Australia's knack for grinding out wins despite not playing at their best is helping them build momentum for a strong tilt at the World Cup title, former skipper Allan Border has said.

Defending champions <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-david-warner-stars-in-australias-41-run-win-over-pakistan-226669">Australia beat Pakistan</a> by 41 runs in Taunton on Wednesday to seal their third victory in four games at the tournament, with their only defeat coming against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-shikhar-dhawan-shines-as-india-beat-holders-australia-by-36-runs-225791">India </a>on Sunday.

A struggling middle order and a lack of support for the main pace duo of Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins have emerged as Australia's main concerns in the early days of the World Cup, but the team are currently second in the overall standings.

"Australia aren't playing at their best but they are winning matches. That's the way I saw the win over Pakistan," Border wrote in a column for the International Cricket Council.

"In the early stages of the World Cup, you want to be right amongst the pacesetters after four rounds and Australia very much are. They are building nicely and all the teams will feel the total package is still in them. They'll talk about being relentless and consistent... and they can create momentum for some of the big teams they still have to play," Border said.

Border added that Australia should consider using <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-steve-smiths-reaction-when-virat-kohli-stopped-indian-fans-from-booing-him-225897">Steve Smith</a> to shore up their bowling attack and backed the 30-year-old to use his leg-spin to good effect.

"The fifth, and even the fourth, bowling option is looking like a slight concern for them," Border said. "I think they should look at Steve Smith having a bowl, I really do."

"Leg-spin takes wickets and whether it's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zampa-hand-warmers-row-finch-defends-spinner-over-ball-tampering-allegation-225853">Adam Zampa</a> coming back in or Smith trying a bit of his spin, that should improve the attack dramatically," Border added.

Here's the&nbsp;complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019:

<img alt="ICC World Cup 2019" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa536962-32f2-4838-8fec-9a38afd969a9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC%20World%20Cup%202019%20%281%29_28.jpg" />

Australia next play Sri Lanka at The Oval in London on Saturday.

Australia's knack for grinding out wins despite not playing at their best is helping them build momentum for a strong tilt at the World Cup title, former skipper Allan Border has said.

Australia's knack for grinding out wins despite not playing at their best is helping them build momentum for a strong tilt at the World Cup title, former skipper Allan Border has said. Defending champions Australia beat Pakistan by 41 runs in Taunton on Wednesday to seal their third victory in four games at the tournament, with their only defeat coming against India on Sunday. A struggling middle order and a lack of support for the main pace duo of Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins have emerged as Australia's main concerns in the early days of the World Cup, but the team are currently second in the overall standings. "Australia aren't playing at their best but they are winning matches. That's the way I saw the win over Pakistan," Border wrote in a column for the International Cricket Council. "In the early stages of the World Cup, you want to be right amongst the pacesetters after four rounds and Australia very much are. They are building nicely and all the teams will feel the total package is still in them. They'll talk about being relentless and consistent... and they can create momentum for some of the big teams they still have to play," Border said. Border added that Australia should consider using Steve Smith to shore up their bowling attack and backed the 30-year-old to use his leg-spin to good effect. "The fifth, and even the fourth, bowling option is looking like a slight concern for them," Border said. "I think they should look at Steve Smith having a bowl, I really do." "Leg-spin takes wickets and whether it's Adam Zampa coming back in or Smith trying a bit of his spin, that should improve the attack dramatically," Border added. Here's the complete fixture of Cricket World Cup 2019: Australia next play Sri Lanka at The Oval in London on Saturday.

World Cup: Allan Border backs defending champs Australia to keep building momentum

Emphasising on the importance of dot balls in limited overs cricket, Australia pacer Pat Cummins is delighted that the hard work he has put in to become accurate is starting to pay off.

Cummins is increasingly looking like the workhorse of this Australian team, plugging away with the wickets while others hog the headlines.

The 26-year-old looked in great rhythm against Pakistan, taking 3 for 33 to derail their chase.

The right-arm pacer has bowled the most number of dot balls in the ongoing World Cup and the two bowlers that follow him are also from Australia -- Mitchell Starc and Nathan Coulter-Nile.

"That's the big improvement in my game in the last couple of years, the ability to hold a length and make it difficult to get runs," Cummins said after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-17-australia-vs-pakistan-226457">Australia's 41-run win against Pakistan</a> on Wednesday.

"If you give away easy singles then 300 becomes quite an achievable score. Cutting out the singles is huge, it means if you give away a boundary it might not be that big over of ten or 11, it may just be a five or a six," Cummins added.

After they were set 308 for win, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-david-warner-stars-in-australias-41-run-win-over-pakistan-226669">Pakistan </a>scored steadily but Australia held their nerve and took wickets at regular intervals.

An eighth-wicket stand between Sarfaraz and Wahab Riaz, who scored 45 from just 39 balls, made it nervy for the defending champions until the last three wickets fell for just two runs - securing a third victory at the World Cup.

"It goes to show that everyone can bat these days. It was a bit closer than we would have liked, so it was good to get those couple of wickets and finish it off. We gave them a bit too much width and suddenly they were back in the game, it's a good lesson to learn," Cummins said.

Cummins and his strike partner Starc have 18 wickets between them in the tournament while the rest of the team have a combined 12.

Australia set a target of 307 on the back of a 146-run opening partnership between Warner (107) and Finch (82).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-century-means-a-lot-as-a-batsman-david-warner-226679">Warner </a>scored his first-century post his one-year international ban for ball-tampering.

"We were so pumped for him, he was really open and honest after the Oval game. He was playing more timid than normal but we saw his mindset change from the start here,'' he said.

"I think if you look over the transition of his career, he's become more measured in his approach. His energy out in the middle is still an example, the way you see him sprinting hard for singles and bouncing down the wicket. He looks really sharp in this tournament," Cummins said.

Emphasising on the importance of dot balls in limited overs cricket, Australia pacer Pat Cummins is delighted that the hard work he has put in to become accurate is starting to pay off.

Emphasising on the importance of dot balls in limited overs cricket, Australia pacer Pat Cummins is delighted that the hard work he has put in to become accurate is starting to pay off. Cummins is increasingly looking like the workhorse of this Australian team, plugging away with the wickets while others hog the headlines. The 26-year-old looked in great rhythm against Pakistan, taking 3 for 33 to derail their chase. The right-arm pacer has bowled the most number of dot balls in the ongoing World Cup and the two bowlers that follow him are also from Australia -- Mitchell Starc and Nathan Coulter-Nile. "That's the big improvement in my game in the last couple of years, the ability to hold a length and make it difficult to get runs," Cummins said after Australia's 41-run win against Pakistan on Wednesday. "If you give away easy singles then 300 becomes quite an achievable score. Cutting out the singles is huge, it means if you give away a boundary it might not be that big over of ten or 11, it may just be a five or a six," Cummins added. After they were set 308 for win, Pakistan scored steadily but Australia held their nerve and took wickets at regular intervals. An eighth-wicket stand between Sarfaraz and Wahab Riaz, who scored 45 from just 39 balls, made it nervy for the defending champions until the last three wickets fell for just two runs - securing a third victory at the World Cup. "It goes to show that everyone can bat these days. It was a bit closer than we would have liked, so it was good to get those couple of wickets and finish it off. We gave them a bit too much width and suddenly they were back in the game, it's a good lesson to learn," Cummins said. Cummins and his strike partner Starc have 18 wickets between them in the tournament while the rest of the team have a combined 12. Australia set a target of 307 on the back of a 146-run opening partnership between Warner (107) and Finch (82). Warner scored his first-century post his one-year international ban for ball-tampering. "We were so pumped for him, he was really open and honest after the Oval game. He was playing more timid than normal but we saw his mindset change from the start here,'' he said. "I think if you look over the transition of his career, he's become more measured in his approach. His energy out in the middle is still an example, the way you see him sprinting hard for singles and bouncing down the wicket. He looks really sharp in this tournament," Cummins said.

World Cup: Pat Cummins' silent workhorse in Australia's squad, while others hog limelight

India versus Pakistan cricket rivalry is usually termed as one of the greatest in the international sporting arena, which is highly emotionally charged.&nbsp;

The significance of India vs Pakistan World Cup match can be understood by the fact that in the previous edition, over one billion viewers watched the Indo-Pak contest worldwide. It had a 14.8 per cent TV rating with a live reach of&nbsp;288 million.&nbsp;

During the major ICC events, both the team are under the immense pressure of winning the match to steer clear of the repercussions as losing leads to extreme reactions from fans in both the countries.&nbsp;

When it comes to stats, India and Pakistan have played a total of 131 matches. Pakistan dominate the overall tally by winning 73 matches while India won 54. Although, in the World Cup, it is India who dominated Pakistan by a great record of winning all the six&nbsp;games played so far.&nbsp;

The stressful history between the two nations pushes the fans to take extreme measures while celebrating the win and after a defeat, some disruptions often occur.&nbsp;

After 2008 Mumbai blasts, India refused to play the bilateral series against the arch-rivals.

The question arises, is it worth it and why can't they just move on?&nbsp;

India vs Pakistan is overhyped and when it comes to real cricket, the actual action, India vs Australia is a real deal.&nbsp;

In the past five World Cup tournaments, India are the only team to have denied the Australians the trophy, which was in 2011 when India were the champions.&nbsp;

Both the teams have played a total of 136 ODI matches, Australia won 77 matches and India emerged victorious on 49 occasions.&nbsp;

While in the World Cup, Aussies dominated India by defeating the 'Men in Blue' in eight of 11 games played.&nbsp;

In the ongoing edition of World Cup, which is underway in England and Wales, both the teams had a winning start.&nbsp;

Now, they will look to continue the momentum when they take on each other on June 9 in one of the most anticipated battles in this edition.&nbsp;

Australia have enjoyed supremacy in cricket for more than a decade by winning World Cup three consecutive times and overall, they have won it five times.&nbsp;

However, they suffered a torrid year since Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft were banned for ball-tampering, an incident that prompted a national outcry.&nbsp;

I grew up in a time when Glenn McGrath and Brett Lee were world's best bowlers but even that time, Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh, Virendra Sehwag were threats to them.&nbsp;

Now in modern times, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are posing threat to Australian Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins.&nbsp;

While David Warner and Aaron Finch are in form to make the job difficult for India's Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar.&nbsp;

From batting to bowling, from fielding to sledging, the sides give a huge competition to each other.&nbsp;

Their current teams are a mix of young talents with experienced players and both the captains, Kohli and Finch, know weaknesses of each other's squad as they have played ten&nbsp;ODI including home and away series recently.&nbsp;

It will be interesting to see which captain will use&nbsp;it in a better way.&nbsp;

Hungry for redemption, the Aussie will look to dominate the contest but with their current form, both the teams surely build up towards an exciting contest in this World Cup.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

India versus Pakistan cricket rivalry is usually termed as one of the greatest in the international sporting arena, which is highly emotionally charged. The significance of India vs Pakistan World Cup match can be understood by the fact that in the previous edition, over one billion viewers watched the Indo-Pak contest worldwide.

India versus Pakistan cricket rivalry is usually termed as one of the greatest in the international sporting arena, which is highly emotionally charged. The significance of India vs Pakistan World Cup match can be understood by the fact that in the previous edition, over one billion viewers watched the Indo-Pak contest worldwide. It had a 14.8 per cent TV rating with a live reach of 288 million. During the major ICC events, both the team are under the immense pressure of winning the match to steer clear of the repercussions as losing leads to extreme reactions from fans in both the countries. When it comes to stats, India and Pakistan have played a total of 131 matches. Pakistan dominate the overall tally by winning 73 matches while India won 54. Although, in the World Cup, it is India who dominated Pakistan by a great record of winning all the six games played so far. The stressful history between the two nations pushes the fans to take extreme measures while celebrating the win and after a defeat, some disruptions often occur. After 2008 Mumbai blasts, India refused to play the bilateral series against the arch-rivals. The question arises, is it worth it and why can't they just move on? India vs Pakistan is overhyped and when it comes to real cricket, the actual action, India vs Australia is a real deal. In the past five World Cup tournaments, India are the only team to have denied the Australians the trophy, which was in 2011 when India were the champions. Both the teams have played a total of 136 ODI matches, Australia won 77 matches and India emerged victorious on 49 occasions. While in the World Cup, Aussies dominated India by defeating the 'Men in Blue' in eight of 11 games played. In the ongoing edition of World Cup, which is underway in England and Wales, both the teams had a winning start. Now, they will look to continue the momentum when they take on each other on June 9 in one of the most anticipated battles in this edition. Australia have enjoyed supremacy in cricket for more than a decade by winning World Cup three consecutive times and overall, they have won it five times. However, they suffered a torrid year since Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft were banned for ball-tampering, an incident that prompted a national outcry. I grew up in a time when Glenn McGrath and Brett Lee were world's best bowlers but even that time, Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh, Virendra Sehwag were threats to them. Now in modern times, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are posing threat to Australian Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins. While David Warner and Aaron Finch are in form to make the job difficult for India's Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. From batting to bowling, from fielding to sledging, the sides give a huge competition to each other. Their current teams are a mix of young talents with experienced players and both the captains, Kohli and Finch, know weaknesses of each other's squad as they have played ten ODI including home and away series recently. It will be interesting to see which captain will use it in a better way. Hungry for redemption, the Aussie will look to dominate the contest but with their current form, both the teams surely build up towards an exciting contest in this World Cup. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Indo-Pak cricket rivalry overhyped, India vs Australia is the real deal

Former Australian pacer Brett Lee has picked India's Jasprit Bumrah as one of his top three fast <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-pacer-jasprit-bumrah-to-spinner-rashid-khan-bowlers-who-can-push-batsmen-on-the-backfoot-in-cricket-world-cup-2019-219355&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwizzs3-vbHiAhV-6XMBHb4jD7MQFjAEegQIBhAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw2SbitlpIg5j7qmdwHDUlUv">bowlers for the upcoming World Cup</a>, beginning in the United Kingdom on May 30.

"What a wonderful bowler," said Lee of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-says-jasprit-bumrah-is-the-best-bowler-at-this-stage-218294&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwizzs3-vbHiAhV-6XMBHb4jD7MQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3qVoWUTWltY-dxmJYK7gIh">Bumrah, who has taken 85 wickets in 49 one-day internationals</a>.

"He's got a good record, wonderful yorker, good pace," added the Australian, a member of the 2003 World Cup winning side.

Besides Bumrah, Lee picked compatriots Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummings as the other two fast bowlers who will do well at the quadrennial tournament.

"You'd have to stick with Mitchell Starc," Lee told cricket.Com.Au.

Starc, a left-armer, had suffered a chest injury last February and is nearing peak fitness.

"He's still got that quality. When that pace is up he's hard to go past," Lee said of Starc, who was the 2015 Player of the Tournament for his 22 wickets at 10 runs apiece.

Heaping praise on Cummins, Lee said, "Pat Cummins -&nbsp;pace, accuracy, variations. He can do it all."

In six matches this year, Cummins has taken 17 wickets at just 14.29.&nbsp;

Former Australian pacer Brett Lee has picked India's Jasprit Bumrah as one of his top three fast bowlers for the upcoming World Cup, beginning in the United Kingdom on May 30.

Former Australian pacer Brett Lee has picked India's Jasprit Bumrah as one of his top three fast bowlers for the upcoming World Cup, beginning in the United Kingdom on May 30. "What a wonderful bowler," said Lee of Bumrah, who has taken 85 wickets in 49 one-day internationals. "He's got a good record, wonderful yorker, good pace," added the Australian, a member of the 2003 World Cup winning side. Besides Bumrah, Lee picked compatriots Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummings as the other two fast bowlers who will do well at the quadrennial tournament. "You'd have to stick with Mitchell Starc," Lee told cricket.Com.Au. Starc, a left-armer, had suffered a chest injury last February and is nearing peak fitness. "He's still got that quality. When that pace is up he's hard to go past," Lee said of Starc, who was the 2015 Player of the Tournament for his 22 wickets at 10 runs apiece. Heaping praise on Cummins, Lee said, "Pat Cummins - pace, accuracy, variations. He can do it all." In six matches this year, Cummins has taken 17 wickets at just 14.29.

India's Jasprit Bumrah among Brett Lee's top three World Cup quicks

In the bleakest of years for Australian cricket, fast bowler Pat Cummins has been a beacon of hope, answering the nation's call for leaders to emerge during the ball-tampering exile of Steve Smith and David Warner.

On Monday, Cummins's efforts to drag Australia back to respectability were recognised as he claimed a maiden Allan Border Medal as the country's leading cricketer.

Taking 44 wickets across all formats through the voting period from Jan. 9, 2018 - Jan. 7, 2019, Cummins edged out spinner Nathan Lyon, becoming the first bowler to win the award since fellow paceman Mitchell Johnson in 2014.

It was not just Cummins's bags of wickets that soothed fans left aghast by the Newlands ball-tampering scandal.

He showed himself to be more than a handy tail-end slogger as he smashed two half-centuries against South Africa and India, including a defiant 50 in Johannesburg as his team laboured in shame after the Cape Town Test.

Beaming in a white tuxedo at the awards night in Melbourne, the 25-year-old resembled a schoolboy posing for family photos before the senior year dance.

It was a poignant reminder of a player still very young in fast bowling terms, though long marked for greatness.

Cummins made his first splash as an 18-year-old tearaway, claiming a match-winning seven-wicket haul against South Africa on his 2011 Test debut in Johannesburg.

It took more than five years for him to play his second Test, an agonising wait for both the bowler and team staff while he battled a series of lower back stress injuries.

Since kicking off his "second career" against India at Ranchi in 2017, however, Cummins has completed a second full season with no major breakdowns.

"I’ve obviously had quite a few tough years with injury. I always thought Test cricket was the dream but wasn’t sure I’d get up there and forge a consistent career," he said at the awards night.

"Going into last summer and the Ashes, five Tests -- I’d never done anything like it before so, to get through that, I just had a heap of confidence in my body.

"To do it now, two years in a row, it’s been great. I feel like every time I bowl, my rhythm just feels a little bit better."

While Australia's pace spearhead Mitchell Starc battled through a mostly wayward home summer, wearing a disproportionate share of the blame for the Test series loss to India, Cummins's reputation was only enhanced by the defeat.

He took a career-best 6-27 and blasted 63 with the bat in a losing cause in Melbourne, prompting local media to anoint him a future captain of the team.

Promoted to one of Australia's two vice-captains in the series against Sri Lanka, Cummins took 14 wickets in the two Tests to be named man-of-the-series.

He is now second in the ICC world bowlers' rankings behind South Africa's young gun Kagiso Rabada.

After only 20 Tests, Cummins will play the first Ashes fixture at Edgbaston in August in sight of his 100th wicket.

England beware, said former captain Michael Vaughan.

"Cummins is a superstar and will win an Ashes on his own one day," Vaughan tweeted last week.

In the bleakest of years for Australian cricket, fast bowler Pat Cummins has been a beacon of hope, answering the nation's call for leaders to emerge during the ball-tampering exile of Steve Smith and David Warner.

In the bleakest of years for Australian cricket, fast bowler Pat Cummins has been a beacon of hope, answering the nation's call for leaders to emerge during the ball-tampering exile of Steve Smith and David Warner. On Monday, Cummins's efforts to drag Australia back to respectability were recognised as he claimed a maiden Allan Border Medal as the country's leading cricketer. Taking 44 wickets across all formats through the voting period from Jan. 9, 2018 - Jan. 7, 2019, Cummins edged out spinner Nathan Lyon, becoming the first bowler to win the award since fellow paceman Mitchell Johnson in 2014. It was not just Cummins's bags of wickets that soothed fans left aghast by the Newlands ball-tampering scandal. He showed himself to be more than a handy tail-end slogger as he smashed two half-centuries against South Africa and India, including a defiant 50 in Johannesburg as his team laboured in shame after the Cape Town Test. Beaming in a white tuxedo at the awards night in Melbourne, the 25-year-old resembled a schoolboy posing for family photos before the senior year dance. It was a poignant reminder of a player still very young in fast bowling terms, though long marked for greatness. Cummins made his first splash as an 18-year-old tearaway, claiming a match-winning seven-wicket haul against South Africa on his 2011 Test debut in Johannesburg. It took more than five years for him to play his second Test, an agonising wait for both the bowler and team staff while he battled a series of lower back stress injuries. Since kicking off his "second career" against India at Ranchi in 2017, however, Cummins has completed a second full season with no major breakdowns. "I’ve obviously had quite a few tough years with injury. I always thought Test cricket was the dream but wasn’t sure I’d get up there and forge a consistent career," he said at the awards night. "Going into last summer and the Ashes, five Tests -- I’d never done anything like it before so, to get through that, I just had a heap of confidence in my body. "To do it now, two years in a row, it’s been great. I feel like every time I bowl, my rhythm just feels a little bit better." While Australia's pace spearhead Mitchell Starc battled through a mostly wayward home summer, wearing a disproportionate share of the blame for the Test series loss to India, Cummins's reputation was only enhanced by the defeat. He took a career-best 6-27 and blasted 63 with the bat in a losing cause in Melbourne, prompting local media to anoint him a future captain of the team. Promoted to one of Australia's two vice-captains in the series against Sri Lanka, Cummins took 14 wickets in the two Tests to be named man-of-the-series. He is now second in the ICC world bowlers' rankings behind South Africa's young gun Kagiso Rabada. After only 20 Tests, Cummins will play the first Ashes fixture at Edgbaston in August in sight of his 100th wicket. England beware, said former captain Michael Vaughan. "Cummins is a superstar and will win an Ashes on his own one day," Vaughan tweeted last week.

Pat Cummins recognised for stepping up in bleak year for Australia

Australia's Pat Cummins breathed a sigh of relief after hearing Dimuth Karunaratne was not in any danger after one of his vicious bouncers struck the Sri Lanka batsman on the back of the neck and left him crumpled in a heap at Manuka Oval on Saturday.

The 30-year-old opener slumped onto his back after being struck, prompting a hush to descend on the picturesque ground, which only moments before had been buzzing with horn-blowing, dancing Sri Lankan supporters.

The incident brought back painful memories of the fatal blow that struck Australian Phillip Hughes in 2014 and the concern among both sets of players was palpable.

Cummins was left to look on anxiously as the Australian side assembled near the pitch to watch the medical team attend to Karunaratne, who was stretchered off the ground and taken to hospital in a neck brace.

"It's never a nice feeling seeing someone go down like that," Cummins told the host broadcaster after the end of the day's play. "The good thing was he looked like he was moving his hands and the physio said he seemed all right when he left.

"I wish him all the best and hopefully he's doing all right. You never like seeing that. It's just one of those things that happens in cricket. Whether its your teammate, another teammate, you just hope they're OK."

Sri Lanka coach Chandika Hathurusingha later had good news about the batsman's condition, saying he had never lost consciousness and that he was in good spirits while he was being assessed at the hospital.

Kurtis Patterson, Australia's centurion from Saturday, hoped Karunaratne would be back at the batting crease on the third day of the test on Sunday.

"All of us were in a little bit of shock but I think everyone's okay which is good. Hoping he's okay to bat again tomorrow," Patterson added.

The crowd gave a standing ovation to Karunaratne, who was forced to retire hurt on 46, and continued clapping until he was driven off the field in a buggy.

The incident appeared to rattle Sri Lanka, who went from 90 without loss to 120-3.

"Not quite sure but we lost couple of wickets so definitely it was bit of a distraction at that moment," Hathurusingha told reporters. "We were going well at 90 for no wicket and they were batting well."

The tourists trail Australia by 411 runs and must win the match to draw the two-test series after the hosts won the opener at Brisbane.

Australia's Pat Cummins breathed a sigh of relief after hearing Dimuth Karunaratne was not in any danger after one of his vicious bouncers struck the Sri Lanka batsman on the back of the neck and left him crumpled in a heap at Manuka Oval on Saturday.

Australia's Pat Cummins breathed a sigh of relief after hearing Dimuth Karunaratne was not in any danger after one of his vicious bouncers struck the Sri Lanka batsman on the back of the neck and left him crumpled in a heap at Manuka Oval on Saturday. The 30-year-old opener slumped onto his back after being struck, prompting a hush to descend on the picturesque ground, which only moments before had been buzzing with horn-blowing, dancing Sri Lankan supporters. The incident brought back painful memories of the fatal blow that struck Australian Phillip Hughes in 2014 and the concern among both sets of players was palpable. Cummins was left to look on anxiously as the Australian side assembled near the pitch to watch the medical team attend to Karunaratne, who was stretchered off the ground and taken to hospital in a neck brace. "It's never a nice feeling seeing someone go down like that," Cummins told the host broadcaster after the end of the day's play. "The good thing was he looked like he was moving his hands and the physio said he seemed all right when he left. "I wish him all the best and hopefully he's doing all right. You never like seeing that. It's just one of those things that happens in cricket. Whether its your teammate, another teammate, you just hope they're OK." Sri Lanka coach Chandika Hathurusingha later had good news about the batsman's condition, saying he had never lost consciousness and that he was in good spirits while he was being assessed at the hospital. Kurtis Patterson, Australia's centurion from Saturday, hoped Karunaratne would be back at the batting crease on the third day of the test on Sunday. "All of us were in a little bit of shock but I think everyone's okay which is good. Hoping he's okay to bat again tomorrow," Patterson added. The crowd gave a standing ovation to Karunaratne, who was forced to retire hurt on 46, and continued clapping until he was driven off the field in a buggy. The incident appeared to rattle Sri Lanka, who went from 90 without loss to 120-3. "Not quite sure but we lost couple of wickets so definitely it was bit of a distraction at that moment," Hathurusingha told reporters. "We were going well at 90 for no wicket and they were batting well." The tourists trail Australia by 411 runs and must win the match to draw the two-test series after the hosts won the opener at Brisbane.

Pat Cummins relieved as Sri Lanka's Karunaratne 'in no danger' after bouncer hit

Australia is set to rest its fast-bowling trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood for the first three ODIs against India in a bid to manage their workload ahead of a busy international calendar.&nbsp;

Cummins has been Australia's top performer with both the ball and the bat in the just-concluded Boxing Day Test in Melbourne and coach Justin Langer insisted that it's a great selection "conundrum" for the hosts for the ODI series which begins in Sydney on January 12.&nbsp;

Langer said Australia need to keep its players fit and fresh ahead of busy 2019, which includes a World Cup and an Ashes tour and hinted that Cummins, Starc and Hazlewood may be rested in the ODI series against India ahead of the two Tests against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

"It's the great conundrum for us, really, how we manage our bowlers. For example, we might not play them in the next three one-dayers so they're ready for the next two (Tests) to keep them fresh," Langer was quoted as saying by 'The Sydney Morning Herald'.&nbsp;

"He (Cummins) has been brilliant, he's been outstanding but then - as soon as we do that they want to play and also then everyone else would be on our back saying: 'Why aren't they playing every single game?' But if you play every game - we've also got a World Cup and Ashes next year - we want him fresh for those things."&nbsp;

Cummins, who has been Australia's best fast bowler in the first three Tests against India with 14 wickets at an average of 20.07, had earlier missed the ODI series in England and the two Tests against Pakistan in the UAE owing to injuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The lanky pacer is one of several Australian cricketers, who will not feature in the 2019 IPL because of a packed international calendar.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"You look at every year on an individual basis and the player as well. There might be times when it's a really good thing for them to be playing IPL. But there's so much cricket now. The players individually - and us as management - have to make sure we get the balance right so everyone is happy and playing cricket," Langer said.&nbsp;

"So getting that management right and staying true to the management, so we can have him (Cummins) fit and firing - we've got to be strong with that because there's got to be a lot of people with different opinions as to whether they should play every game," he said.&nbsp;

"But we know it's really hard to play all year around because they need to keep their bodies as fresh and strong (as possible) and then be bowling at the level we want them to be at. It's a real balancing act as well."

Australia is set to rest its fast-bowling trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood for the first three ODIs against India in a bid to manage their workload ahead of a busy international calendar.

Australia is set to rest its fast-bowling trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood for the first three ODIs against India in a bid to manage their workload ahead of a busy international calendar. Cummins has been Australia's top performer with both the ball and the bat in the just-concluded Boxing Day Test in Melbourne and coach Justin Langer insisted that it's a great selection "conundrum" for the hosts for the ODI series which begins in Sydney on January 12. Langer said Australia need to keep its players fit and fresh ahead of busy 2019, which includes a World Cup and an Ashes tour and hinted that Cummins, Starc and Hazlewood may be rested in the ODI series against India ahead of the two Tests against Sri Lanka. "It's the great conundrum for us, really, how we manage our bowlers. For example, we might not play them in the next three one-dayers so they're ready for the next two (Tests) to keep them fresh," Langer was quoted as saying by 'The Sydney Morning Herald'. "He (Cummins) has been brilliant, he's been outstanding but then - as soon as we do that they want to play and also then everyone else would be on our back saying: 'Why aren't they playing every single game?' But if you play every game - we've also got a World Cup and Ashes next year - we want him fresh for those things." Cummins, who has been Australia's best fast bowler in the first three Tests against India with 14 wickets at an average of 20.07, had earlier missed the ODI series in England and the two Tests against Pakistan in the UAE owing to injuries. The lanky pacer is one of several Australian cricketers, who will not feature in the 2019 IPL because of a packed international calendar. "You look at every year on an individual basis and the player as well. There might be times when it's a really good thing for them to be playing IPL. But there's so much cricket now. The players individually - and us as management - have to make sure we get the balance right so everyone is happy and playing cricket," Langer said. "So getting that management right and staying true to the management, so we can have him (Cummins) fit and firing - we've got to be strong with that because there's got to be a lot of people with different opinions as to whether they should play every game," he said. "But we know it's really hard to play all year around because they need to keep their bodies as fresh and strong (as possible) and then be bowling at the level we want them to be at. It's a real balancing act as well."

Australia set to rest Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood for first 3 ODIs against India

India moved within two wickets of an emphatic victory in the third Test after reducing Australia to 258 for eight at the close of day four on Saturday.

Having set a mammoth victory target of 399 shortly before lunch, Virat Kohli's team attacked with precision and intensity to leave the home side on life support at the end of a muggy and overcast day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The lion-hearted Pat Cummins thwarted India's hopes of closing out the win with a day to spare, anchoring some stubborn tail-end resistance after the top order crumbled.

The seamer was 61 not out, with Nathan Lyon on six, and Australia still 141 runs short of their victory target.

Having dominated with bat and ball throughout a one-sided contest, the tourists will almost certainly head to the Sydney finale with a 2-1 series lead and a genuine belief they can become the first Indian team to win a series Down Under.

On a grim day for Australian cricket, Cummins was the only shining light for the home side, and recorded career-best figures of 6-27 before Kohli declared India's second innings at 106-8 before lunch.

However, Cummins's heroics will likely be consigned to a foot-note, squandered as they were by the familiar batting failures of his team mates.

Where straight bats were required to provide a platform of resistance, Aaron Finch got his team off to the worst possible start by throwing away his wicket for three with an unsightly cut shot off Jasprit Bumrah that was gobbled in the slips.

Recalled all-rounder Mitchell Marsh was similarly wasteful, slogging spinner Ravindra Jadeja straight to Kohli at short cover to be out for 10.

Having done the hard work to get set in his innings, Travis Head (34) fell on his sword after tea by dragging Ishant Sharma onto his stumps with a dubious drive away from his body.

Amid the help from Australia's poor shot selection, India produced moments of brilliance to remove their more assured batsmen.

Mohammed Shami dismissed Usman Khawaja lbw for 33 shortly after lunch with a peach of a delivery, before Bumrah trapped Shaun Marsh for 44 with a searing ball.

The wily Jadeja proved a constant menace, and induced an edge off Marcus Harris (13) that lodged in Mayank Agarwal's mid-riff.

The left-arm spinner later returned to dismiss wicketkeeper-captain Tim Paine for 26, leaving Australia to rely on their tail and a miracle to stave off defeat.

India moved within two wickets of an emphatic victory in the third Test after reducing Australia to 258 for eight at the close of day four on Saturday. Having set a mammoth victory target of 399 shortly before lunch, Virat Kohli's team attacked with precision and intensity to leave the home side on life support at the end of a muggy and overcast day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

India moved within two wickets of an emphatic victory in the third Test after reducing Australia to 258 for eight at the close of day four on Saturday. Having set a mammoth victory target of 399 shortly before lunch, Virat Kohli's team attacked with precision and intensity to leave the home side on life support at the end of a muggy and overcast day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The lion-hearted Pat Cummins thwarted India's hopes of closing out the win with a day to spare, anchoring some stubborn tail-end resistance after the top order crumbled. The seamer was 61 not out, with Nathan Lyon on six, and Australia still 141 runs short of their victory target. Having dominated with bat and ball throughout a one-sided contest, the tourists will almost certainly head to the Sydney finale with a 2-1 series lead and a genuine belief they can become the first Indian team to win a series Down Under. On a grim day for Australian cricket, Cummins was the only shining light for the home side, and recorded career-best figures of 6-27 before Kohli declared India's second innings at 106-8 before lunch. However, Cummins's heroics will likely be consigned to a foot-note, squandered as they were by the familiar batting failures of his team mates. Where straight bats were required to provide a platform of resistance, Aaron Finch got his team off to the worst possible start by throwing away his wicket for three with an unsightly cut shot off Jasprit Bumrah that was gobbled in the slips. Recalled all-rounder Mitchell Marsh was similarly wasteful, slogging spinner Ravindra Jadeja straight to Kohli at short cover to be out for 10. Having done the hard work to get set in his innings, Travis Head (34) fell on his sword after tea by dragging Ishant Sharma onto his stumps with a dubious drive away from his body. Amid the help from Australia's poor shot selection, India produced moments of brilliance to remove their more assured batsmen. Mohammed Shami dismissed Usman Khawaja lbw for 33 shortly after lunch with a peach of a delivery, before Bumrah trapped Shaun Marsh for 44 with a searing ball. The wily Jadeja proved a constant menace, and induced an edge off Marcus Harris (13) that lodged in Mayank Agarwal's mid-riff. The left-arm spinner later returned to dismiss wicketkeeper-captain Tim Paine for 26, leaving Australia to rely on their tail and a miracle to stave off defeat.

INDvsAUS: India march to brink of victory in Melbourne Test

Bundled out for a paltry 151 in the first innings, pacer Pat Cummins on Friday said Australian batsmen need to learn a lot from India captain <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> and Cheteshwar Pujara on how to pace their knocks on this MCG pitch.

Pujara and Kohli had put on 170 runs in the first innings to help India declare at a mammoth 443 for seven and Cummins said the Australian batsmen need to take a cue from the visiting duo's temperament.&nbsp;

"It was obviously not ideal. We turned up thinking of a good first innings score and be right in the game. We wanted to take this result away from them. This is a young batting group and they are working hard. They are trying their best, but it is just one of those things. Today it didn't come off," Cummins said after the day's play.&nbsp;

"What we saw from India's first innings, we saw temperament of Pujara and Virat and how they pace their innings. They absorb pressure because on this kind of wicket, it is hard to score runs.&nbsp;

"You have to face a lot of balls to get big scores and it is probably one of those wickets where you do the hard work early. Keep absorbing pressure and score later, but evidently it did not work for us today," he added.&nbsp;

Riding on Cummins' four for 10 figures, Australia reduced India to 54 for five in the second innings of the ongoing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-in-charge-but-devastating-pat-cummins-gives-australia-hope-186970">third Test</a> but still trail the visitors by 346 runs after conceding a first innings lead of 292 runs.&nbsp;

The fast bowler said in the absence of their two best batsmen - banned duo of Steve Smith and David Warner, others have to rise to the occasion to give India a tough fight in the remaining two days of the match.&nbsp;

"It's always going to be hard missing two of your best players. We've known for nine months (that Steve Smith and David Warner won't be available).

thers have to stand up. It probably highlights the class they've had in previous years but we've got find to find a way," Cummins said.&nbsp;

"Everyone here is good enough. They've done it at the level below, all of them are the best (Sheffield) Shield players and most of them have done it for Australia before. Wicket feels pretty good still, so everyone feels like in the second innings they can face more balls and get going," he added.&nbsp;

Cummins was the wrecker-in-chief In India's second innings with his impressive figures.&nbsp;

And the pacer said they wanted to make things tough for India in the second things and still dare to dream for a positive result over the next two days.&nbsp;

"I am pretty tired, exhausted but the good thing is that coming into this series I felt really fresh. Hopefully, there won't be too many overs tomorrow and we won't have to bowl last in this game. So hopefully there will be a 4-5 day break before Sydney," Cummins said.&nbsp;

"If we knock them over in the morning, you just never know. We tried to make it very hard for every run. The wicket is still pretty good, tough to score runs.

ut we saw last year we batted really well on day four and five (at the MCG), you dare to dream.&nbsp;

"But it's still a long way left in the game. For India to move the game forward will be hard tomorrow. They will have to bat long and we will just take it as deep as possible," he signed off.

Bundled out for a paltry 151 in the first innings, pacer Pat Cummins on Friday said Australian batsmen need to learn a lot from India captain Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara on how to pace their knocks on this MCG pitch.

Bundled out for a paltry 151 in the first innings, pacer Pat Cummins on Friday said Australian batsmen need to learn a lot from India captain Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara on how to pace their knocks on this MCG pitch. Pujara and Kohli had put on 170 runs in the first innings to help India declare at a mammoth 443 for seven and Cummins said the Australian batsmen need to take a cue from the visiting duo's temperament. "It was obviously not ideal. We turned up thinking of a good first innings score and be right in the game. We wanted to take this result away from them. This is a young batting group and they are working hard. They are trying their best, but it is just one of those things. Today it didn't come off," Cummins said after the day's play. "What we saw from India's first innings, we saw temperament of Pujara and Virat and how they pace their innings. They absorb pressure because on this kind of wicket, it is hard to score runs. "You have to face a lot of balls to get big scores and it is probably one of those wickets where you do the hard work early. Keep absorbing pressure and score later, but evidently it did not work for us today," he added. Riding on Cummins' four for 10 figures, Australia reduced India to 54 for five in the second innings of the ongoing third Test but still trail the visitors by 346 runs after conceding a first innings lead of 292 runs. The fast bowler said in the absence of their two best batsmen - banned duo of Steve Smith and David Warner, others have to rise to the occasion to give India a tough fight in the remaining two days of the match. "It's always going to be hard missing two of your best players. We've known for nine months (that Steve Smith and David Warner won't be available). thers have to stand up. It probably highlights the class they've had in previous years but we've got find to find a way," Cummins said. "Everyone here is good enough. They've done it at the level below, all of them are the best (Sheffield) Shield players and most of them have done it for Australia before. Wicket feels pretty good still, so everyone feels like in the second innings they can face more balls and get going," he added. Cummins was the wrecker-in-chief In India's second innings with his impressive figures. And the pacer said they wanted to make things tough for India in the second things and still dare to dream for a positive result over the next two days. "I am pretty tired, exhausted but the good thing is that coming into this series I felt really fresh. Hopefully, there won't be too many overs tomorrow and we won't have to bowl last in this game. So hopefully there will be a 4-5 day break before Sydney," Cummins said. "If we knock them over in the morning, you just never know. We tried to make it very hard for every run. The wicket is still pretty good, tough to score runs. ut we saw last year we batted really well on day four and five (at the MCG), you dare to dream. "But it's still a long way left in the game. For India to move the game forward will be hard tomorrow. They will have to bat long and we will just take it as deep as possible," he signed off.

Need to bat like Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli in second innings: Pat Cummins

Indian skipper Virat Kohli declared his side's inning at 443/7 with Rohit Sharma remaining&nbsp;unbeaten on 63.&nbsp;Kohli's decision will give Indian bowlers around 25 minutes to make it difficult for the Australia openers.

Rohit Sharma slammed a brilliant half-century to take India's score past 400. Rohit found a perfect ally in young Rishabh pant and the two have built up a partnership of 76 runs before the wicketkeeper-batsman lost his wicket.

Pant got caught while trying to hit a big shot off Mitchell Starc. He departed after making 39 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Australia's Nathan Lyon bowled a beautiful low delivery to end Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane's 62 run partnership. Ajinkya lost his wicket to the Australian spinner for the ninth time. He departed after making 34 runs.&nbsp;

Earlier, Cheteshwar Pujara's brilliant inning ended after the right-handed batsman lost his wicket to a low ball of Australian pacer Pat Cummins.

The 30-year old was sent back to the pavilion minutes after Indian skipper Virat Kohli was dismissed by Mitchell Starc.

While Pujara departed after making 106 runs, Kohli contributed crucial 82 runs, ending a long 170-run partership between the two.&nbsp;

The wickets of these two have brought Australia back in the game as India didn't lose any since the start of the game on day 2.

India reached 277 for loss of two wickets only at lunch on the second day of the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday.

Pujara, who resumed the inning on Day 2 at 68, went on to hit his17th Test century to put India in a dominating position against hosts Australia.&nbsp;

Skipper Kohli too reached his half-century early today and was going strong along with Pujara as the two resumed India's bid to build on. 
&nbsp; 
The Australian bowlers failed to create any chance to take a wicket in the first session but are expected to make a strong comeback in the next session.&nbsp;

On Day 1, India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day where Pujara raised his 21st Test half-century.

Electing to bat, Indian opener Mayank Agarwal enjoyed a stellar entry to Test cricket, scoring 76 to record the highest ever innings by an India debutant on Australian soil before being dismissed on the last ball before tea. 
&nbsp; 
With the four-match series poised at 1-1, India's slow but disciplined accumulation left them well-placed to build a big total.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli declared his side's inning at 443/7 with Rohit Sharma remaining unbeaten on 63. Kohli's decision will give Indian bowlers around 25 minutes to make it difficult for the Australia openers.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli declared his side's inning at 443/7 with Rohit Sharma remaining unbeaten on 63. Kohli's decision will give Indian bowlers around 25 minutes to make it difficult for the Australia openers. Rohit Sharma slammed a brilliant half-century to take India's score past 400. Rohit found a perfect ally in young Rishabh pant and the two have built up a partnership of 76 runs before the wicketkeeper-batsman lost his wicket. Pant got caught while trying to hit a big shot off Mitchell Starc. He departed after making 39 runs. Australia's Nathan Lyon bowled a beautiful low delivery to end Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane's 62 run partnership. Ajinkya lost his wicket to the Australian spinner for the ninth time. He departed after making 34 runs. Earlier, Cheteshwar Pujara's brilliant inning ended after the right-handed batsman lost his wicket to a low ball of Australian pacer Pat Cummins. The 30-year old was sent back to the pavilion minutes after Indian skipper Virat Kohli was dismissed by Mitchell Starc. While Pujara departed after making 106 runs, Kohli contributed crucial 82 runs, ending a long 170-run partership between the two. The wickets of these two have brought Australia back in the game as India didn't lose any since the start of the game on day 2. India reached 277 for loss of two wickets only at lunch on the second day of the third Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Thursday. Pujara, who resumed the inning on Day 2 at 68, went on to hit his17th Test century to put India in a dominating position against hosts Australia. Skipper Kohli too reached his half-century early today and was going strong along with Pujara as the two resumed India's bid to build on. The Australian bowlers failed to create any chance to take a wicket in the first session but are expected to make a strong comeback in the next session. On Day 1, India held the whip-hand at 215 for two at the close of a grinding opening day where Pujara raised his 21st Test half-century. Electing to bat, Indian opener Mayank Agarwal enjoyed a stellar entry to Test cricket, scoring 76 to record the highest ever innings by an India debutant on Australian soil before being dismissed on the last ball before tea. With the four-match series poised at 1-1, India's slow but disciplined accumulation left them well-placed to build a big total.

IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Australia eight for no loss at stumps on Day 2

Australia were 170-6&nbsp;after 75&nbsp;overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide.

Travis Head scored a half-century to salvage Australian innings, he is currently batting with&nbsp;Pat Cummins.

Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced.

A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive.

His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show.

In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done.

He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot.

Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26.

Australia were&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-2-australia-lose-quick-wickets-57-2-at-lunch-182054">57-2 at lunch</a>&nbsp;with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs.

Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin.

Peter Handscomb, who was batting at 34, lost his wicket to Jasprit Bumrah.

Skipper and wicketkeeper-batsman Tim Paine was sent back by Ishant Sharma at a score of five.

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Half-century for Travis Head! 
 
Brings up the mark with a single to loud applause in Adelaide. It's a much-needed knock for Australia. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE 
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/PIvQwf7zOJ">pic.twitter.com/PIvQwf7zOJ</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1070927893201645568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier,&nbsp;India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total.

When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0.

Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

Australia were 170-6 after 75 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide. Travis Head scored a half-century to salvage Australian innings, he is currently batting with Pat Cummins.

Australia were 170-6 after 75 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide. Travis Head scored a half-century to salvage Australian innings, he is currently batting with Pat Cummins. Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced. A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive. His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show. In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done. He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot. Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26. Australia were 57-2 at lunch with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs. Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin. Peter Handscomb, who was batting at 34, lost his wicket to Jasprit Bumrah. Skipper and wicketkeeper-batsman Tim Paine was sent back by Ishant Sharma at a score of five. Half-century for Travis Head! Brings up the mark with a single to loud applause in Adelaide. It's a much-needed knock for Australia. #AUSvIND LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/PIvQwf7zOJ — ICC (@ICC) December 7, 2018 × Earlier, India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total. When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0. Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 2: Australia at 170-6 after 75 overs

Australia were 121-5 after 60 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide.

Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced.

A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive.

His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show.

In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done.

He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot.

Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26.

Australia were&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-2-australia-lose-quick-wickets-57-2-at-lunch-182054">57-2 at lunch</a>&nbsp;with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs.

Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin.

Peter Handscomb, who was batting at 34, lost his wicket to Jasprit Bumrah.

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India in control! 
 
Bumrah draws the edge from Handscomb, and Australia are five down for 120. 
 
Captain Paine is in. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE 
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— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1070911490553798657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier,&nbsp;India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total.

When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0.

Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

Australia were 121-5 after 60 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide. Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced.

Australia were 121-5 after 60 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of the opening Test on Friday in Adelaide. Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced. A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive. His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show. In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done. He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot. Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26. Australia were 57-2 at lunch with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs. Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin. Peter Handscomb, who was batting at 34, lost his wicket to Jasprit Bumrah. India in control! Bumrah draws the edge from Handscomb, and Australia are five down for 120. Captain Paine is in. #AUSvIND LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/KVR0W7w5te — ICC (@ICC) December 7, 2018 × Earlier, India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total. When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0. Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 2: Australia at 121-5 after 60

India's spinner <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=ashwin">Ravichandran Ashwin</a> struck thrice as Australia were 99-4 after 47 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of opnening Test on Friday in Adelaide.

Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced.

A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive.

His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show.

In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done.

He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot.

Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26.

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Khawaja falls, huge wicket for India. 
 
It's Ashwin again. He has the left-hand bat caught behind, and he's on a roll. 
 
Australia are 87/4, and need to rebuild. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE 
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Australia were <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-2-australia-lose-quick-wickets-57-2-at-lunch-182054">57-2 at lunch</a> with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs.

Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin.

Earlier,&nbsp;India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total.

When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0.

Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

India's spinner Ravichandran Ashwin struck thrice as Australia were 99-4 after 47 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of opnening Test on Friday in Adelaide.

India's spinner Ravichandran Ashwin struck thrice as Australia were 99-4 after 47 overs in reply to India's India's 250 in the second day of opnening Test on Friday in Adelaide. Aussies started their innings with a shock as Aaron Finch lost his wicket in the first over after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced. A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive. His credentials as an opener again called into question after such poor show. In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done. He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot. Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26. Khawaja falls, huge wicket for India. It's Ashwin again. He has the left-hand bat caught behind, and he's on a roll. Australia are 87/4, and need to rebuild. #AUSvIND LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/TsIacZW0TG — ICC (@ICC) December 7, 2018 × Australia were 57-2 at lunch with loss of two wickets but just after coming from the break, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs. Usman Khawaja, who was set after facing 125 balls, was out spun by Ashwin. Earlier, India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total. When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0. Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 2: Ashwin strikes thrice as Australia at 104-4 after 50 overs

Australia lost two wickets in the morning session Friday in reply to India's 250, leaving the first Test evenly poised with the experienced Usman Khawaja and Shaun Marsh at the crease.

Just after coming from lunch,&nbsp;Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-1-cheteshwar-pujara-rescues-india-in-adelaide-oval-181878">India finished the opening day at 250-9</a>, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total.

When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0.

Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each.

In reply, Australia were 57-2 at lunch with Khawaja not out 21 and Marsh unbeaten on one.

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🍴 
 
Patience has been key in the morning session of day two in Adelaide. India have sent back the openers, but Usman Khawaja is holding steady. Australia go to lunch on 57/2. 
 
FOLLOW <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE 
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The home team got off to a horror start with Aaron Finch's credentials as an opener again called into question after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced.

A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive.

In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done.

He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot.

Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26.

But he was undone by a drifting ball from spinner Ravi Ashwin, getting an edge to Murali Vijay at silly mid-off, ending a 45-run partnership with Khawaja.

Paceman Shami went off the field in the run-up to lunch, apparently due to a shoulder niggle, but soon returned, although he did not bowl again.

Australia lost two wickets in the morning session Friday in reply to India's 250, leaving the first Test evenly poised with the experienced Usman Khawaja and Shaun Marsh at the crease.

Australia lost two wickets in the morning session Friday in reply to India's 250, leaving the first Test evenly poised with the experienced Usman Khawaja and Shaun Marsh at the crease. Just after coming from lunch, Shaun Marsh lost his wicket after scoring just two runs. India finished the opening day at 250-9, on the back of a battling 123 from Cheteshwar Pujara, and they failed to add to the total. When they resumed, tailender Mohammed Shami was out for six on the first delivery of the day, caught behind by Tim Paine off Josh Hazlewood, leaving Jasprit Bumrah unbeaten on 0. Hazlewood finished with 3-52. Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all took two wickets each. In reply, Australia were 57-2 at lunch with Khawaja not out 21 and Marsh unbeaten on one. 🍴 Patience has been key in the morning session of day two in Adelaide. India have sent back the openers, but Usman Khawaja is holding steady. Australia go to lunch on 57/2. FOLLOW #AUSvIND LIVE ➡️ https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/b42Ms9a5te — ICC (@ICC) December 7, 2018 × The home team got off to a horror start with Aaron Finch's credentials as an opener again called into question after he was spectacularly bowled without scoring on only the third ball he faced. A beautiful delivery from Ishant Sharma took out his middle and off stumps after getting an inside edge as Finch attempted a drive. In muggy and overcast conditions, a slimmed-down Usman Khawaja, returning after knee surgery, joined debutant Marcus Harris to show Finch how it should be done. He compiled a patient 21, putting aside disrupted preparations after the shock arrest of his brother this week for allegedly framing a love-rival with a fake terror plot. Harris, who was picked on the back of being the second highest run-scorer in Sheffield Shield this season, looked in good nick and unruffled by the occasion, hitting three fours in a solid 26. But he was undone by a drifting ball from spinner Ravi Ashwin, getting an edge to Murali Vijay at silly mid-off, ending a 45-run partnership with Khawaja. Paceman Shami went off the field in the run-up to lunch, apparently due to a shoulder niggle, but soon returned, although he did not bowl again.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 2: Australia lose quick wickets, 65-3 after 32 overs

Cheteshwar Pujara scored a half-century to salvage Indian innings in the opening Test on Thursday in Adelaide as the visitors were at stumbled at 214-8 after 83 overs.

Pujara played a responsible innings and was unbeaten at 73 after facing 194 balls.

He found a determined&nbsp;ally in&nbsp;R Ashwin, who lost his wicket after scoring a crucial 25 runs for his team.

After playing several defensive shots, Ishant Sharma returned to the pavilion&nbsp;as India's last wicket after scoring four runs.

For Australia, spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail as the Virat-led staggered to 143 for six at tea.

Having won the toss and elected to bat, India resumed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-1-india-129-6-after-50-overs-181803">after lunch on 56</a> for four after a disastrous morning of batsmen falling to Australia's pacemen with a slew of poor shots.

Pujara and Rohit Sharma, recalled at the expense of Hanuma Vihari, were pinned down after the break by disciplined bowling and the latter tried to break the shackles by attacking Lyon.

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Cummins snares Ashwin! 
 
He walks back for a 76-ball 25, and Australia have the breakthrough. Ashwin's 62-run stand with Pujara is by far India's best on the day. 
 
Can they rebuild? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/QxBVyIYP3G">pic.twitter.com/QxBVyIYP3G</a>
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He slog-swept the spinner for six but it was a risky play as debutant Marcus Harris leaped to catch the ball just behind the rope before tossing it back inside in a failed bid to save runs.

Rohit was out next ball with another ham-fisted attempt to clear the short square boundary, skying a simple catch to the same fielder after Lyon had pitched the ball shorter.

Rishabh Pant was greeted with fierce pace from Mitchell Starc, who beat the young wicketkeeper's bat twice in succession and followed up the deliveries with verbal assaults.

He responded in turn by smashing Starc for six behind square to bring up India's 100th run and then sent an edge flying past the slips for four.

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Half-century for Pujara! 👏 
 
He's been the lone positive for India so far on the first day of the Adelaide Test. 
 
Can he push the total to respectability? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/ByXKTHbt9P">pic.twitter.com/ByXKTHbt9P</a>
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Before that, Australia grabbed early wickets, including the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli</a>, to have India on the ropes.

On a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

India have never won a Test series in Australia.

Cheteshwar Pujara scored a half-century to salvage Indian innings in the opening Test on Thursday in Adelaide as the visitors were at stumbled at 214-8 after 83 overs.

Cheteshwar Pujara scored a half-century to salvage Indian innings in the opening Test on Thursday in Adelaide as the visitors were at stumbled at 214-8 after 83 overs. Pujara played a responsible innings and was unbeaten at 73 after facing 194 balls. He found a determined ally in R Ashwin, who lost his wicket after scoring a crucial 25 runs for his team. After playing several defensive shots, Ishant Sharma returned to the pavilion as India's last wicket after scoring four runs. For Australia, spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail as the Virat-led staggered to 143 for six at tea. Having won the toss and elected to bat, India resumed after lunch on 56 for four after a disastrous morning of batsmen falling to Australia's pacemen with a slew of poor shots. Pujara and Rohit Sharma, recalled at the expense of Hanuma Vihari, were pinned down after the break by disciplined bowling and the latter tried to break the shackles by attacking Lyon. Cummins snares Ashwin! He walks back for a 76-ball 25, and Australia have the breakthrough. Ashwin's 62-run stand with Pujara is by far India's best on the day. Can they rebuild? #AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/QxBVyIYP3G — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × He slog-swept the spinner for six but it was a risky play as debutant Marcus Harris leaped to catch the ball just behind the rope before tossing it back inside in a failed bid to save runs. Rohit was out next ball with another ham-fisted attempt to clear the short square boundary, skying a simple catch to the same fielder after Lyon had pitched the ball shorter. Rishabh Pant was greeted with fierce pace from Mitchell Starc, who beat the young wicketkeeper's bat twice in succession and followed up the deliveries with verbal assaults. He responded in turn by smashing Starc for six behind square to bring up India's 100th run and then sent an edge flying past the slips for four. Half-century for Pujara! 👏 He's been the lone positive for India so far on the first day of the Adelaide Test. Can he push the total to respectability? #AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/ByXKTHbt9P — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × Before that, Australia grabbed early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes. On a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. India have never won a Test series in Australia.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: India at 214-8 after 83 overs

More misery have been added to Virat Kohli-led team India in the&nbsp;opening day of the first Test as the visitors were at&nbsp;129 for the loss of six wickets after 50 overs.

The Australian bowling department, especially the pacers, have dominated the game so far.

Australia grabbed early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">Virat Kohli</a>, to have India on the ropes.

After thrashing the top batting order, the Aussies continued the attack as they dismissed Rohit Sharma and&nbsp;Rishabh Pant.

Now, all eyes are on&nbsp;Cheteshwar Pujara as he is playing at a score of 376 runs after&nbsp;facing 120 balls.

Spinner Nathon Lyon, who came into the attack in the 13th over, has stunned the Indian batsmen with his splendid bowling including taking two crucial wickets.

Batting after Kohli <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-test-day-1-virat-kohli-opts-to-bat-in-adelaide-test-181755">won the toss</a> on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

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Lyon gets another! 
 
Pant is out caught behind, and another Indian mini-partnership is broken. 
 
They are 127/6, with Pujara on a 119-ball 35*.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/3vJlQWyU5v">pic.twitter.com/3vJlQWyU5v</a>
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Tim Paine said, "We expect the batsmen to stand-up, we have good players who have done well domestically over the past five-six years"

India have never won a Test series in Australia.

More misery have been added to Virat Kohli-led team India in the opening day of the first Test as the visitors were at 129 for the loss of six wickets after 50 overs.

More misery have been added to Virat Kohli-led team India in the opening day of the first Test as the visitors were at 129 for the loss of six wickets after 50 overs. The Australian bowling department, especially the pacers, have dominated the game so far. Australia grabbed early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes. After thrashing the top batting order, the Aussies continued the attack as they dismissed Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant. Now, all eyes are on Cheteshwar Pujara as he is playing at a score of 376 runs after facing 120 balls. Spinner Nathon Lyon, who came into the attack in the 13th over, has stunned the Indian batsmen with his splendid bowling including taking two crucial wickets. Batting after Kohli won the toss on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. Lyon gets another! Pant is out caught behind, and another Indian mini-partnership is broken. They are 127/6, with Pujara on a 119-ball 35*.#AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/3vJlQWyU5v — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × Tim Paine said, "We expect the batsmen to stand-up, we have good players who have done well domestically over the past five-six years" India have never won a Test series in Australia.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: India 129-6 after 50 overs

The Australian bowling department, especially the pacers, have dominated the opening day of first Test so far as India were 92 for the loss of five in Adelaide after 40 overs.

Australia grabbed early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">Virat Kohli</a>, to have India on the ropes.

Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara resumed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-test-day-1-india-at-56-4-at-lunch-181774">the game after lunch</a> but&nbsp;tried to salvage the innings but fell cheaply to spinner Nathon Lyon.

After drinks break, spinner Nathon Lyon came into the attack in the 13th over.

Rohit playing at number six spot vacated by the injured fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya, with spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari missing out.

Rohit Sharma scored 37 from 61 balls.

Rishabh Pant and Pujara were playing.

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India lose their fifth! 
 
Rohit gifts his wicket away attempting to attack, and the 45-run fifth-wicket stand is broken by Lyon. 
 
India are 86/5, and have plenty to do to save the day.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/sC1LEKhd7s">pic.twitter.com/sC1LEKhd7s</a>
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Earlier, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-test-day-1-virat-kohli-opts-to-bat-in-adelaide-test-181755">after winning the toss</a> on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two.

Veteran Murali Vijay, in the side after young gun Prithvi Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in a warm-up game, didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11.

After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs.

The Australian bowling department, especially the pacers, have dominated the opening day of first Test so far as India were 92 for the loss of five in Adelaide after 40 overs.

The Australian bowling department, especially the pacers, have dominated the opening day of first Test so far as India were 92 for the loss of five in Adelaide after 40 overs. Australia grabbed early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes. Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara resumed the game after lunch but tried to salvage the innings but fell cheaply to spinner Nathon Lyon. After drinks break, spinner Nathon Lyon came into the attack in the 13th over. Rohit playing at number six spot vacated by the injured fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya, with spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari missing out. Rohit Sharma scored 37 from 61 balls. Rishabh Pant and Pujara were playing. India lose their fifth! Rohit gifts his wicket away attempting to attack, and the 45-run fifth-wicket stand is broken by Lyon. India are 86/5, and have plenty to do to save the day.#AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/sC1LEKhd7s — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × Earlier, after winning the toss on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two. Veteran Murali Vijay, in the side after young gun Prithvi Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in a warm-up game, didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11. After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: India 92-5 after 40 overs

India were at a score of 56 runs for the loss of four wickets at lunch on the opening day of the first Test in Adelaide.

Australia grabbed three early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">Virat Kohli</a>, to have India on the ropes.

After <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-test-day-1-virat-kohli-opts-to-bat-in-adelaide-test-181755">winning the toss</a> on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two.

Veteran Murali Vijay, in the side after young gun Prithvi Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in a warm-up game, didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11.

After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs.

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Lunch in Adelaide! 🍴 
 
It was an excellent session for Australia. India head in to the break at 56/4, with Josh Hazlewood taking 2/17. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/0JKYwSoRja">pic.twitter.com/0JKYwSoRja</a>
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In marched superstar Kohli to a huge roar from the crowd, but a stunning <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">catch by Usman Khawaja</a> at gully off a Pat Cummins delivery saw him back in the pavilion for only three off 16 balls, with India in trouble.

At lunch, Cheteshwar Pujara and Rohit Sharma were on 11 and 15 respectively.

Rohit is playing at number six spot vacated by the injured fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya, with spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari missing out.

India have never won a Test series in Australia.

India were at a score of 56 runs for the loss of four wickets at lunch on the opening day of the first Test in Adelaide. Australia grabbed three early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes.

India were at a score of 56 runs for the loss of four wickets at lunch on the opening day of the first Test in Adelaide. Australia grabbed three early wickets, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes. After winning the toss on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two. Veteran Murali Vijay, in the side after young gun Prithvi Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in a warm-up game, didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11. After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs. Lunch in Adelaide! 🍴 It was an excellent session for Australia. India head in to the break at 56/4, with Josh Hazlewood taking 2/17. #AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/0JKYwSoRja — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × In marched superstar Kohli to a huge roar from the crowd, but a stunning catch by Usman Khawaja at gully off a Pat Cummins delivery saw him back in the pavilion for only three off 16 balls, with India in trouble. At lunch, Cheteshwar Pujara and Rohit Sharma were on 11 and 15 respectively. Rohit is playing at number six spot vacated by the injured fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya, with spin bowling all-rounder Hanuma Vihari missing out. India have never won a Test series in Australia.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: India at 56-4 at lunch

India lost three early wickets in the form of KL Rahul, Murli Vijay and skipper Virat Kohli.

While batting, India were at a score of 21 for a loss of three wickets after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-test-day-1-virat-kohli-opts-to-bat-in-adelaide-test-181755">winning the toss</a> in the first innings of the first Test against Australia at Adelaide Oval.

Josh Hazelwood struck in the second over itself and got KL Rahul's wicket, who thought to go for the drive but edged it in the safe hands of Aaron Finch.

Murli Vijay,&nbsp;in the side after young gun Prithvi Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in a warm-up game, was struggling with the seam and caught by Australian skipper Tim Paine as he edged Mitchell Starc's ball.

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Huge wicket! 
 
Cummins sends back Kohli in his first over, with Khawaja taking an absolute blinder at gully. 
 
India in all sorts of trouble at 19/3. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/gfZRF74IvF">pic.twitter.com/gfZRF74IvF</a>
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Australia got the most prized scalp in the form of Kohli when Khawaja dived on his left side to take a stunner on Pat Cummins ball.

Ajinkya Rahane and Pujara were playing at two and three runs respectively.

India have never won a Test series in Australia.

India lost three early wickets in the form of KL Rahul, Murli Vijay and skipper Virat Kohli. While batting, India were at a score of 21 for a loss of three wickets after winning the toss in the first innings of the first Test against Australia at Adelaide Oval.

India lost three early wickets in the form of KL Rahul, Murli Vijay and skipper Virat Kohli. While batting, India were at a score of 21 for a loss of three wickets after winning the toss in the first innings of the first Test against Australia at Adelaide Oval. Josh Hazelwood struck in the second over itself and got KL Rahul's wicket, who thought to go for the drive but edged it in the safe hands of Aaron Finch. Murli Vijay, in the side after young gun Prithvi Shaw suffered ankle ligament damage in a warm-up game, was struggling with the seam and caught by Australian skipper Tim Paine as he edged Mitchell Starc's ball. Huge wicket! Cummins sends back Kohli in his first over, with Khawaja taking an absolute blinder at gully. India in all sorts of trouble at 19/3. #AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/gfZRF74IvF — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × Australia got the most prized scalp in the form of Kohli when Khawaja dived on his left side to take a stunner on Pat Cummins ball. Ajinkya Rahane and Pujara were playing at two and three runs respectively. India have never won a Test series in Australia.

India vs Australia, 1st Test, Day 1: India at 21-3 after 11 overs

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-1-cheteshwar-pujara-slams-his-16th-test-century-181857">Cheteshwar Pujara</a> struck a defiant century in an Adelaide Oval furnace to rescue India after Australia's pacemen threatened to dominate day one of the series-opening Test on Thursday.

The India number three was a rock as his partners crumbled around him, pushing India to 250 for nine at the close with a brutal assault on the second new ball.

Unbroken by fierce pace bowling, Pujara was dismissed by a piece of brilliant fielding, with Pat Cummins throwing down the stumps to leave the batsman well short of his ground.

Tail-ender Mohammed Shami survived to stumps on six, with Jasprit Bumrah the last batsman to resume on day two.

It was nonetheless a positive finish for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">Virat Kohli</a>'s side who had slumped to 86 for five after lunch, falling to a combination of dreadful shot-making and fierce Australian pace after winning the toss.

Pujara anchored vital partnerships with young wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and Ravichandran Ashwin before completing his 16th Test century with a flick off his pads after scoring his 5,000th run in Tests.

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Stumps on Day 1 in Adelaide! 
 
Pujara is dismissed just before the end of play, but his century has helped India get to 250/9. 
 
Australia will still be delighted, having been asked to field. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> SCORECARD ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/zskoCJrfN7">pic.twitter.com/zskoCJrfN7</a>
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India resumed on 143 for six after lunch with seamer Cummins having Ashwin edge to the slips and Mitchell Starc bowling Ishant Sharma for four.

Spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail after lunch, having Rohit Sharma slog-sweep to a fielder for 37 before Pant fell for 25 feathering an edge behind.

India had lost 41 for four in the morning to Australia's fired-up seamers, with Usman Khawaja taking a brilliant one-handed catch to remove Kohli for three after both the openers fell cheaply.

"Stuck my hand out and it stuck. It's nice when they do stick," said Khawaja.

"It was a good little momentum-goer too, because we got a couple of early ones ... and we got a few more so it was nice."

Seamer Josh Hazlewood grabbed two wickets in the morning session, removing Ajinkya Rahane (13) and the out-of-form Lokesh Rahul (two).

Starc removed Murali Vijay for a streaky 11, the recalled batsman edging another rash shot behind to Tim Paine.

Cheteshwar Pujara struck a defiant century in an Adelaide Oval furnace to rescue India after Australia's pacemen threatened to dominate day one of the series-opening Test on Thursday.

Cheteshwar Pujara struck a defiant century in an Adelaide Oval furnace to rescue India after Australia's pacemen threatened to dominate day one of the series-opening Test on Thursday. The India number three was a rock as his partners crumbled around him, pushing India to 250 for nine at the close with a brutal assault on the second new ball. Unbroken by fierce pace bowling, Pujara was dismissed by a piece of brilliant fielding, with Pat Cummins throwing down the stumps to leave the batsman well short of his ground. Tail-ender Mohammed Shami survived to stumps on six, with Jasprit Bumrah the last batsman to resume on day two. It was nonetheless a positive finish for Virat Kohli's side who had slumped to 86 for five after lunch, falling to a combination of dreadful shot-making and fierce Australian pace after winning the toss. Pujara anchored vital partnerships with young wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and Ravichandran Ashwin before completing his 16th Test century with a flick off his pads after scoring his 5,000th run in Tests. Stumps on Day 1 in Adelaide! Pujara is dismissed just before the end of play, but his century has helped India get to 250/9. Australia will still be delighted, having been asked to field. #AUSvIND SCORECARD ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/zskoCJrfN7 — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × India resumed on 143 for six after lunch with seamer Cummins having Ashwin edge to the slips and Mitchell Starc bowling Ishant Sharma for four. Spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail after lunch, having Rohit Sharma slog-sweep to a fielder for 37 before Pant fell for 25 feathering an edge behind. India had lost 41 for four in the morning to Australia's fired-up seamers, with Usman Khawaja taking a brilliant one-handed catch to remove Kohli for three after both the openers fell cheaply. "Stuck my hand out and it stuck. It's nice when they do stick," said Khawaja. "It was a good little momentum-goer too, because we got a couple of early ones ... and we got a few more so it was nice." Seamer Josh Hazlewood grabbed two wickets in the morning session, removing Ajinkya Rahane (13) and the out-of-form Lokesh Rahul (two). Starc removed Murali Vijay for a streaky 11, the recalled batsman edging another rash shot behind to Tim Paine.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: Cheteshwar Pujara rescues India in Adelaide Oval

Cheteshwar Pujara slammed his 16th Test century in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsaus-1st-test-day-1-cheteshwar-pujara-scores-50-india-at-154-6-after-60-overs-181827">opening Test</a> against Australia on Thursday, also his first century on&nbsp;Australian soil.

In a pressure situation when other players stumbled in front of the Australian brutal bowling, Pujara was at the helm of salvaging India's innings in Adelaide.

Pujara also completed his 5000 Test runs.

Earlier,&nbsp;Australia grabbed quick wickets in the first session, including the prized scalp of star batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-usman-khawaja-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-181771">Virat Kohli</a>, to have India on the ropes.

After winning the toss on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

Australian spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail.

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Pujara scores his 16th Test century! He also completes 5000 runs in Test cricket! 👏 
 
A supreme, defiant knock, even as the rest of the Indian batsmen struggled, and he has kept the team's hopes alive here. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> LIVE ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc">https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc</a> <a href="https://t.co/T29wQax7Hk">pic.twitter.com/T29wQax7Hk</a>
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KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two.

Veteran Murali Vijay didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11.

After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs.

Rohit slog-swept the spinner for six but it was a risky play as debutant Marcus Harris leaped to catch the ball just behind the rope before tossing it back inside in a failed bid to save runs.

Rohit was out next ball with another ham-fisted attempt to clear the short square boundary, skying a simple catch to the same fielder after Lyon had pitched the ball shorter.

Rishabh Pant was greeted with fierce pace from Mitchell Starc, who beat the young wicketkeeper's bat twice in succession and followed up the deliveries with verbal assaults.

He responded in turn by smashing Starc for six behind square to bring up India's 100th run and then sent an edge flying past the slips for four.

Cheteshwar Pujara slammed his 16th Test century in the opening Test against Australia on Thursday, also his first century on Australian soil. In a pressure situation when other players stumbled in front of the Australian brutal bowling, Pujara was at the helm of salvaging India's innings in Adelaide.

Cheteshwar Pujara slammed his 16th Test century in the opening Test against Australia on Thursday, also his first century on Australian soil. In a pressure situation when other players stumbled in front of the Australian brutal bowling, Pujara was at the helm of salvaging India's innings in Adelaide. Pujara also completed his 5000 Test runs. Earlier, Australia grabbed quick wickets in the first session, including the prized scalp of star batsman Virat Kohli, to have India on the ropes. After winning the toss on a day when temperatures are forecast to hit 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit), the visitors crumbled under an opening barrage from quicks Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. Australian spinner Nathan Lyon struck twice to expose India's tail. Pujara scores his 16th Test century! He also completes 5000 runs in Test cricket! 👏 A supreme, defiant knock, even as the rest of the Indian batsmen struggled, and he has kept the team's hopes alive here. #AUSvIND LIVE ⬇️https://t.co/sCMk42Mboc pic.twitter.com/T29wQax7Hk — ICC (@ICC) December 6, 2018 × KL Rahul, who has been struggling for runs, flopped again, caught by Aaron Finch at third slip off Hazlewood for two. Veteran Murali Vijay didn't last much longer, caught behind by skipper Tim Paine of Starc for 11. After that, pacer Hazlewood has added more misery to visitors as he sent back India's vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane at a score of 13 runs. Rohit slog-swept the spinner for six but it was a risky play as debutant Marcus Harris leaped to catch the ball just behind the rope before tossing it back inside in a failed bid to save runs. Rohit was out next ball with another ham-fisted attempt to clear the short square boundary, skying a simple catch to the same fielder after Lyon had pitched the ball shorter. Rishabh Pant was greeted with fierce pace from Mitchell Starc, who beat the young wicketkeeper's bat twice in succession and followed up the deliveries with verbal assaults. He responded in turn by smashing Starc for six behind square to bring up India's 100th run and then sent an edge flying past the slips for four.

INDvsAUS, 1st Test, Day 1: Cheteshwar Pujara completes his 16th Test ton

They might have been banned from turning out for Australia but disgraced batting duo of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=steve+smith">Steve Smith</a> and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=david+warner">David Warner</a> are going out of their way to prepare their bowlers for the upcoming four-Test series against India.&nbsp;

Both former skipper Smith and Warner have agreed to turn out at the Australia nets to bat against the pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins to prepare them to face Virat Kohli and Co in the upcoming four-Test series.&nbsp;

Any hopes of Smith and Warner wearing the baggy green this summer were dashed when Cricket Australia board upheld the bans last week but the former captain and his deputy is still playing a big role behind the scenes.&nbsp;

Smith is expected to face Hazlewood, Starc and Cummins at the Sydney Cricket Ground nets this week as Australia round off their preparations for the first Test starting December 6 at Adelaide.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2018-19-schedule-teams-time-and-venue-177740">India vs Australia 2018-19: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

"He's (Smith) someone the three of us have bowled a fair bit to over the last little while at training," Starc told to a media.&nbsp;

"To get the view of a batsman who is facing us, get his opinion on how we're tracking, is always great as well.&nbsp;

"There's talking bowling coaches then there's talking to the guys you're bowling to. That's a great opportunity to have him face us in our preparation leading up to the Tests," he added.&nbsp;

Starc said when they asked Smith to help them prepare for the Test series, he was more than willing to oblige.&nbsp;

"He was around training (Thursday) with the Blues. We said we have a few overs to bowl next week and we said if you want to have a hit he was more than happy to oblige," Starc said.&nbsp;

"It'll be great to bowl to him in the nets. He's one of the best in the world, to even get his thoughts on how we're tracking will always be good for us."

While Smith will turn out at the Australia nets later this week, Warner came in the SCG nets before the third T20I against India on Sunday and faced the Aussie fast bowlers in the nets.&nbsp;

Warner appeared in the net session and Cummins and Hazlewood were also seen getting some tips from coach Justin Langer.

They might have been banned from turning out for Australia but disgraced batting duo of Steve Smith and David Warner are going out of their way to prepare their bowlers for the upcoming four-Test series against India.

They might have been banned from turning out for Australia but disgraced batting duo of Steve Smith and David Warner are going out of their way to prepare their bowlers for the upcoming four-Test series against India. Both former skipper Smith and Warner have agreed to turn out at the Australia nets to bat against the pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins to prepare them to face Virat Kohli and Co in the upcoming four-Test series. Any hopes of Smith and Warner wearing the baggy green this summer were dashed when Cricket Australia board upheld the bans last week but the former captain and his deputy is still playing a big role behind the scenes. Smith is expected to face Hazlewood, Starc and Cummins at the Sydney Cricket Ground nets this week as Australia round off their preparations for the first Test starting December 6 at Adelaide. India vs Australia 2018-19: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue "He's (Smith) someone the three of us have bowled a fair bit to over the last little while at training," Starc told to a media. "To get the view of a batsman who is facing us, get his opinion on how we're tracking, is always great as well. "There's talking bowling coaches then there's talking to the guys you're bowling to. That's a great opportunity to have him face us in our preparation leading up to the Tests," he added. Starc said when they asked Smith to help them prepare for the Test series, he was more than willing to oblige. "He was around training (Thursday) with the Blues. We said we have a few overs to bowl next week and we said if you want to have a hit he was more than happy to oblige," Starc said. "It'll be great to bowl to him in the nets. He's one of the best in the world, to even get his thoughts on how we're tracking will always be good for us." While Smith will turn out at the Australia nets later this week, Warner came in the SCG nets before the third T20I against India on Sunday and faced the Aussie fast bowlers in the nets. Warner appeared in the net session and Cummins and Hazlewood were also seen getting some tips from coach Justin Langer.

Banned Steve Smith, David Warner help Oz pacers prep for Virat and co.

Australian pacer Pat Cummins on Tuesday joined the Indian Premier League's exodus list after he was ruled out of the remaining season due to a back injury.

His departure is a big blow for Mumbai, as the franchise is already reeling under the loss of their first match to Chennai.&nbsp

Cummins, who was bought by the Mumbai for Rs 5.4 crore, joined his Australian teammate Mitchell Starc in the list of injured players who will not take part in the IPL.

The others players who were ruled out in recent days include Kagiso Rabada, Nathan Coulter-Nile and Kedar Jadhav.

Jadhav, who became the last over hero to help Chennai get its first win, suffered a hamstring injury.&nbsp

Cummins has a history of back issues and he went through a busy international season playing 13 consecutive Tests for Australia.

He picked up the injury during the fourth Test between Australia and South Africa.

"Pat experienced some back soreness during the fourth Test in South Africa. Follow-up scans have confirmed that he has bone oedema in his vertebrae," said Australian team physio David Beakley.

"It is important that Pat has time off bowling, to prevent the injury becoming more serious and consequently we have made the decision to rule Pat out of the IPL," he said.

On Cummins' comeback, the physio added: "Pat will now undergo a period of recovery and rehabilitation and we will look to re-scan him in a few weeks to assess the healing.

"Following this we will be in a better position to decide on Pat's return to play timeline including participation in the limited overs tour of the UK."

Mumbai will next face Hyderabad this Saturday.&nbsp

Cummins was bought by the Mumbai for Rs 5.4 crore

Australian pacer Pat Cummins on Tuesday joined the Indian Premier League's exodus list after he was ruled out of the remaining season due to a back injury. His departure is a big blow for Mumbai, as the franchise is already reeling under the loss of their first match to Chennai. Cummins, who was bought by the Mumbai for Rs 5.4 crore, joined his Australian teammate Mitchell Starc in the list of injured players who will not take part in the IPL. The others players who were ruled out in recent days include Kagiso Rabada, Nathan Coulter-Nile and Kedar Jadhav. Jadhav, who became the last over hero to help Chennai get its first win, suffered a hamstring injury. Cummins has a history of back issues and he went through a busy international season playing 13 consecutive Tests for Australia. He picked up the injury during the fourth Test between Australia and South Africa. "Pat experienced some back soreness during the fourth Test in South Africa. Follow-up scans have confirmed that he has bone oedema in his vertebrae," said Australian team physio David Beakley. "It is important that Pat has time off bowling, to prevent the injury becoming more serious and consequently we have made the decision to rule Pat out of the IPL," he said. On Cummins' comeback, the physio added: "Pat will now undergo a period of recovery and rehabilitation and we will look to re-scan him in a few weeks to assess the healing. "Following this we will be in a better position to decide on Pat's return to play timeline including participation in the limited overs tour of the UK." Mumbai will next face Hyderabad this Saturday.

IPL 2018: Pat Cummins joins exodus list, ruled out with back injury

Australia maintains its winning streak by claiming an innings victory over England in fifth Ashes Test and whitewashed England by completing a 4-0 series.

Nathon Lyon took three wickets for 54 off 35 overs.&nbsp;Pat Cummins struck twice just after the lunch break. He took&nbsp;Jonny Bairstow leg before wicket for 38 and having Stuart Broad caught behind off a short ball for four. For his outstanding performance, he got Man of the Match also he was the leading wicket-taker in the series by taking 23 wickets.

&quot;To get through the five Tests and end the series here at home. I couldn&#39;t&nbsp;ask&nbsp;for much more,&quot; said Cummins.

Australian captain Steve Smith seemed exponentially happy after&nbsp;winning the series and receiving the honour of Man of the Series on which he said,&nbsp;&quot;It has been a great couple of months. The cricket that we have played in the last couple of months has been outstanding&quot;

&quot;We have just been able to get on top and win those key moments and not let them back in the game which is crucial,&quot; he added.

England finished at 180 for nine off 88.1 overs as Australia won by an innings and 123 runs.&nbsp;

Joe Root did not come out to bat after lunch as he continued to experience discomfort after his overnight stomach bug.

England&#39;s remote chances of saving the Test disappeared when Root failed to appear at the crease after lunch.

Australian bowlers struck hard, Aussie took a grip on the final Test with a massive 303-run innings lead and then reduced the battle-weary tourists to 93 for four at the close on the fourth day.

Scoreboard:

England first innings 346 (J. Root 83, D. Malan 62; P. Cummins 4-80)

Australia first innings 649 for 7 declared (U. Khawaja 171, S. Marsh 156, M. Marsh 101; M. Ali 2-170)

England second innings (overnight 93 for 4)

A. Cook&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; b Lyon&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10

M. Stoneman&nbsp; lbw b Starc&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;0

J. Vince&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c Smith b Cummins&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;18

J. Root&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; retired ill&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;58

D. Malan&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;lbw b Lyon&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;5

J. Bairstow&nbsp; lbw b Cummins&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 38

M. Ali&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;lbw b Lyon&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;13

T. Curran&nbsp; &nbsp; not out&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 23

S. Broad&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c Paine b Cummins&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;4

M. Crane&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;c Paine b Cummins&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2&nbsp;

J. Anderson&nbsp; c Paine b Hazlewood&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2&nbsp;&nbsp;

Total (all out; 88.1 overs)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 180

Fall of wickets: 1-5 (Stoneman), 2-15 (Cook), 3-43 (Vince), 4-68 (Malan), 5-121 (Ali), 6-144 (Bairstow), 7-148 (Broad), 8-156 (Crane), 9-180 (Anderson)

Bowling: Starc 16-4-38-1, Hazlewood 17.1-6-36-1, Lyon 35-12-54-3, Cummins 17-4-39-4, Smith 2-0-6-0, M. Marsh 1-1-0-0

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&nbsp;

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Australians took a grip on the final Test with a massive 303-run innings lead and then reduced the battle-weary tourists to 93 for four at the close on the fourth day.

Australia maintains its winning streak by claiming an innings victory over England in fifth Ashes Test and whitewashed England by completing a 4-0 series. Nathon Lyon took three wickets for 54 off 35 overs. Pat Cummins struck twice just after the lunch break. He took Jonny Bairstow leg before wicket for 38 and having Stuart Broad caught behind off a short ball for four. For his outstanding performance, he got Man of the Match also he was the leading wicket-taker in the series by taking 23 wickets. "To get through the five Tests and end the series here at home. I couldn't ask for much more," said Cummins. Australian captain Steve Smith seemed exponentially happy after winning the series and receiving the honour of Man of the Series on which he said, "It has been a great couple of months. The cricket that we have played in the last couple of months has been outstanding" "We have just been able to get on top and win those key moments and not let them back in the game which is crucial," he added. England finished at 180 for nine off 88.1 overs as Australia won by an innings and 123 runs. Joe Root did not come out to bat after lunch as he continued to experience discomfort after his overnight stomach bug. England's remote chances of saving the Test disappeared when Root failed to appear at the crease after lunch. Australian bowlers struck hard, Aussie took a grip on the final Test with a massive 303-run innings lead and then reduced the battle-weary tourists to 93 for four at the close on the fourth day. Scoreboard: England first innings 346 (J. Root 83, D. Malan 62; P. Cummins 4-80) Australia first innings 649 for 7 declared (U. Khawaja 171, S. Marsh 156, M. Marsh 101; M. Ali 2-170) England second innings (overnight 93 for 4) A. Cook b Lyon 10 M. Stoneman lbw b Starc 0 J. Vince c Smith b Cummins 18 J. Root retired ill 58 D. Malan lbw b Lyon 5 J. Bairstow lbw b Cummins 38 M. Ali lbw b Lyon 13 T. Curran not out 23 S. Broad c Paine b Cummins 4 M. Crane c Paine b Cummins 2 J. Anderson c Paine b Hazlewood 2 Total (all out; 88.1 overs) 180 Fall of wickets: 1-5 (Stoneman), 2-15 (Cook), 3-43 (Vince), 4-68 (Malan), 5-121 (Ali), 6-144 (Bairstow), 7-148 (Broad), 8-156 (Crane), 9-180 (Anderson) Bowling: Starc 16-4-38-1, Hazlewood 17.1-6-36-1, Lyon 35-12-54-3, Cummins 17-4-39-4, Smith 2-0-6-0, M. Marsh 1-1-0-0

Ashes: Oz beat England in final Test, seal series by 4-0

Australian captain Steve Smith thinks England will struggle to get back into the Ashes series after losing in Adelaide to trail 2-0 heading into next week&#39;s third test in Perth.

Smith admitted to some nerves when the tourists mounted a comeback after he decided not to enforce the follow-on in the second test but said it would now be a long road back for England in the five-match series after a 120-run defeat.&nbsp;

&quot;It`s always tough coming back from 2-0 down, particularly when you`re away from home,&quot; Smith said.

&quot;You`re really only one or two bad sessions away from the series, really. That can really play on people`s minds when you`re behind.&nbsp;

&quot;We have to be confident, we have to continue what we`re doing, doing the basics really well, getting big first innings runs is crucial as we`ve seen, and just backing up day in and day out.&quot;

Four reasons for Australian confidence were occupying row 13 of flight QF 740 from Adelaide to Sydney on Thursday with quicks Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins on one side of the aisle and off-spinner Nathan &quot;Gazza&quot; Lyon on the other.

Although suggestions that the bowling attack is the best to have ever donned baggy green caps are probably wide of the mark, they have done their job by dismissing England twice in both the first two tests. 
 
&quot;I think the exciting thing is our bowling group can only get better,&quot; Starc told reporters on arrival at Sydney airport.

&quot;Obviously we`ve taken 40 wickets over the last couple of weeks and done some really good things but there`s still room for improvement.&quot;

Starc took 5-88 after mopping up the England tail with the new pink ball on Wednesday, while Hazlewood snuffed out hopes of an England win with two wickets, including that of captain Joe root, in the first three overs of the day.

Cummins crucially pegged the English back with the wicket of Dawid Malan on Wednesday night, while Lyon is the leading wicket-taker in tests this year and his captain described his bowling in Adelaide as &quot;exceptional&quot;.

&quot;Paddy, Josh and I have grown up together -- Gazza`s a bit older -- we`ve been around each other for a long time and we`re really close mates,&quot; Starc added.&nbsp;

&quot;I think that shows in the way we play our cricket and we`re gelling really nicely and complementing each other really well.

&quot;Gazza`s bowling the house down at the moment and that allows the other three of us to just do what we do at the other end. Josh does what he does and allows Pat and I to bowl as fast as we want.&quot; 
Smith said he was keen for his bowlers and batsmen to get some rest before the Perth test starts next Thursday.

&quot;There`s a reasonable break between now and Perth so the bowlers can freshen up and the batters can freshen their minds, and we can come back and hopefully win the Ashes back in Perth,&quot; he added.

The test will be the last at the WACA and Starc said he was hoping to be presented with a bowling surface that harked back to the days when the likes of Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thomson terrorised English batsmen in Perth.

&quot;Hopefully we see a nice fast, bouncy wicket, the WACA of old, and get stuck into that as a bowling group,&quot; he said.

'It's always tough coming back from 2-0 down, particularly when you're away from home,' said Smith.

Australian captain Steve Smith thinks England will struggle to get back into the Ashes series after losing in Adelaide to trail 2-0 heading into next week's third test in Perth. Smith admitted to some nerves when the tourists mounted a comeback after he decided not to enforce the follow-on in the second test but said it would now be a long road back for England in the five-match series after a 120-run defeat. "It`s always tough coming back from 2-0 down, particularly when you`re away from home," Smith said. "You`re really only one or two bad sessions away from the series, really. That can really play on people`s minds when you`re behind. "We have to be confident, we have to continue what we`re doing, doing the basics really well, getting big first innings runs is crucial as we`ve seen, and just backing up day in and day out." Four reasons for Australian confidence were occupying row 13 of flight QF 740 from Adelaide to Sydney on Thursday with quicks Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins on one side of the aisle and off-spinner Nathan "Gazza" Lyon on the other. Although suggestions that the bowling attack is the best to have ever donned baggy green caps are probably wide of the mark, they have done their job by dismissing England twice in both the first two tests. "I think the exciting thing is our bowling group can only get better," Starc told reporters on arrival at Sydney airport. "Obviously we`ve taken 40 wickets over the last couple of weeks and done some really good things but there`s still room for improvement." Starc took 5-88 after mopping up the England tail with the new pink ball on Wednesday, while Hazlewood snuffed out hopes of an England win with two wickets, including that of captain Joe root, in the first three overs of the day. Cummins crucially pegged the English back with the wicket of Dawid Malan on Wednesday night, while Lyon is the leading wicket-taker in tests this year and his captain described his bowling in Adelaide as "exceptional". "Paddy, Josh and I have grown up together -- Gazza`s a bit older -- we`ve been around each other for a long time and we`re really close mates," Starc added. "I think that shows in the way we play our cricket and we`re gelling really nicely and complementing each other really well. "Gazza`s bowling the house down at the moment and that allows the other three of us to just do what we do at the other end. Josh does what he does and allows Pat and I to bowl as fast as we want." Smith said he was keen for his bowlers and batsmen to get some rest before the Perth test starts next Thursday. "There`s a reasonable break between now and Perth so the bowlers can freshen up and the batters can freshen their minds, and we can come back and hopefully win the Ashes back in Perth," he added. The test will be the last at the WACA and Starc said he was hoping to be presented with a bowling surface that harked back to the days when the likes of Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thomson terrorised English batsmen in Perth. "Hopefully we see a nice fast, bouncy wicket, the WACA of old, and get stuck into that as a bowling group," he said.

England will struggle to get back into Ashes series, says Steve Smith

England set up a World Cup showdown with Australia after scraping home 20-18 against a late-charging Tonga, who were denied a last-gasp try in Auckland&nbsp;on Saturday.

It is the first time England have reached the final in 22 years, their last appearance ending in a 16-8 defeat by Australia at Wembley in 1995.

In a nail-biting finish to the semi-final, Tonga were down 20-0 with eight minutes remaining but the Pacific islanders ran in three quick tries to close within two points.

Then on the stroke of full-time, Tonga claimed Andrew Fifita was illegally stripped of the ball as he drove towards what would have been a sensational match-winning try.

But referee Matt Cecchin ruled Fifita lost the ball and refused Tongan pleas for a&nbsp;video review as England hung on to snap an agonising semi-final jinx.

Before a packed 30,000 Auckland crowd -- including a large contingent of Tonga supporters fired up by the appearance of the Tongan King Tupou VI wearing a team jersey -- it was England who impressed from the outset.&nbsp;

They scored two tries in the first half and another in the second with Garth Widdop landing four out of four shots at goal and adding a try himself as England inflicted a first defeat on Tonga in the tournament.

Australia, who beat England in pool play, thrashed Fiji 54-6 in the first semi-final in Brisbane&nbsp;on Friday.

England face the Kangaroos in the final, also in Brisbane, next weekend.

It is the first time England have reached the final in 22 years, their last appearance ending in a 16-8 defeat by Australia at Wembley in 1995

England set up a World Cup showdown with Australia after scraping home 20-18 against a late-charging Tonga, who were denied a last-gasp try in Auckland on Saturday. It is the first time England have reached the final in 22 years, their last appearance ending in a 16-8 defeat by Australia at Wembley in 1995. In a nail-biting finish to the semi-final, Tonga were down 20-0 with eight minutes remaining but the Pacific islanders ran in three quick tries to close within two points. Then on the stroke of full-time, Tonga claimed Andrew Fifita was illegally stripped of the ball as he drove towards what would have been a sensational match-winning try. But referee Matt Cecchin ruled Fifita lost the ball and refused Tongan pleas for a video review as England hung on to snap an agonising semi-final jinx. Before a packed 30,000 Auckland crowd -- including a large contingent of Tonga supporters fired up by the appearance of the Tongan King Tupou VI wearing a team jersey -- it was England who impressed from the outset. They scored two tries in the first half and another in the second with Garth Widdop landing four out of four shots at goal and adding a try himself as England inflicted a first defeat on Tonga in the tournament. Australia, who beat England in pool play, thrashed Fiji 54-6 in the first semi-final in Brisbane on Friday. England face the Kangaroos in the final, also in Brisbane, next weekend.

England into World Cup final after late Tonga drama

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