While there remains tension between India and Pakistan, due to the political relation, with both sides reluctant to travel to their respective nations for next year's Asia Cup and ODI World Cup, the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) is keen on hosting a Test match between the two heavyweights at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. This comes after the success of hosting the two Asian giants in the 2022 T20 World Cup on October 23.

While speaking on SEN radio during Day Four of the second and penultimate Test between Australia and South Africa, on Thursday (December 29), the MCC chief executive Stuart Fox revealed that the club, along with the Victoria government, had made an inquiry to Cricket Australia (CA) about hosting a neutral Test between India and Pakistan. A CA spokesperson has, in turn, confirmed ESPNCricinfo that the final decision to host a Test or a full series solely rests on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

"Absolutely. Three [Tests] in a row would be lovely at the MCG. You'd fill it every time. We have asked," Fox said. "We've taken that up with Cricket Australia. I know the [Victoria] government has as well. Again, it's enormously complicated from what I can understand, amongst a really busy schedule. So I think that's probably the greater challenge," he opined.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-thrash-south-africa-by-an-innings-and-182-runs-to-win-2nd-test-take-unassailable-2-0-lead-547547">Australia thrash South Africa by an innings and 182 runs to win 2nd Test, take unassailable 2-0 lead</a>

"Wouldn't it be great that it wasn't just Australia-centric and Victoria-centric, that we're catering for all the countries and filling the stadium all the time. So we have asked. "Hopefully, Cricket Australia keep taking it up with the ICC and keep pushing for it. When you do see some of the stadiums around the world unoccupied, I think it would be much better to have a full house and that atmosphere and celebrating the game with full houses," Fox further added.

India and Pakistan last played a Test series in 2007 when Anil Kumble-led India won 1-0. The two nations nowadays only meet in multi-nation or ICC events and their last face-off came during the 2022 T20 WC, in Australia, where Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. beat Babar Azam-led Men in Green by four wickets in a last-ball thriller at a jam-packed MCG, Melbourne.

In the ongoing second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship, India and Australia have a strong chance of meeting in the final in June 2023. Pakistan, after their home series defeat versus England, have been out of contention. Currently, there is nothing scheduled between India-Pakistan&nbsp;for any bilateral cricket on the Future Tours Program (FTP) between 2023-2027, and, hence, if MCG manages to host even a Test, it will be a sellout in no time.&nbsp;

While there remains tension between India and Pakistan, due to the political relation, with both sides reluctant to travel to their respective nations for next year's Asia Cup and ODI World Cup, the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) is keen on hosting a Test match between the two heavyweights at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne.

While there remains tension between India and Pakistan, due to the political relation, with both sides reluctant to travel to their respective nations for next year's Asia Cup and ODI World Cup, the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) is keen on hosting a Test match between the two heavyweights at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. This comes after the success of hosting the two Asian giants in the 2022 T20 World Cup on October 23. While speaking on SEN radio during Day Four of the second and penultimate Test between Australia and South Africa, on Thursday (December 29), the MCC chief executive Stuart Fox revealed that the club, along with the Victoria government, had made an inquiry to Cricket Australia (CA) about hosting a neutral Test between India and Pakistan. A CA spokesperson has, in turn, confirmed ESPNCricinfo that the final decision to host a Test or a full series solely rests on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). "Absolutely. Three [Tests] in a row would be lovely at the MCG. You'd fill it every time. We have asked," Fox said. "We've taken that up with Cricket Australia. I know the [Victoria] government has as well. Again, it's enormously complicated from what I can understand, amongst a really busy schedule. So I think that's probably the greater challenge," he opined. Also read: Australia thrash South Africa by an innings and 182 runs to win 2nd Test, take unassailable 2-0 lead "Wouldn't it be great that it wasn't just Australia-centric and Victoria-centric, that we're catering for all the countries and filling the stadium all the time. So we have asked. "Hopefully, Cricket Australia keep taking it up with the ICC and keep pushing for it. When you do see some of the stadiums around the world unoccupied, I think it would be much better to have a full house and that atmosphere and celebrating the game with full houses," Fox further added. India and Pakistan last played a Test series in 2007 when Anil Kumble-led India won 1-0. The two nations nowadays only meet in multi-nation or ICC events and their last face-off came during the 2022 T20 WC, in Australia, where Rohit Sharma & Co. beat Babar Azam-led Men in Green by four wickets in a last-ball thriller at a jam-packed MCG, Melbourne. In the ongoing second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship, India and Australia have a strong chance of meeting in the final in June 2023. Pakistan, after their home series defeat versus England, have been out of contention. Currently, there is nothing scheduled between India-Pakistan for any bilateral cricket on the Future Tours Program (FTP) between 2023-2027, and, hence, if MCG manages to host even a Test, it will be a sellout in no time.

After T20 World Cup success, MCC keen on hosting India-Pakistan Test at the MCG

India and Pakistan played&nbsp;a humdinger of a clash in the ongoing Men's T20 World Cup 2022 edition, at the iconic MCG, Melbourne. In front of a jam-packed stadium, Rohit Sharma-led India beat Pakistan on the final ball of the contest to emerge on top by four wickets.

Opting to bowl first, India restricted Babar Azam &amp; Co. for 159 for 8 in 20 overs, with Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya chipping in with three-fers each. In reply, India were tottering at 31 for 4 before Virat Kohli's masterclass (82 not out off 53 balls) and Hardik's 37-ball 40 took India past the finsh line. After the stupendous success of the Indo-Pak face-off, former Aussie all-rounder&nbsp;Simon O’Donnell called the match “extraordinary” and made a big claim.

"That [their T20 World Cup clash] was extraordinary. That game itself is the one that's held the tournament up so far, people keep referring back to it. There were 90,000 at a neutral venue, there was extraordinary emotion, the scenes of the game, the tightness of the game, the pressure," O'Donnell recalled the epic encounter while speaking&nbsp;on SEN Radio.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chetan-sharma-opines-on-rohit-kohlis-future-for-2024-t20-wc-reveals-where-they-went-wrong-with-bumrah-530002">Chetan Sharma opines on Rohit, Kohli's future for 2024 T20 WC, reveals where they went wrong with Bumrah</a>

An Indo-Pak Test in Australia or tri-series featuring Australia, India and Pakistan?

O'Donnell further revealed, "It was magnificent sort of stuff, to the level that I can say there will be discussions being had, or there are discussions being had to play a Test match here. There's also the possibility of a triangular One-Day series between India, Pakistan and Australia or a Test match between India and Pakistan."

Amid the BCCI vs PCB row over Asia Cup 2023, it will be interesting to see if such a discussion is actually taking place and whether it will materalise going ahead or not.

Recently, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, also the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief, revealed that India won't travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2023 edition and the tournament will be held at a neutral venue. Post this revelation, a plethora of former Pakistani players slammed the BCCI and asked the PCB to boycott the 2023 ODI World Cup in India.

India and Pakistan played a humdinger of a clash in the ongoing Men's T20 World Cup 2022 edition, at the iconic MCG, Melbourne. In front of a jam-packed stadium, Rohit Sharma-led India beat Pakistan on the final ball of the contest to emerge on top by four wickets.

India and Pakistan played a humdinger of a clash in the ongoing Men's T20 World Cup 2022 edition, at the iconic MCG, Melbourne. In front of a jam-packed stadium, Rohit Sharma-led India beat Pakistan on the final ball of the contest to emerge on top by four wickets. Opting to bowl first, India restricted Babar Azam & Co. for 159 for 8 in 20 overs, with Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya chipping in with three-fers each. In reply, India were tottering at 31 for 4 before Virat Kohli's masterclass (82 not out off 53 balls) and Hardik's 37-ball 40 took India past the finsh line. After the stupendous success of the Indo-Pak face-off, former Aussie all-rounder Simon O’Donnell called the match “extraordinary” and made a big claim. "That [their T20 World Cup clash] was extraordinary. That game itself is the one that's held the tournament up so far, people keep referring back to it. There were 90,000 at a neutral venue, there was extraordinary emotion, the scenes of the game, the tightness of the game, the pressure," O'Donnell recalled the epic encounter while speaking on SEN Radio. ALSO READ | Chetan Sharma opines on Rohit, Kohli's future for 2024 T20 WC, reveals where they went wrong with Bumrah An Indo-Pak Test in Australia or tri-series featuring Australia, India and Pakistan? O'Donnell further revealed, "It was magnificent sort of stuff, to the level that I can say there will be discussions being had, or there are discussions being had to play a Test match here. There's also the possibility of a triangular One-Day series between India, Pakistan and Australia or a Test match between India and Pakistan." Amid the BCCI vs PCB row over Asia Cup 2023, it will be interesting to see if such a discussion is actually taking place and whether it will materalise going ahead or not. Recently, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, also the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief, revealed that India won't travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2023 edition and the tournament will be held at a neutral venue. Post this revelation, a plethora of former Pakistani players slammed the BCCI and asked the PCB to boycott the 2023 ODI World Cup in India.

Discussions are on for India-Pakistan Test in Australia: Former Aussie all-rounder makes big claim

The rain had the final say in the doubleheaders at the Men's T20 World Cup on Friday (October 28). After the Ireland-Afghanistan clash was washed out due to rain, in Group A, the Australia-England face-off also met with the&nbsp;same fate.

The T20 WC has lived up to expectations so far. However, rain has forced many games to be washed out in the main draw of the competition. Earlier in Group A, the New Zealand-Afghanistan match was also abandoned without a ball being bowled. Friday's doubleheaders, at the MCG, Melbourne,&nbsp;didn't even see the coin toss taking place.

Following a no-show on Friday, Group A continues to be wide open. At present, New Zealand occupies the top spot whereas England, Ireland, and Australia follow suit with an equal number of points (three each). Sri Lanka and Afghanistan are at the bottom slots, respectively, with&nbsp;two points apiece. Here's how England, and Australia&nbsp;can&nbsp;enter the semi-finals despite rain forcing their face-off to be washed out in Melbourne:

<img alt="Group A standing after Aus vs Eng clash" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3386f031-d586-4a72-a796-0dce1e1892fc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Group%20A%20standing.png" />

While NZ is at the top at the moment, SL have a realistic chance of progressing ahead, Ireland can make the top four only if they win the remainder of the games whereas Afghanistan is almost out. For England and Australia, the 2010 winners need to win both their remaining games as their NRR is a saving grace as of now (+0.239 ). For the hosts and defending champions to qualify, they have to win big versus both Ireland and Afghanistan. While that is possible by all means, Australia will qualify straightaway if England, Ireland and Sri Lanka lose one more clash. SL is their biggest threat currently, assuming NZ are strong contenders to top the group, which has one more game to play than the two European nations.

Even if Australia can better their NRR as compared to England and Ireland, they will hope and pray for the Lankans to concede at least one game (out of the three).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-after-ireland-afghanistan-australia-vs-england-also-washed-out-without-a-ball-being-bowled-529147">T20 WC: After Ireland-Afghanistan, Australia vs England also washed out without a ball being bowled</a>

What they said:

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">Aaron Finch:&nbsp;The outfield has taken a drenching over the last couple of weeks. That's the wettest I've ever seen in this stadium. The run-ups were a really issue and around the inner circle, it were very wet. It's more about players' safety. We saw one of the Zimbabweans go down the other day. If you are trying to run there, it's going to be a real issue. Everyone was ready to play, there was a great turnout, disappointing not to get on. The amount of rain that Melbourne has had has been amazing. He (Wade) was going to play tonight. He had few symptoms yesterday but he was good to go. You got to try and win firstly. Then you try and push for the NRR. You can never underestimate Ireland and Afghanistan. They've got some world-class players. You can overplay the situation at times and that takes you focus off your job at hand. We'll control what we can.

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">Jos Buttler:&nbsp;Was supposed to be a massive occasion, full house here against Australia, biggest game of your career, very disappointed not to be able to play tonight. Would have been a great place to do it (100th game). But full focus on our next match and keep our tournament alive. We've been playing some good cricket leading into the tournament. Really disappointing the other night specially when we had majority of things in our favour. We don't become a bad team overnight. We are full of match-winners. Looking forward to the rest of the tournament. The guys are rested up well and we were ready to play tonight as well. Few days now to clear everything out, have a couple of good training days and then look forward to the next game.

The rain had the final say in the doubleheaders at the Men's T20 World Cup on Friday (October 28). After the Ireland-Afghanistan clash was washed out due to rain, in Group A, the Australia-England face-off also met with the same fate.

The rain had the final say in the doubleheaders at the Men's T20 World Cup on Friday (October 28). After the Ireland-Afghanistan clash was washed out due to rain, in Group A, the Australia-England face-off also met with the same fate. The T20 WC has lived up to expectations so far. However, rain has forced many games to be washed out in the main draw of the competition. Earlier in Group A, the New Zealand-Afghanistan match was also abandoned without a ball being bowled. Friday's doubleheaders, at the MCG, Melbourne, didn't even see the coin toss taking place. Following a no-show on Friday, Group A continues to be wide open. At present, New Zealand occupies the top spot whereas England, Ireland, and Australia follow suit with an equal number of points (three each). Sri Lanka and Afghanistan are at the bottom slots, respectively, with two points apiece. Here's how England, and Australia can enter the semi-finals despite rain forcing their face-off to be washed out in Melbourne: While NZ is at the top at the moment, SL have a realistic chance of progressing ahead, Ireland can make the top four only if they win the remainder of the games whereas Afghanistan is almost out. For England and Australia, the 2010 winners need to win both their remaining games as their NRR is a saving grace as of now (+0.239 ). For the hosts and defending champions to qualify, they have to win big versus both Ireland and Afghanistan. While that is possible by all means, Australia will qualify straightaway if England, Ireland and Sri Lanka lose one more clash. SL is their biggest threat currently, assuming NZ are strong contenders to top the group, which has one more game to play than the two European nations. Even if Australia can better their NRR as compared to England and Ireland, they will hope and pray for the Lankans to concede at least one game (out of the three). ALSO READ | T20 WC: After Ireland-Afghanistan, Australia vs England also washed out without a ball being bowled What they said: Aaron Finch: The outfield has taken a drenching over the last couple of weeks. That's the wettest I've ever seen in this stadium. The run-ups were a really issue and around the inner circle, it were very wet. It's more about players' safety. We saw one of the Zimbabweans go down the other day. If you are trying to run there, it's going to be a real issue. Everyone was ready to play, there was a great turnout, disappointing not to get on. The amount of rain that Melbourne has had has been amazing. He (Wade) was going to play tonight. He had few symptoms yesterday but he was good to go. You got to try and win firstly. Then you try and push for the NRR. You can never underestimate Ireland and Afghanistan. They've got some world-class players. You can overplay the situation at times and that takes you focus off your job at hand. We'll control what we can. Jos Buttler: Was supposed to be a massive occasion, full house here against Australia, biggest game of your career, very disappointed not to be able to play tonight. Would have been a great place to do it (100th game). But full focus on our next match and keep our tournament alive. We've been playing some good cricket leading into the tournament. Really disappointing the other night specially when we had majority of things in our favour. We don't become a bad team overnight. We are full of match-winners. Looking forward to the rest of the tournament. The guys are rested up well and we were ready to play tonight as well. Few days now to clear everything out, have a couple of good training days and then look forward to the next game.

T20 WC 2022: EXPLAINED! How AUS & ENG can reach knockouts after rain forces them to share points

The T20 World Cup 2022 edition is living up to expectations. After Zimbabwe pulled off a stunning win over Pakistan on Thursday (October 27), there were two games set to be held on Friday (October 28). Ireland-Afghanistan and Australia-England were to be held, one after the other, at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. However, both games were washed out without a ball being bowled.

Ireland, after their five-run win over 2010 winners England a few days back, were set to lock horns with Mohammad Nabi-led Afghan side but the clash didn't even see a toss taking place, due to rain. After the match was abandoned, the focus shifted to the defending champions Australia taking on England&nbsp;at the same venue. Nonetheless, not a single ball was possible due to persistent rain.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-can-pakistan-still-enter-t20-wc-semi-finals-after-shocking-result-vs-zimbabwe-529112">EXPLAINED: How Pakistan can still enter T20 WC semi-finals after shocking result vs Zimbabwe</a>

While there was no rain for more than an hour, before the final announcement, umpires remained concerned&nbsp;about the damp spots.&nbsp;Thus, the points have been shared in both games. After the twin wash-out encounters, top-ranked New Zealand as well as England, Ireland, and Australia are all tied at three points each. Aaron Finch-led Aussies, however,&nbsp;have&nbsp;the worst NRR. Thus, Group 1 continues to be&nbsp;wide open even though&nbsp;many games have&nbsp;been washed out due to rain.

On Saturday (October 29), only one game will be held which will see New Zealand taking on Sri Lanka, at the SCG, Syndey, with no rain forecast.

The T20 World Cup 2022 edition is living up to expectations. After Zimbabwe pulled off a stunning win over Pakistan on Thursday (October 27), there were two games set to be held on Friday (October 28).

The T20 World Cup 2022 edition is living up to expectations. After Zimbabwe pulled off a stunning win over Pakistan on Thursday (October 27), there were two games set to be held on Friday (October 28). Ireland-Afghanistan and Australia-England were to be held, one after the other, at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne. However, both games were washed out without a ball being bowled. Ireland, after their five-run win over 2010 winners England a few days back, were set to lock horns with Mohammad Nabi-led Afghan side but the clash didn't even see a toss taking place, due to rain. After the match was abandoned, the focus shifted to the defending champions Australia taking on England at the same venue. Nonetheless, not a single ball was possible due to persistent rain. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED: How Pakistan can still enter T20 WC semi-finals after shocking result vs Zimbabwe While there was no rain for more than an hour, before the final announcement, umpires remained concerned about the damp spots. Thus, the points have been shared in both games. After the twin wash-out encounters, top-ranked New Zealand as well as England, Ireland, and Australia are all tied at three points each. Aaron Finch-led Aussies, however, have the worst NRR. Thus, Group 1 continues to be wide open even though many games have been washed out due to rain. On Saturday (October 29), only one game will be held which will see New Zealand taking on Sri Lanka, at the SCG, Syndey, with no rain forecast.

T20 WC: After Ireland-Afghanistan, Australia vs England also washed out without a ball being bowled

Virat Kohli produced another masterclass while chasing as India beat Pakistan by four wickets in a thrilling Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition. Playing at the iconic MCG, Melbourne, India asked Pakistan to bat first and restricted them to 159-8. In reply, India were 31 for 4 before Kohli's 82 not out, along with Hardik Pandya's 37-ball 40, propelled India to a four-wicket win on the last ball of the run-chase.

Kohli, at No. 3, joined the run-chase with KL Rahul being out for 4. Soon, skipper Rohit Sharma also joined Rahul back in the pavillion and India were reduced to 31 for 4. Hardik-Kohli stitched a 113-run fifth-wicket stand and took the game deeper. While Hardik was the aggressor at the start, he somehow fell behind but Kohli timed his acceleration and played some unbelievable shots at the backend of the innings to take India to a stunning win.

Kohli was adjudged the Player-of-the-Match for his breathtaking 53-ball unbeaten 82, lacked with 6 fours and 4 sixes. At first, he was struggling and started slowly as he was 12 off 21 balls. Nonetheless, he attacked the likes of Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf (Pakistan's best bowler of the evening) and Md Nawaz to help India open its account in the tournament, in Australia.

Speaking to Star Sports after the match, Kohli recalled his initial struggles and said, "Honestly, I was feeling a lot of pressure at that stage. But then when he came in and he hit a few boundaries, I kind of opened up. That partnership, we didn't even realise when we got to our 100. We kept talking, we kept running hard and kept watching their body language. We knew it would turn at some stage, it turned quite late to be honest. We would have liked to do it earlier."

"All these things look great at the end, to be honest. When I was 12 of 21, I was like 'I am really messing this game up. I am not putting ball in the gaps'. But when you have experience and understand the value of batting deep, that's always been my role-playing for India. I know that I can do a lot of the power-hitting towards the end of the innings," the former captain asserted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-virat-kohli-breaks-into-tears-after-his-scintillating-show-against-pakistan-watch-527825">T20 WC: Virat Kohli breaks into tears after his scintillating show against Pakistan - Watch</a>

"I told Hardik that if we go after Haris Rauf, if he goes for a big over, they will panic big time. And that's exactly what happened."

"A lot of credit should go to Hardik, he came and he was very, very positive. He kept telling me to be positive and keep pushing it in the gaps. He was telling me to take the game deep and kept believing in it," Kohli further added.

India will now take on the Netherlands on Thursday evening (October 27) at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney and aim to make it two wins in a row at the T20 WC, being held Down Under.

Virat Kohli produced another masterclass while chasing as India beat Pakistan by four wickets in a thrilling Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition. Playing at the iconic MCG, Melbourne, India asked Pakistan to bat first and restricted them to 159-8.

Virat Kohli produced another masterclass while chasing as India beat Pakistan by four wickets in a thrilling Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition. Playing at the iconic MCG, Melbourne, India asked Pakistan to bat first and restricted them to 159-8. In reply, India were 31 for 4 before Kohli's 82 not out, along with Hardik Pandya's 37-ball 40, propelled India to a four-wicket win on the last ball of the run-chase. Kohli, at No. 3, joined the run-chase with KL Rahul being out for 4. Soon, skipper Rohit Sharma also joined Rahul back in the pavillion and India were reduced to 31 for 4. Hardik-Kohli stitched a 113-run fifth-wicket stand and took the game deeper. While Hardik was the aggressor at the start, he somehow fell behind but Kohli timed his acceleration and played some unbelievable shots at the backend of the innings to take India to a stunning win. Kohli was adjudged the Player-of-the-Match for his breathtaking 53-ball unbeaten 82, lacked with 6 fours and 4 sixes. At first, he was struggling and started slowly as he was 12 off 21 balls. Nonetheless, he attacked the likes of Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf (Pakistan's best bowler of the evening) and Md Nawaz to help India open its account in the tournament, in Australia. Speaking to Star Sports after the match, Kohli recalled his initial struggles and said, "Honestly, I was feeling a lot of pressure at that stage. But then when he came in and he hit a few boundaries, I kind of opened up. That partnership, we didn't even realise when we got to our 100. We kept talking, we kept running hard and kept watching their body language. We knew it would turn at some stage, it turned quite late to be honest. We would have liked to do it earlier." "All these things look great at the end, to be honest. When I was 12 of 21, I was like 'I am really messing this game up. I am not putting ball in the gaps'. But when you have experience and understand the value of batting deep, that's always been my role-playing for India. I know that I can do a lot of the power-hitting towards the end of the innings," the former captain asserted. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Virat Kohli breaks into tears after his scintillating show against Pakistan - Watch "I told Hardik that if we go after Haris Rauf, if he goes for a big over, they will panic big time. And that's exactly what happened." "A lot of credit should go to Hardik, he came and he was very, very positive. He kept telling me to be positive and keep pushing it in the gaps. He was telling me to take the game deep and kept believing in it," Kohli further added. India will now take on the Netherlands on Thursday evening (October 27) at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney and aim to make it two wins in a row at the T20 WC, being held Down Under.

'When I was 12 of 21...' - Virat Kohli thought he was 'messing the game up' during MCG blitz vs Pakistan

Virat Kohli's unbeaten 82 took India to a four-wicket win over Pakistan in a riveting Super 12 clash at the&nbsp;T20 World Cup 2022 edition on Sunday (October 23). Chasing 160, India were 31 for 4 and required 115 off the last 60 deliveries. However, Kohli's top inning (laced with 6 fours and 4 sixes) along with some help from Hardik Pandya (40&nbsp;off 37 balls) took Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. past the finish line on the last ball of the contest.

After opting to bowl first, at the MCG, Melbourne, India rode on Arshdeep Singh and Hardik's three-fers to restrict the Babar Azam-led Men in Green for 159-8 before a Kohli special sent the plethora of Indian fans, at the venue, into a frenzy. Ahead of the match, Kohli was seen giving a pep talk in Team India's huddle.&nbsp;

In the post-match press conference, captain Rohit spilled the beans on what Kohli told in the huddle.&nbsp;"Pep-talk? Yeah no, I mean, it was just about the occasion. Obviously, some of the (India) guys have not played in Australia and some of the guys were playing for the first time in the World Cup and seeing 90,000 people (at the Melbourne Cricket Ground). It is not going to be easy," Rohit said after the match.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/id-have-taken-a-bullet-for-you-but-not-have-hardik-pandya-tells-virat-kohli-after-duos-mcg-heroics-527920">'I'd have taken a bullet for you but not have...': Hardik Pandya tells Virat Kohli after duo's MCG heroics</a>

"And that is what he said. Just we need to hold ourselves and we need to focus on what we need to do, because we are here to do a job. Obviously, there will be a lot of support on the ground for us. So it was just focus on what we need to do, and our full focus has to be (on) what we need to get out of this game," Rohit added.

Rohit-led India have now opened its account in the T20 WC, in Australia, and will now square off with the Netherlands on October 27 (Thursday) at the SCG, Sydney.

Virat Kohli's unbeaten 82 took India to a four-wicket win over Pakistan in a riveting Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition on Sunday (October 23). Chasing 160, India were 31 for 4 and required 115 off the last 60 deliveries.

Virat Kohli's unbeaten 82 took India to a four-wicket win over Pakistan in a riveting Super 12 clash at the T20 World Cup 2022 edition on Sunday (October 23). Chasing 160, India were 31 for 4 and required 115 off the last 60 deliveries. However, Kohli's top inning (laced with 6 fours and 4 sixes) along with some help from Hardik Pandya (40 off 37 balls) took Rohit Sharma & Co. past the finish line on the last ball of the contest. After opting to bowl first, at the MCG, Melbourne, India rode on Arshdeep Singh and Hardik's three-fers to restrict the Babar Azam-led Men in Green for 159-8 before a Kohli special sent the plethora of Indian fans, at the venue, into a frenzy. Ahead of the match, Kohli was seen giving a pep talk in Team India's huddle. In the post-match press conference, captain Rohit spilled the beans on what Kohli told in the huddle. "Pep-talk? Yeah no, I mean, it was just about the occasion. Obviously, some of the (India) guys have not played in Australia and some of the guys were playing for the first time in the World Cup and seeing 90,000 people (at the Melbourne Cricket Ground). It is not going to be easy," Rohit said after the match. ALSO READ | 'I'd have taken a bullet for you but not have...': Hardik Pandya tells Virat Kohli after duo's MCG heroics "And that is what he said. Just we need to hold ourselves and we need to focus on what we need to do, because we are here to do a job. Obviously, there will be a lot of support on the ground for us. So it was just focus on what we need to do, and our full focus has to be (on) what we need to get out of this game," Rohit added. Rohit-led India have now opened its account in the T20 WC, in Australia, and will now square off with the Netherlands on October 27 (Thursday) at the SCG, Sydney.

'He told us to...' - Rohit Sharma reveals Virat Kohli's pep talk ahead of Indo-Pak T20 WC clash

There isn't much time before the India-Pakistna T20 World Cup 2022 clash gets underway. Ahead of the big-ticket encounter, there has been a lot of talk regarding the weather conditions in Melbourne. One can expect rain showers to interrupt the match but it shouldn't be a rain-abandoned encounter. A rain-curtailed contest can be on cards for the high-voltage clash at the MCG, Melbourne.&nbsp;

The cricket lovers from both sides are also eager to know the pitch conditions for the marquee encounter. The last time both sides met each other in the T20 WC, Babar Azam-led Pakistan made early inroads as Shaheen Afridi got enough assistance in the early overs and bowled the right lengths to rattle India's top order. After India managed to post 151-7, Pakistan chased down the score with ten wickets in hand, courtesy of openers Babar and Md Rizwan's unbeaten half-centuries.

Here's the expected pitch conditions at the MCG, Melbourne for the T20 WC marquee clash

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-india-vs-pakistan-live-cricket-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-epic-face-off-527678">T20 World Cup 2022: India vs Pakistan, Live Cricket Streaming: When and where to watch epic face-off?</a>

Ahead of the match, MCG pitch curator Michael Salvatore has said that the wicket will remain consistent throughout the course of the game. "T20 wickets are usually really consistent for the whole match. So it should make for a really good game. We have brought it from our wicket nursery which is just outside the ground. It's literally 200 meters outside the ground so we can move and monitor and maintain the wickets all year around. And the wickets were installed three weeks ago," Salvatore said during an interaction with A Sports.

"So we have drop-in wickets here at the MCG. So for the cricket season we bring the wickets in and I sit on some sand and bed in nicely. And then once cricket finishes, we have got the football stadium. We have the ability to take them out and put them up in our special week anniversary where we can look after and maintain them," he added.

India and Pakistan are placed in Pool B in the Super 12 round, along with Bangladesh, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Netherlands.

There isn't much time before the India-Pakistna T20 World Cup 2022 clash gets underway. Ahead of the big-ticket encounter, there has been a lot of talk regarding the weather conditions in Melbourne.

There isn't much time before the India-Pakistna T20 World Cup 2022 clash gets underway. Ahead of the big-ticket encounter, there has been a lot of talk regarding the weather conditions in Melbourne. One can expect rain showers to interrupt the match but it shouldn't be a rain-abandoned encounter. A rain-curtailed contest can be on cards for the high-voltage clash at the MCG, Melbourne. The cricket lovers from both sides are also eager to know the pitch conditions for the marquee encounter. The last time both sides met each other in the T20 WC, Babar Azam-led Pakistan made early inroads as Shaheen Afridi got enough assistance in the early overs and bowled the right lengths to rattle India's top order. After India managed to post 151-7, Pakistan chased down the score with ten wickets in hand, courtesy of openers Babar and Md Rizwan's unbeaten half-centuries. Here's the expected pitch conditions at the MCG, Melbourne for the T20 WC marquee clash ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2022: India vs Pakistan, Live Cricket Streaming: When and where to watch epic face-off? Ahead of the match, MCG pitch curator Michael Salvatore has said that the wicket will remain consistent throughout the course of the game. "T20 wickets are usually really consistent for the whole match. So it should make for a really good game. We have brought it from our wicket nursery which is just outside the ground. It's literally 200 meters outside the ground so we can move and monitor and maintain the wickets all year around. And the wickets were installed three weeks ago," Salvatore said during an interaction with A Sports. "So we have drop-in wickets here at the MCG. So for the cricket season we bring the wickets in and I sit on some sand and bed in nicely. And then once cricket finishes, we have got the football stadium. We have the ability to take them out and put them up in our special week anniversary where we can look after and maintain them," he added. India and Pakistan are placed in Pool B in the Super 12 round, along with Bangladesh, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Netherlands.

'Should make for a...' - MCG pitch curator on nature of surface for India-Pakistan T20 WC clash

Babar Azam-led Pakistan is set to get a massive boost as premier pacer Shaheen Afridi is on the cusp of joining the national side in Australia on Saturday (October 15). Shaheen had been ruled out of action, after an knee injury he sustained during the Sri Lanka Tests in the island nation early this year, and missed the Asia Cup before also being out of the&nbsp;home T20Is versus England and the ongoing New Zealand T20I tri-series.

Shaheen is in recovery mode&nbsp;and is '90 per cent ready' -- as per PCB chief Ramiz Raja -- for the T20 World Cup, which will get underway in Australia on October 16. Babar-led Men in Green are placed in Pool B along with India, Bangladesh, and South Africa whereas two more teams will join them from the qualifiers. Pakistan will open their campaign in the main draw of the mega event, facing India at the iconic MCG, Melbourne on October 23.&nbsp;

Sharing Shaheen's fitness update, Ramiz said in a recent interview, "I have spoken to him we are in touch with his doctors and the feedback we have got is he is 90 per cent ready."

"But knee injuries can be delicate and technical and we have to see if he feels any soreness after playing the warm-up games. On his part he says he is ready and I think we are also ready," the former Pakistan captain added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-t20i-tri-series-babar-breaks-kohlis-record-becomes-fastest-asian-batter-to-attain-historic-feat-525117">NZ T20I tri-series: Babar breaks Kohli's record, becomes fastest Asian batter to attain HISTORIC feat</a>

Shaheen, who has represented Pakistan in 25 Tests, 32 ODIs and 40 T20Is, has been a mainstay in the national side and starred in his side's ten-wicket win over arch-rivals India in the 2021 T20 WC, in the UAE. The left-arm pacer returned with match-winning spell of 3 for 31, removing India's famed top-three Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli, to restrict the Men in Blue for 151-5. In reply, Babar and Md Rizwan's unbeaten half-centuries propelled the Men in Green to a memorable ten-wicket win over their Asian neighbours.&nbsp;

At present, Pakistan is involved in a T20I tri-series in New Zealand, including Bangladesh, in the run-up to the T20 WC. They defeated the Bangla Tigers by seven wickets in the last group stage encounter on Thursday (October 13), in Christchurch, and will now face the hosts in the tournament finale on Friday (October 14).

Babar Azam-led Pakistan is set to get a massive boost as premier pacer Shaheen Afridi is on the cusp of joining the national side in Australia on Saturday (October 15).

Babar Azam-led Pakistan is set to get a massive boost as premier pacer Shaheen Afridi is on the cusp of joining the national side in Australia on Saturday (October 15). Shaheen had been ruled out of action, after an knee injury he sustained during the Sri Lanka Tests in the island nation early this year, and missed the Asia Cup before also being out of the home T20Is versus England and the ongoing New Zealand T20I tri-series. Shaheen is in recovery mode and is '90 per cent ready' -- as per PCB chief Ramiz Raja -- for the T20 World Cup, which will get underway in Australia on October 16. Babar-led Men in Green are placed in Pool B along with India, Bangladesh, and South Africa whereas two more teams will join them from the qualifiers. Pakistan will open their campaign in the main draw of the mega event, facing India at the iconic MCG, Melbourne on October 23. Sharing Shaheen's fitness update, Ramiz said in a recent interview, "I have spoken to him we are in touch with his doctors and the feedback we have got is he is 90 per cent ready." "But knee injuries can be delicate and technical and we have to see if he feels any soreness after playing the warm-up games. On his part he says he is ready and I think we are also ready," the former Pakistan captain added. ALSO READ | NZ T20I tri-series: Babar breaks Kohli's record, becomes fastest Asian batter to attain HISTORIC feat Shaheen, who has represented Pakistan in 25 Tests, 32 ODIs and 40 T20Is, has been a mainstay in the national side and starred in his side's ten-wicket win over arch-rivals India in the 2021 T20 WC, in the UAE. The left-arm pacer returned with match-winning spell of 3 for 31, removing India's famed top-three Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli, to restrict the Men in Blue for 151-5. In reply, Babar and Md Rizwan's unbeaten half-centuries propelled the Men in Green to a memorable ten-wicket win over their Asian neighbours. At present, Pakistan is involved in a T20I tri-series in New Zealand, including Bangladesh, in the run-up to the T20 WC. They defeated the Bangla Tigers by seven wickets in the last group stage encounter on Thursday (October 13), in Christchurch, and will now face the hosts in the tournament finale on Friday (October 14).

T20 World Cup: Beware Team India! PCB chief Ramiz Raja reveals Shaheen Afridi is '90 per cent' fit

Mohammed Siraj has soon become one of India's main pacers in the red-ball format. After a good IPL 2020, Siraj soon made his Test debut for India during their historic 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia Down Under.

During the second Test, at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Siraj received his maiden Test cap and recently recalled what thought went inside him as he missed his late father, who had passed away during the Australia tour.

Speaking to Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) official website, the speedster recalled how his father's health had deteriorated during IPL 2020, however,&nbsp;his family did not inform him about it.

"It was really tough for me. My dad was ill during the IPL too. But family members hadn't told me that the matter was serious. I got to know about his condition when I landed in Australia," Siraj was quoted as saying by RCB's website.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/siraj-said-youre-a-kid-behave-like-a-kid-riyan-parag-opens-up-on-altercation-with-harshal-patel-in-ipl-485574">Siraj said you're a kid, behave like a kid: Riyan Parag opens up on altercation with Harshal Patel in IPL 2022</a>

"There was Covid-19 protocol as well. We had to quarantine. When we had our practice, I got to know about dad's death. My mother made me strong during that period. She told me, 'Fulfil your dad's dream and make your country proud'. This was my only motivation. I didn't even know if I will get a chance to play. There were senior bowlers in the team," Siraj further revealed.

Recalling his Test debut, Siraj went onto add, "I finally got an opportunity in the second Test... When I wore my cap in Melbourne, I thought 'dad should've been here'. After Mohammed Shami got injured, I got a chance to play for India. One thing was there in my mind that I had performed well for India A and had scalped 8 wickets against Australia A. So, it gave me the confidence to do well in my first Test series for India."

Siraj returned as India's highest wicket-taker in the four-match Test series Down Under, with 13 scalps. So far, he has played 12 Tests and has accounted for 36 scalps.&nbsp;

Mohammed Siraj has soon become one of India's main pacers in the red-ball format. After a good IPL 2020, Siraj soon made his Test debut for India during their historic 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia Down Under.

Mohammed Siraj has soon become one of India's main pacers in the red-ball format. After a good IPL 2020, Siraj soon made his Test debut for India during their historic 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia Down Under. During the second Test, at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Siraj received his maiden Test cap and recently recalled what thought went inside him as he missed his late father, who had passed away during the Australia tour. Speaking to Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) official website, the speedster recalled how his father's health had deteriorated during IPL 2020, however, his family did not inform him about it. "It was really tough for me. My dad was ill during the IPL too. But family members hadn't told me that the matter was serious. I got to know about his condition when I landed in Australia," Siraj was quoted as saying by RCB's website. ALSO READ | Siraj said you're a kid, behave like a kid: Riyan Parag opens up on altercation with Harshal Patel in IPL 2022 "There was Covid-19 protocol as well. We had to quarantine. When we had our practice, I got to know about dad's death. My mother made me strong during that period. She told me, 'Fulfil your dad's dream and make your country proud'. This was my only motivation. I didn't even know if I will get a chance to play. There were senior bowlers in the team," Siraj further revealed. Recalling his Test debut, Siraj went onto add, "I finally got an opportunity in the second Test... When I wore my cap in Melbourne, I thought 'dad should've been here'. After Mohammed Shami got injured, I got a chance to play for India. One thing was there in my mind that I had performed well for India A and had scalped 8 wickets against Australia A. So, it gave me the confidence to do well in my first Test series for India." Siraj returned as India's highest wicket-taker in the four-match Test series Down Under, with 13 scalps. So far, he has played 12 Tests and has accounted for 36 scalps.

'I thought 'dad should've been here': Md Siraj recalls memorable Test debut at the MCG

The Great Southern Stand at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will be renamed after the SK Warne Stand as soon as possible, Victorian Sports Minister Martin Pakula announced on Saturday.

Australian cricket, along with the entire cricketing world, is in a state of shock at the loss of Shane Warne, a true cricketing genius, who died aged 52.

The legendary spinner passed away after a suspected heart attack.

"I don't want to talk through talk about the renaming process other than to say I had a conversation with Dan a couple of hours ago and he's exchanged messages with Shane's brother and whilst they might be a technical process that would normally be gone through, sometimes you need to dispense with that," Sydney Morning Herald quoted Pakula as saying.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-grew-up-idolising-him-had-his-posters-australia-captain-pat-cummins-reacts-to-shane-warnes-demise-459185">'We grew up idolising him, had his posters': Australia captain Pat Cummins reacts to Shane Warne's demise</a>

"You need to respond in the way that I think the whole community would think is appropriate," he added.

Warne was one of the most influential cricketers in history.

He almost single-handedly reinvented the art of leg-spin when he burst onto the international scene in the early 1990s, and by the time he retired from international cricket in 2007, he had become the first bowler to reach 700 Test wickets.

A central figure in Australia's ICC Cricket World Cup triumph in 1999, when he was player of the match in both the semi-final and the final, Wisden Cricketers'&nbsp;Almanack recognised Shane's achievements by naming him as one of its Five Cricketers of the Twentieth Century.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-pays-heartfelt-tribute-to-shane-warne-hails-him-as-greatest-spinner-ever-watch-459174">Virat Kohli pays heartfelt tribute to Shane Warne, hails him as 'greatest spinner ever' - WATCH</a>

Shane finished his international career with 708 Test wickets and a further 293 in One-Day Internationals, placing him second in the list of all-time international wicket-takers behind his great friend and rival Muttiah Muralitharan of Sri Lanka (1,347).

Shane also captained Australia in 11 One-Day Internationals, winning 10 and losing just once.

The Great Southern Stand at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will be renamed after the SK Warne Stand as soon as possible, Victorian Sports Minister Martin Pakula announced on Saturday.

The Great Southern Stand at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will be renamed after the SK Warne Stand as soon as possible, Victorian Sports Minister Martin Pakula announced on Saturday. Australian cricket, along with the entire cricketing world, is in a state of shock at the loss of Shane Warne, a true cricketing genius, who died aged 52. The legendary spinner passed away after a suspected heart attack. "I don't want to talk through talk about the renaming process other than to say I had a conversation with Dan a couple of hours ago and he's exchanged messages with Shane's brother and whilst they might be a technical process that would normally be gone through, sometimes you need to dispense with that," Sydney Morning Herald quoted Pakula as saying. ALSO READ: 'We grew up idolising him, had his posters': Australia captain Pat Cummins reacts to Shane Warne's demise "You need to respond in the way that I think the whole community would think is appropriate," he added. Warne was one of the most influential cricketers in history. He almost single-handedly reinvented the art of leg-spin when he burst onto the international scene in the early 1990s, and by the time he retired from international cricket in 2007, he had become the first bowler to reach 700 Test wickets. A central figure in Australia's ICC Cricket World Cup triumph in 1999, when he was player of the match in both the semi-final and the final, Wisden Cricketers' Almanack recognised Shane's achievements by naming him as one of its Five Cricketers of the Twentieth Century. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli pays heartfelt tribute to Shane Warne, hails him as 'greatest spinner ever' - WATCH Shane finished his international career with 708 Test wickets and a further 293 in One-Day Internationals, placing him second in the list of all-time international wicket-takers behind his great friend and rival Muttiah Muralitharan of Sri Lanka (1,347). Shane also captained Australia in 11 One-Day Internationals, winning 10 and losing just once.

Great Southern Stand at MCG to be renamed after legendary spinner Shane Warne

Australia is going through one of it's worst bushfires in decades, the human death toll reached to 24 now, and it is said that a staggering number of 500 million animals have died due to these fires. Nearly 2000 houses have been destroyed.

As the damage assessment begins, donations have poured in from across the globe.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fierce-wildfires-fuelled-by-searing-temperatures-new-blazes-and-high-winds-in-australia-271558">Fierce wildfires fuelled by searing temperatures, high winds in Australia continue to rage</a>

Australian cricketing legends Ricky Ponting and Shane Warne have decided to temporarily come out of retirement and play a fund-raiser T20 match called the 'Bushfire Cricket Bash'. 
 
The star-studded match is going to be played as a curtain-raiser to the Big Bash League's finals which will be held on February 8. Looking at the points table where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../melbourne-stars-marcus-stoinis-becomes- highest-run-getter-in-big-bash-league-after-smashing-147-runs-against-sixe...">Melbourne Stars</a> and Sydney Sixers are trying to book the top spot, predictions are that the final could be played in Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) or the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-bushfire-shane-warnes-baggy-green-cap-sold-for-over-a1-million-273347">Australian bushfire: Shane Warne's baggy green cap sold for over A$1 million; beats Dhoni, Bradman</a>

Shane Warne's baggy green cap broke records, he took to twitter to thank his bidder.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Thankyou so much to everyone that placed a bid &amp; a huge Thankyou / congrats to the successful bidder - you have blown me away with your generosity and this was way beyond my expectations ! The money will go direct to the Red Cross bushfire appeal. Thankyou, Thankyou, Thankyou ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/vyVcA7NfGs">pic.twitter.com/vyVcA7NfGs</a>
— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne/status/1215413839614763008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;These big grounds are likely to attract a massive crowd. The two teams will be led by Ricky Ponting and Shane Warne. The venue will be confirmed on January 31 after the confirmation of the Top Two finalists. 
 
It is not the first time Cricket Australia has worked for a cause, in a Boxing Day tsunami charity match in January 2005 that attracted a crowd of 70,101 to the Melbourne Cricket Ground, they&nbsp;raised A$14.5 million. 
 
The unpredictable fire rage has burnt more than 5.25 million hectares (13 million acres) of land and continues to spread despite volunteer firefighters stepping in.&nbsp;Australia's economy has faced a major setback.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/navy-comes-to-aid-of-thousands-trapped-in-australia-bushfires-271922/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

 
'The Bushfire Cricket Bash' is going to feature players like Justin Langer, Adam Gilchrist, Brett Lee, Shane Watson, Alex Blackwell, and Micheal Clarke. Steve Waugh and Mel Jones will be involved but in a non-playing capacity. 
 
Alex Blackwell had&nbsp;just retired months ago from the Women's Big Bash League. 
 
Australia’s women’s team will begin the day with a T20I clash against India at the Junction Oval, this contest will be followed by the Bushfire Cricket Bash, and then Big Bash League finals will be played. 
 
“It is going to be a huge and special day. It’s nice to be part of it,” Ponting told reporters on Sunday.

Australia is going through one of it's worst bushfires in decades, the human death toll reached to 24 now, and it is said that a staggering number of 500 million animals have died due to these fires.

Australia is going through one of it's worst bushfires in decades, the human death toll reached to 24 now, and it is said that a staggering number of 500 million animals have died due to these fires. Nearly 2000 houses have been destroyed. As the damage assessment begins, donations have poured in from across the globe. Also see: Fierce wildfires fuelled by searing temperatures, high winds in Australia continue to rage Australian cricketing legends Ricky Ponting and Shane Warne have decided to temporarily come out of retirement and play a fund-raiser T20 match called the 'Bushfire Cricket Bash'. The star-studded match is going to be played as a curtain-raiser to the Big Bash League's finals which will be held on February 8. Looking at the points table where Melbourne Stars and Sydney Sixers are trying to book the top spot, predictions are that the final could be played in Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) or the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Also read: Australian bushfire: Shane Warne's baggy green cap sold for over A$1 million; beats Dhoni, Bradman Shane Warne's baggy green cap broke records, he took to twitter to thank his bidder. Thankyou so much to everyone that placed a bid & a huge Thankyou / congrats to the successful bidder - you have blown me away with your generosity and this was way beyond my expectations ! The money will go direct to the Red Cross bushfire appeal. Thankyou, Thankyou, Thankyou ❤️ pic.twitter.com/vyVcA7NfGs — Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) January 9, 2020 × These big grounds are likely to attract a massive crowd. The two teams will be led by Ricky Ponting and Shane Warne. The venue will be confirmed on January 31 after the confirmation of the Top Two finalists. It is not the first time Cricket Australia has worked for a cause, in a Boxing Day tsunami charity match in January 2005 that attracted a crowd of 70,101 to the Melbourne Cricket Ground, they raised A$14.5 million. The unpredictable fire rage has burnt more than 5.25 million hectares (13 million acres) of land and continues to spread despite volunteer firefighters stepping in. Australia's economy has faced a major setback. × 'The Bushfire Cricket Bash' is going to feature players like Justin Langer, Adam Gilchrist, Brett Lee, Shane Watson, Alex Blackwell, and Micheal Clarke. Steve Waugh and Mel Jones will be involved but in a non-playing capacity. Alex Blackwell had just retired months ago from the Women's Big Bash League. Australia’s women’s team will begin the day with a T20I clash against India at the Junction Oval, this contest will be followed by the Bushfire Cricket Bash, and then Big Bash League finals will be played. “It is going to be a huge and special day. It’s nice to be part of it,” Ponting told reporters on Sunday.

Bushfire Cricket Bash: Ricky Ponting and Shane Warne to come out of retirement to raise funds

Cricket Australia Friday warned a section of the MCG crowd after it emerged that Indian cricketers were subjected to racist chants in the ongoing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=india+vs+australia%2C+3rd+test">third Test</a> here, a media report has claimed.&nbsp;

According to media reports, CA received several complaints of racial taunts directed towards Indian players and fans during the first two days of the third Test. The four-Test series tied 1-1 right now.&nbsp;

The website claimed that it had footage of the specific instances and it passed that on to CA. The CA forwarded it to Victoria Police and the stadium management and it is alleged that spectators can be seen shouting "show us your visa" in the bottom tier of the MCG's Great Southern Stand.&nbsp;

It reportedly prompted CA to tell fans to behave themselves or risk eviction.&nbsp;

"Victoria Police and stadium security are monitoring the behaviour of the crowd in that section of the stadium and have had several discussions with those fans in that bay to remind them about appropriate crowd behaviour, as per venue entry terms and conditions," a CA spokesperson was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli, who scored 82 in the first innings, was also subjected to booing and abusive chants.&nbsp;

Australia all-rounder Mitchell Marsh, who has replaced Peter Handscomb in the third Test, was also booed by the spectators on the opening day.&nbsp;

This is not the first time the MCG crowd has been warned against racial behaviour. A similar incident was reported during the Boxing Day Test in 2005 with South African fast bowler Andre Nel at the receiving end.&nbsp;

Cricket Australia Friday warned a section of the MCG crowd after it emerged that Indian cricketers were subjected to racist chants in the ongoing third Test here, a media report has claimed.

Cricket Australia Friday warned a section of the MCG crowd after it emerged that Indian cricketers were subjected to racist chants in the ongoing third Test here, a media report has claimed. According to media reports, CA received several complaints of racial taunts directed towards Indian players and fans during the first two days of the third Test. The four-Test series tied 1-1 right now. The website claimed that it had footage of the specific instances and it passed that on to CA. The CA forwarded it to Victoria Police and the stadium management and it is alleged that spectators can be seen shouting "show us your visa" in the bottom tier of the MCG's Great Southern Stand. It reportedly prompted CA to tell fans to behave themselves or risk eviction. "Victoria Police and stadium security are monitoring the behaviour of the crowd in that section of the stadium and have had several discussions with those fans in that bay to remind them about appropriate crowd behaviour, as per venue entry terms and conditions," a CA spokesperson was quoted as saying. Indian skipper Virat Kohli, who scored 82 in the first innings, was also subjected to booing and abusive chants. Australia all-rounder Mitchell Marsh, who has replaced Peter Handscomb in the third Test, was also booed by the spectators on the opening day. This is not the first time the MCG crowd has been warned against racial behaviour. A similar incident was reported during the Boxing Day Test in 2005 with South African fast bowler Andre Nel at the receiving end.

Cricket Australia warns MCG fans against racist chants: Report

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> might have come under sharp criticism from various quarters for his on-field aggressive behaviour but former Australia spinner Brad Hogg Saturday defended the India captain, saying the visiting team derives energy from him.&nbsp;

"Virat Kohli is the energy of this Indian team. He is their clear leader and they feed off him. You just see him on the field - his athleticism is different and he expects that from the Indian team," Hogg told PTI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"And what he expects from the team, he does as well, so it is not as if he is telling the team what to do without leading from the front. He is actually leading from the front and asking his teammates to follow him," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Talking about Kohli's batting, Hogg said: "As a batsman too, Kohli is on a different level to anyone else. Perhaps only Usman Khawaja came close, that too in the second innings where he batted with a lot of composure," said 47-year-old Hogg who played seven Tests between 1996 to 2008.&nbsp;

"But even then, they don't have someone on the same level as Kohli. He is a different batsman to everybody else - he finds boundaries and rotates strike, and turns momentum of the game at will," he added.&nbsp;

Hogg said India would need to find balance going into the third Test to put Australia under pressure. He said both the teams might look to play a pace-bowling all-round at the MCG.&nbsp;

The four-match Test series is now levelled at 1-1, with India winning in Adelaide and Australia drawing level in Perth.&nbsp;

Hogg said he hopes to see a close contest in the remaining two Tests.&nbsp;

"I only really want a close series. We have had two close Test matches, and that's what we want. We want Australia tested on their home soil and they have been tested a couple of times previously by Indian teams coming here," said the left-arm spinner.&nbsp;

"It will be interesting to see how India will balance their team going into the MCG Test. Both teams might look to play the extra bowler by picking the all-rounder and added to their bowling depth."&nbsp;

Hogg heaped praise on Indian pacers and said it would be a huge opportunity for the visitors against a 'relatively weak' Australian side.&nbsp;

"India have to be proud with the way their pacers have bowled in both Tests. They have been aggressive and won the first Test, and it was very important because it gave them energy and belief," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"This is a huge opportunity for India because of the relative weakness of the Australian team. So that adds pressure and it plays on back of their minds. Perth tested this bowling attack's character and they showed true fight, but didn't score enough runs."&nbsp;

India also faced flak for not playing a spinner at the Perth pitch where Nathan Lyon scalped eight wickets, despite the wicket favouring the pacers.&nbsp;

Hogg backed the decision saying in absence of injured Ravichandran Ashwin, India simply couldn't play Ravindra Jadeja or Kuldeep Yadav for a lack of aid from the pace-friendly pitch.&nbsp;

"See, Ashwin wasn't fit and yes, they did have Jadeja and Kuldeep. I would have loved to see Kuldeep bowl on that track, but even Nathan Lyon didn't get too much turn," he said.&nbsp;

"As for Jadeja, he would have been spinning into a long left-handed Australian line-up so India probably had that point at the back of their mind. I suspect India might have made the right decision but it came down to the first hour on day one," he opined.&nbsp;

Hogg said the Australian openers have made all the difference in the series so far for the home team, surely as compared to their Indian counterparts.&nbsp;

"It was an enthralling Test match and India can be proud of how they fought. But the difference was in the opening partnerships. The way Marcus Harris and Aaron Finch added 112 runs, they made India chase the game from the first hour on day one," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Indian pacers couldn't figure out line or length for the first two sessions and that's where this game got away from them.&nbsp;

"It happens sometimes in Perth, when opposition teams arrive here. They can get carried away seeing the green grass or bounce, and are not able to adjust lengths. It gave Australia impetus and India never recovered from there," Hogg said.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli might have come under sharp criticism from various quarters for his on-field aggressive behaviour but former Australia spinner Brad Hogg Saturday defended the India captain, saying the visiting team derives energy from him.

Virat Kohli might have come under sharp criticism from various quarters for his on-field aggressive behaviour but former Australia spinner Brad Hogg Saturday defended the India captain, saying the visiting team derives energy from him. "Virat Kohli is the energy of this Indian team. He is their clear leader and they feed off him. You just see him on the field - his athleticism is different and he expects that from the Indian team," Hogg told PTI. "And what he expects from the team, he does as well, so it is not as if he is telling the team what to do without leading from the front. He is actually leading from the front and asking his teammates to follow him," he added. Talking about Kohli's batting, Hogg said: "As a batsman too, Kohli is on a different level to anyone else. Perhaps only Usman Khawaja came close, that too in the second innings where he batted with a lot of composure," said 47-year-old Hogg who played seven Tests between 1996 to 2008. "But even then, they don't have someone on the same level as Kohli. He is a different batsman to everybody else - he finds boundaries and rotates strike, and turns momentum of the game at will," he added. Hogg said India would need to find balance going into the third Test to put Australia under pressure. He said both the teams might look to play a pace-bowling all-round at the MCG. The four-match Test series is now levelled at 1-1, with India winning in Adelaide and Australia drawing level in Perth. Hogg said he hopes to see a close contest in the remaining two Tests. "I only really want a close series. We have had two close Test matches, and that's what we want. We want Australia tested on their home soil and they have been tested a couple of times previously by Indian teams coming here," said the left-arm spinner. "It will be interesting to see how India will balance their team going into the MCG Test. Both teams might look to play the extra bowler by picking the all-rounder and added to their bowling depth." Hogg heaped praise on Indian pacers and said it would be a huge opportunity for the visitors against a 'relatively weak' Australian side. "India have to be proud with the way their pacers have bowled in both Tests. They have been aggressive and won the first Test, and it was very important because it gave them energy and belief," he said. "This is a huge opportunity for India because of the relative weakness of the Australian team. So that adds pressure and it plays on back of their minds. Perth tested this bowling attack's character and they showed true fight, but didn't score enough runs." India also faced flak for not playing a spinner at the Perth pitch where Nathan Lyon scalped eight wickets, despite the wicket favouring the pacers. Hogg backed the decision saying in absence of injured Ravichandran Ashwin, India simply couldn't play Ravindra Jadeja or Kuldeep Yadav for a lack of aid from the pace-friendly pitch. "See, Ashwin wasn't fit and yes, they did have Jadeja and Kuldeep. I would have loved to see Kuldeep bowl on that track, but even Nathan Lyon didn't get too much turn," he said. "As for Jadeja, he would have been spinning into a long left-handed Australian line-up so India probably had that point at the back of their mind. I suspect India might have made the right decision but it came down to the first hour on day one," he opined. Hogg said the Australian openers have made all the difference in the series so far for the home team, surely as compared to their Indian counterparts. "It was an enthralling Test match and India can be proud of how they fought. But the difference was in the opening partnerships. The way Marcus Harris and Aaron Finch added 112 runs, they made India chase the game from the first hour on day one," he said. "Indian pacers couldn't figure out line or length for the first two sessions and that's where this game got away from them. "It happens sometimes in Perth, when opposition teams arrive here. They can get carried away seeing the green grass or bounce, and are not able to adjust lengths. It gave Australia impetus and India never recovered from there," Hogg said.

Virat Kohli is the energy of Indian team: Brad Hogg

A morning that brought two wickets for England and a sniff of a drought-breaking Ashes win gave way to a bleak afternoon for the tourists on Friday as rain washed out most of day four on Friday and left Australia well-placed to save the fourth test.

The home side were 102 for two in their second innings at the Melbourne Cricket Ground when rain interrupted play before tea and the showers lingered long enough for umpires to abandon the day without another ball bowled.

David Warner was 40 not out, with captain Steve Smith on 25 and Australia still needing another 61 runs to make England bat again.

But even with the promise of reverse swing, Joe Root`s bowlers face a big task on an unresponsive pitch to prevent Australia&#39;s batsmen from batting them out of the game.

&quot;(The pitch) is getting slower,&quot; Australia coach Darren Lehmann told host broadcaster Channel Nine. &quot;It`s tough work for a new batter. So once you`re in, you`ve got to stay in.

&quot;Our boys are fighting really hard. A couple of good (England) balls to get the wickets and Smith and the vice- captain (Warner) went about their work.&quot;

Australia regained the Ashes after the third test in Perth and hold an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series but England had hope of cracking a first win after Alastair Cook&#39;s unbeaten 244 propelled them to a first innings lead of 164.

They had resumed their first innings on 491-9 in the morning but were unable to extend their total, with tail-ender James Anderson dismissed first ball by paceman Pat Cummins, fending a catch straight to Cameron Bancroft at short leg.

That left former captain Cook unbeaten on his overnight score, a record total among openers who have carried their bat through an innings.

Cook became the 46th player to achieve the feat in tests and also the first England batsman to do so in 20 years, since Mike Atherton&#39;s 94 not out against New Zealand in Christchurch in 1997.

Australia&#39;s second innings began brightly on a cloudy but dry morning, with England losing a review for a caught behind decision when opener Bancroft played at a Tom Curran ball in the seventh over of the innings.

However, the tourists seamers struck twice to leave Australia wobbling at 65-2 before Warner and Smith showed patience and poise in their unbroken stand of 38.

All-rounder Chris Woakes made the early breakthrough, bowling Bancroft for 27, with England quick Anderson having number three Usman Khawaja caught behind for 11.

Australia resumed on 70-2 after lunch but added only 16 runs before the first rain interruption.

Play was soon back on but only another 33 minutes were possible before the session was brought to a premature close.

The home side were 102 for two in their second innings at the Melbourne Cricket Ground when rain interrupted play before tea and the showers lingered long enough for umpires to abandon the day without another ball bowled.

A morning that brought two wickets for England and a sniff of a drought-breaking Ashes win gave way to a bleak afternoon for the tourists on Friday as rain washed out most of day four on Friday and left Australia well-placed to save the fourth test. The home side were 102 for two in their second innings at the Melbourne Cricket Ground when rain interrupted play before tea and the showers lingered long enough for umpires to abandon the day without another ball bowled. David Warner was 40 not out, with captain Steve Smith on 25 and Australia still needing another 61 runs to make England bat again. But even with the promise of reverse swing, Joe Root`s bowlers face a big task on an unresponsive pitch to prevent Australia's batsmen from batting them out of the game. "(The pitch) is getting slower," Australia coach Darren Lehmann told host broadcaster Channel Nine. "It`s tough work for a new batter. So once you`re in, you`ve got to stay in. "Our boys are fighting really hard. A couple of good (England) balls to get the wickets and Smith and the vice- captain (Warner) went about their work." Australia regained the Ashes after the third test in Perth and hold an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series but England had hope of cracking a first win after Alastair Cook's unbeaten 244 propelled them to a first innings lead of 164. They had resumed their first innings on 491-9 in the morning but were unable to extend their total, with tail-ender James Anderson dismissed first ball by paceman Pat Cummins, fending a catch straight to Cameron Bancroft at short leg. That left former captain Cook unbeaten on his overnight score, a record total among openers who have carried their bat through an innings. Cook became the 46th player to achieve the feat in tests and also the first England batsman to do so in 20 years, since Mike Atherton's 94 not out against New Zealand in Christchurch in 1997. Australia's second innings began brightly on a cloudy but dry morning, with England losing a review for a caught behind decision when opener Bancroft played at a Tom Curran ball in the seventh over of the innings. However, the tourists seamers struck twice to leave Australia wobbling at 65-2 before Warner and Smith showed patience and poise in their unbroken stand of 38. All-rounder Chris Woakes made the early breakthrough, bowling Bancroft for 27, with England quick Anderson having number three Usman Khawaja caught behind for 11. Australia resumed on 70-2 after lunch but added only 16 runs before the first rain interruption. Play was soon back on but only another 33 minutes were possible before the session was brought to a premature close.

Ashes: Rain hits England's hopes of win