. It’s a team sport, it’s about winning games. We’ll have to wait and see how things pan out with a few other moving parts currently.”

The Australian talked about his preparations against India's bowling attack under lights. “We’re obviously prepared. We played (Jasprit) Bumrah in one-dayers and in the last ODI he really ramped it up and bowled very well. For us, we know who we are coming up against.

“So, it’s just making sure we are really focussed and understand what bowlers are doing. We know which bowlers we are playing (against) and we make sure that we prepare accordingly.”

Labuschagne also said that facing bowlers like Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood in the nets makes their players a better batsman.&nbsp;

“One thing that makes our batters that good is that we’re facing the best bowling attack in and out during training. The likes of Cummins, Hazlewood, Starc and (James) Pattinson, they are unbelievable bowlers. Facing them every training session ensures we prepare as good as we possibly can be at Test level,” he explained.

(Inputs from PTI)

Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne on Saturday said that there are no talks about him opening against India, however, he is ready to open the innings for the hosts.

Australian batsman Marnus Labuschagne on Saturday said that there are no talks about him opening against India, however, he is ready to open the innings for the hosts. Also read: Quinton de Kock to captain South Africa test team without strike bowler Rabada Openers David Warner and Will Pucovski have been ruled out of the first Test which makes Labuschange's chances to open the innings for the home team even more. “No, there has not been (any talk on batting position)... currently I think number three. But I am just preparing to bat, if that’s No.1 or No.3, it doesn’t matter. I am ready to face the ball, no matter what the circumstances are,” he said during a virtual press conference. “Look, I finished last summer at three, so hopefully at three. But my job is to face the ball that is coming down to me wherever I am batting,” said the 26-year-old, who has played 14 Tests so far. Labuschagne said he is ready to do whatever is the best for the team. “If the team needs me to open, that’s what I will do. It’s a team sport, it’s about winning games. We’ll have to wait and see how things pan out with a few other moving parts currently.” The Australian talked about his preparations against India's bowling attack under lights. “We’re obviously prepared. We played (Jasprit) Bumrah in one-dayers and in the last ODI he really ramped it up and bowled very well. For us, we know who we are coming up against. “So, it’s just making sure we are really focussed and understand what bowlers are doing. We know which bowlers we are playing (against) and we make sure that we prepare accordingly.” Labuschagne also said that facing bowlers like Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood in the nets makes their players a better batsman. “One thing that makes our batters that good is that we’re facing the best bowling attack in and out during training. The likes of Cummins, Hazlewood, Starc and (James) Pattinson, they are unbelievable bowlers. Facing them every training session ensures we prepare as good as we possibly can be at Test level,” he explained. (Inputs from PTI)

'If the team needs me to open, that’s what I will do': Labuschagne on his batting order against India

Virat Kohli's absence in the final three Test matches against hosts Australia has been the talking point of the tour. Ajinkya Rahane is likely to lead the team in Kohli's absence. Rahane will be leading with a huge void left by Kohli's absence.&nbsp;

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Aussie legend Ian Chappell feels that captaincy should not be a problem for India in the Test series as they have Rahane, however, he agreed that Virat's absence could play a huge role.

Chappell recalled Rahane’s ‘aggressive’ style of captaincy in the Dharamsala Test in 2017. “Well, I saw him captain in one Test against Australia (in Dharamsala in March 2017) and found his captaincy to be fabulous. He was really an aggressive captain,” Chappell told PTI during a virtual interactive session “Cricket Conversations”, anchored by senior cricket journalist Ashis Ray.

“I remember a couple of aspects about his captaincy. What stood out for me was in the Australian first innings, Warner was going well and getting on top of Indian bowlers. He brought in Kuldeep Yadav (debutant) and he dismissed Warner.

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“The second thing I remember was India chasing a low total and they lost a couple of wickets. Rahane just came in and attacked the Australian bowlers and scored some 20 odd (38 off 27 balls). I liked that approach.”

“Look, as a captain, you always have two choices -- one is the aggressive route and the other is a conservative approach. I have believed that in Test cricket aggressive approach is must and Rahane is aggressive.”

India have an edge against the Australian side in the day and night test match where Kohli will be present but the hosts will be missing out on Warner.&nbsp;

“Everything that could have gone wrong with opening has gone wrong. Warner is out and Joe Burns has been struggling. Luke Pucovski after another concussion, I don’t think it would be good to play him both in terms of confidence and medical point of view.”

“I think Australians will go with Joe Burns and Marcus Harris opening combination. I thought Cameron Green would have played in Sydney but after his century in the warm-up game and a couple of wickets that he picked, there may be a temptation to play him in Adelaide,” said the former Aussie legend.

Pacer Mitchell Starc will be replaced by James Pattinson. Starc is not available as he is out on compassionate grounds.&nbsp;

“But top order is the biggest concern. It’s not just about Warner’s presence but the manner in which he scores those runs as has detrimental effect on the opposition. In his absence, the responsibility will now be on Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne,” Chappell said.

He revealed a trick on how India could dismiss Smith. “You have to unsettle him (Smith) by changing plans. If you bowl short of a length, then he will be rocking back (and hitting for fun) all day. Somehow, you have got to get him to play forward even at the cost of few runs. But you will still have some chance of getting him out,” he said.

Virat Kohli's absence in the final three Test matches against hosts Australia has been the talking point of the tour. Ajinkya Rahane is likely to lead the team in Kohli's absence.

Virat Kohli's absence in the final three Test matches against hosts Australia has been the talking point of the tour. Ajinkya Rahane is likely to lead the team in Kohli's absence. Rahane will be leading with a huge void left by Kohli's absence. Also read: Virat and Co. fined for slow over-rate in third T20I against Australia Aussie legend Ian Chappell feels that captaincy should not be a problem for India in the Test series as they have Rahane, however, he agreed that Virat's absence could play a huge role. Chappell recalled Rahane’s ‘aggressive’ style of captaincy in the Dharamsala Test in 2017. “Well, I saw him captain in one Test against Australia (in Dharamsala in March 2017) and found his captaincy to be fabulous. He was really an aggressive captain,” Chappell told PTI during a virtual interactive session “Cricket Conversations”, anchored by senior cricket journalist Ashis Ray. “I remember a couple of aspects about his captaincy. What stood out for me was in the Australian first innings, Warner was going well and getting on top of Indian bowlers. He brought in Kuldeep Yadav (debutant) and he dismissed Warner. Also read: MS Dhoni emerges as the highest-paid player in IPL; Checkout the figures! “The second thing I remember was India chasing a low total and they lost a couple of wickets. Rahane just came in and attacked the Australian bowlers and scored some 20 odd (38 off 27 balls). I liked that approach.” “Look, as a captain, you always have two choices -- one is the aggressive route and the other is a conservative approach. I have believed that in Test cricket aggressive approach is must and Rahane is aggressive.” India have an edge against the Australian side in the day and night test match where Kohli will be present but the hosts will be missing out on Warner. “Everything that could have gone wrong with opening has gone wrong. Warner is out and Joe Burns has been struggling. Luke Pucovski after another concussion, I don’t think it would be good to play him both in terms of confidence and medical point of view.” “I think Australians will go with Joe Burns and Marcus Harris opening combination. I thought Cameron Green would have played in Sydney but after his century in the warm-up game and a couple of wickets that he picked, there may be a temptation to play him in Adelaide,” said the former Aussie legend. Pacer Mitchell Starc will be replaced by James Pattinson. Starc is not available as he is out on compassionate grounds. “But top order is the biggest concern. It’s not just about Warner’s presence but the manner in which he scores those runs as has detrimental effect on the opposition. In his absence, the responsibility will now be on Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne,” Chappell said. He revealed a trick on how India could dismiss Smith. “You have to unsettle him (Smith) by changing plans. If you bowl short of a length, then he will be rocking back (and hitting for fun) all day. Somehow, you have got to get him to play forward even at the cost of few runs. But you will still have some chance of getting him out,” he said.

'His captaincy is fabulous': Australian legend Ian Chappell on Ajinkya Rahane

KL Rahul and Virat Kohli witnessed a jump in their ranks after a successful T20I series against hosts Australia. Both batsmen made significant gains in the latest International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's T20I Player Rankings.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-hints-at-skipping-pink-ball-warm-up-match-against-australia-a-348609" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli hints at skipping pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A</a>

Team India won the T20I series 2-1 against the Aussies. Kohli and Rahul were the most consistent in the India lineup. Kohli, who played a blistering knock of 85 in the final match of the T20I series has secured the eighth position in the recently released ICC Men's T20I batting rankings.&nbsp;

KL Rahul broke into the top 3 of T20I rankings after scoring 81 runs in the three-match opera against Australia. KL has had a successful run in the T20 format. He was the orange cap winner in this year's Indian Premier League.&nbsp;

Taking the third spot in the ICC Men's T20I batting rankings, Rahul has bagged 816 points and the premier batsman is only 55 points behind second-placed Babar Azam in the current standings. While England star batsman Dawid Malan (915 points) retained the top spot, Australian limited-overs skipper Finch slipped to the fourth spot in the T20I batting rankings. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-to-return-for-ipl-202021-and-syed-mushtaq-ali-348610" hreflang="en">Suresh Raina to return for IPL 2020/21 and Syed Mushtaq Ali</a>

India had lost the third T20I by 12 runs on Tuesday but won the three-match series 2-1.&nbsp;

This was India’s first defeat in 12 T20Is for India with the last loss coming against the West Indies in Trivandrum in December 2019. The 12-run defeat to Australia also became India’s first away defeat in 11 matches since losing to New Zealand in Hamilton in February 2019.

The T20I series also marks the end to the limited-overs affair in India’s gruelling tour of Australia and both the teams will now focus on the four-match Test series, starting December 17.

KL Rahul and Virat Kohli witnessed a jump in their ranks after a successful T20I series against hosts Australia. Both batsmen made significant gains in the latest International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's T20I Player Rankings.

KL Rahul and Virat Kohli witnessed a jump in their ranks after a successful T20I series against hosts Australia. Both batsmen made significant gains in the latest International Cricket Council (ICC) Men's T20I Player Rankings. Also read: Virat Kohli hints at skipping pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A Team India won the T20I series 2-1 against the Aussies. Kohli and Rahul were the most consistent in the India lineup. Kohli, who played a blistering knock of 85 in the final match of the T20I series has secured the eighth position in the recently released ICC Men's T20I batting rankings. KL Rahul broke into the top 3 of T20I rankings after scoring 81 runs in the three-match opera against Australia. KL has had a successful run in the T20 format. He was the orange cap winner in this year's Indian Premier League. Taking the third spot in the ICC Men's T20I batting rankings, Rahul has bagged 816 points and the premier batsman is only 55 points behind second-placed Babar Azam in the current standings. While England star batsman Dawid Malan (915 points) retained the top spot, Australian limited-overs skipper Finch slipped to the fourth spot in the T20I batting rankings. Also read: Suresh Raina to return for IPL 2020/21 and Syed Mushtaq Ali India had lost the third T20I by 12 runs on Tuesday but won the three-match series 2-1. This was India’s first defeat in 12 T20Is for India with the last loss coming against the West Indies in Trivandrum in December 2019. The 12-run defeat to Australia also became India’s first away defeat in 11 matches since losing to New Zealand in Hamilton in February 2019. The T20I series also marks the end to the limited-overs affair in India’s gruelling tour of Australia and both the teams will now focus on the four-match Test series, starting December 17.

KL Rahul and Virat Kohli witness jump in ICC rankings after T20 series win

Virat and Co. have been fined 20 per cent of match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate in the third T20 International against Australia here.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/3rd-t20i-australia-take-consolation-win-as-india-clinch-series-2-1-348367">3rd T20I: Australia take consolation win as India clinch series 2-1</a>

These sanctions were imposed by ICC match referee David Boon after the Men in Blue were one over short of the target on Tuesday, after time allowances were taken into consideration.&nbsp;

"In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined 20 per cent of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time," the ICC said in a statement on Wednesday.

"Captain, Virat Kohli pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing."

These charges on-field umpires Rod Tucker, Gerard Abood, TV umpire Paul Wilson and fourth umpire Sam Nogajski.&nbsp;

India had lost the third T20I by 12 runs on Tuesday but won the three-match series 2-1.&nbsp;

Australia on Tuesday defeated India by 12 runs at the Sydney Cricket Ground in what was the third and final T20I match of the series. This was India’s first defeat in 12 T20Is for India with the last loss coming against the West Indies in Trivandrum in December 2019. The 12-run defeat to Australia also became India’s first away defeat in 11 matches since losing to New Zealand in Hamilton in February 2019.

The T20I series also marks the end to the limited-overs affair in India’s gruelling tour of Australia and both the teams will now focus on the four-match Test series, starting December 17.

Virat and Co. have been fined 20 per cent of match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate in the third T20 International against Australia here. Also read: 3rd T20I: Australia take consolation win as India clinch series 2-1 These sanctions were imposed by ICC match referee David Boon after the Men in Blue were one over short of the target on Tuesday, after time allowances were taken into consideration.

Virat and Co. have been fined 20 per cent of match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate in the third T20 International against Australia here. Also read: 3rd T20I: Australia take consolation win as India clinch series 2-1 These sanctions were imposed by ICC match referee David Boon after the Men in Blue were one over short of the target on Tuesday, after time allowances were taken into consideration. "In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined 20 per cent of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time," the ICC said in a statement on Wednesday. "Captain, Virat Kohli pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing." These charges on-field umpires Rod Tucker, Gerard Abood, TV umpire Paul Wilson and fourth umpire Sam Nogajski. India had lost the third T20I by 12 runs on Tuesday but won the three-match series 2-1. Australia on Tuesday defeated India by 12 runs at the Sydney Cricket Ground in what was the third and final T20I match of the series. This was India’s first defeat in 12 T20Is for India with the last loss coming against the West Indies in Trivandrum in December 2019. The 12-run defeat to Australia also became India’s first away defeat in 11 matches since losing to New Zealand in Hamilton in February 2019. The T20I series also marks the end to the limited-overs affair in India’s gruelling tour of Australia and both the teams will now focus on the four-match Test series, starting December 17.

Virat and Co. fined for slow over-rate in third T20I against Australia

India is set to take on hosts Australia in the second T20I of the three-match series at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Virat and Co. will look to seal the deal at Sydney to get some confidence before heading towards the much-anticipated Test series.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2nd-t20i-preview-probable-xi-players-to-watch-out-for-347864" hreflang="en">India vs Australia 2nd T20I: Preview, probable XI, players to watch out for</a>

Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravindra Jadeja starred in a close win against Australia in the first T20I in Canberra. However, India will head to the second match without Jadeja, who has been ruled out for the rest of the series. Pacer Shardul Thakur has been added to the T20I squad. KL Rahul's form has continued from the IPL, he scored a crucial half-century in tough conditions at Canberra. Virat could be lethal at SCG as he got out on a loose shot in Canberra and will not be looking to repeat the mistake. T Natarajan filled in Bumrah's shoes and troubled the Aussie batsmen. Chahar was expensive but troubled the man in form Steve Smith.&nbsp;

<h2>When and what time will India vs Australia 2nd&nbsp;T20I begin?</h2>

India vs Australia 2nd&nbsp;T20I will start at 1:40 PM IST. The toss will take place at 1:10 PM IST.

<h2>Where will India vs Australia 2nd&nbsp;T20I take place?</h2>

India vs Australia 2nd&nbsp;T20I match will be held at Sydney Cricket Ground.

<h2>Which channel will telecast India vs Australia 2nd&nbsp;T20I&nbsp;in India?</h2>

India vs Australia 2nd&nbsp;T20I will be live on Sony Ten 1 (and HD) and Sony Ten 3 (and HD) in India.

<h2>How to watch the live streaming of India vs Australia 2nd&nbsp;T20I?</h2>

India vs Australia 2nd&nbsp;T20I will be live-streamed on Airtel TV and Jio TV apps besides Sony Sports Network platforms.

<h2>India vs Australia 2nd&nbsp;T20I: Squads</h2>

India squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul (vice-captain), Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Hardik Pandya, Sanju Samson, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Navdeep Saini, Deepak Chahar, T Natarajan.&nbsp;

Australia squad: Aaron Finch (Captain), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Moises Henriques, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Daniel Sams, D'Arcy Short, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Andrew Tye, Matthew Wade, Adam Zampa.

India is set to take on hosts Australia in the second T20I of the three-match series at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Virat and Co. will look to seal the deal at Sydney to get some confidence before heading towards the much-anticipated Test series.

India is set to take on hosts Australia in the second T20I of the three-match series at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Virat and Co. will look to seal the deal at Sydney to get some confidence before heading towards the much-anticipated Test series. Also read: India vs Australia 2nd T20I: Preview, probable XI, players to watch out for Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravindra Jadeja starred in a close win against Australia in the first T20I in Canberra. However, India will head to the second match without Jadeja, who has been ruled out for the rest of the series. Pacer Shardul Thakur has been added to the T20I squad. KL Rahul's form has continued from the IPL, he scored a crucial half-century in tough conditions at Canberra. Virat could be lethal at SCG as he got out on a loose shot in Canberra and will not be looking to repeat the mistake. T Natarajan filled in Bumrah's shoes and troubled the Aussie batsmen. Chahar was expensive but troubled the man in form Steve Smith. When and what time will India vs Australia 2nd T20I begin? India vs Australia 2nd T20I will start at 1:40 PM IST. The toss will take place at 1:10 PM IST. Where will India vs Australia 2nd T20I take place? India vs Australia 2nd T20I match will be held at Sydney Cricket Ground. Which channel will telecast India vs Australia 2nd T20I in India? India vs Australia 2nd T20I will be live on Sony Ten 1 (and HD) and Sony Ten 3 (and HD) in India. How to watch the live streaming of India vs Australia 2nd T20I? India vs Australia 2nd T20I will be live-streamed on Airtel TV and Jio TV apps besides Sony Sports Network platforms. India vs Australia 2nd T20I: Squads India squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul (vice-captain), Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Hardik Pandya, Sanju Samson, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Navdeep Saini, Deepak Chahar, T Natarajan. Australia squad: Aaron Finch (Captain), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Moises Henriques, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Daniel Sams, D'Arcy Short, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Andrew Tye, Matthew Wade, Adam Zampa.

IND vs AUS 2nd T20I Live Streaming: How and where to watch India vs Australia?

India is set to take on hosts Australia in the second T20I of the three-match series at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Virat and Co. will look to seal the deal at Sydney to get some confidence before heading towards the much-anticipated Test series.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-kohli-has-unbelievable-bowling-attack-says-head-347727" hreflang="en">Ind vs Aus: Kohli has unbelievable bowling attack, says Head</a>

Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravindra Jadeja starred in a close win against Australia in the first T20I in Canberra. However, India will head to the second match without Jadeja, who has been ruled out for the rest of the series. Pacer Shardul Thakur has been added to the T20I squad. KL Rahul's form has continued from the IPL, he scored a crucial half-century in tough conditions at Canberra. Virat could be lethal at SCG as he got out on a loose shot in Canberra and will not be looking to repeat the mistake. T Natarajan filled in Bumrah's shoes and troubled the Aussie batsmen. Chahar was expensive but troubled the man in form Steve Smith.&nbsp;

Australia, on the other hand, will be looking to bounce back. SCG has been an ideal place for Aussie batsmen to score runs. Finch's injury leaves his availability hanging. Steve Smith seemed comfortable at the SCG than Canberra. Hazlewood was expensive last time and his over against Jadeja changed the course of the match. If Finch does not play this match, Steve Smith could don the role of captain.&nbsp;

Possible XI (India): Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul (wk), Virat Kohli (c), Sanju Samson, Manish Pandey, Hardik Pandya, Washington Sundar, Deepak Chahar, T Natarajan, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah

Possible XI (Australia): Aaron Finch (c)/D'Arcy Short, Alex Carey (wk), Steve Smith, Moises Henriques, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Wade, Sean Abbott, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood/Andrew Tye, Mitchell Swepson, Adam Zampa

Squads:

Australia: D Arcy Short, Aaron Finch(c), Steven Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Moises Henriques, Matthew Wade(w), Sean Abbott, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon, Alex Carey, Daniel Sams, Andrew Tye, Marnus Labuschagne, Marcus Stoinis

India: KL Rahul(w), Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Sanju Samson, Manish Pandey, Hardik Pandya, Washington Sundar, Deepak Chahar, Mohammed Shami, T Natarajan, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Shreyas Iyer, Mayank Agarwal, Navdeep Saini

India is set to take on hosts Australia in the second T20I of the three-match series at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Virat and Co. will look to seal the deal at Sydney to get some confidence before heading towards the much-anticipated Test series. Also read: Ind vs Aus: Kohli has unbelievable bowling attack, says Head Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravindra Jadeja starred in a close win against Australia in the first T20I in Canberra. However, India will head to the second match without Jadeja, who has been ruled out for the rest of the series. Pacer Shardul Thakur has been added to the T20I squad. KL Rahul's form has continued from the IPL, he scored a crucial half-century in tough conditions at Canberra. Virat could be lethal at SCG as he got out on a loose shot in Canberra and will not be looking to repeat the mistake. T Natarajan filled in Bumrah's shoes and troubled the Aussie batsmen. Chahar was expensive but troubled the man in form Steve Smith. Australia, on the other hand, will be looking to bounce back. SCG has been an ideal place for Aussie batsmen to score runs. Finch's injury leaves his availability hanging. Steve Smith seemed comfortable at the SCG than Canberra. Hazlewood was expensive last time and his over against Jadeja changed the course of the match. If Finch does not play this match, Steve Smith could don the role of captain. Possible XI (India): Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul (wk), Virat Kohli (c), Sanju Samson, Manish Pandey, Hardik Pandya, Washington Sundar, Deepak Chahar, T Natarajan, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah Possible XI (Australia): Aaron Finch (c)/D'Arcy Short, Alex Carey (wk), Steve Smith, Moises Henriques, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Wade, Sean Abbott, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood/Andrew Tye, Mitchell Swepson, Adam Zampa Squads: Australia: D Arcy Short, Aaron Finch(c), Steven Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Moises Henriques, Matthew Wade(w), Sean Abbott, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon, Alex Carey, Daniel Sams, Andrew Tye, Marnus Labuschagne, Marcus Stoinis India: KL Rahul(w), Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Sanju Samson, Manish Pandey, Hardik Pandya, Washington Sundar, Deepak Chahar, Mohammed Shami, T Natarajan, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Shreyas Iyer, Mayank Agarwal, Navdeep Saini

India vs Australia 2nd T20I: Preview, probable XI, players to watch out for

After winning the second T20I by six wickets and taking the unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series against Australia, India skipper Virat Kohli said it was an `amazing game of cricket` and lauded his teammates for their contribution in the match.

Hardik Pandya and Shreyas Iyer chased down 37 runs from the final three overs to put the visitors over the line.

Shikhar Dhawan and Kohli also got among the runs as India chased down the total of 195 with six wickets in hand and two balls to spare.

Taking to Twitter Kohli wrote, "Amazing game of cricket. Well done boys."

"Team Spirit Hundred points symbol Well played boys," KL Rahul tweeted.

Former India legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar hailed Men in Blue`s comprehensive performance in the shortest format series so far.

"Congratulations to #TeamIndia on winning the T20I series. Defending 161 in the 1st game and chasing 195 in the 2nd showed what a comprehensive performance this has been. Well done!" he tweeted.

Pandya was awarded Player of the Match for his match-winning knock of 42 off 22 balls and he dedicated this victory to the countrymen."This one is for everyone back home!" Pandya tweeted.

Iyer, who is celebrating his 26th birthday today, took to Twitter and said "Could not have asked for a better birthday. Thank you everyone for your wishes."Batting first, Australia once again piled on the misery on Indian bowlers and the side posted a total of 194 owing to knocks of 58 and 46 from Matthew Wade and Steve Smith. No Indian bowler apart from T Natarajan was able to leave his mark in the match and dropping catches did not help the visitor`s cause.

India did manage to remain on track throughout the whole chase as Shikhar Dhawan and Kohli played knocks of 52 and 40 respectively. In the final overs, Hardik (42*) and Shreyas (12*) managed to hit big shots to take Men in Blue over the line.

Both the teams will now lock horns in the third and final T20I at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Tuesday.&nbsp;

After winning the second T20I by six wickets and taking the unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series against Australia, India skipper Virat Kohli said it was an `amazing game of cricket` and lauded his teammates for their contribution in the match.

After winning the second T20I by six wickets and taking the unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series against Australia, India skipper Virat Kohli said it was an `amazing game of cricket` and lauded his teammates for their contribution in the match. Hardik Pandya and Shreyas Iyer chased down 37 runs from the final three overs to put the visitors over the line. Shikhar Dhawan and Kohli also got among the runs as India chased down the total of 195 with six wickets in hand and two balls to spare. Taking to Twitter Kohli wrote, "Amazing game of cricket. Well done boys." "Team Spirit Hundred points symbol Well played boys," KL Rahul tweeted. Former India legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar hailed Men in Blue`s comprehensive performance in the shortest format series so far. "Congratulations to #TeamIndia on winning the T20I series. Defending 161 in the 1st game and chasing 195 in the 2nd showed what a comprehensive performance this has been. Well done!" he tweeted. Pandya was awarded Player of the Match for his match-winning knock of 42 off 22 balls and he dedicated this victory to the countrymen."This one is for everyone back home!" Pandya tweeted. Iyer, who is celebrating his 26th birthday today, took to Twitter and said "Could not have asked for a better birthday. Thank you everyone for your wishes."Batting first, Australia once again piled on the misery on Indian bowlers and the side posted a total of 194 owing to knocks of 58 and 46 from Matthew Wade and Steve Smith. No Indian bowler apart from T Natarajan was able to leave his mark in the match and dropping catches did not help the visitor`s cause. India did manage to remain on track throughout the whole chase as Shikhar Dhawan and Kohli played knocks of 52 and 40 respectively. In the final overs, Hardik (42*) and Shreyas (12*) managed to hit big shots to take Men in Blue over the line. Both the teams will now lock horns in the third and final T20I at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Tuesday.

Amazing game of cricket, says Kohli after India seal T20I series with game to go

Australia coach Justin Langer on Sunday described India all-rounder Hardik Pandya's match-winning innings in the second T20 International as an "incredible spectacle" and likened him to former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni as a finisher.

A swashbuckling Pandya struck 42 not out off 22 balls as he finished what Shikhar Dhawan had set out to achieve with a scintillating 36-ball 52 to set up India's series-clinching six-wicket win.

"It was an incredible spectacle of a game. We know how dangerous he (Pandya) is. In the past we had MS Dhoni and the way he (Pandya) played today," Langer said at the virtual post-match press conference.

"He has played really well all summer so, obviously it was a great innings in the end there,"&nbsp;Langer admitted that India were too good for his side with a lot of experienced T20 players in their ranks.&nbsp;

"I thought the whole game was a very close one. Our fielding was absolutely incredible, it was electric to watch, but India with their experienced T20 players were too good for us today," said the Australia coach.

Virat Kohli also played a part in India's win with 40 runs off 24 balls and Langer praised the India captain for some "extraordinary" shots he played on Sunday. ?Some of Virat (Kohli's) shots, I have said for years he (Kohli) is the best player I have probably ever seen. Some of the shots he played tonight were extraordinary and (they got) good opening partnership and got over the line,"&nbsp;the former Australia opening batsman said.

According to Langer, his side thought they had enough runs on the board to defend and India had to bat really well to win the match. "I am proud of my players. It was a great spectacle, on a Sunday night India versus Australia, it got so close, it was a really exciting game. We batted really well, had enough runs and thought India would have to bat really well."

Langer also had words of praise for his leg-spinner Mitchell Swepson, who returned with figures of 1-25. ?I thought Mitch (Mitchell) Swepson bowled really well, he was excellent tonight and served the value of playing two leg-spinner bowlers. Mitch bowled well, (also) took a couple of catches, he has had a really good performance. "And Matthew Wade batted beautifully at the top of the order, Steve Smith also batted well, so plenty of good contributions, what stood out to me was the athleticism in the field.

"Didn't quite get us there, but we certainly had our chances to win the game like most of the games we have played ... Since the England (tour)." Talking about stand-in-skipper Matthew Wade, Langer said, "He did a really good job, mixed the bowling around well, that catch to get Virat out was an excellent catch. He had a good game."

The third T20 International will be telecast live on Sony Ten 1, Sony Ten 3 and Sony Six channels on Tuesday from 12.30pm.

Australia coach Justin Langer on Sunday described India all-rounder Hardik Pandya's match-winning innings in the second T20 International as an "incredible spectacle" and likened him to former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni as a finisher.

Australia coach Justin Langer on Sunday described India all-rounder Hardik Pandya's match-winning innings in the second T20 International as an "incredible spectacle" and likened him to former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni as a finisher. A swashbuckling Pandya struck 42 not out off 22 balls as he finished what Shikhar Dhawan had set out to achieve with a scintillating 36-ball 52 to set up India's series-clinching six-wicket win. "It was an incredible spectacle of a game. We know how dangerous he (Pandya) is. In the past we had MS Dhoni and the way he (Pandya) played today," Langer said at the virtual post-match press conference. "He has played really well all summer so, obviously it was a great innings in the end there," Langer admitted that India were too good for his side with a lot of experienced T20 players in their ranks. "I thought the whole game was a very close one. Our fielding was absolutely incredible, it was electric to watch, but India with their experienced T20 players were too good for us today," said the Australia coach. Virat Kohli also played a part in India's win with 40 runs off 24 balls and Langer praised the India captain for some "extraordinary" shots he played on Sunday. ?Some of Virat (Kohli's) shots, I have said for years he (Kohli) is the best player I have probably ever seen. Some of the shots he played tonight were extraordinary and (they got) good opening partnership and got over the line," the former Australia opening batsman said. According to Langer, his side thought they had enough runs on the board to defend and India had to bat really well to win the match. "I am proud of my players. It was a great spectacle, on a Sunday night India versus Australia, it got so close, it was a really exciting game. We batted really well, had enough runs and thought India would have to bat really well." Langer also had words of praise for his leg-spinner Mitchell Swepson, who returned with figures of 1-25. ?I thought Mitch (Mitchell) Swepson bowled really well, he was excellent tonight and served the value of playing two leg-spinner bowlers. Mitch bowled well, (also) took a couple of catches, he has had a really good performance. "And Matthew Wade batted beautifully at the top of the order, Steve Smith also batted well, so plenty of good contributions, what stood out to me was the athleticism in the field. "Didn't quite get us there, but we certainly had our chances to win the game like most of the games we have played ... Since the England (tour)." Talking about stand-in-skipper Matthew Wade, Langer said, "He did a really good job, mixed the bowling around well, that catch to get Virat out was an excellent catch. He had a good game." The third T20 International will be telecast live on Sony Ten 1, Sony Ten 3 and Sony Six channels on Tuesday from 12.30pm.

'Incredible spectacle': Langer impressed with Pandya's Dhoni-like finishing skills

India seals the T20I series against Australia after beating them by six wickets in a high scoring clash at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Virat and Co.&nbsp;took&nbsp;an unassailable in 2-0 lead against the hosts.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2nd-t20i-preview-probable-xi-players-to-watch-out-for-347864" hreflang="en">India vs Australia 2nd T20I: Preview, probable XI, players to watch out for</a>&nbsp;

India won the toss and chose to bowl. Australia were off to a great start as interim skipper Matthew Wade smashed a quickfire 58 runs off just 38 balls. However, Indian bowlers were quick to bounce back after Wade's dismissal after removing D'Arcy Short and Maxwell. Steve Smith held on to the crease. Stoinis and Henriques added the finishing touches to the Aussie innings powering the hosts to 194 runs in 20 overs. T Natarajan impressed everyone with his bowling spell. The newbie conceded 20 runs in just four over and scalped two wickets.&nbsp;

India too were off to a good start. The opening pair of KL Rahul and Shikhar Dhawan racked up quick boundaries in the first powerplay keeping India in the chase. However, India lost quick wickets in the middle overs. Indian skipper Virat Kohli was on the crease and smashed 40 runs off 24 runs. Pandya's innings were crucial to India as he took the team over the line. India needed 14 runs in final six balls. Pandya's two 6s in the 20th over sealed the deal for India with two balls to spare. Hardik Pandya was adjudged the Player of the Match for his blitzkrieg against the Aussie bowling unit.&nbsp;

India's win against Australia at the SCG makes it the second-highest successful run chases in Australia T20Is.&nbsp;

<h2>Highest successful run chases in Australia (T20I)</h2>

198 Ind vs Aus SCG 2016 
195 Ind vs Aus SCG 2020 * 
174 SL vs Aus Geelong 2017 
169 SL vs Aus MCG 2017

<h2>Most consecutive wins in T20Is</h2>

12 Afghanistan (2018-19) 
11 Afghanistan (2016-17) 
09 Pakistan (2018) 
09 India (2020) (current streak)

India will be eyeing to clean sweep Australia in the third and final T20I.&nbsp;

India seals the T20I series against Australia after beating them by six wickets in a high scoring clash at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Virat and Co. took an unassailable in 2-0 lead against the hosts.

India seals the T20I series against Australia after beating them by six wickets in a high scoring clash at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Virat and Co. took an unassailable in 2-0 lead against the hosts. Also read: India vs Australia 2nd T20I: Preview, probable XI, players to watch out for India won the toss and chose to bowl. Australia were off to a great start as interim skipper Matthew Wade smashed a quickfire 58 runs off just 38 balls. However, Indian bowlers were quick to bounce back after Wade's dismissal after removing D'Arcy Short and Maxwell. Steve Smith held on to the crease. Stoinis and Henriques added the finishing touches to the Aussie innings powering the hosts to 194 runs in 20 overs. T Natarajan impressed everyone with his bowling spell. The newbie conceded 20 runs in just four over and scalped two wickets. India too were off to a good start. The opening pair of KL Rahul and Shikhar Dhawan racked up quick boundaries in the first powerplay keeping India in the chase. However, India lost quick wickets in the middle overs. Indian skipper Virat Kohli was on the crease and smashed 40 runs off 24 runs. Pandya's innings were crucial to India as he took the team over the line. India needed 14 runs in final six balls. Pandya's two 6s in the 20th over sealed the deal for India with two balls to spare. Hardik Pandya was adjudged the Player of the Match for his blitzkrieg against the Aussie bowling unit. India's win against Australia at the SCG makes it the second-highest successful run chases in Australia T20Is. Highest successful run chases in Australia (T20I) 198 Ind vs Aus SCG 2016 195 Ind vs Aus SCG 2020 * 174 SL vs Aus Geelong 2017 169 SL vs Aus MCG 2017 Most consecutive wins in T20Is 12 Afghanistan (2018-19) 11 Afghanistan (2016-17) 09 Pakistan (2018) 09 India (2020) (current streak) India will be eyeing to clean sweep Australia in the third and final T20I.

IND vs AUS 2nd T20I: Virat and Co. beat Australia in a high scoring thriller