Melbourne, Australia
Rookie Australian opener Sam Konstas says he feels confident about sitting in a better position to press a case for his maiden Australia Test call-up for the remaining two matches against India. 
With Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney unable to deliver in the three contested matches thus far, with the Gabba failure being the latest, the Australian selectors due to meet on Thursday (Dec 19) for the MCG Test squad announcement could consider having a proper opener back at the top with the series on the line.
The squad announcement for the fourth Test could come Friday (Dec 20).
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-privacy-breach-at-melbourne-airport-upsets-virat-kohli-confronts-local-journalist-785258">BGT: Privacy breach at Melbourne airport upsets Virat Kohli, confronts local journalist</a>
While Khawaja has gone 11 innings without scoring a fifty, with his average reading 12.60, McSweeney has failed to make the most of his chance opening for Australia. He showed heart during the first innings in Adelaide but hasn’t capitalised since, putting pressure on the middle order. 
At the same time, Konstas has been knocking at the selectors’ doors since the home summer began, averaging over 55. The 19-year-old recently scored a hundred against India for Prime Minister’s XI, later hitting an impressive 88 for New South Wales in the Sheffield Shield before creating history with his quick-fire 56 for Sydney Thunder on his BBL debut.
"I'm understanding the scenarios of the game and when to take on the game. Trying to mature as a batsman. Obviously, I'm going to make some silly mistakes, but I think understanding when to take the game on [is an area I've improved in],” Konstas said. 
<h2>Changes in Australia XI for MCG Test</h2>
With seamer Josh Hazlewood ruled out of the remainder of the BGT with a side strain, Scott Boland is locked as one confirmed change in the XI for the Boxing Day Test.
As the selectors will sit to pick the squad for the Melbourne Test, Konstas' selection discussion could be the highlight. Should they name him in the XI, Australia could debut Sam at the ‘G’, dropping either of the underperforming openers. 
In another case, where the selectors plan to play all three (Usman, McSweeney, and Konstas), either Mitchell Marsh or Marnus Labuschagne could sit out. In that scenario, Usman could have a new opening partner in Konstas, with McSweeney back to the number three or later, where he played most of his cricket.
Besides, Australia also has Josh Inglis and Beau Webster as part of the reserves, with the all-rounder likely to make his Test debut ahead of Marsh owing to his poor run with the bat and inability to bowl more overs. 
The five-match series is tied at 1-1, with the fourth Test scheduled for December 26 start. 
(With inputs from agencies)

The squad announcement for the fourth Test could come Friday (Dec 20).



Melbourne, Australia Rookie Australian opener Sam Konstas says he feels confident about sitting in a better position to press a case for his maiden Australia Test call-up for the remaining two matches against India. With Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney unable to deliver in the three contested matches thus far, with the Gabba failure being the latest, the Australian selectors due to meet on Thursday (Dec 19) for the MCG Test squad announcement could consider having a proper opener back at the top with the series on the line. The squad announcement for the fourth Test could come Friday (Dec 20). ALSO READ: BGT: Privacy breach at Melbourne airport upsets Virat Kohli, confronts local journalist While Khawaja has gone 11 innings without scoring a fifty, with his average reading 12.60, McSweeney has failed to make the most of his chance opening for Australia. He showed heart during the first innings in Adelaide but hasn’t capitalised since, putting pressure on the middle order. At the same time, Konstas has been knocking at the selectors’ doors since the home summer began, averaging over 55. The 19-year-old recently scored a hundred against India for Prime Minister’s XI, later hitting an impressive 88 for New South Wales in the Sheffield Shield before creating history with his quick-fire 56 for Sydney Thunder on his BBL debut. "I'm understanding the scenarios of the game and when to take on the game. Trying to mature as a batsman. Obviously, I'm going to make some silly mistakes, but I think understanding when to take the game on [is an area I've improved in],” Konstas said. Changes in Australia XI for MCG Test With seamer Josh Hazlewood ruled out of the remainder of the BGT with a side strain, Scott Boland is locked as one confirmed change in the XI for the Boxing Day Test. As the selectors will sit to pick the squad for the Melbourne Test, Konstas' selection discussion could be the highlight. Should they name him in the XI, Australia could debut Sam at the ‘G’, dropping either of the underperforming openers. In another case, where the selectors plan to play all three (Usman, McSweeney, and Konstas), either Mitchell Marsh or Marnus Labuschagne could sit out. In that scenario, Usman could have a new opening partner in Konstas, with McSweeney back to the number three or later, where he played most of his cricket. Besides, Australia also has Josh Inglis and Beau Webster as part of the reserves, with the all-rounder likely to make his Test debut ahead of Marsh owing to his poor run with the bat and inability to bowl more overs. The five-match series is tied at 1-1, with the fourth Test scheduled for December 26 start. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Sam Konstas knocks on selector's doors as MCG Test squad announcement looms

Rookie Australian opener Sam Konstas says he feels confident about sitting in a better position to press a case for his maiden Australia Test call-up for the remaining two matches against India.&nbsp;

With Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney unable to deliver in the three contested matches thus far, with the Gabba failure being the latest, the Australian selectors&nbsp;due to meet on Thursday (Dec 19) for the MCG Test squad announcement&nbsp;could consider having a proper opener back at the top with the series on the line.

The squad announcement for the fourth Test could come Friday (Dec 20).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-privacy-breach-at-melbourne-airport-upsets-virat-kohli-confronts-local-journalist-785258">BGT: Privacy breach at Melbourne airport upsets Virat Kohli, confronts local journalist</a>

While Khawaja has gone 11 innings without scoring a fifty, with his average reading 12.60, McSweeney has failed to make the most of his chance opening for Australia. He showed heart during the first innings in Adelaide but hasn’t capitalised since, putting pressure on the middle order.&nbsp;

At the same time, Konstas has been knocking at the selectors’ doors since the home summer began, averaging over 55. The 19-year-old recently scored a hundred against India for Prime Minister’s XI, later hitting an impressive 88 for New South Wales in the Sheffield Shield before creating history with his quick-fire 56 for Sydney Thunder on his BBL debut.

"I'm understanding the scenarios of the game and when to take on the game. Trying to mature as a batsman. Obviously, I'm going to make some silly mistakes, but I think understanding when to take the game on [is an area I've improved in],” Konstas said.&nbsp;

<h2>Changes in Australia XI for MCG Test</h2>

With seamer Josh Hazlewood ruled out of the remainder of the BGT with a side strain, Scott Boland is locked as one confirmed change in the XI for the Boxing Day Test.

As the selectors will sit to pick the squad for the Melbourne Test, Konstas' selection discussion could be the highlight. Should they name him in the XI, Australia could debut Sam at the ‘G’, dropping either of the underperforming openers.&nbsp;

In another case, where the selectors plan to play all three (Usman, McSweeney, and Konstas), either Mitchell Marsh or Marnus Labuschagne could sit out. In that scenario, Usman could have a new opening partner in Konstas, with McSweeney back to the number three or later, where he played most of his cricket.

Besides, Australia also has Josh Inglis and Beau Webster as part of the reserves, with the all-rounder likely to make his Test debut ahead of Marsh owing to his poor run with the bat and inability to bowl more overs.&nbsp;

The five-match series is tied at 1-1, with the fourth Test scheduled for December 26 start.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Rookie Australian opener Sam Konstas says he feels confident about sitting in a better position to press a case for his maiden Australia Test call-up for the remaining two matches against India.

Rookie Australian opener Sam Konstas says he feels confident about sitting in a better position to press a case for his maiden Australia Test call-up for the remaining two matches against India. With Usman Khawaja and Nathan McSweeney unable to deliver in the three contested matches thus far, with the Gabba failure being the latest, the Australian selectors due to meet on Thursday (Dec 19) for the MCG Test squad announcement could consider having a proper opener back at the top with the series on the line. The squad announcement for the fourth Test could come Friday (Dec 20). ALSO READ: BGT: Privacy breach at Melbourne airport upsets Virat Kohli, confronts local journalist While Khawaja has gone 11 innings without scoring a fifty, with his average reading 12.60, McSweeney has failed to make the most of his chance opening for Australia. He showed heart during the first innings in Adelaide but hasn’t capitalised since, putting pressure on the middle order. At the same time, Konstas has been knocking at the selectors’ doors since the home summer began, averaging over 55. The 19-year-old recently scored a hundred against India for Prime Minister’s XI, later hitting an impressive 88 for New South Wales in the Sheffield Shield before creating history with his quick-fire 56 for Sydney Thunder on his BBL debut. "I'm understanding the scenarios of the game and when to take on the game. Trying to mature as a batsman. Obviously, I'm going to make some silly mistakes, but I think understanding when to take the game on [is an area I've improved in],” Konstas said. Changes in Australia XI for MCG Test With seamer Josh Hazlewood ruled out of the remainder of the BGT with a side strain, Scott Boland is locked as one confirmed change in the XI for the Boxing Day Test. As the selectors will sit to pick the squad for the Melbourne Test, Konstas' selection discussion could be the highlight. Should they name him in the XI, Australia could debut Sam at the ‘G’, dropping either of the underperforming openers. In another case, where the selectors plan to play all three (Usman, McSweeney, and Konstas), either Mitchell Marsh or Marnus Labuschagne could sit out. In that scenario, Usman could have a new opening partner in Konstas, with McSweeney back to the number three or later, where he played most of his cricket. Besides, Australia also has Josh Inglis and Beau Webster as part of the reserves, with the all-rounder likely to make his Test debut ahead of Marsh owing to his poor run with the bat and inability to bowl more overs. The five-match series is tied at 1-1, with the fourth Test scheduled for December 26 start. (With inputs from agencies)

Gabba, Brisbane
Having already lost seamer Josh Hazlewood for the remainder of the BGT due to a side strain, Australia cannot afford to lose another match-winner in Travis Head for the two remaining Tests against India. After the third game at the Gabba ended in a draw, with rain playing spoilsport throughout, local media suggested that Head suffered a groin injury during Australia’s second innings, casting doubts over his MCG Test participation.
Head, who hammered India with twin hundreds in Adelaide and Brisbane, clarified it's the soreness that troubled him a bit while running between the wickets on day five, insisting he will be fit to play the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG.
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rohit-sharma-unwilling-to-push-for-mohammed-shamis-test-call-up-amid-fitness-concerns-784991">BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns</a>
"I've had a big couple of weeks, no doubt about that. But I'll be fine for Melbourne, so no stress," Head said in a chat with cricket.com.au.
<h2>Travis not done with India yet </h2>
The left-handed batter has been a thorn in the flesh for the Indian Team for over a year now, having cost them two out of three ICC finals. Head helped Australia beat India last year in the WTC Final and ODI World Cup final, and was closing in on doing the same in the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, but failed.
Even during the ongoing marquee five-match series against India, he starred in the Pink-Ball Test (hitting a hundred), helping Australia stage a stunning comeback after Perth howler. Head continued his purple patch at the Gabba, where, before the just-concluded Test, he got out on a first-ball duck three straight times, slamming a brilliant hundred in the first innings. 
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HE'S DONE IT AGAIN!
Travis Head brings up another hundred ⭐️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayOfTheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayOfTheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/10yBuL883X">pic.twitter.com/10yBuL883X</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868159132416483776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Although he stayed for over ten hours at the crease across three matches, Head asked everyone not to follow his laidback preparation in the lead-up to matches. The star batter has expressed openly about not preparing too hard in the nets, unlike his fellow teammates like Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne.
"I feel like I'm moving really well, I'm playing well. I've just got to make sure that I continue to stay fresh mentally and that means not hitting as many balls at training (when) others do," Head continued.
"It's all personal preference. But it's hard – there's not many left-handers above me. 'Uz' (Usman Khawaja) is the only one, and we play a completely different game style and then the rest are right-handers.
"So, it's hard to all communicate the same way on what different plans are. But we back each guy. Hopefully, I'm still doing it (making runs) next week. But if that's not the case, then different guys will step up at different times and hopefully build those partnerships,” Head noted. 
Meanwhile, following the Gabba Test result, the series is tied at 1-1, with the fourth Test scheduled at the MCG on Boxing Day (Jan 26). 
(With inputs from agencies)

Travis Head insisted he will be fit to play the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG.



Gabba, Brisbane Having already lost seamer Josh Hazlewood for the remainder of the BGT due to a side strain, Australia cannot afford to lose another match-winner in Travis Head for the two remaining Tests against India. After the third game at the Gabba ended in a draw, with rain playing spoilsport throughout, local media suggested that Head suffered a groin injury during Australia’s second innings, casting doubts over his MCG Test participation. Head, who hammered India with twin hundreds in Adelaide and Brisbane, clarified it's the soreness that troubled him a bit while running between the wickets on day five, insisting he will be fit to play the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG. ALSO READ: BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns "I've had a big couple of weeks, no doubt about that. But I'll be fine for Melbourne, so no stress," Head said in a chat with cricket.com.au. Travis not done with India yet The left-handed batter has been a thorn in the flesh for the Indian Team for over a year now, having cost them two out of three ICC finals. Head helped Australia beat India last year in the WTC Final and ODI World Cup final, and was closing in on doing the same in the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, but failed. Even during the ongoing marquee five-match series against India, he starred in the Pink-Ball Test (hitting a hundred), helping Australia stage a stunning comeback after Perth howler. Head continued his purple patch at the Gabba, where, before the just-concluded Test, he got out on a first-ball duck three straight times, slamming a brilliant hundred in the first innings. HE'S DONE IT AGAIN! Travis Head brings up another hundred ⭐️#AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/10yBuL883X — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Although he stayed for over ten hours at the crease across three matches, Head asked everyone not to follow his laidback preparation in the lead-up to matches. The star batter has expressed openly about not preparing too hard in the nets, unlike his fellow teammates like Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne. "I feel like I'm moving really well, I'm playing well. I've just got to make sure that I continue to stay fresh mentally and that means not hitting as many balls at training (when) others do," Head continued. "It's all personal preference. But it's hard – there's not many left-handers above me. 'Uz' (Usman Khawaja) is the only one, and we play a completely different game style and then the rest are right-handers. "So, it's hard to all communicate the same way on what different plans are. But we back each guy. Hopefully, I'm still doing it (making runs) next week. But if that's not the case, then different guys will step up at different times and hopefully build those partnerships,” Head noted. Meanwhile, following the Gabba Test result, the series is tied at 1-1, with the fourth Test scheduled at the MCG on Boxing Day (Jan 26). (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Travis Head quashes injury scare after Gabba draw, insists remaining fit for Boxing Day Test in Melbourne

Having already lost seamer Josh Hazlewood for the remainder of the BGT due to a side strain, Australia cannot afford to lose another match-winner in Travis Head for the two remaining Tests against India. After the third game at the Gabba ended in a draw, with rain playing spoilsport throughout, local media suggested that Head suffered a groin injury during Australia’s second innings, casting doubts over his MCG Test participation.

Head, who hammered India with twin hundreds in Adelaide and Brisbane, clarified it's the soreness that troubled him a bit while running between the wickets on day five, insisting he will be fit to play the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rohit-sharma-unwilling-to-push-for-mohammed-shamis-test-call-up-amid-fitness-concerns-784991">BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns</a>

"I've had a big couple of weeks, no doubt about that. But I'll be fine for Melbourne, so no stress," Head said in a chat with cricket.com.au.

<h2>Travis not done with India yet&nbsp;</h2>

The left-handed batter has been a thorn in the flesh for the Indian Team for over a year now, having cost them two out of three ICC finals. Head helped Australia beat India last year in the WTC Final and ODI World Cup final, and was closing in on doing the same in&nbsp;the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, but failed.

Even during the ongoing marquee five-match series against India, he starred in the Pink-Ball Test (hitting a hundred), helping Australia stage a stunning comeback after Perth howler. Head continued his purple patch at the Gabba, where, before the just-concluded Test, he got out on a first-ball duck three straight times, slamming a brilliant hundred in the first innings.&nbsp;

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<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
HE'S DONE IT AGAIN! 
 
Travis Head brings up another hundred ⭐️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayOfTheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayOfTheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/10yBuL883X">pic.twitter.com/10yBuL883X</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868159132416483776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Although he stayed for over ten hours at the crease across three matches, Head asked everyone not to follow his laidback preparation in the lead-up to matches. The star batter has expressed openly about not preparing too hard in the nets, unlike his fellow teammates like Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne.

"I feel like I'm moving really well, I'm playing well. I've just got to make sure that I continue to stay fresh mentally and that means not hitting as many balls at training (when) others do," Head continued.

"It's all personal preference. But it's hard – there's not many left-handers above me. 'Uz' (Usman Khawaja) is the only one, and we play a completely different game style and then the rest are right-handers.

"So, it's hard to all communicate the same way on what different plans are. But we back each guy. Hopefully, I'm still doing it (making runs) next week. But if that's not the case, then different guys will step up at different times and hopefully build those partnerships,” Head noted.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, following the Gabba Test result, the series is tied at 1-1, with the fourth Test scheduled at the MCG on Boxing Day (Jan 26).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Having already lost seamer Josh Hazlewood for the remainder of the BGT due to a side strain, Australia cannot afford to lose another match-winner in Travis Head for the two remaining Tests against India.

Having already lost seamer Josh Hazlewood for the remainder of the BGT due to a side strain, Australia cannot afford to lose another match-winner in Travis Head for the two remaining Tests against India. After the third game at the Gabba ended in a draw, with rain playing spoilsport throughout, local media suggested that Head suffered a groin injury during Australia’s second innings, casting doubts over his MCG Test participation. Head, who hammered India with twin hundreds in Adelaide and Brisbane, clarified it's the soreness that troubled him a bit while running between the wickets on day five, insisting he will be fit to play the Boxing Day Test at the iconic MCG. ALSO READ: BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns "I've had a big couple of weeks, no doubt about that. But I'll be fine for Melbourne, so no stress," Head said in a chat with cricket.com.au. Travis not done with India yet The left-handed batter has been a thorn in the flesh for the Indian Team for over a year now, having cost them two out of three ICC finals. Head helped Australia beat India last year in the WTC Final and ODI World Cup final, and was closing in on doing the same in the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, but failed. Even during the ongoing marquee five-match series against India, he starred in the Pink-Ball Test (hitting a hundred), helping Australia stage a stunning comeback after Perth howler. Head continued his purple patch at the Gabba, where, before the just-concluded Test, he got out on a first-ball duck three straight times, slamming a brilliant hundred in the first innings. HE'S DONE IT AGAIN! Travis Head brings up another hundred ⭐️#AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/10yBuL883X — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Although he stayed for over ten hours at the crease across three matches, Head asked everyone not to follow his laidback preparation in the lead-up to matches. The star batter has expressed openly about not preparing too hard in the nets, unlike his fellow teammates like Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne. "I feel like I'm moving really well, I'm playing well. I've just got to make sure that I continue to stay fresh mentally and that means not hitting as many balls at training (when) others do," Head continued. "It's all personal preference. But it's hard – there's not many left-handers above me. 'Uz' (Usman Khawaja) is the only one, and we play a completely different game style and then the rest are right-handers. "So, it's hard to all communicate the same way on what different plans are. But we back each guy. Hopefully, I'm still doing it (making runs) next week. But if that's not the case, then different guys will step up at different times and hopefully build those partnerships,” Head noted. Meanwhile, following the Gabba Test result, the series is tied at 1-1, with the fourth Test scheduled at the MCG on Boxing Day (Jan 26). (With inputs from agencies)

New Delhi, India 
Australia have been dealt a major blow as pacer Josh Hazlewood is out of the remainder of the rain-marred Gabba Test in Brisbane. Hazlewood hurt his right calf during Australia's warm-ups ahead of Day 4 of the Gabba Test, on Tuesday morning (Dec 17). As a result, he bowled only a solitary over in the first session before leaving the field. Cricket Australia (CA) has confirmed that the wily speedster will miss the remainder of the third Test, where India is on the cusp of following on in reply to Australia's 445. In addition, he might miss the last two Tests of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).
The 33-year-old missed the second Test, at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, due to a side strain. In his absence, Scott Boland came into the playing XI and impressed with match figures of 5 for 105. With Hazlewood set to miss the remainder of the series, Boland will likely replace him again. 
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-australia-dealt-fresh-injury-blow-as-josh-hazlewood-sits-out-on-day-4-due-to-niggle-784539">BGT: Australia dealt fresh injury blow as Josh Hazlewood sits out on Day 4 due to niggle</a>
Australia's next series, and their last in the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, is a two-match Test series in Sri Lanka, early next year. Thus, Hazlewood will be eager to regain full fitness ahead of the tour to the subcontinent (even though he might under bowl in the spin-friendly conditions), with one eye on the WTC final (in mid-June 2025). Meanwhile, Boland will likely have another go at the Indian batters in the ongoing BGT edition Down Under. 
At present, the third Test is heading towards a draw or a win for Australia. Opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led India conceded 445 as Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) stitched a massive 241-run stand for the fourth wicket. In reply, India are reeling at 252-9, at the time of publishing this report, but have avoided the follow-on before stumps on Day 4 on Tuesday.
The five-match Test series is currently tied at 1-1.

BGT 2024/25: Australia pacer Josh Hazlewood is out of the remainder of the rain-marred Gabba Test in Brisbane. In addition, he is likely to miss the last two Tests due to a calf injury. 



New Delhi, India Australia have been dealt a major blow as pacer Josh Hazlewood is out of the remainder of the rain-marred Gabba Test in Brisbane. Hazlewood hurt his right calf during Australia's warm-ups ahead of Day 4 of the Gabba Test, on Tuesday morning (Dec 17). As a result, he bowled only a solitary over in the first session before leaving the field. Cricket Australia (CA) has confirmed that the wily speedster will miss the remainder of the third Test, where India is on the cusp of following on in reply to Australia's 445. In addition, he might miss the last two Tests of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). The 33-year-old missed the second Test, at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, due to a side strain. In his absence, Scott Boland came into the playing XI and impressed with match figures of 5 for 105. With Hazlewood set to miss the remainder of the series, Boland will likely replace him again. Also read: BGT: Australia dealt fresh injury blow as Josh Hazlewood sits out on Day 4 due to niggle Australia's next series, and their last in the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, is a two-match Test series in Sri Lanka, early next year. Thus, Hazlewood will be eager to regain full fitness ahead of the tour to the subcontinent (even though he might under bowl in the spin-friendly conditions), with one eye on the WTC final (in mid-June 2025). Meanwhile, Boland will likely have another go at the Indian batters in the ongoing BGT edition Down Under. At present, the third Test is heading towards a draw or a win for Australia. Opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led India conceded 445 as Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) stitched a massive 241-run stand for the fourth wicket. In reply, India are reeling at 252-9, at the time of publishing this report, but have avoided the follow-on before stumps on Day 4 on Tuesday. The five-match Test series is currently tied at 1-1.

BGT 2024/25: Josh Hazlewood ruled out of remainder of Gabba Test, likely to miss last two games

Australia have been dealt a major blow as pacer Josh Hazlewood is out of the remainder of the rain-marred Gabba Test in Brisbane. Hazlewood&nbsp;hurt his right calf during Australia's warm-ups ahead of Day 4 of the Gabba Test, on Tuesday morning (Dec 17). As a result, he bowled only a solitary over in the first session before leaving the field. Cricket Australia (CA) has confirmed that the wily speedster will miss the remainder of the third Test, where India is on the cusp of following on in reply to Australia's 445. In addition, he&nbsp;might miss the last two Tests of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).

The 33-year-old missed the second Test, at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, due to a side strain. In his absence, Scott Boland came into the playing XI and impressed with match figures of 5 for 105. With Hazlewood set to miss the remainder of the series, Boland will likely replace him again.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-australia-dealt-fresh-injury-blow-as-josh-hazlewood-sits-out-on-day-4-due-to-niggle-784539">BGT: Australia dealt fresh injury blow as Josh Hazlewood sits out on Day 4 due to niggle</a>

Australia's next series, and their last in the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, is a two-match Test series in Sri Lanka, early next year. Thus, Hazlewood will be eager to regain full fitness ahead of the tour to the subcontinent (even though he might under bowl in the spin-friendly conditions), with one eye on the WTC final (in mid-June 2025). Meanwhile, Boland will likely have another go at the Indian batters in the ongoing BGT edition Down Under.&nbsp;

At present, the third Test is heading towards a draw or a win for Australia. Opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led India conceded 445 as Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) stitched a massive 241-run stand for the fourth wicket. In reply, India are reeling at 252-9, at the time of publishing this report, but have avoided the follow-on before stumps on Day 4 on Tuesday.

The five-match Test series is currently tied at 1-1.

Australia have been dealt a major blow as pacer Josh Hazlewood is out of the remainder of the rain-marred Gabba Test in Brisbane. Hazlewood hurt his right calf during Australia's warm-ups ahead of Day 4 of the Gabba Test, on Tuesday morning (Dec 17).

Australia have been dealt a major blow as pacer Josh Hazlewood is out of the remainder of the rain-marred Gabba Test in Brisbane. Hazlewood hurt his right calf during Australia's warm-ups ahead of Day 4 of the Gabba Test, on Tuesday morning (Dec 17). As a result, he bowled only a solitary over in the first session before leaving the field. Cricket Australia (CA) has confirmed that the wily speedster will miss the remainder of the third Test, where India is on the cusp of following on in reply to Australia's 445. In addition, he might miss the last two Tests of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). The 33-year-old missed the second Test, at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, due to a side strain. In his absence, Scott Boland came into the playing XI and impressed with match figures of 5 for 105. With Hazlewood set to miss the remainder of the series, Boland will likely replace him again. Also read: BGT: Australia dealt fresh injury blow as Josh Hazlewood sits out on Day 4 due to niggle Australia's next series, and their last in the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, is a two-match Test series in Sri Lanka, early next year. Thus, Hazlewood will be eager to regain full fitness ahead of the tour to the subcontinent (even though he might under bowl in the spin-friendly conditions), with one eye on the WTC final (in mid-June 2025). Meanwhile, Boland will likely have another go at the Indian batters in the ongoing BGT edition Down Under. At present, the third Test is heading towards a draw or a win for Australia. Opting to bowl first, Rohit Sharma-led India conceded 445 as Travis Head (152) and Steve Smith (101) stitched a massive 241-run stand for the fourth wicket. In reply, India are reeling at 252-9, at the time of publishing this report, but have avoided the follow-on before stumps on Day 4 on Tuesday. The five-match Test series is currently tied at 1-1.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) between India and Australia is breaking all records in terms of in-person match attendance. The first two Tests in Perth and Adelaide saw record crowds coming in for the high-octane contest between the two sides and now the iconic Boxing Day Test tickets for the first day are also sold out.

Cricket Australia, in a social media post, shared, "All available public tickets for Day 1 of the NRMA Insurance Boxing Day Test have been sold. There will be a possible final release of a small number of public tickets on December 24 for non-members to get their seats."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-former-west-indies-pacer-questions-virat-kohli-and-indias-decision-to-bat-first-in-adelaide-783018">Former West Indies pacer questions Virat Kohli and India's decision to bat first in Adelaide</a>

The Boxing Day Test, which will be the fourth match of the five-game series, is scheduled to start from December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Earlier, the second Test in Adelaide, which was a day-night contest, saw 135,012 people coming in to watch—a record for the India vs. Australia Tests at the venue.

The first day of the Adelaide game saw people in excess of 50,000—the fourth highest for any Test in Adelaide and the highest ever for the India vs. Australia Test in the City of Churches.

The first Test in Perth also saw around 96,000 people coming out for the contest, during which India orchestrated a win of the ages.

After winning the first Test by 295 runs, India lost the second one by 10 wickets, which makes the next two Tests pivotal towards the result of the series.

The next Test starts Saturday (Dec 14) in Brisbane's iconic Gabba stadium where India had created history on the last tour in 2020-21 by becoming the first team to beat Australia in 32 years.

India would be hoping for reprise the same kind of performance this time as well at the Gabba after the Adelaide hammering.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) between India and Australia is breaking all records in terms of in-person match attendance. The first two Tests in Perth and Adelaide saw record crowds coming in for the high-octane contest between the two sides and now the iconic Boxing Day Test tickets for the first day are also sold out.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) between India and Australia is breaking all records in terms of in-person match attendance. The first two Tests in Perth and Adelaide saw record crowds coming in for the high-octane contest between the two sides and now the iconic Boxing Day Test tickets for the first day are also sold out. Cricket Australia, in a social media post, shared, "All available public tickets for Day 1 of the NRMA Insurance Boxing Day Test have been sold. There will be a possible final release of a small number of public tickets on December 24 for non-members to get their seats." Also Read: Former West Indies pacer questions Virat Kohli and India's decision to bat first in Adelaide The Boxing Day Test, which will be the fourth match of the five-game series, is scheduled to start from December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Earlier, the second Test in Adelaide, which was a day-night contest, saw 135,012 people coming in to watch—a record for the India vs. Australia Tests at the venue. The first day of the Adelaide game saw people in excess of 50,000—the fourth highest for any Test in Adelaide and the highest ever for the India vs. Australia Test in the City of Churches. The first Test in Perth also saw around 96,000 people coming out for the contest, during which India orchestrated a win of the ages. After winning the first Test by 295 runs, India lost the second one by 10 wickets, which makes the next two Tests pivotal towards the result of the series. The next Test starts Saturday (Dec 14) in Brisbane's iconic Gabba stadium where India had created history on the last tour in 2020-21 by becoming the first team to beat Australia in 32 years. India would be hoping for reprise the same kind of performance this time as well at the Gabba after the Adelaide hammering.

BGT 2024-25: With series at 1-1, tickets for first day of Boxing Dat Test at MCG sold out two weeks in advance

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BGT 2024/25: Josh Hazlewood ruled out of remainder of Gabba Test, likely to miss last two games

BGT 2024-25: With series at 1-1, tickets for first day of Boxing Dat Test at MCG sold out two weeks in advance