Pat Cummins said on Monday he rates the fourth Test victory over India by 184 runs as "right at the top" of the greatest games he has played in for Australia. <o:p></o:p>
A rollicking match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was won late on day five when the home side blasted out seven Indian wickets in the final session.<o:p></o:p>
Cummins was named player of the match for his all-round deeds, including taking three key wickets on the final day as the tourists were skittled for 155. He did it in front of a final-day crowd of nearly 75,000, pushing the combined attendance across five days to 373,691, easily the highest for any match played in Australia.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-i-think-he-did-rohit-on-jaiswals-controversial-dismissal-after-indias-mcg-test-loss-vs-australia-8577295" rel="dofollow">'I think he did...', Rohit on Jaiswal's controversial dismissal after India's MCG Test loss vs Australia</a>
The 66-Test veteran said he agreed with several team-mates that the Test was among the best they'd played in.<o:p></o:p>
"I just felt everyone was talking, trying to work out where it sits. I reckon that it's right at the top," Cummins said. "When you take it all into account, it's probably the best Test match I've been involved in."<o:p></o:p>
"I don't know what the crowd was today, but it was huge," he said. "It felt like the match swung a lot as well. It never felt like we were so far ahead of the game that a win looked certain."<o:p></o:p>
"So overall, just one of those great wins."<o:p></o:p>
While Australia's attack was devastating late on day five, Cummins believed victory was set up in the morning when the key trio of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli was dismissed cheaply.<o:p></o:p>
"I reckon that first session today was close to perfection from a bowling point of view," he said.<o:p></o:p>
Australia can reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy if they win or draw the fifth and final Test starting in Sydney on Friday.<o:p></o:p>
Cummins expected Mitchell Starc to be fit to play, even though the pace bowler was wincing throughout the second innings, favouring what is believed to be a rib complaint.<o:p></o:p>
"We'll reassess in a couple of days, but he's a warrior, he gets through," Cummins said. "He never even contemplates not being an option to bowl."<o:p></o:p>
"So yeah, other than being in pain, he's fully fit and available."
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Cricket: While Australia's attack was devastating late on day five, Cummins believed victory was set up in the morning when key trio of Rohit, Rahul, and Kohli was dismissed cheaply.

Pat Cummins said on Monday he rates the fourth Test victory over India by 184 runs as "right at the top" of the greatest games he has played in for Australia. A rollicking match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was won late on day five when the home side blasted out seven Indian wickets in the final session. Cummins was named player of the match for his all-round deeds, including taking three key wickets on the final day as the tourists were skittled for 155. He did it in front of a final-day crowd of nearly 75,000, pushing the combined attendance across five days to 373,691, easily the highest for any match played in Australia. Also read | 'I think he did...', Rohit on Jaiswal's controversial dismissal after India's MCG Test loss vs Australia The 66-Test veteran said he agreed with several team-mates that the Test was among the best they'd played in. "I just felt everyone was talking, trying to work out where it sits. I reckon that it's right at the top," Cummins said. "When you take it all into account, it's probably the best Test match I've been involved in." "I don't know what the crowd was today, but it was huge," he said. "It felt like the match swung a lot as well. It never felt like we were so far ahead of the game that a win looked certain." "So overall, just one of those great wins." While Australia's attack was devastating late on day five, Cummins believed victory was set up in the morning when the key trio of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli was dismissed cheaply. "I reckon that first session today was close to perfection from a bowling point of view," he said. Australia can reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy if they win or draw the fifth and final Test starting in Sydney on Friday. Cummins expected Mitchell Starc to be fit to play, even though the pace bowler was wincing throughout the second innings, favouring what is believed to be a rib complaint. "We'll reassess in a couple of days, but he's a warrior, he gets through," Cummins said. "He never even contemplates not being an option to bowl." "So yeah, other than being in pain, he's fully fit and available." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

BGT – Pat Cummins rates MCG Test win over India his ‘greatest ever’

Australia beat India by 184 runs on Day 5 of the MCG Test, Melbourne on Monday (Dec 30) to take an unassailable 2-1 lead in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Chasing 340, in the fourth and penultimate tie, India managed 155 with only Yashasvi Jaiswal (84) showing resistance in the middle before a controversial call adjudged him out. India's top-order struggle continued as their hopes of playing the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, in June 2025, keeps fading away. For Pat Cummins-led Australia, the win marked their first versus India at the G and keeps them on course to meet South Africa in the WTC finale.
Day 5 of the MCG Test kicked off with Australia adding six more runs to their score bundling out for 234, setting a 340-run target. The last-wicket stand between Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland added 61 to frustrate India before Bumrah cleaned up Lyon. Bumrah claimed his third five-fer of the series. He now has 30 wickets in 2024-25 BGT; most by miles. In addition, Bumrah became the first pacer to claim 30 wickets in a BGT (second overall after Harbhajan Singh's 32 in 2001).
Moreover, Bumrah became the first visiting bowler to take 30 wickets in a Test series in Australia since West Indies great Curtly Ambrose (in 1992-93). Also, he is only the second Indian to touch the 30-wicket mark after spin legend Bishan Singh Bedi. Bedi achieved the feat during India's 1967-68 tour of Australia.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-kohli-can-play-3-to-4-more-years-for-rohit-shastri-on-indian-duos-test-future-after-flop-show-in-mcg-test-8576550" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT: 'Kohli can play 3 to 4 more years, for Rohit....' - Shastri on Indian duo's Test future after flop show in MCG Test</a>
<h2>Top order struggles and fielding lapses cost India</h2>
Talking about the MCG Test, India opted to bowl first but Steve Smith's 140, fifties from debutant Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne and lower-order's vital contributions, headed by skipper Pat Cummins (49), took the hosts to 474. In reply, India's famed batters -- Rohit, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, etc. -- fell flat but Nitish Reddy's 114 and Washington Sundar's 50 took India to 369.
Buoyed by Reddy and Sundar's fightback, India reduced Australia to 91-6, with their overall lead being 196. Bumrah once again led the charge with the ball but also found rare support from the other end, with Mohammed Siraj looking in good rhythm. However, Marnus Labuschagne's 70, Cummins and Lyon's 41 apiece took Australia to 234, also courtesy of India giving plenty of lifelines with several fielding errors.
India had a chance to save the Test match but the likes of Rohit and Kohli failed once again. Jaiswal led the charge but fell short of partners before eventually losing his wicket. The left-hander pulled a delivery off Cummins and was given out, caught-behind. While there was no spike on the Real Time Snickometer (RTS), the side-on replays showed it hit the gloves. Eventually, visual evidence was enough to overturn the decision. Jaiswal, thus, ended the year with the most Test runs by an Indian, second overall -- 1,478.
The MCG Test also scripted history, with 350,700 spectators (a record attendance) flocking to the iconic venue during the course of the game.
The ongoing BGT series is in Australia's favour (with a 2-1 lead), however, India will be desperate to end at 2-2 with a win in the series finale, at the SCG, Sydney. If India succeeds, they will manage to retain the BGT once again, since 2016-17. For the Aussies, they are eager to regain the elusive trophy, having last won in 2014-15.
The final Test of the five-match series commences on Jan 3 (Friday) in Sydney.

Cricket, Sports | Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25: Australia beat India by 184 runs in the Melbourne Test to take an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series

Australia beat India by 184 runs on Day 5 of the MCG Test, Melbourne on Monday (Dec 30) to take an unassailable 2-1 lead in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Chasing 340, in the fourth and penultimate tie, India managed 155 with only Yashasvi Jaiswal (84) showing resistance in the middle before a controversial call adjudged him out. India's top-order struggle continued as their hopes of playing the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, in June 2025, keeps fading away. For Pat Cummins-led Australia, the win marked their first versus India at the G and keeps them on course to meet South Africa in the WTC finale. Day 5 of the MCG Test kicked off with Australia adding six more runs to their score bundling out for 234, setting a 340-run target. The last-wicket stand between Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland added 61 to frustrate India before Bumrah cleaned up Lyon. Bumrah claimed his third five-fer of the series. He now has 30 wickets in 2024-25 BGT; most by miles. In addition, Bumrah became the first pacer to claim 30 wickets in a BGT (second overall after Harbhajan Singh's 32 in 2001). Moreover, Bumrah became the first visiting bowler to take 30 wickets in a Test series in Australia since West Indies great Curtly Ambrose (in 1992-93). Also, he is only the second Indian to touch the 30-wicket mark after spin legend Bishan Singh Bedi. Bedi achieved the feat during India's 1967-68 tour of Australia. Also read: BGT: 'Kohli can play 3 to 4 more years, for Rohit....' - Shastri on Indian duo's Test future after flop show in MCG Test Top order struggles and fielding lapses cost India Talking about the MCG Test, India opted to bowl first but Steve Smith's 140, fifties from debutant Sam Konstas, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne and lower-order's vital contributions, headed by skipper Pat Cummins (49), took the hosts to 474. In reply, India's famed batters -- Rohit, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, etc. -- fell flat but Nitish Reddy's 114 and Washington Sundar's 50 took India to 369. Buoyed by Reddy and Sundar's fightback, India reduced Australia to 91-6, with their overall lead being 196. Bumrah once again led the charge with the ball but also found rare support from the other end, with Mohammed Siraj looking in good rhythm. However, Marnus Labuschagne's 70, Cummins and Lyon's 41 apiece took Australia to 234, also courtesy of India giving plenty of lifelines with several fielding errors. India had a chance to save the Test match but the likes of Rohit and Kohli failed once again. Jaiswal led the charge but fell short of partners before eventually losing his wicket. The left-hander pulled a delivery off Cummins and was given out, caught-behind. While there was no spike on the Real Time Snickometer (RTS), the side-on replays showed it hit the gloves. Eventually, visual evidence was enough to overturn the decision. Jaiswal, thus, ended the year with the most Test runs by an Indian, second overall -- 1,478. The MCG Test also scripted history, with 350,700 spectators (a record attendance) flocking to the iconic venue during the course of the game. The ongoing BGT series is in Australia's favour (with a 2-1 lead), however, India will be desperate to end at 2-2 with a win in the series finale, at the SCG, Sydney. If India succeeds, they will manage to retain the BGT once again, since 2016-17. For the Aussies, they are eager to regain the elusive trophy, having last won in 2014-15. The final Test of the five-match series commences on Jan 3 (Friday) in Sydney.

BGT: Australia beat India by 184 runs in MCG Test to take unassailable 2-1 lead

An unbeaten 55-run stand between Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland for the tenth wicket frustrated India as Australia scored 228 for nine at stumps (in their second innings) on day four at the MCG, leading by 333. Despite getting reduced to 91 for six at one stage, having lost four wickets for 21 balls, the hosts recovered to give themselves a chance of winning the Boxing Day Test.
Bumrah floored Australia post lunch with three quick wickets, four in total, including bagging his 200th Test wicket &ndash; the fastest for an Indian pacer, besides doing at an average of 19.56, again the best-ever.
Meanwhile, day four began with Nitish Kumar Reddy and Mohammed Siraj at the crease, with the pair adding just 11 runs to the overnight tally before Lyon removed Reddy on 114 to wrap up India&rsquo;s innings on 369.&nbsp;
With a lead of 105, Australia was ahead in the game; however, not for long. Bumrah accounted for opener Sam Konstas, who bowled on eight before Siraj removed his partner Usman Khawaja on 21 off 65 balls.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m59bn9b2-m8s6iv6u-snfdyb2u">
MIDDLE STUMP! Jasprit Bumrah gets Sam Konstas with a pearler. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DeliveredWithSpeed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DeliveredWithSpeed</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/NBN_Australia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBN_Australia</a> <a href="https://t.co/A1BzrcHJB8">pic.twitter.com/A1BzrcHJB8</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873158270518468857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith played through lunch, only for Siraj to return and send Smith packing shortly after.&nbsp;
His dismissal, however, triggered a middle-order collapse, with Bumrah, in the first over of his second spell, removing Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m59bmrmt-7xylswnq-al32o1l0">
Jasprit Bumrah takes his 200th Test wicket and follows it up with 201 just moments later!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MilestoneMoment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MilestoneMoment</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/NpiXDBaVDI">pic.twitter.com/NpiXDBaVDI</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873203596919025985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
In his next over, he cleaned bowled gloveman Alex Carey to put Australia&rsquo;s back against the wall.&nbsp;
A situation like that could panic most teams when much more than just a win is on the line, but Captain Pat Cummins and Marnus showed nerves of steel to bail them out of trouble. The pair added 57 runs for the seventh wicket before Siraj got Marnus&rsquo; number, leaving the skipper with the tail.
Later, a huge mix-up led to Mitchell Starc&rsquo;s run out, bringing Lyon to the crease. Cummins departed soon after on 41, scoring 90 runs across both innings in this Test.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-mark-waugh-voices-for-next-australias-andrew-symonds-to-replace-under-fire-mitchell-marsh-in-scg-test-8575226" rel="dofollow">Also read: BGT: Mark Waugh voices for Australia's next &lsquo;Symonds&rsquo; to replace Marsh in SCG Test</a>
<h2>Tail frustrates India</h2>
Lyon and Boland had plenty riding on their shoulders, with the earliest aim being to add as many runs as possible.
In an attempt to curb Australia&rsquo;s ticking run rate, Rohit kept throwing the ball to Bumrah, tiring the Indian pacer after another decisive day at work. Nothing worked.
The pair completed the 50-plus run stand only to save the best for the last over of the day.
After India took the new ball in the penultimate over, Bumrah bowled the last, finding the edge off Lyon, caught in the slips only for him to overstep on that delivery. However, Lyon hitting a four off the last ball was like the final nail in the coffin for India, as the lead now reads 333.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m59bli48-8wudjvlt-i21qo24x">
In the last over of Day Four, Jasprit Bumrah thought he taken the final wicket. But it was called a no-ball. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Yc9kjO3bVc">pic.twitter.com/Yc9kjO3bVc</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873264849716650238?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
With just one day left in the game, all results are possible.&nbsp;

Despite getting reduced to 91 for six at one stage, having lost four wickets for 21 balls, the hosts recovered to give themselves a chance of winning the Boxing Day Test. 

An unbeaten 55-run stand between Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland for the tenth wicket frustrated India as Australia scored 228 for nine at stumps (in their second innings) on day four at the MCG, leading by 333. Despite getting reduced to 91 for six at one stage, having lost four wickets for 21 balls, the hosts recovered to give themselves a chance of winning the Boxing Day Test. Bumrah floored Australia post lunch with three quick wickets, four in total, including bagging his 200th Test wicket – the fastest for an Indian pacer, besides doing at an average of 19.56, again the best-ever. Meanwhile, day four began with Nitish Kumar Reddy and Mohammed Siraj at the crease, with the pair adding just 11 runs to the overnight tally before Lyon removed Reddy on 114 to wrap up India’s innings on 369. With a lead of 105, Australia was ahead in the game; however, not for long. Bumrah accounted for opener Sam Konstas, who bowled on eight before Siraj removed his partner Usman Khawaja on 21 off 65 balls. MIDDLE STUMP! Jasprit Bumrah gets Sam Konstas with a pearler. #AUSvIND | #DeliveredWithSpeed | @NBN_Australia pic.twitter.com/A1BzrcHJB8 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith played through lunch, only for Siraj to return and send Smith packing shortly after. His dismissal, however, triggered a middle-order collapse, with Bumrah, in the first over of his second spell, removing Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh. Jasprit Bumrah takes his 200th Test wicket and follows it up with 201 just moments later!#AUSvIND | #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/NpiXDBaVDI — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 In his next over, he cleaned bowled gloveman Alex Carey to put Australia’s back against the wall. A situation like that could panic most teams when much more than just a win is on the line, but Captain Pat Cummins and Marnus showed nerves of steel to bail them out of trouble. The pair added 57 runs for the seventh wicket before Siraj got Marnus’ number, leaving the skipper with the tail. Later, a huge mix-up led to Mitchell Starc’s run out, bringing Lyon to the crease. Cummins departed soon after on 41, scoring 90 runs across both innings in this Test. Also read: BGT: Mark Waugh voices for Australia's next ‘Symonds’ to replace Marsh in SCG Test Tail frustrates India Lyon and Boland had plenty riding on their shoulders, with the earliest aim being to add as many runs as possible. In an attempt to curb Australia’s ticking run rate, Rohit kept throwing the ball to Bumrah, tiring the Indian pacer after another decisive day at work. Nothing worked. The pair completed the 50-plus run stand only to save the best for the last over of the day. After India took the new ball in the penultimate over, Bumrah bowled the last, finding the edge off Lyon, caught in the slips only for him to overstep on that delivery. However, Lyon hitting a four off the last ball was like the final nail in the coffin for India, as the lead now reads 333. In the last over of Day Four, Jasprit Bumrah thought he taken the final wicket. But it was called a no-ball. #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/Yc9kjO3bVc — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 With just one day left in the game, all results are possible.

BGT, MCG Test: Aussie tail frustrates India after Bumrah’s heroic spell on day 4

Australia started Day 2 of the MCG Test versus India with a bang, with Steve Smith (140) and valuable contribution from skipper Pat Cummins (49) taking the hosts to 474 all-out. In reply, Rohit Sharma-led India started poorly, losing the captain (who regained the opening slot) whereas KL Rahul, demoted to No. 3, was also removed by a peach of a delivery. Cummins got both the wickets but his delivery to get rid of in-form Rahul was an absolute jaffa.
Here is the video:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m56dw0pl-3g4ovoz6-979kzjt2">
ABSOLUTE SEED FROM CUMMINS! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DeliveredWithSpeed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DeliveredWithSpeed</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/NBN_Australia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nbn_australia</a> <a href="https://t.co/zvzvkDyAnb">pic.twitter.com/zvzvkDyAnb</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1872497414206009414?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-the-scale-of-punishment-is-different-for-some-people-ponting-on-kohlis-fine-for-shouldering-konstas-8569390" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BGT: Ponting reckons Kohli's fine for shouldering Konstas wasn't 'harsh enough'</a>
Cummins' delivery came angling in and straightened just a bit to hit the stumps. Rahul missed the it and saw his stumps rattle as he walked back to the pavilion before the tea break, despite looking good in the middle. The in-form batter departed for 24 (42).
Before Rahul, Cummins also removed Rohit as Hitman failed in trying to pull and got dismissed for 3.
At tea, India were 51-2.
Day 1 of the fourth and penultimate Test, of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended with Australia 311-6, after fifties from the top four including debutant Sam Konstas.
Smith, unbeaten on 68, smashed his 34th Test hundred. In addition, he scored his 11th ton in BGT history; the most by any batter.
With Smith's ton and Cummins' strikes, Australia are well ahead on Day 2, on Friday (Dec 27), of the Boxing Day Test match at the MCG, Melbourne.
At the time of publishing this report, India lost two quick wickets, after Rahul and Rohit's departures, with Yashasvi Jaiswal (82) and Virat Kohli (36) being dismissed in quick succession before stumps.
The five-match Test series is currently tied at 1-1.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25: Pat Cummins removes KL Rahul with an absolute jaffa on Day 2 of MCG Test - Watch

Australia started Day 2 of the MCG Test versus India with a bang, with Steve Smith (140) and valuable contribution from skipper Pat Cummins (49) taking the hosts to 474 all-out. In reply, Rohit Sharma-led India started poorly, losing the captain (who regained the opening slot) whereas KL Rahul, demoted to No. 3, was also removed by a peach of a delivery. Cummins got both the wickets but his delivery to get rid of in-form Rahul was an absolute jaffa. Here is the video: ABSOLUTE SEED FROM CUMMINS! #AUSvIND | #DeliveredWithSpeed | @nbn_australia pic.twitter.com/zvzvkDyAnb — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 27, 2024 Also read: BGT: Ponting reckons Kohli's fine for shouldering Konstas wasn't 'harsh enough' Cummins' delivery came angling in and straightened just a bit to hit the stumps. Rahul missed the it and saw his stumps rattle as he walked back to the pavilion before the tea break, despite looking good in the middle. The in-form batter departed for 24 (42). Before Rahul, Cummins also removed Rohit as Hitman failed in trying to pull and got dismissed for 3. At tea, India were 51-2. Day 1 of the fourth and penultimate Test, of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended with Australia 311-6, after fifties from the top four including debutant Sam Konstas. Smith, unbeaten on 68, smashed his 34th Test hundred. In addition, he scored his 11th ton in BGT history; the most by any batter. With Smith's ton and Cummins' strikes, Australia are well ahead on Day 2, on Friday (Dec 27), of the Boxing Day Test match at the MCG, Melbourne. At the time of publishing this report, India lost two quick wickets, after Rahul and Rohit's departures, with Yashasvi Jaiswal (82) and Virat Kohli (36) being dismissed in quick succession before stumps. The five-match Test series is currently tied at 1-1.

BGT: Pat Cummins removes KL Rahul with an absolute jaffa on Day 2 of MCG Test - Watch

Melbourne, Australia
Australia skipper Pat Cummins has backed teen batter Sam Konstas to 'have fun' ahead of his upcoming debut in the Boxing day Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Konstas, who is set to open alongside Usman Khawaja, will replace Nathan McSweeney at the top. Cummins also remembered his debut as an 18-year-old and shared a funny anecdote as well.
"I think you always want to do well (but) I was saying this to Sam the other day, I remember that as an 18-year-old, I was thinking I got a lot more leeway because I was young. It almost felt like if I didn’t have a great game, it wasn’t my fault. It was the selectors’ fault for picking me. I was like, ‘Well, they’re the idiots who picked an 18-year-old.’ You’re so young starting out your career (and) it’s Boxing Day. It doesn’t get any better than this, so just enjoy the moment," said Cummins at the pre-match press conference as shared by cricket.com.au.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-jasprit-bumrah-equals-ravi-ashwins-historic-feat-ahead-of-boxing-day-test-786710">BGT 2024-25: Jasprit Bumrah equals Ravi Ashwin's historic feat ahead of Boxing Day Test</a>
"It’s pretty awesome. I spent a bit of the time wondering why or how I was there (because) it happened so quickly. I just remember being really excited and I think, similar to Sammy this week, there’s a level of naivety that you just want to go out and play like you do when you’re a kid in the backyard. You just want to take the game on and have fun and … not overthink it. So that’s the message of Sam," Cummins said in the same press conference.
"That’s definitely how I felt as an 18-year-old. I was just really excited. And once the kind of game started, you go into game mode and it’s just like any other game," he added.
Konstas, despite playing only 11 First Class games, has hit the limelight with his aggressive style of play. He has scored 718 runs in these 11 games at an average of 42 with three fifties and two hundreds.
The Boxing Day Test, fourth of the five-match series, begins December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Konstas, despite playing only 11 First Class games, has hit the limelight with his aggressive style of play. He has scored 718 runs in these 11 games at an average of 42 with three fifties and two hundreds.



Melbourne, Australia Australia skipper Pat Cummins has backed teen batter Sam Konstas to 'have fun' ahead of his upcoming debut in the Boxing day Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Konstas, who is set to open alongside Usman Khawaja, will replace Nathan McSweeney at the top. Cummins also remembered his debut as an 18-year-old and shared a funny anecdote as well. "I think you always want to do well (but) I was saying this to Sam the other day, I remember that as an 18-year-old, I was thinking I got a lot more leeway because I was young. It almost felt like if I didn’t have a great game, it wasn’t my fault. It was the selectors’ fault for picking me. I was like, ‘Well, they’re the idiots who picked an 18-year-old.’ You’re so young starting out your career (and) it’s Boxing Day. It doesn’t get any better than this, so just enjoy the moment," said Cummins at the pre-match press conference as shared by cricket.com.au. Also Read: BGT 2024-25: Jasprit Bumrah equals Ravi Ashwin's historic feat ahead of Boxing Day Test "It’s pretty awesome. I spent a bit of the time wondering why or how I was there (because) it happened so quickly. I just remember being really excited and I think, similar to Sammy this week, there’s a level of naivety that you just want to go out and play like you do when you’re a kid in the backyard. You just want to take the game on and have fun and … not overthink it. So that’s the message of Sam," Cummins said in the same press conference. "That’s definitely how I felt as an 18-year-old. I was just really excited. And once the kind of game started, you go into game mode and it’s just like any other game," he added. Konstas, despite playing only 11 First Class games, has hit the limelight with his aggressive style of play. He has scored 718 runs in these 11 games at an average of 42 with three fifties and two hundreds. The Boxing Day Test, fourth of the five-match series, begins December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

BGT 2024-25: 'There’s a level of naivety,' Aussie skipper Pat Cummins on teen Sam Konstas ahead of MCG Test

Australia skipper Pat Cummins has backed teen batter Sam Konstas to 'have fun' ahead of his upcoming debut in the Boxing day Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Konstas, who is set to open alongside Usman Khawaja, will replace Nathan McSweeney at the top. Cummins also remembered his debut as an 18-year-old and shared a funny anecdote as well.

"I think you always want to do well (but) I was saying this to Sam the other day, I remember that as an 18-year-old, I was thinking I got a lot more leeway because I was young. It almost felt like if I didn’t have a great game, it wasn’t my fault. It was the selectors’ fault for picking me. I was like, ‘Well, they’re the idiots who picked an 18-year-old.’ You’re so young starting out your career (and) it’s Boxing Day. It doesn’t get any better than this, so just enjoy the moment," said Cummins at the pre-match press conference as shared by cricket.com.au.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-jasprit-bumrah-equals-ravi-ashwins-historic-feat-ahead-of-boxing-day-test-786710">BGT 2024-25: Jasprit Bumrah equals Ravi Ashwin's historic feat ahead of Boxing Day Test</a>

"It’s pretty awesome. I spent a bit of the time wondering why or how I was there (because) it happened so quickly. I just remember being really excited and I think, similar to Sammy this week, there’s a level of naivety that you just want to go out and play like you do when you’re a kid in the backyard. You just want to take the game on and have fun and … not overthink it. So that’s the message of Sam," Cummins said in the same press conference.

"That’s definitely how I felt as an 18-year-old. I was just really excited. And once the kind of game started, you go into game mode and it’s just like any other game," he added.

Konstas, despite playing only 11 First Class games, has hit the limelight with his aggressive style of play. He has scored 718 runs in these 11 games at an average of 42 with three fifties and two hundreds.

The Boxing Day Test, fourth of the five-match series, begins December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Australia skipper Pat Cummins has backed teen batter Sam Konstas to 'have fun' ahead of his upcoming debut in the Boxing day Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).

Australia skipper Pat Cummins has backed teen batter Sam Konstas to 'have fun' ahead of his upcoming debut in the Boxing day Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). Konstas, who is set to open alongside Usman Khawaja, will replace Nathan McSweeney at the top. Cummins also remembered his debut as an 18-year-old and shared a funny anecdote as well. "I think you always want to do well (but) I was saying this to Sam the other day, I remember that as an 18-year-old, I was thinking I got a lot more leeway because I was young. It almost felt like if I didn’t have a great game, it wasn’t my fault. It was the selectors’ fault for picking me. I was like, ‘Well, they’re the idiots who picked an 18-year-old.’ You’re so young starting out your career (and) it’s Boxing Day. It doesn’t get any better than this, so just enjoy the moment," said Cummins at the pre-match press conference as shared by cricket.com.au. Also Read: BGT 2024-25: Jasprit Bumrah equals Ravi Ashwin's historic feat ahead of Boxing Day Test "It’s pretty awesome. I spent a bit of the time wondering why or how I was there (because) it happened so quickly. I just remember being really excited and I think, similar to Sammy this week, there’s a level of naivety that you just want to go out and play like you do when you’re a kid in the backyard. You just want to take the game on and have fun and … not overthink it. So that’s the message of Sam," Cummins said in the same press conference. "That’s definitely how I felt as an 18-year-old. I was just really excited. And once the kind of game started, you go into game mode and it’s just like any other game," he added. Konstas, despite playing only 11 First Class games, has hit the limelight with his aggressive style of play. He has scored 718 runs in these 11 games at an average of 42 with three fifties and two hundreds. The Boxing Day Test, fourth of the five-match series, begins December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Australia skipper Pat Cummins has brushed aside former coach Darren Lehman's concerns regarding the current Australia selectors. Lehman had remarked during the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test that the current selectors are too close to players to take tough calls.

“I don’t know how that could be true,” Cummins said at the press conference after the draw at Gabba on Wednesday (Dec 18). “Of course, the most important thing is you do stay objective, and I think the selection panel is amazing at that. They’ve made some bold calls over the last couple of years in all formats, probably bolder than I’d seen other selectors make over the previous years, so they’ve never shied away from a tough decision,” he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-he-understands-teams-thinking-says-skipper-rohit-sharma-on-ravi-ashwins-retirement-785193">'He understands team's thinking,' says skipper Rohit Sharma on Ravi Ashwin's retirement</a>

Lehman's comments came after Australia chief selector George Bailey was seen in the team's dugout a few times during the ongoing Test series against India.

“Now, you can’t do that sometimes if you’re too close because you actually get too emotional and you care about the players. As a selector, I cared about the players, as a coach you do, but sometimes you actually get too close and you forget about what’s out there.” Lehman had said while commentating for local media outlet ABC Sports.

“Are players playing too long? History shows in the last little bit, maybe they have been. Selectors have to be a little bit stronger. Or selectors aren’t strong enough to stop players from playing,” he had added.

Lehman referred to Australia's failing top order when he talked about the need to taking tough calls. Among six of Australia's top five batters, Steve Smith has the most runs - 124 in five innings, with 101 coming in one innings. Only Travis Head has been the in-form batter for Australia, scoring 409 runs in five innings with two hundreds and a fifty to his name.

Alex Carey, who bats at number 7, is the next best Australia batter with 162 runs in five innings he has batted in the ongoing series.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins has brushed aside former coach Darren Lehman's concerns regarding the current Australia selectors. Lehman had remarked during the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test that the current selectors are too close to players to take tough calls.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins has brushed aside former coach Darren Lehman's concerns regarding the current Australia selectors. Lehman had remarked during the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test that the current selectors are too close to players to take tough calls. “I don’t know how that could be true,” Cummins said at the press conference after the draw at Gabba on Wednesday (Dec 18). “Of course, the most important thing is you do stay objective, and I think the selection panel is amazing at that. They’ve made some bold calls over the last couple of years in all formats, probably bolder than I’d seen other selectors make over the previous years, so they’ve never shied away from a tough decision,” he added. Also Read: 'He understands team's thinking,' says skipper Rohit Sharma on Ravi Ashwin's retirement Lehman's comments came after Australia chief selector George Bailey was seen in the team's dugout a few times during the ongoing Test series against India. “Now, you can’t do that sometimes if you’re too close because you actually get too emotional and you care about the players. As a selector, I cared about the players, as a coach you do, but sometimes you actually get too close and you forget about what’s out there.” Lehman had said while commentating for local media outlet ABC Sports. “Are players playing too long? History shows in the last little bit, maybe they have been. Selectors have to be a little bit stronger. Or selectors aren’t strong enough to stop players from playing,” he had added. Lehman referred to Australia's failing top order when he talked about the need to taking tough calls. Among six of Australia's top five batters, Steve Smith has the most runs - 124 in five innings, with 101 coming in one innings. Only Travis Head has been the in-form batter for Australia, scoring 409 runs in five innings with two hundreds and a fifty to his name. Alex Carey, who bats at number 7, is the next best Australia batter with 162 runs in five innings he has batted in the ongoing series.

BGT 2024-25: 'How that could be true,' Pat Cummins hits out at former coach for questioning selectors

Brisbane, Australia
Day four at the Gabba in Brisbane was just about two things – rain playing spoilsport every hour and how Team India’s tail helped them avoid the follow-on. Though rain interruptions caused countless delays on Tuesday (Dec 17), what brought smiles to the faces of the Indian players and fans in attendance was Akash Deep’s four over the gully off Pat Cummins, crashing Australia’s hopes of enforcing a follow-on as a draw looks a possibility in third BGT Test.
With India reduced to 213 for nine following Ravindra Jadeja’s dismissal on 77, the visitors needed over 30 runs to avoid the follow-on with Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep batting. Despite how the Aussie pace quick (Cummins and Mitchell Starc) looked threatening, the Indian tailenders ensured they weren’t giving up without a fight.
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-india-avoid-follow-on-as-gabba-test-heads-for-a-draw-despite-australias-bowling-dominance-784605">BGT 2024/25: India avoid follow-on as Gabba Test heads for a draw despite Australia's bowling dominance</a>
The pair added 39 runs for the final wicket, with both (Bumrah and Akash) enjoying hitting Cummins for a massive six, cheering up the dressing room.
However, when India needed less than four runs to cut the 200-plus deficit, Akash Deep played a cut short over the gully, which saw India reduce the trail to fewer than 200, with everyone, including Virat Kohli, captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir celebrating loudly. The fans also enjoyed knowing India will not bat again on day five of the third Test, which looks likely to end in a draw.
Watch the Video here –
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Moment hai bhai, moment hai ft. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a>! ?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvINDOnStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvINDOnStar</a> ? 3rd Test, Day 5 | 18th DEC, WED, 5:15 AM! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ToughestRivalry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ToughestRivalry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BorderGavaskarTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BorderGavaskarTrophy</a> <a href="https://t.co/3s0EOlDacC">pic.twitter.com/3s0EOlDacC</a>
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<h2>India is unlikely to lose at Gabba but batting disappoints again</h2>
India has managed to cross the 200-run mark in the first innings for the first time on this tour Down Under, scoring 252 for nine at stumps on day four. Though countless rain interruptions should be credited for breaking Australia’s momentum over two days, the experts, fans, and dressing room know of India’s batting failure. 
KL Rahul and Jadeja saved India’s grace in the first innings, with scores of 84 and 77, respectively, but the failure of others to live up to the expectations has caused India dearly. 
Meanwhile, after the Perth heroics where Jaiswal scored his maiden Test ton Down Under, he has gifted his wicket early on since. While Shubman Gill’s poor shot selection has added salt to the injury, and not to forge Virat and Rohit’s poor run with the bat, and how Cummins has got the better of Rishabh Pant since the Pink-Ball game.
Though Nitish Reddy’s contributions at the lower end of the innings have somewhat helped India revive from dire situations, he is not expected to bail his team out of trouble every time.
With only one day remaining in the third Test, the chances of any team winning from here look improbable. 
(With inputs from agencies)

Despite how the Aussie pace quick (Cummins and Mitchell Starc) looked threatening, the Indian tailenders ensured they weren’t giving up without a fight.



Brisbane, Australia Day four at the Gabba in Brisbane was just about two things – rain playing spoilsport every hour and how Team India’s tail helped them avoid the follow-on. Though rain interruptions caused countless delays on Tuesday (Dec 17), what brought smiles to the faces of the Indian players and fans in attendance was Akash Deep’s four over the gully off Pat Cummins, crashing Australia’s hopes of enforcing a follow-on as a draw looks a possibility in third BGT Test. With India reduced to 213 for nine following Ravindra Jadeja’s dismissal on 77, the visitors needed over 30 runs to avoid the follow-on with Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep batting. Despite how the Aussie pace quick (Cummins and Mitchell Starc) looked threatening, the Indian tailenders ensured they weren’t giving up without a fight. ALSO READ: BGT 2024/25: India avoid follow-on as Gabba Test heads for a draw despite Australia's bowling dominance The pair added 39 runs for the final wicket, with both (Bumrah and Akash) enjoying hitting Cummins for a massive six, cheering up the dressing room. However, when India needed less than four runs to cut the 200-plus deficit, Akash Deep played a cut short over the gully, which saw India reduce the trail to fewer than 200, with everyone, including Virat Kohli, captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir celebrating loudly. The fans also enjoyed knowing India will not bat again on day five of the third Test, which looks likely to end in a draw. Watch the Video here – Moment hai bhai, moment hai ft. #ViratKohli! ?#AUSvINDOnStar ? 3rd Test, Day 5 | 18th DEC, WED, 5:15 AM! #ToughestRivalry #BorderGavaskarTrophy pic.twitter.com/3s0EOlDacC — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 17, 2024 × India is unlikely to lose at Gabba but batting disappoints again India has managed to cross the 200-run mark in the first innings for the first time on this tour Down Under, scoring 252 for nine at stumps on day four. Though countless rain interruptions should be credited for breaking Australia’s momentum over two days, the experts, fans, and dressing room know of India’s batting failure. KL Rahul and Jadeja saved India’s grace in the first innings, with scores of 84 and 77, respectively, but the failure of others to live up to the expectations has caused India dearly. Meanwhile, after the Perth heroics where Jaiswal scored his maiden Test ton Down Under, he has gifted his wicket early on since. While Shubman Gill’s poor shot selection has added salt to the injury, and not to forge Virat and Rohit’s poor run with the bat, and how Cummins has got the better of Rishabh Pant since the Pink-Ball game. Though Nitish Reddy’s contributions at the lower end of the innings have somewhat helped India revive from dire situations, he is not expected to bail his team out of trouble every time. With only one day remaining in the third Test, the chances of any team winning from here look improbable. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Kohli, Rohit jam in pavilion after tailenders help India avoid follow-on at Gabba – WATCH

Day four at the Gabba in Brisbane was just about two things – rain playing spoilsport every hour and how Team India’s tail helped them avoid the follow-on. Though rain interruptions caused countless delays on Tuesday (Dec 17), what brought smiles to the faces of the Indian players and fans in attendance was Akash Deep’s four over the gully off Pat Cummins, crashing Australia’s hopes of enforcing a follow-on as a draw looks a&nbsp;possibility in third BGT Test.

With India reduced to 213 for nine following Ravindra Jadeja’s dismissal on 77, the visitors needed over 30 runs to avoid the follow-on with Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep batting. Despite how the Aussie pace quick (Cummins and Mitchell Starc) looked threatening, the Indian tailenders ensured they weren’t giving up without a fight.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-india-avoid-follow-on-as-gabba-test-heads-for-a-draw-despite-australias-bowling-dominance-784605">BGT 2024/25: India avoid follow-on as Gabba Test heads for a draw despite Australia's bowling dominance</a>

The pair added 39 runs for the final wicket, with both (Bumrah and Akash) enjoying hitting Cummins for a massive six, cheering up the dressing room.

However, when India needed less than four runs to cut the 200-plus deficit, Akash Deep played a cut short over the gully, which saw India reduce the trail to fewer than 200, with everyone, including Virat Kohli, captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir celebrating loudly. The fans also enjoyed knowing India will not bat again on day five of the third Test, which looks likely to end in a draw.

Watch the Video here –

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Moment hai bhai, moment hai ft. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a>! 😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvINDOnStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvINDOnStar</a> 👉 3rd Test, Day 5 | 18th DEC, WED, 5:15 AM! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ToughestRivalry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ToughestRivalry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BorderGavaskarTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BorderGavaskarTrophy</a> <a href="https://t.co/3s0EOlDacC">pic.twitter.com/3s0EOlDacC</a>
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1868957995394383964?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>India is unlikely to lose at Gabba but batting disappoints again</h2>

India has managed to cross the 200-run mark in the first innings for the first time on this tour Down Under, scoring 252 for nine at stumps on day four. Though countless rain interruptions should be credited for breaking Australia’s momentum over two days, the experts, fans, and dressing room know of India’s batting failure.&nbsp;

KL Rahul and Jadeja saved India’s grace in the first innings, with scores of 84 and 77, respectively, but the failure of others to live up to the expectations has caused India dearly.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, after the Perth heroics where Jaiswal&nbsp;scored his maiden Test ton Down Under, he has gifted his wicket early on since. While Shubman Gill’s poor shot selection has added salt to the injury, and not to forge Virat and Rohit’s poor run with the bat, and how Cummins has got the better of Rishabh Pant since the Pink-Ball game.

Though Nitish Reddy’s contributions at the lower end of the innings have somewhat helped India revive from dire situations, he is not expected to&nbsp;bail his team out of trouble every time.

With only one day remaining in the third Test, the chances of any team winning from here look improbable.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Day four at the Gabba in Brisbane was just about two things – rain playing spoilsport every hour and how Team India’s tail helped them avoid the follow-on. Though rain interruptions caused countless delays on Tuesday (Dec 17), what brought smiles to the faces of the Indian players and fans in attendance was Akash Deep’s four over the gully off Pat Cummins, crashing Australia’s hopes of enforcing a follow-on as a draw looks a possibility in third BGT Test.

Day four at the Gabba in Brisbane was just about two things – rain playing spoilsport every hour and how Team India’s tail helped them avoid the follow-on. Though rain interruptions caused countless delays on Tuesday (Dec 17), what brought smiles to the faces of the Indian players and fans in attendance was Akash Deep’s four over the gully off Pat Cummins, crashing Australia’s hopes of enforcing a follow-on as a draw looks a possibility in third BGT Test. With India reduced to 213 for nine following Ravindra Jadeja’s dismissal on 77, the visitors needed over 30 runs to avoid the follow-on with Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep batting. Despite how the Aussie pace quick (Cummins and Mitchell Starc) looked threatening, the Indian tailenders ensured they weren’t giving up without a fight. ALSO READ: BGT 2024/25: India avoid follow-on as Gabba Test heads for a draw despite Australia's bowling dominance The pair added 39 runs for the final wicket, with both (Bumrah and Akash) enjoying hitting Cummins for a massive six, cheering up the dressing room. However, when India needed less than four runs to cut the 200-plus deficit, Akash Deep played a cut short over the gully, which saw India reduce the trail to fewer than 200, with everyone, including Virat Kohli, captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir celebrating loudly. The fans also enjoyed knowing India will not bat again on day five of the third Test, which looks likely to end in a draw. Watch the Video here – Moment hai bhai, moment hai ft. #ViratKohli! 😂#AUSvINDOnStar 👉 3rd Test, Day 5 | 18th DEC, WED, 5:15 AM! #ToughestRivalry #BorderGavaskarTrophy pic.twitter.com/3s0EOlDacC — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 17, 2024 × India is unlikely to lose at Gabba but batting disappoints again India has managed to cross the 200-run mark in the first innings for the first time on this tour Down Under, scoring 252 for nine at stumps on day four. Though countless rain interruptions should be credited for breaking Australia’s momentum over two days, the experts, fans, and dressing room know of India’s batting failure. KL Rahul and Jadeja saved India’s grace in the first innings, with scores of 84 and 77, respectively, but the failure of others to live up to the expectations has caused India dearly. Meanwhile, after the Perth heroics where Jaiswal scored his maiden Test ton Down Under, he has gifted his wicket early on since. While Shubman Gill’s poor shot selection has added salt to the injury, and not to forge Virat and Rohit’s poor run with the bat, and how Cummins has got the better of Rishabh Pant since the Pink-Ball game. Though Nitish Reddy’s contributions at the lower end of the innings have somewhat helped India revive from dire situations, he is not expected to bail his team out of trouble every time. With only one day remaining in the third Test, the chances of any team winning from here look improbable. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia captain Pat Cummins confirmed that Josh Hazlewood will return to the playing XI for the third BGT Test against India at the Gabba in Brisbane starting Saturday (Dec 14). The veteran seamer suffered a side strain following the conclusion of the series opener in Perth, missing the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide, which the hosts won by ten wickets. Hazlewood was replaced by Scott Boland, who picked five wickets in the second match, in the final XI for the third Test.

In the lead-up to the Gabba Test, Hazlewood underwent several fitness tests during the week. Unlike how both teams prepared on the centre wicket in the WACA simulation ahead of the Perth tie, Hazlewood had short-run ups and no spare wicket to train in Brisbane.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/amir-jangoo-hits-hundred-on-debut-as-west-indies-complete-odi-whitewash-over-bangladesh-783622">Amir Jangoo hits hundred on debut as West Indies complete ODI whitewash over Bangladesh</a>

Instead, Hazlewood went out to the Allan Border Field on Thursday (Dec 12), bowling full throttle and training alongside teammate Mitchell Starc under the watchful eyes of bowling coach Daniel Vettori.

"He's had no hiccups. He had a really good bowl yesterday and a bowl in Adelaide a couple of days previous. The medical team is super confident,” Captain Cummins said ahead of the third Test.&nbsp;

<h2>'Always tough to bench Boland'</h2>

Meanwhile, Cummins also commented on Boland’s omission, admitting it is way tougher to bench him than it appears.&nbsp;

At home, Boland averages 13.54, with the skipper hinting at his inclusion in the XI for any of the final two matches. Given how he performed at the iconic MCG against England on his Test debut, picking six wickets for just seven runs, Cummins informed Boland to prepare for the Boxing Day game against India.&nbsp;

"It's tough [leaving him out], he was fantastic in Adelaide," Cummins said.

"Unfortunately, he spent quite a bit of time on the bench over the last 18 months, and whenever he plays he's fantastic. Shame for Scotty, but still a fair bit to play out in the series, so I'd be surprised if he doesn't get another crack at some point."

"[We told him] it's about preparing for the MCG because there's a good chance we might need you. History suggests there's always some form of natural attrition throughout a Test series. A good thing [is], he's probably played a Test earlier in the series than he maybe thought. Showed that his standards are still super high. [It's] about trying to set him up for the last two Test matches,” the skipper noted.&nbsp;

<h3>Here is Australia’s Playing XI for the Gabba Test against India –</h3>

Nathan McSweeney, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins ©, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon

(With inputs from agencies)

Australia captain Pat Cummins confirmed that Josh Hazlewood will return to the playing XI for the third BGT Test against India at the Gabba in Brisbane starting Saturday (Dec 14).

Australia captain Pat Cummins confirmed that Josh Hazlewood will return to the playing XI for the third BGT Test against India at the Gabba in Brisbane starting Saturday (Dec 14). The veteran seamer suffered a side strain following the conclusion of the series opener in Perth, missing the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide, which the hosts won by ten wickets. Hazlewood was replaced by Scott Boland, who picked five wickets in the second match, in the final XI for the third Test. In the lead-up to the Gabba Test, Hazlewood underwent several fitness tests during the week. Unlike how both teams prepared on the centre wicket in the WACA simulation ahead of the Perth tie, Hazlewood had short-run ups and no spare wicket to train in Brisbane. ALSO READ: Amir Jangoo hits hundred on debut as West Indies complete ODI whitewash over Bangladesh Instead, Hazlewood went out to the Allan Border Field on Thursday (Dec 12), bowling full throttle and training alongside teammate Mitchell Starc under the watchful eyes of bowling coach Daniel Vettori. "He's had no hiccups. He had a really good bowl yesterday and a bowl in Adelaide a couple of days previous. The medical team is super confident,” Captain Cummins said ahead of the third Test. 'Always tough to bench Boland' Meanwhile, Cummins also commented on Boland’s omission, admitting it is way tougher to bench him than it appears. At home, Boland averages 13.54, with the skipper hinting at his inclusion in the XI for any of the final two matches. Given how he performed at the iconic MCG against England on his Test debut, picking six wickets for just seven runs, Cummins informed Boland to prepare for the Boxing Day game against India. "It's tough [leaving him out], he was fantastic in Adelaide," Cummins said. "Unfortunately, he spent quite a bit of time on the bench over the last 18 months, and whenever he plays he's fantastic. Shame for Scotty, but still a fair bit to play out in the series, so I'd be surprised if he doesn't get another crack at some point." "[We told him] it's about preparing for the MCG because there's a good chance we might need you. History suggests there's always some form of natural attrition throughout a Test series. A good thing [is], he's probably played a Test earlier in the series than he maybe thought. Showed that his standards are still super high. [It's] about trying to set him up for the last two Test matches,” the skipper noted. Here is Australia’s Playing XI for the Gabba Test against India – Nathan McSweeney, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins ©, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Josh Hazlewood returns from injury as Australia announces playing XI for Gabba Test

Australia scripted a stunning comeback in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy by winning the second Test in Adelaide by 10 wickets and levelling the marquee five-match series 1-1. The Aussie openers took just 3.2&nbsp;overs to complete the 19-run chase and win the game inside three days. For the hosts, Captain Pat Cummins returned with a five-for in the second innings, while Mitchell Starc made headlines for his career-best spell in the first.

India began day three on 128 for five, trailing behind by 29 runs, with Rishabh Pant and Nitish Kumar Reddy at the crease. Given their penchant to score runs, the Indian fans hoped for a positive start; however, Starc had different plans.

The left-arm quick removed Pant on the last ball of his first over on 28 before Cummins picked three wickets, including Nitish Reddy - India’s highest scorer in both innings, completing his five-for.

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The rare caught-at-fly-slip! 
 
Pat Cummins raises the pink ball with his fifth wicket! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MilestoneMoment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MilestoneMoment</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/kVKBdW346Q">pic.twitter.com/kVKBdW346Q</a>
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Meanwhile, all eyes were on Mohammed Siraj, who shared a light moment with Travis Head following what unfolded on day two, with the crowd and commentators applauding their sportsman spirit.&nbsp;

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Just a couple of mates clarifying things...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/XzcInyAKLK">pic.twitter.com/XzcInyAKLK</a>
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Scott Boland picked the final wicket of Siraj to wrap India’s innings on 175, with Australia needing a mere 19 to win the game and level the series.

<h2>Australia on top from ball one</h2>

After going down in the BGT opener in Perth, Australia needed a miraculous start to pull them up from that embarrassment at the Optus Stadium. Starc’s first-ball wicket (of Yashasvi Jaiswal) did that. Australia pulled the trigger from the word go and never looked back.&nbsp;

Like how the Oz folded India inside two sessions on day one in Perth, they did the same in the second Test with the pink ball, reducing the visitors to 180 in their first innings. Starc returned with 6/48, his best Test bowling figures.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-travis-head-lieddidnt-say-well-bowled-siraj-speaks-up-on-send-off-row-782388">BGT: Travis Head lied...didn't say 'well-bowled' - Siraj speaks up on send-off row</a>

Meanwhile, Australian batters performed&nbsp;better this time, weathering the Jasprit Bumrah storm late on day one under the lights.

Although the India seamer picked three wickets, including two early on day two, he failed to break Head’s marvellous run with the bat at his home ground, who scored a stunning 140 off 141 to see Australia walk away with a 157-run lead.&nbsp;

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Gottim! First over of the day and Starc strikes <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/6GUmKA4ujO">pic.twitter.com/6GUmKA4ujO</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1865608981693026669?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Later in the day, the Aussie quicks made light work of India’s batting order, sending everyone packing, including last game’s heroes Jaiswal and Virat Kohli. Captain Rohit Sharma, who decided to bat at number six in his return game, failed miserably with the bat, getting on single digits across both innings.&nbsp;

India and Australia will square off in the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane starting December 14.&nbsp;

Australia scripted a stunning comeback in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy by winning the second Test in Adelaide by 10 wickets and levelling the marquee five-match series 1-1.

Australia scripted a stunning comeback in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy by winning the second Test in Adelaide by 10 wickets and levelling the marquee five-match series 1-1. The Aussie openers took just 3.2 overs to complete the 19-run chase and win the game inside three days. For the hosts, Captain Pat Cummins returned with a five-for in the second innings, while Mitchell Starc made headlines for his career-best spell in the first. India began day three on 128 for five, trailing behind by 29 runs, with Rishabh Pant and Nitish Kumar Reddy at the crease. Given their penchant to score runs, the Indian fans hoped for a positive start; however, Starc had different plans. The left-arm quick removed Pant on the last ball of his first over on 28 before Cummins picked three wickets, including Nitish Reddy - India’s highest scorer in both innings, completing his five-for. The rare caught-at-fly-slip! Pat Cummins raises the pink ball with his fifth wicket! #AUSvIND | #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/kVKBdW346Q — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 8, 2024 × Meanwhile, all eyes were on Mohammed Siraj, who shared a light moment with Travis Head following what unfolded on day two, with the crowd and commentators applauding their sportsman spirit. Just a couple of mates clarifying things...#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/XzcInyAKLK — 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 8, 2024 × Scott Boland picked the final wicket of Siraj to wrap India’s innings on 175, with Australia needing a mere 19 to win the game and level the series. Australia on top from ball one After going down in the BGT opener in Perth, Australia needed a miraculous start to pull them up from that embarrassment at the Optus Stadium. Starc’s first-ball wicket (of Yashasvi Jaiswal) did that. Australia pulled the trigger from the word go and never looked back. Like how the Oz folded India inside two sessions on day one in Perth, they did the same in the second Test with the pink ball, reducing the visitors to 180 in their first innings. Starc returned with 6/48, his best Test bowling figures. ALSO READ: BGT: Travis Head lied...didn't say 'well-bowled' - Siraj speaks up on send-off row Meanwhile, Australian batters performed better this time, weathering the Jasprit Bumrah storm late on day one under the lights. Although the India seamer picked three wickets, including two early on day two, he failed to break Head’s marvellous run with the bat at his home ground, who scored a stunning 140 off 141 to see Australia walk away with a 157-run lead. Gottim! First over of the day and Starc strikes #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/6GUmKA4ujO — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 8, 2024 × Later in the day, the Aussie quicks made light work of India’s batting order, sending everyone packing, including last game’s heroes Jaiswal and Virat Kohli. Captain Rohit Sharma, who decided to bat at number six in his return game, failed miserably with the bat, getting on single digits across both innings. India and Australia will square off in the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane starting December 14.

BGT, Pink-Ball Test: Australia level series in Adelaide after Cummins, Starc heroics

Travis Head headlined day two of the second BGT Test between Australia and India at the Adelaide Oval. The left-hander slammed a stunning hundred in the Pink-Ball Test, with Captain Pat Cummins and Scott Boland picking two wickets each in India’s second innings to keep Australia’s nose in front. India ended day two on 128 for five, trailing behind by 29 runs.

The hosts began day two by losing two early wickets to Jasprit Bumrah, including Steve Smith on just two. Head and Marnus Labuschagne stitched a 65-run stand for the fourth wicket before India all-rounder Nitish Reddy dismissed Marnus on a well-made 64. Mitchell Marsh departed soon after on nine, with the review showing no contact between the bat and the ball, creating buzz among the Indian fans.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-brisbane-early-but-mohammed-shami-can-be-available-for-mcg-scg-tests-reckons-ravi-shastri-782270">BGT: ‘Brisbane early but Mohammed Shami can be available for MCG, SCG Tests,’ reckons Ravi Shastri</a>

Head then opened his arms, smashing pacers, mainly Harshit Rana and Siraj, to all parts of the ground. Though he also took on Bumrah, cracking a few boundaries, he cleared the ropes against Ashwin, slamming him for a few sixes.&nbsp;

Travis completed his hundred at his home ground at the Adelaide Oval soon after, and despite Alex Carey’s dismissal, he didn’t lower his guard and kept the run-rate ticking.

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That's for baby Harrison! 
 
Another home-town ton for Travis Head! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayOfTheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayOfTheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/u4s6nV62RZ">pic.twitter.com/u4s6nV62RZ</a>
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Mohammed Siraj bowled him off a brilliant Yorker, giving him a fiery send-off, which led to both exchanging some verbal volleys.

Meanwhile, the Indian seamers completed the formality, dismissing Australia on 337 in their first innings.

<h2>Australian bowlers on top</h2>

Trailing behind by 157, the Indian openers got off to a shaky start, with Cummins removing KL Rahul caught behind on just seven. Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal shared a 30-run stand for the second wicket, only for Boland to dismiss the rookie batter off his first ball, caught on 24.

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BOLAND! 
 
Another first-ball wicket - and this one's not a noey! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/xEgEzFL06u">pic.twitter.com/xEgEzFL06u</a>
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Gill and veteran Virat Kohli played a few shots but never looked in their element, as two peach deliveries from Boland (Kohli) and Starc (Gill) got rid of the pair, putting India on the back foot right away.&nbsp;

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CASTLED! 
 
Mitch Starc gets some "banana swing" to make a mess of Shubman Gill's stumps 🍌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DeliveredWithSpeed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DeliveredWithSpeed</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/NBN_Australia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBN_Australia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/sP41huXm4F">pic.twitter.com/sP41huXm4F</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1865350965987069970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The Indian skipper Rohit Sharma appeared like the pale shadow of himself batting at number six. Despite getting a life on his second ball, when he got out LBW off a no-ball, he failed to make the most of his chance, as Cummins castled the top of his off stump with a beauty.

Rishabh Pant showed intent with a few Pant-like shots, including running-down-the-track-four off Boland on his first ball; a steady stand with Reddy restricted the flow of wickets.

Travis Head headlined day two of the second BGT Test between Australia and India at the Adelaide Oval. The left-hander slammed a stunning hundred in the Pink-Ball Test, with Captain Pat Cummins and Scott Boland picking two wickets each in India’s second innings to keep Australia’s nose in front.

Travis Head headlined day two of the second BGT Test between Australia and India at the Adelaide Oval. The left-hander slammed a stunning hundred in the Pink-Ball Test, with Captain Pat Cummins and Scott Boland picking two wickets each in India’s second innings to keep Australia’s nose in front. India ended day two on 128 for five, trailing behind by 29 runs. The hosts began day two by losing two early wickets to Jasprit Bumrah, including Steve Smith on just two. Head and Marnus Labuschagne stitched a 65-run stand for the fourth wicket before India all-rounder Nitish Reddy dismissed Marnus on a well-made 64. Mitchell Marsh departed soon after on nine, with the review showing no contact between the bat and the ball, creating buzz among the Indian fans. ALSO READ: BGT: ‘Brisbane early but Mohammed Shami can be available for MCG, SCG Tests,’ reckons Ravi Shastri Head then opened his arms, smashing pacers, mainly Harshit Rana and Siraj, to all parts of the ground. Though he also took on Bumrah, cracking a few boundaries, he cleared the ropes against Ashwin, slamming him for a few sixes. Travis completed his hundred at his home ground at the Adelaide Oval soon after, and despite Alex Carey’s dismissal, he didn’t lower his guard and kept the run-rate ticking. That's for baby Harrison! Another home-town ton for Travis Head! #AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/u4s6nV62RZ — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 7, 2024 × Mohammed Siraj bowled him off a brilliant Yorker, giving him a fiery send-off, which led to both exchanging some verbal volleys. Meanwhile, the Indian seamers completed the formality, dismissing Australia on 337 in their first innings. Australian bowlers on top Trailing behind by 157, the Indian openers got off to a shaky start, with Cummins removing KL Rahul caught behind on just seven. Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal shared a 30-run stand for the second wicket, only for Boland to dismiss the rookie batter off his first ball, caught on 24. BOLAND! Another first-ball wicket - and this one's not a noey! #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/xEgEzFL06u — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 7, 2024 × Gill and veteran Virat Kohli played a few shots but never looked in their element, as two peach deliveries from Boland (Kohli) and Starc (Gill) got rid of the pair, putting India on the back foot right away. CASTLED! Mitch Starc gets some "banana swing" to make a mess of Shubman Gill's stumps 🍌#DeliveredWithSpeed | @NBN_Australia | #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/sP41huXm4F — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 7, 2024 × The Indian skipper Rohit Sharma appeared like the pale shadow of himself batting at number six. Despite getting a life on his second ball, when he got out LBW off a no-ball, he failed to make the most of his chance, as Cummins castled the top of his off stump with a beauty. Rishabh Pant showed intent with a few Pant-like shots, including running-down-the-track-four off Boland on his first ball; a steady stand with Reddy restricted the flow of wickets.

BGT, Pink-Ball Test, Day 2: Travis Head hits hundred at home as Australia pile pressure on India

Australia skipper Pat Cummins confirmed the Playing XI for his side as they host India in the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test on Friday (Dec 6). As expected, pacer Scott Boland has replaced Josh Hazlewood, who was struggling with a minor injury. He remains the only change in the side, as the skipper confirmed the news. Australia has retained faith in the rest of the squad as they try to continue their flawless record in the pink-ball Test.

<h2>Cummins confirms Playing XI</h2>

On the eve of the pink-ball Test, skipper Cummins spoke&nbsp;to the media confirming the inclusion of the Victoria pacer in the side. Boland was in the squad for the Perth Test but was overlooked in the favour of ‘fab-three’ of Hazlewood, Cummins and Mitchell Starc. However, Hazlewood is struggling with a "low-grade left side injury.

Australia lost the opening Test in Perth by a record 295 runs and dropped from the top spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. The defeat saw the hosts trail 0-1 in the five-match series and will look to bounce back in the pink-ball Test. Incredibly, Australia have never lost a day-night Test while India’s only defeat in the pink-ball against the Aussies came in 2020.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-adelaide-the-ground-where-virat-kohli-gave-sneak-peek-into-indias-future-on-tour-of-2014-781541">BGT 2024-25: Adelaide | The ground where Virat Kohli gave sneak peek into India's future on tour of 2014</a>

<h2>What happened in the last pink-ball Test?</h2>

In the last pink-ball Test in December 2020, India were bowled out for 36,&nbsp;their lowest total in the format. Then skipper Virat Kohli had scored 74 runs in the first innings while getting out for 8 in the second. No Indian batter scored in double figures&nbsp;in the second innings as India lost by eight wickets. The defeat, however, did not stop India from winning the series as they won in Melbourne and Brisbane to pocket the series 2-1.

<h2>Australia's Playing XI</h2>

Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Mitchell Starc

Australia skipper Pat Cummins confirmed the Playing XI for his side as they host India in the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test on Friday (Dec 6). As expected, pacer Scott Boland has replaced Josh Hazlewood, who was struggling with a minor injury.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins confirmed the Playing XI for his side as they host India in the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test on Friday (Dec 6). As expected, pacer Scott Boland has replaced Josh Hazlewood, who was struggling with a minor injury. He remains the only change in the side, as the skipper confirmed the news. Australia has retained faith in the rest of the squad as they try to continue their flawless record in the pink-ball Test. Cummins confirms Playing XI On the eve of the pink-ball Test, skipper Cummins spoke to the media confirming the inclusion of the Victoria pacer in the side. Boland was in the squad for the Perth Test but was overlooked in the favour of ‘fab-three’ of Hazlewood, Cummins and Mitchell Starc. However, Hazlewood is struggling with a "low-grade left side injury. Australia lost the opening Test in Perth by a record 295 runs and dropped from the top spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. The defeat saw the hosts trail 0-1 in the five-match series and will look to bounce back in the pink-ball Test. Incredibly, Australia have never lost a day-night Test while India’s only defeat in the pink-ball against the Aussies came in 2020. ALSO READ | BGT 2024-25: Adelaide | The ground where Virat Kohli gave sneak peek into India's future on tour of 2014 What happened in the last pink-ball Test? In the last pink-ball Test in December 2020, India were bowled out for 36, their lowest total in the format. Then skipper Virat Kohli had scored 74 runs in the first innings while getting out for 8 in the second. No Indian batter scored in double figures in the second innings as India lost by eight wickets. The defeat, however, did not stop India from winning the series as they won in Melbourne and Brisbane to pocket the series 2-1. Australia's Playing XI Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Mitchell Starc

BGT 2024-25: Scott Boland replaces Josh Hazlewood as Pat Cummins confirms Playing XI for Adelaide Test

Marnus Labuschagne once held the rank-number one spot in the ICC Ranking for Test batters; however, like how times do to even the best of players, it brought him down, though not as low as his confidence following two LBWs in the Perth Test. Labuschagne’s twin dismissals in the BGT opener exposed his lapse in technique, which is not worrying for Captain Pat Cummins, who backs him to deliver in the Pink-Ball Test against India in Adelaide.

Australia's number three has scored 245 runs across 12 innings at 24.50 with just three fifties in the past year, although he made headlines for clocking 135 kmph, quick for a genuine leg-spinner.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-pink-ball-test-match-preview-australia-eyes-comeback-in-adelaide-after-perth-shocker-781757">BGT 2024-25, Pink-Ball Test, Match Preview – Australia eye comeback in Adelaide after Perth shocker</a>

In Perth, Marnus stood for over an hour on day one, playing 51 deliveries for just two runs before an incoming seaming one from Mohammed Siraj trapped him in the front, while he offered no shot to an unplayable Bumrah delivery in the second innings, getting out on just two.

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The final over of the day, the perfect finish for India <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Pci4mZdEpW">pic.twitter.com/Pci4mZdEpW</a>
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Meanwhile, with Australia unsure about Mitchell Marsh’s bowling fitness, the management has a backup ready in Marnus; however, Cummins said having faced countless deliveries in the nets, the right-hander is ready for a newer challenge.

"He's training well like he always does, hitting millions of balls," Cummins said of Labuschagne at the pre-match presser in Adelaide.&nbsp;

"It's pretty impossible to kind of dismiss or ignore some of the commentary about perhaps being a little bit more proactive, so I think you've seen that side of it in the nets. The challenge is always going out there and making sure you have that mindset. But he's been great like he always is. Always working on things, trying to plan how he's going to score his hundred this Test,” Cummins continued.

<h2>‘Hope everyone learnt’</h2>

After reducing India to 150 in the first innings, Australia had the best chance to pile on their misery and score runs in bulk, taking the game away from the visitors.&nbsp;

However, the opposite happened as India folded up Australia on 104 in their first, taking a 46-run lead. With the Indian Team scoring 487 for six declared in their second innings, giving the Aussies a daunting target of 534, the hosts failed again with the bat.

Reflecting on the team’s poor performance in the first game, Cummins hoped the players learned from their mistakes, adding each player has worked hard to avoid making similar mistakes.&nbsp;

"I hope there's some lessons learnt," he said.&nbsp;

"The good thing is, batting and bowling we've now had a look at them, they've had a look at us as well, but you get a look at some of the bowling plans that you want to implement. The same with the batters, they know how they are going to be attacked first up. I'm sure - well, I really hope - everyone's kind of learnt a bit and come back here slightly better prepared having had a look at what they are going to throw at us,” Cummins added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Marnus Labuschagne once held the rank-number one spot in the ICC Ranking for Test batters; however, like how times do to even the best of players, it brought him down, though not as low as his confidence following two LBWs in the Perth Test.

Marnus Labuschagne once held the rank-number one spot in the ICC Ranking for Test batters; however, like how times do to even the best of players, it brought him down, though not as low as his confidence following two LBWs in the Perth Test. Labuschagne’s twin dismissals in the BGT opener exposed his lapse in technique, which is not worrying for Captain Pat Cummins, who backs him to deliver in the Pink-Ball Test against India in Adelaide. Australia's number three has scored 245 runs across 12 innings at 24.50 with just three fifties in the past year, although he made headlines for clocking 135 kmph, quick for a genuine leg-spinner. ALSO READ: BGT 2024-25, Pink-Ball Test, Match Preview – Australia eye comeback in Adelaide after Perth shocker In Perth, Marnus stood for over an hour on day one, playing 51 deliveries for just two runs before an incoming seaming one from Mohammed Siraj trapped him in the front, while he offered no shot to an unplayable Bumrah delivery in the second innings, getting out on just two. The final over of the day, the perfect finish for India #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/Pci4mZdEpW — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 24, 2024 × Meanwhile, with Australia unsure about Mitchell Marsh’s bowling fitness, the management has a backup ready in Marnus; however, Cummins said having faced countless deliveries in the nets, the right-hander is ready for a newer challenge. "He's training well like he always does, hitting millions of balls," Cummins said of Labuschagne at the pre-match presser in Adelaide. "It's pretty impossible to kind of dismiss or ignore some of the commentary about perhaps being a little bit more proactive, so I think you've seen that side of it in the nets. The challenge is always going out there and making sure you have that mindset. But he's been great like he always is. Always working on things, trying to plan how he's going to score his hundred this Test,” Cummins continued. ‘Hope everyone learnt’ After reducing India to 150 in the first innings, Australia had the best chance to pile on their misery and score runs in bulk, taking the game away from the visitors. However, the opposite happened as India folded up Australia on 104 in their first, taking a 46-run lead. With the Indian Team scoring 487 for six declared in their second innings, giving the Aussies a daunting target of 534, the hosts failed again with the bat. Reflecting on the team’s poor performance in the first game, Cummins hoped the players learned from their mistakes, adding each player has worked hard to avoid making similar mistakes. "I hope there's some lessons learnt," he said. "The good thing is, batting and bowling we've now had a look at them, they've had a look at us as well, but you get a look at some of the bowling plans that you want to implement. The same with the batters, they know how they are going to be attacked first up. I'm sure - well, I really hope - everyone's kind of learnt a bit and come back here slightly better prepared having had a look at what they are going to throw at us,” Cummins added. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: ‘It’s pretty impossible…’ – Captain Cummins throws weight behind Labuschagne ahead of Adelaide Test

Australia skipper Pat Cummins has dismissed the rumours of any kind of divide in the team after the loss in first Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test by 295 runs. Cummins' comments came in response to some snide comments made by teammate Josh Hazlewood after day 3 of play in Perth, Australla.

"You probably have to ask one of the batters that question. I'm sort of relaxing and trying to get a bit of physio and a bit of treatment, and I'm probably looking mostly towards the next Test and what plans we can do against these batters," Hazlewood had told the media after Australia finished day 3 of the Test at 12/3 in chase of record 534.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-will-australia-drop-struggling-marnus-labuschagne-in-adelaide-skipper-pat-cummins-answers-779162">Will Australia drop struggling Marnus Labuschagne in Adelaide? Skipper Pat Cummins answers</a>

Hazlewood's comments could be in reference to the failure of Australia's top order across both innings, especially Marnus Labuschagne, who was given some protection as Pat Cummins came out to bat in dying moments of day 3 ahead of him as nightwatchman despite bowling for nearly two days. Both of them, however, went back in the hut the same day.

Cummins, however, was clear that there's no rift in the team and the side remains a close-knit group.

"I don't know what Joshy (Hazlewood) said, but no, not at all (division). There's plenty of times where the batters have dragged us bowlers out of tight situations, and we've done the same. So it's a really tight unit. It's probably one of the tightest teams I've ever played with," Cummins said in contrast to suggestions made by former Aussie cricketer Adam Gilchrist in Englishman Michael Vaughan that there appears to be a divide in the team.

"We really enjoy playing cricket together. We've been through a lot over the last few years, the core group. So no problems there. Everyone gets along really well. So all good," Cummins added.

The second Test of the five-match series starts December 6 in Adelaide.&nbsp;

Australia skipper Pat Cummins has dismissed the rumours of any kind of divide in the team after the loss in first Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test by 295 runs. Cummins' comments came in response to some snide comments made by teammate Josh Hazlewood after day 3 of play in Perth, Australla.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins has dismissed the rumours of any kind of divide in the team after the loss in first Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test by 295 runs. Cummins' comments came in response to some snide comments made by teammate Josh Hazlewood after day 3 of play in Perth, Australla. "You probably have to ask one of the batters that question. I'm sort of relaxing and trying to get a bit of physio and a bit of treatment, and I'm probably looking mostly towards the next Test and what plans we can do against these batters," Hazlewood had told the media after Australia finished day 3 of the Test at 12/3 in chase of record 534. Also Read: Will Australia drop struggling Marnus Labuschagne in Adelaide? Skipper Pat Cummins answers Hazlewood's comments could be in reference to the failure of Australia's top order across both innings, especially Marnus Labuschagne, who was given some protection as Pat Cummins came out to bat in dying moments of day 3 ahead of him as nightwatchman despite bowling for nearly two days. Both of them, however, went back in the hut the same day. Cummins, however, was clear that there's no rift in the team and the side remains a close-knit group. "I don't know what Joshy (Hazlewood) said, but no, not at all (division). There's plenty of times where the batters have dragged us bowlers out of tight situations, and we've done the same. So it's a really tight unit. It's probably one of the tightest teams I've ever played with," Cummins said in contrast to suggestions made by former Aussie cricketer Adam Gilchrist in Englishman Michael Vaughan that there appears to be a divide in the team. "We really enjoy playing cricket together. We've been through a lot over the last few years, the core group. So no problems there. Everyone gets along really well. So all good," Cummins added. The second Test of the five-match series starts December 6 in Adelaide.

BGT 2024-25: Rift in Australian team? 'I don't know...,' says Cummins after Hazlewood throws shades at batters

Australia skipper Pat Cummins said there won't be many changes in the side for the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test in Adelaide. The comments come despite Australia losing the first Test in Perth on Monday (Nov. 25) by 295 runs.&nbsp;

Australia were clueless against Indian pace attack, especially Jasprit Bumrah, as they squandered advantage on day 1 of the Test after bowling India out for 150 runs.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-kohli-doesnt-need-us-says-india-skipper-jasprit-bumrah-after-295-run-win-in-perth-test-779082">'Kohli doesn't need us...,' says India skipper Jasprit Bumrah after 295-run win in Perth Test</a>

“I think we will head home for a bit and may assemble in Adelaide a day earlier considering the Test here got over early. We will work on our plans then. At the beginning of this Test, we believed that this is the best team that we could have, and I don’t think there will be too many changes,” said Cummins post-loss.

The Aussie skipper, however, gave due credit to the Indian batters for their second innings effort, which saw the visitors pile up 487/6 before declaring with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli getting hundreds.

“India bowled well on that first day, and that got them back. They then batted well in the second innings. Jaiswal, Rahul and (Virat) did well,” said Cummins.

Australia were set an astronomical target of 534 runs to chase, including the 46 runs lead they had conceded in the first innings. India had bowled the visitors out for a paltry 104 in the first innings, with Bumrah getting a five-for. They were eventually bowled out for 238 on day 4 of the Perth Test.

Cummins was asked about Marnus Labuschagne's place in the team after the batter, who has been struggling this year for runs, managed just five runs across both innings.

“He has been working hard, and yes, he didn’t do that well, but we all know what a threat he can be to bowlers,” noted Cummins.

India now lead the five-Test series 1-0 as they head for the second Test in Adelaide, which starts December 6.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins said there won't be many changes in the side for the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test in Adelaide. The comments come despite Australia losing the first Test in Perth on Monday (Nov.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins said there won't be many changes in the side for the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test in Adelaide. The comments come despite Australia losing the first Test in Perth on Monday (Nov. 25) by 295 runs. Australia were clueless against Indian pace attack, especially Jasprit Bumrah, as they squandered advantage on day 1 of the Test after bowling India out for 150 runs. Also Read: 'Kohli doesn't need us...,' says India skipper Jasprit Bumrah after 295-run win in Perth Test “I think we will head home for a bit and may assemble in Adelaide a day earlier considering the Test here got over early. We will work on our plans then. At the beginning of this Test, we believed that this is the best team that we could have, and I don’t think there will be too many changes,” said Cummins post-loss. The Aussie skipper, however, gave due credit to the Indian batters for their second innings effort, which saw the visitors pile up 487/6 before declaring with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli getting hundreds. “India bowled well on that first day, and that got them back. They then batted well in the second innings. Jaiswal, Rahul and (Virat) did well,” said Cummins. Australia were set an astronomical target of 534 runs to chase, including the 46 runs lead they had conceded in the first innings. India had bowled the visitors out for a paltry 104 in the first innings, with Bumrah getting a five-for. They were eventually bowled out for 238 on day 4 of the Perth Test. Cummins was asked about Marnus Labuschagne's place in the team after the batter, who has been struggling this year for runs, managed just five runs across both innings. “He has been working hard, and yes, he didn’t do that well, but we all know what a threat he can be to bowlers,” noted Cummins. India now lead the five-Test series 1-0 as they head for the second Test in Adelaide, which starts December 6.

BGT 2024-25: Will Australia drop struggling Marnus Labuschagne in Adelaide? Skipper Pat Cummins answers

India batters fell flat on Day 1 of the first Test versus Australia at Perth, after opting to bat first in the opener of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Friday (Nov 22). Debutant Nitish Reddy (41) ended as the highest run-scorer whereas Rishabh Pant entertained during his 37 but couldn't score big as Josh Hazlewood returned with 4 for 29. During Pant's stay in the middle, the swashbuckling left-hander smacked Australian captain Pat Cummins for a six, sweeping one&nbsp;over the fine-leg boundary.

Here is the viral video:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
As only Rishabh Pant can do! 6️⃣<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayOfTheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayOfTheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/vupPuWA8GG">pic.twitter.com/vupPuWA8GG</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1859848391137599831?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-aus-virat-kohli-dismissed-by-a-peach-off-a-delivery-from-josh-hazlewood-on-day-1-of-perth-test-watch-778230">Ind vs Aus: Virat Kohli dismissed by a peach off a delivery from Josh Hazlewood on Day 1 of Perth Test - Watch</a>

Talking about the delivery, it was a&nbsp;full-length ball angled in around off as Pant fell&nbsp;over to the off-side while getting under the ball to smack it over the fine-leg boundary for an impressive six. Despite this, the 27-year-old couldn't stay in the middle for long as Cummins had the last laugh by outfoxing him. The left-hander edged one to the slips where Steve Smith plucked an easy catch.&nbsp;

Apart from Pant and Reddy's 48-run stand, for the seventh wicket, nothing clicked for India as they bundled out for 150 in 49.4 overs. However, they have bounced back in style with the ball as Jasprit Bumrah-led India has reduced Australia to 37 for 4 at the time of publishing this report. The visitors will have to dismiss the Aussies for a low score to stay alive in the contest.

India are without regular captain Rohit Sharma for the Perth Test. He missed out due to the birth of his second child but will join the Indian squad on Nov 24 (Sunday).&nbsp;

India batters fell flat on Day 1 of the first Test versus Australia at Perth, after opting to bat first in the opener of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Friday (Nov 22).

India batters fell flat on Day 1 of the first Test versus Australia at Perth, after opting to bat first in the opener of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy on Friday (Nov 22). Debutant Nitish Reddy (41) ended as the highest run-scorer whereas Rishabh Pant entertained during his 37 but couldn't score big as Josh Hazlewood returned with 4 for 29. During Pant's stay in the middle, the swashbuckling left-hander smacked Australian captain Pat Cummins for a six, sweeping one over the fine-leg boundary. Here is the viral video: As only Rishabh Pant can do! 6️⃣#AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/vupPuWA8GG — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 22, 2024 × Also read: Ind vs Aus: Virat Kohli dismissed by a peach off a delivery from Josh Hazlewood on Day 1 of Perth Test - Watch Talking about the delivery, it was a full-length ball angled in around off as Pant fell over to the off-side while getting under the ball to smack it over the fine-leg boundary for an impressive six. Despite this, the 27-year-old couldn't stay in the middle for long as Cummins had the last laugh by outfoxing him. The left-hander edged one to the slips where Steve Smith plucked an easy catch. Apart from Pant and Reddy's 48-run stand, for the seventh wicket, nothing clicked for India as they bundled out for 150 in 49.4 overs. However, they have bounced back in style with the ball as Jasprit Bumrah-led India has reduced Australia to 37 for 4 at the time of publishing this report. The visitors will have to dismiss the Aussies for a low score to stay alive in the contest. India are without regular captain Rohit Sharma for the Perth Test. He missed out due to the birth of his second child but will join the Indian squad on Nov 24 (Sunday).

Ind vs Aus: Rishabh Pant smacks Pat Cummins for a jaw-dropping SIX on Day 1 of Perth Test - Watch

Australia captain Pat Cummins Thursday urged new opener Nathan McSweeney not to try and emulate swashbuckling David Warner, while admitting his team had unfinished business with India. The uncapped McSweeney will make his Test bow at Perth Stadium on Friday, parachuted in at the top of the order alongside Usman Khawaja after Warner's retirement this year. He has big shoes to fill, and goes into the game having only opened once before at first-class level, in a warm-up Australia A match this month.

Cummins said he must be himself when he fronts a world-class Indian attack spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah on what is expected to be a fiery pitch. "Davey is very hard to replace in many ways, but I think the most important thing for someone like Nath coming in is to play his own game," he said. "He doesn't need to strike at 80 like Davey did if that's not his game."

Other than McSweeney, Australia has a settled side which is on a mission to win their first Test series against India in almost a decade. Only Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon and Steve Smith remain from the squad that last won in Australia back in 2014-15.

Since then they have slumped to four straight Border-Gavaskar series losses, including two at home. "It's kind of one of the last things to tick off for a lot of us," Cummins told reporters of beating their big rival. "Almost every challenge that we've had thrown with us over the last few years we've stepped up and done well.&nbsp; "To do that for another year, another home summer, would kind of cement this."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-if-you-lose-you-start-from-0-bumrah-states-india-not-carrying-any-baggage-from-nz-whitewash-777925">BGT 2024/25: 'If you lose, you start from 0', Bumrah states India not carrying any baggage from NZ whitewash</a>

While Australia go into the first of five Tests with their starting XI locked in, India is set for a shake up after their devastating 3-0 home series loss to New Zealand.

Rohit Sharma will likely miss the match following the birth of his second child, with Bumrah assuming the captaincy. Number three Shubman Gill is a doubt with an injured thumb, while the bowling line-up behind Bumrah is yet to be decided.

Nevertheless, Cummins is under no illusions about the task ahead. "There will always be pressure when you are playing at home," he said.&nbsp; "We're all excited, we know India are right up there with the best teams. "They are missing a couple of guys we are more familiar with, but we know that whoever they pick they will obviously think are good enough for Test cricket."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Australia captain Pat Cummins Thursday urged new opener Nathan McSweeney not to try and emulate swashbuckling David Warner, while admitting his team had unfinished business with India.

Australia captain Pat Cummins Thursday urged new opener Nathan McSweeney not to try and emulate swashbuckling David Warner, while admitting his team had unfinished business with India. The uncapped McSweeney will make his Test bow at Perth Stadium on Friday, parachuted in at the top of the order alongside Usman Khawaja after Warner's retirement this year. He has big shoes to fill, and goes into the game having only opened once before at first-class level, in a warm-up Australia A match this month. Cummins said he must be himself when he fronts a world-class Indian attack spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah on what is expected to be a fiery pitch. "Davey is very hard to replace in many ways, but I think the most important thing for someone like Nath coming in is to play his own game," he said. "He doesn't need to strike at 80 like Davey did if that's not his game." Other than McSweeney, Australia has a settled side which is on a mission to win their first Test series against India in almost a decade. Only Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon and Steve Smith remain from the squad that last won in Australia back in 2014-15. Since then they have slumped to four straight Border-Gavaskar series losses, including two at home. "It's kind of one of the last things to tick off for a lot of us," Cummins told reporters of beating their big rival. "Almost every challenge that we've had thrown with us over the last few years we've stepped up and done well. "To do that for another year, another home summer, would kind of cement this." Also read: BGT 2024/25: 'If you lose, you start from 0', Bumrah states India not carrying any baggage from NZ whitewash While Australia go into the first of five Tests with their starting XI locked in, India is set for a shake up after their devastating 3-0 home series loss to New Zealand. Rohit Sharma will likely miss the match following the birth of his second child, with Bumrah assuming the captaincy. Number three Shubman Gill is a doubt with an injured thumb, while the bowling line-up behind Bumrah is yet to be decided. Nevertheless, Cummins is under no illusions about the task ahead. "There will always be pressure when you are playing at home," he said. "We're all excited, we know India are right up there with the best teams. "They are missing a couple of guys we are more familiar with, but we know that whoever they pick they will obviously think are good enough for Test cricket." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

BGT 2024/25: Australia captain Pat Cummins tells uncapped Nathan McSweeney not to emulate David Warner

Australia skipper Pat Cummins has dismissed talks of distraction due to the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) mega auction as his side prepares for the opening contest of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India. Speaking on Thursday (Nov 21), Cummins reckons the auctions won’t be a distraction for his side which will coincide with the Test match on Sunday and Monday. According to him, plenty of Australian players have the experience of going under the hammer and won’t find it difficult to cope during the national duties.

<h2>Cummins dismisses talks of distraction</h2>

"Yeah, I think he is there in the auction. I don't think so (it will be a distraction). Dan has flown over there, but he has been here for the whole prep. Done all the meetings, done all the chats, watching it. We came to know that anyway," Cummins told the press in Perth on the eve of the first Test.

Australian players like Usman Khawaja, Mitchell Marsh, Josh Inglis and others part of the Perth Test will be on the auction table on Sunday and Monday in the IPL auctions. The mega bidding event will take place in Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah with host of Indian names also in the mix. Alongside Australian players, Indian names like KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Mohammed Siraj will also test their luck in the auction while in Perth.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-ricky-ponting-backs-virat-kohli-steve-smith-to-come-good-says-theyve-got-plenty-of-time-777862">BGT 2024/25: Ricky Ponting backs Virat Kohli, Steve Smith to come good, says 'they’ve got plenty of time'</a>

<h2>Australia look to end their BGT drought</h2>

Not since the 2014-15 BGT series, have the Aussie lifted the bilateral tournament as they look to end the drought. With India wounded after defeat to New Zealand in home series, Aussies have a golden opportunity to claim the series win in their own backyard. Pat Cummins’s side will hand a debut to Queensland’s Nathan McSweeney who is set to become the first Australia batter in 47 years to open the innings on debut.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins has dismissed talks of distraction due to the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) mega auction as his side prepares for the opening contest of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins has dismissed talks of distraction due to the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) mega auction as his side prepares for the opening contest of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India. Speaking on Thursday (Nov 21), Cummins reckons the auctions won’t be a distraction for his side which will coincide with the Test match on Sunday and Monday. According to him, plenty of Australian players have the experience of going under the hammer and won’t find it difficult to cope during the national duties. Cummins dismisses talks of distraction "Yeah, I think he is there in the auction. I don't think so (it will be a distraction). Dan has flown over there, but he has been here for the whole prep. Done all the meetings, done all the chats, watching it. We came to know that anyway," Cummins told the press in Perth on the eve of the first Test. Australian players like Usman Khawaja, Mitchell Marsh, Josh Inglis and others part of the Perth Test will be on the auction table on Sunday and Monday in the IPL auctions. The mega bidding event will take place in Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah with host of Indian names also in the mix. Alongside Australian players, Indian names like KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Mohammed Siraj will also test their luck in the auction while in Perth. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Ricky Ponting backs Virat Kohli, Steve Smith to come good, says 'they’ve got plenty of time' Australia look to end their BGT drought Not since the 2014-15 BGT series, have the Aussie lifted the bilateral tournament as they look to end the drought. With India wounded after defeat to New Zealand in home series, Aussies have a golden opportunity to claim the series win in their own backyard. Pat Cummins’s side will hand a debut to Queensland’s Nathan McSweeney who is set to become the first Australia batter in 47 years to open the innings on debut.

BGT 2024/25: Pat Cummins focused on Perth Test despite IPL mega auction, dismisses 'distraction' talks

Australia skipper Pat Cummins is ready to complete the set as he gears up for the Test series against India with the opening Test in Perth starting on Friday (Nov 22). Cummins who helped Australia win the World Test Championship (WTC) final and the ODI World Cup final in 2023, is yet to win a Test series against India. However, he is now ready to tick the box with Australia sitting in pole position to reach back-to-back WTC finals.

<h2>Cummins ready to tick off another box</h2>

"It's kind of the one big thing that I want to tick off," Cummins said ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener in Perth. "Particularly winning at home. Most Australians, me included, expect us to do well whenever we play at home. We've lost the last two series against them, so this is a big one."

Cummins was named captain of the Australian side in December 2021 and has been impressive during his stint leading them to a 4-0 Ashes win followed by a series of success. However, he is yet to be victorious in a Test series against India, with his only previous attempt resulting in a 1-2 defeat while in India in 2023.

With India recently struggling and heading into the BGT on the back of a 0-3 defeat to New Zealand, Australia will look to capitlaise on their wounded opponents. To add more worries for the Indian team, skipper Rohit Sharma is out of the squad owing to paternity leave while Shubman Gill stays out with a thumb problem. Nitish Reddy is expected to get his debut for the Perth Test with Abhimanyu Easwaran not part of the plans for the Perth encounter.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-ravi-shastri-wants-india-batters-to-think-about-last-australia-tours-performance-in-perth-777164">BGT 2024-25: Ravi Shastri wants India batters to 'think about' last Australia tour's performance in Perth</a>

<h2>Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India-Australia series) Schedule</h2>

1st Test: 22nd November to 26th November, Perth

2nd Test: 6th December to 10th December, Adelaide

3rd Test: 14th December to 18th December, Brisbane

4th Test: 26th December to 30th December, Melbourne

5th Test: 3rd January to 7th January, Sydney

Australia skipper Pat Cummins is ready to complete the set as he gears up for the Test series against India with the opening Test in Perth starting on Friday (Nov 22).

Australia skipper Pat Cummins is ready to complete the set as he gears up for the Test series against India with the opening Test in Perth starting on Friday (Nov 22). Cummins who helped Australia win the World Test Championship (WTC) final and the ODI World Cup final in 2023, is yet to win a Test series against India. However, he is now ready to tick the box with Australia sitting in pole position to reach back-to-back WTC finals. Cummins ready to tick off another box "It's kind of the one big thing that I want to tick off," Cummins said ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener in Perth. "Particularly winning at home. Most Australians, me included, expect us to do well whenever we play at home. We've lost the last two series against them, so this is a big one." Cummins was named captain of the Australian side in December 2021 and has been impressive during his stint leading them to a 4-0 Ashes win followed by a series of success. However, he is yet to be victorious in a Test series against India, with his only previous attempt resulting in a 1-2 defeat while in India in 2023. With India recently struggling and heading into the BGT on the back of a 0-3 defeat to New Zealand, Australia will look to capitlaise on their wounded opponents. To add more worries for the Indian team, skipper Rohit Sharma is out of the squad owing to paternity leave while Shubman Gill stays out with a thumb problem. Nitish Reddy is expected to get his debut for the Perth Test with Abhimanyu Easwaran not part of the plans for the Perth encounter. ALSO READ | BGT 2024-25: Ravi Shastri wants India batters to 'think about' last Australia tour's performance in Perth Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India-Australia series) Schedule 1st Test: 22nd November to 26th November, Perth 2nd Test: 6th December to 10th December, Adelaide 3rd Test: 14th December to 18th December, Brisbane 4th Test: 26th December to 30th December, Melbourne 5th Test: 3rd January to 7th January, Sydney

BGT 2024/25: Aussie skipper Pat Cummins ready to 'tick off' all boxes ahead of Perth opener

Australia will have the opportunity to pocket the ODI series against Pakistan on Friday (Nov. 8) as they look to take a 2-0 lead with a win in Adelaide. Having won a narrow contest against Pakistan in the first ODI, the away side will look to give a good account of them as they face a do-or-die contest. Ahead of the second contest between Australia and Pakistan, here are all the details of the contest, including live streaming, squads, and others.

<h2>When is the Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match?</h2>

The Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match will start on Friday (Nov 8).

<h2>Which stadium will host the Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match?</h2>

The Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match will be played at the Adelaide Oval in&nbsp;Adelaide.

<h2>What time will the Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match start?</h2>

The Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match will start at 2:30 pm&nbsp;local time (9:00 am&nbsp;IST) with toss taking place at 2:00 pm&nbsp;local time (8:30 am&nbsp;IST).

<h2>Where to watch the Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match on TV?</h2>

The Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match will be telecast&nbsp;on Star Sports Network in India.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ca-squashed-it-quickly-david-warner-on-india-as-ball-tampering-controversy-asks-board-to-release-statement-773945">CA squashed it quickly: David Warner on India A's ball tampering controversy, asks board to release statement</a>

<h2>Where to watch the Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match on OTT?</h2>

The Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match will be live-streamed on the Disney+Hotstar app and website in India.

<h2>Squads:</h2>

Australia Squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Cooper Connolly, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa

Pakistan Squad: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Aamer Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Agha Salman, Arafat Minhas, Babar Azam, Faisal Akram, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah Khan, Irfan Khan, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi

Australia will have the opportunity to pocket the ODI series against Pakistan on Friday (Nov. 8) as they look to take a 2-0 lead with a win in Adelaide. Having won a narrow contest against Pakistan in the first ODI, the away side will look to give a good account of them as they face a do-or-die contest.

Australia will have the opportunity to pocket the ODI series against Pakistan on Friday (Nov. 8) as they look to take a 2-0 lead with a win in Adelaide. Having won a narrow contest against Pakistan in the first ODI, the away side will look to give a good account of them as they face a do-or-die contest. Ahead of the second contest between Australia and Pakistan, here are all the details of the contest, including live streaming, squads, and others. When is the Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match? The Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match will start on Friday (Nov 8). Which stadium will host the Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match? The Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match will be played at the Adelaide Oval in Adelaide. What time will the Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match start? The Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match will start at 2:30 pm local time (9:00 am IST) with toss taking place at 2:00 pm local time (8:30 am IST). Where to watch the Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match on TV? The Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match will be telecast on Star Sports Network in India. ALSO READ | CA squashed it quickly: David Warner on India A's ball tampering controversy, asks board to release statement Where to watch the Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match on OTT? The Australia vs Pakistan 2nd ODI match will be live-streamed on the Disney+Hotstar app and website in India. Squads: Australia Squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Cooper Connolly, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa Pakistan Squad: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Aamer Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Agha Salman, Arafat Minhas, Babar Azam, Faisal Akram, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah Khan, Irfan Khan, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi

AUS vs PAK, 2nd ODI Live Streaming: When, where & how to watch Australia vs Pakistan Live on laptop

Australia captain Pat Cummins led his team to a narrow two-wicket win over Pakistan in the first ODI at the MCG on Monday (Nov 4). Cummins, who returned to the Australian colours for the first time since the T20 World Cup in the Americas, picked two wickets and scored an unbeaten 32 to guide his team over the winning line.&nbsp;

Asked to bat first at the ‘G’, Pakistan lost both openers to Mitchell Starc, with the premier seamer removing Saim Ayub first, bowled on just one. Abdullah Shafique departed soon after, with Babar Azam and newly-appointed white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan steadying the ship with a 39-run stand.

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Starc gets the ball rolling! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/CYXcVECkj1">pic.twitter.com/CYXcVECkj1</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1853284728968761819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Adam Zampa removed Babar on 37 before Cummins bagged Kamran Ghulam's wicket on just five to put Pakistan’s back against the wall. Rizwan held one end but failed to get his team past a fighting total.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-more-miseries-for-india-rohit-sharma-not-sure-of-his-participation-for-perth-test-773091">BGT 2024/25: More miseries for India? Rohit Sharma 'not sure' of his participation for Perth Test</a>

Handy contributions from the tail, including gritty 20s from debutant Irfan Khan (22) and Shaheen Afridi (24) and a brilliant run-a-ball 40 from returning Naseem Shah, helped Pakistan cross the 200-run-mark but got all out soon after.

<h2>Australia won, somehow</h2>

Matthew Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk’s opening stand was short-lived as Pakistan quicks Shaheen and Naseem were back among the wickets inside the first ten overs. The middle-order duo of Steve Smith and keeper-batter Josh Inglis added 85 runs for the third wicket, helping Australia sit comfortably in the run-chase; however, four quick wickets in the next four overs brought Pakistan back into the game.

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Put away in trademark fashion! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/S0bE6ZiAGA">pic.twitter.com/S0bE6ZiAGA</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1853350943594532956?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Rauf, a T20 specialist, made inroads with three wickets, including removing Smith, Marnus Labuschagne and Glenn Maxwell on a first-ball duck.&nbsp;

Though all-rounders Aaron Hardie and Sean Abbott did their bit to avoid embarrassment in Australia’s first home game of the summer, they departed soon after, putting pressure back on the hosts.

Cummins joined the party and, for the nth time in his career, made handy contribution&nbsp;with the bat at the end to see his team home. Alongside his bowling partner Starc, Cummins scored 32* to win the match for Australia with two wickets remaining.&nbsp;

Australia leads the three-match ODI series 1-0, with Adelaide scheduled to host the second game on Sunday (Nov. 8).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Australia captain Pat Cummins led his team to a narrow two-wicket win over Pakistan in the first ODI at the MCG on Monday (Nov 4). Cummins, who returned to the Australian colours for the first time since the T20 World Cup in the Americas, picked two wickets and scored an unbeaten 32 to guide his team over the winning line.

Australia captain Pat Cummins led his team to a narrow two-wicket win over Pakistan in the first ODI at the MCG on Monday (Nov 4). Cummins, who returned to the Australian colours for the first time since the T20 World Cup in the Americas, picked two wickets and scored an unbeaten 32 to guide his team over the winning line. Asked to bat first at the ‘G’, Pakistan lost both openers to Mitchell Starc, with the premier seamer removing Saim Ayub first, bowled on just one. Abdullah Shafique departed soon after, with Babar Azam and newly-appointed white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan steadying the ship with a 39-run stand. Starc gets the ball rolling! #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/CYXcVECkj1 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 4, 2024 × Adam Zampa removed Babar on 37 before Cummins bagged Kamran Ghulam's wicket on just five to put Pakistan’s back against the wall. Rizwan held one end but failed to get his team past a fighting total. ALSO READ: BGT 2024/25: More miseries for India? Rohit Sharma 'not sure' of his participation for Perth Test Handy contributions from the tail, including gritty 20s from debutant Irfan Khan (22) and Shaheen Afridi (24) and a brilliant run-a-ball 40 from returning Naseem Shah, helped Pakistan cross the 200-run-mark but got all out soon after. Australia won, somehow Matthew Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk’s opening stand was short-lived as Pakistan quicks Shaheen and Naseem were back among the wickets inside the first ten overs. The middle-order duo of Steve Smith and keeper-batter Josh Inglis added 85 runs for the third wicket, helping Australia sit comfortably in the run-chase; however, four quick wickets in the next four overs brought Pakistan back into the game. Put away in trademark fashion! #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/S0bE6ZiAGA — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) November 4, 2024 × Rauf, a T20 specialist, made inroads with three wickets, including removing Smith, Marnus Labuschagne and Glenn Maxwell on a first-ball duck. Though all-rounders Aaron Hardie and Sean Abbott did their bit to avoid embarrassment in Australia’s first home game of the summer, they departed soon after, putting pressure back on the hosts. Cummins joined the party and, for the nth time in his career, made handy contribution with the bat at the end to see his team home. Alongside his bowling partner Starc, Cummins scored 32* to win the match for Australia with two wickets remaining. Australia leads the three-match ODI series 1-0, with Adelaide scheduled to host the second game on Sunday (Nov. 8). (With inputs from agencies)

Captain Pat Cummins leads Australia to narrow win over Pakistan in first ODI at MCG

Australia will look to build up momentum ahead of a crucial Test series against India as they face Pakistan in the opening contest of the three-match ODI series. Playing at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Australia will have skipper Pat Cummins back in the side while Pakistan will look to make a good start under new skipper Mohammad Rizwan. Ahead of the opening contest between Australia and Pakistan, here are all the details of the contest, including live streaming, squads, and others.

<h2>When is the Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match?</h2>

The Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match will start on Monday (Nov 4).

<h2>Which stadium will host the Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match?</h2>

The Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne.

<h2>What time will the Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match start?</h2>

The Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match will start at 2:30 pm&nbsp;local time (9:00 am&nbsp;IST) with toss taking place at 2:00 pm&nbsp;local time (8:30 am&nbsp;IST).

<h2>Where to watch the Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match on TV?</h2>

The Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match will be telecasted on Star Sports Network in India.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/because-of-hero-worship-former-india-player-on-rcb-retaining-virat-kohli-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-772722">'Because of hero worship...,' Former India player on RCB retaining Virat Kohli ahead of IPL mega auction</a>

<h2>Where to watch the Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match on OTT?</h2>

The Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match will be live-streamed on the Disney+Hotstar app and website in India.

<h2>Squads:</h2>

Australia Squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Cooper Connolly, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa

Pakistan Squad: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Aamer Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Agha Salman, Arafat Minhas, Babar Azam, Faisal Akram, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah Khan, Irfan Khan, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi

Australia will look to build up momentum ahead of a crucial Test series against India as they face Pakistan in the opening contest of the three-match ODI series.

Australia will look to build up momentum ahead of a crucial Test series against India as they face Pakistan in the opening contest of the three-match ODI series. Playing at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Australia will have skipper Pat Cummins back in the side while Pakistan will look to make a good start under new skipper Mohammad Rizwan. Ahead of the opening contest between Australia and Pakistan, here are all the details of the contest, including live streaming, squads, and others. When is the Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match? The Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match will start on Monday (Nov 4). Which stadium will host the Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match? The Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne. What time will the Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match start? The Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match will start at 2:30 pm local time (9:00 am IST) with toss taking place at 2:00 pm local time (8:30 am IST). Where to watch the Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match on TV? The Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match will be telecasted on Star Sports Network in India. ALSO READ | 'Because of hero worship...,' Former India player on RCB retaining Virat Kohli ahead of IPL mega auction Where to watch the Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match on OTT? The Australia vs Pakistan 1st ODI match will be live-streamed on the Disney+Hotstar app and website in India. Squads: Australia Squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Cooper Connolly, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa Pakistan Squad: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Aamer Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Agha Salman, Arafat Minhas, Babar Azam, Faisal Akram, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah Khan, Irfan Khan, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi

AUS vs PAK, 1st ODI Live Streaming: When, where & how to watch Australia vs Pakistan Live on TV, laptop

Australia skipper Pat Cummins believes that the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series against India is an important one and there's no reason Australian should not do well in the five Tests.

"It's kind of the one big thing that I want to tick off," Cummins said to news agency AAP on Tuesday (Oct 29). "Particularly winning at home. Most Australians, me included, expect us to do well whenever we play at home."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/long-may-it-continue-ex-skipper-jason-holder-thanks-england-for-helping-west-indies-cricket-in-survival-772037">'Long may it continue,' Ex-skipper Jason Holder thanks England for helping West Indies cricket in survival</a>

It is to be noted that Australia have lost the last four Test series against India, including two at home and two away, and Cummins acknowledged that the upcoming series is a big one.

"We've lost the (last) two series against them (in Australia), so this is a big one. We feel like our team's in a really good place, so we've got no reason why we shouldn't perform really well."

The Aussie skipper also said that he always expects his team to do well, especially, against India.

"I just always expect us to do well against whoever we play. But India, particularly, is a big year, big season," he added.

India's tour of Australia begins on 22 November in Perth before the day-night second Test in Adelaide from December 6-10. The third Test will be played at the Gabba in Brisbane from 14-18 December before the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) from December 26-30. The last and final Test will be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) from Jan 3-7.&nbsp;

India's squad for Australia tour: Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar

Australia skipper Pat Cummins believes that the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series against India is an important one and there's no reason Australian should not do well in the five Tests.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins believes that the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series against India is an important one and there's no reason Australian should not do well in the five Tests. "It's kind of the one big thing that I want to tick off," Cummins said to news agency AAP on Tuesday (Oct 29). "Particularly winning at home. Most Australians, me included, expect us to do well whenever we play at home." Also Read: 'Long may it continue,' Ex-skipper Jason Holder thanks England for helping West Indies cricket in survival It is to be noted that Australia have lost the last four Test series against India, including two at home and two away, and Cummins acknowledged that the upcoming series is a big one. "We've lost the (last) two series against them (in Australia), so this is a big one. We feel like our team's in a really good place, so we've got no reason why we shouldn't perform really well." The Aussie skipper also said that he always expects his team to do well, especially, against India. "I just always expect us to do well against whoever we play. But India, particularly, is a big year, big season," he added. India's tour of Australia begins on 22 November in Perth before the day-night second Test in Adelaide from December 6-10. The third Test will be played at the Gabba in Brisbane from 14-18 December before the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) from December 26-30. The last and final Test will be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) from Jan 3-7. India's squad for Australia tour: Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar

'Always expect us to do well,' says Aussie skipper Pat Cummins ahead of home BGT vs India

Australia Test captain Pat Cummins said the team management is not considering David Warner’s proposal to make a comeback for the India Test series starting November 22 in Perth. Days after Warner went public about his keenness to return to open for the hosts in the marquee Border-Gavaskar series should Australia consider asking him, Cummins ended all speculations with a clear no.

The fiery left-handed opener retired from Tests in January this year, with batting veteran Steve Smith opening in his absence. Though that experiment didn’t work out the way Smith and Cricket Australia (CA) would have thought, and now that he is back to batting at number four against India, CA has zeroed in on a few options as the squad announcement date looms.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-2024-ravichandran-ashwin-surpasses-nathan-lyon-on-wickets-tally-in-tests-wtc-history-770346">IND v NZ 2024: Ravichandran Ashwin surpasses Nathan Lyon on wickets tally in Tests, WTC history</a>

Australia is backing keeper-batter Jos Inglis to fill in the spot at the top, with Cameron Bancroft, Marcus Harris and Shield’s emerging star Sam Konstas being other options.

Meanwhile, Cummins addressed this topic during a chat on The Grade Cricketer Podcast, saying he spoke with Warner a few days ago but doesn’t remember talking about his comeback. Though cheekily, Cummins answered all questions.

"Dave, we’re very interested. We’re taking it very seriously and we’ll be in touch, mate," Cummins said on the podcast.&nbsp;

"I did speak to Dave a couple of days ago. I can’t remember if he reached out or I did… he’s like, “What do you think?”, and I was like, “Yeah, good luck with [Sydney] Thunder and I look forward to your comments on Fox.&nbsp;

"I think the truth’s somewhere in the middle. I reckon it (offer) is a bit of a wind-up, but I reckon, he doesn’t mind seeing himself in the back page. We love Davey, but he is retired," Cummins added.

Watch the clip -

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Pat Cummins with a message to David Warner in regard to his offer to open the batting again this summer. <a href="https://t.co/Umz4HzRnRH">pic.twitter.com/Umz4HzRnRH</a>
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<h2>Oz ready for India challenge</h2>

Having failed to beat India twice in the past two outings at home, Australia is raring to go against the top-ranked Test side in the world. The hosts have their bases covered, and with Smith returning to his preferred batting position, where he has scored a bulk of runs throughout, the Aussies have strengthened their batting attack.

Meanwhile, their bowling line-up consists of the four most-feared bowlers, Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon.

Besides Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney will host the remaining four matches.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Australia Test captain Pat Cummins said the team management is not considering David Warner’s proposal to make a comeback for the India Test series starting November 22 in Perth.

Australia Test captain Pat Cummins said the team management is not considering David Warner’s proposal to make a comeback for the India Test series starting November 22 in Perth. Days after Warner went public about his keenness to return to open for the hosts in the marquee Border-Gavaskar series should Australia consider asking him, Cummins ended all speculations with a clear no. The fiery left-handed opener retired from Tests in January this year, with batting veteran Steve Smith opening in his absence. Though that experiment didn’t work out the way Smith and Cricket Australia (CA) would have thought, and now that he is back to batting at number four against India, CA has zeroed in on a few options as the squad announcement date looms. ALSO READ: IND v NZ 2024: Ravichandran Ashwin surpasses Nathan Lyon on wickets tally in Tests, WTC history Australia is backing keeper-batter Jos Inglis to fill in the spot at the top, with Cameron Bancroft, Marcus Harris and Shield’s emerging star Sam Konstas being other options. Meanwhile, Cummins addressed this topic during a chat on The Grade Cricketer Podcast, saying he spoke with Warner a few days ago but doesn’t remember talking about his comeback. Though cheekily, Cummins answered all questions. "Dave, we’re very interested. We’re taking it very seriously and we’ll be in touch, mate," Cummins said on the podcast. "I did speak to Dave a couple of days ago. I can’t remember if he reached out or I did… he’s like, “What do you think?”, and I was like, “Yeah, good luck with [Sydney] Thunder and I look forward to your comments on Fox. "I think the truth’s somewhere in the middle. I reckon it (offer) is a bit of a wind-up, but I reckon, he doesn’t mind seeing himself in the back page. We love Davey, but he is retired," Cummins added. Watch the clip - Pat Cummins with a message to David Warner in regard to his offer to open the batting again this summer. pic.twitter.com/Umz4HzRnRH — The Grade Cricketer (@gradecricketer) October 24, 2024 × Oz ready for India challenge Having failed to beat India twice in the past two outings at home, Australia is raring to go against the top-ranked Test side in the world. The hosts have their bases covered, and with Smith returning to his preferred batting position, where he has scored a bulk of runs throughout, the Aussies have strengthened their batting attack. Meanwhile, their bowling line-up consists of the four most-feared bowlers, Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon. Besides Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney will host the remaining four matches. (With inputs from agencies)

‘We love Davey but he’s retired’ - Pat Cummins shuns David Warner’s comeback proposal for India Tests

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise SunRisers Hyderabad are set to retain skipper Pat Cummins and Travis Head ahead of the retention deadline day of October 31. The Australian duo was the standout performer&nbsp;for the South Indian side as they reached the final of the IPL 2024. With the auctions set to take place in the next few weeks, SRH are likely to retain faith in the duo, while the likes of Abhishek Sharma and Nitish Kumar Reddy also sit at the top of the franchise’s retention list.

<h2>Head, Cummins on retention list of&nbsp;SRH?</h2>

According to reports, Head and Cummins will be retained by the franchise as they look to shape their final plan. During IPL 2024, Cummins scalped 18 wickets in 16 matches and was a valuable addition to the side considering his ability to lead. He also scored 136 runs for the franchise and holds the record for fastest fifty in the IPL while he was playing for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

On the other hand, Head scored 567 runs and was the standout performer for the side in his 15 matches. This included a hundred and five fifties and Abhishek Sharma broke several batting records for the franchise.

SRH are also planning to retain Abhishek and Nitish Reddy from the Indian contingent while Heinrich Klaasen remains another overseas pick. Nitish’s retention will come at a big cost for SRH as he is no longer an uncapped player. He recently won his first India cap in the T20I series against Bangladesh, meaning he won’t be retained for INR 40 million ($475000).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ban-vs-sa-bangladesh-battle-at-101-3-as-south-africa-threaten-innings-defeat-769827">BAN vs SA: Bangladesh battle at 101-3 as South Africa threaten innings defeat</a>

<h2>What are the retention values?</h2>

A franchise can retain as many as six players before the auctions for price tags set by the IPL commission. In case the franchise does not retain six players, the remaining slots could be used as Right to Match (RTM) cards. An RTM allows a team to retain a player who represented the franchise in IPL 2024 by matching the final bid of the other franchise that intends to purchase it. Interestingly, out of the six retentions allowed, one has to be an uncapped Indian player, meaning a maximum of five capped players could be retained before the auctions.

<h2>The values for the retentions are as follows:</h2>

1. Player 1 - INR 180 million ($2.1m)

2. Player 2 - INR 140 million ($1.66)

3. Player 3 - INR 110 million ($1.3m)

4. Player 4 - INR 180 million ($2.1m)

5. Player 5 - INR 140 million ($1.66)

6. Player 6 (uncapped Indian) - INR 40 million ($475,000)

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise SunRisers Hyderabad are set to retain skipper Pat Cummins and Travis Head ahead of the retention deadline day of October 31.

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise SunRisers Hyderabad are set to retain skipper Pat Cummins and Travis Head ahead of the retention deadline day of October 31. The Australian duo was the standout performer for the South Indian side as they reached the final of the IPL 2024. With the auctions set to take place in the next few weeks, SRH are likely to retain faith in the duo, while the likes of Abhishek Sharma and Nitish Kumar Reddy also sit at the top of the franchise’s retention list. Head, Cummins on retention list of SRH? According to reports, Head and Cummins will be retained by the franchise as they look to shape their final plan. During IPL 2024, Cummins scalped 18 wickets in 16 matches and was a valuable addition to the side considering his ability to lead. He also scored 136 runs for the franchise and holds the record for fastest fifty in the IPL while he was playing for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). On the other hand, Head scored 567 runs and was the standout performer for the side in his 15 matches. This included a hundred and five fifties and Abhishek Sharma broke several batting records for the franchise. SRH are also planning to retain Abhishek and Nitish Reddy from the Indian contingent while Heinrich Klaasen remains another overseas pick. Nitish’s retention will come at a big cost for SRH as he is no longer an uncapped player. He recently won his first India cap in the T20I series against Bangladesh, meaning he won’t be retained for INR 40 million ($475000). ALSO READ | BAN vs SA: Bangladesh battle at 101-3 as South Africa threaten innings defeat What are the retention values? A franchise can retain as many as six players before the auctions for price tags set by the IPL commission. In case the franchise does not retain six players, the remaining slots could be used as Right to Match (RTM) cards. An RTM allows a team to retain a player who represented the franchise in IPL 2024 by matching the final bid of the other franchise that intends to purchase it. Interestingly, out of the six retentions allowed, one has to be an uncapped Indian player, meaning a maximum of five capped players could be retained before the auctions. The values for the retentions are as follows: 1. Player 1 - INR 180 million ($2.1m) 2. Player 2 - INR 140 million ($1.66) 3. Player 3 - INR 110 million ($1.3m) 4. Player 4 - INR 180 million ($2.1m) 5. Player 5 - INR 140 million ($1.66) 6. Player 6 (uncapped Indian) - INR 40 million ($475,000)

IPL 2025: SRH to retain Pat Cummins, Travis Head before mega auctions - Report

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) has all but finalised their retentions ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction in December later this year. SRH has decided to retain South African powerp-hitter Heinrich Klaasen, Aussie Pat Cummins and India youngster Abhishek Sharma.

The development was reported by cricket news website ESPNCricinfo which also mentioned that SRH is also in the final stage of finalising the retention of Aussie opener Travis Head and India all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/theyll-find-a-way-says-ecb-chair-on-india-travelling-to-pakistan-for-icc-champions-trophy-2025-768071">'They'll find a way,' says ECB chair on India travelling to Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a>

Among Klaasen, Cummins and Abhishek, the Protea&nbsp;is the first-choice retention for INR 23 crore (US $2.74 million approx.), the Aussie comes second at INR 18 crore (US $2.14 million approx.) while the Indian is last at INR 14 crore (US $1.67 million approx).

Cummins, who also led SRH last season, is also expected to continue to do the skipper duties this season as well. The Aussie had a brilliant season as a bowler as well, taking 18 wickets in 16 games he played - the second highest for the team.

Sharma, the youngster who made his India debut on the back of IPL performance, had hit 484 runs in 16 innings at a strike rate of 204.21 - the best among top 10 run getters of the 2024 season.

Head, on the other hand, had hit 567 runs in 15 innings at a strike rate of 191.55. He was the fourth-highest run-getter of the season overall.

Klaasen, meanwhile, scored 479 runs in 15 innings at a strike rate of 171.07 - the third most for SRH behind Head and Sharma.

Nitish also played a crucial role in middle for SRH, scoring 303 runs at 142.92 and taking three wickets as well.

SRH had a brilliant season last year, finishing second in league stage with eight wins in 14 games - largely thanks for the explosive batting of Head and Sharma up the order and Klaasen in the middle.

They eventually ended up as runners up after losing the final against Kolkata Knight Riders.

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) has all but finalised their retentions ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction in December later this year. SRH has decided to retain South African powerp-hitter Heinrich Klaasen, Aussie Pat Cummins and India youngster Abhishek Sharma.

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) has all but finalised their retentions ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction in December later this year. SRH has decided to retain South African powerp-hitter Heinrich Klaasen, Aussie Pat Cummins and India youngster Abhishek Sharma. The development was reported by cricket news website ESPNCricinfo which also mentioned that SRH is also in the final stage of finalising the retention of Aussie opener Travis Head and India all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy. Also Read: 'They'll find a way,' says ECB chair on India travelling to Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Among Klaasen, Cummins and Abhishek, the Protea is the first-choice retention for INR 23 crore (US $2.74 million approx.), the Aussie comes second at INR 18 crore (US $2.14 million approx.) while the Indian is last at INR 14 crore (US $1.67 million approx). Cummins, who also led SRH last season, is also expected to continue to do the skipper duties this season as well. The Aussie had a brilliant season as a bowler as well, taking 18 wickets in 16 games he played - the second highest for the team. Sharma, the youngster who made his India debut on the back of IPL performance, had hit 484 runs in 16 innings at a strike rate of 204.21 - the best among top 10 run getters of the 2024 season. Head, on the other hand, had hit 567 runs in 15 innings at a strike rate of 191.55. He was the fourth-highest run-getter of the season overall. Klaasen, meanwhile, scored 479 runs in 15 innings at a strike rate of 171.07 - the third most for SRH behind Head and Sharma. Nitish also played a crucial role in middle for SRH, scoring 303 runs at 142.92 and taking three wickets as well. SRH had a brilliant season last year, finishing second in league stage with eight wins in 14 games - largely thanks for the explosive batting of Head and Sharma up the order and Klaasen in the middle. They eventually ended up as runners up after losing the final against Kolkata Knight Riders.

SRH decide to retain Heinrich Klaasen, Pat Cummins and Abhishek Sharma ahead of IPL auction

Pat Cummins is picked in Australia’s 14-man squad for the Pakistan ODIs starting November 4 in Melbourne. The ace seamer returns to the Australian team for the first time since the T20 World Cup in the Americas, with the selectors also picking pacers Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. Regular openers Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh are out on paternity leaves; all-rounder Cameron Green will be away for the whole summer with a back injury.

Considering Pakistan ODIs are Australia’s last scheduled white-ball series before the Champions Trophy next year, the selectors and the management will use this to settle their best XI heading into the eight-team tournament in Pakistan.

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While Cummins is unlikely to play a Sheffield Shield game before the India series beginning November 22, he might feature in the only one-day domestic match for New South Wales on October 25 before captaining Australia against the touring Pakistan side.&nbsp;

Cummins, however, might not even feature in all three games, given just a one-day gap between the second and third match and a long-distance flight between Adelaide and Perth.&nbsp;

Cummins’ bowling partners, Starc and Hazlewood, will be rotated for the same reason, but both hope to play at least one Shield match before the Pakistan series.

“This is our last ODI series before the Champions Trophy, and the balance of the squad was focused on that as well as continuing to focus on the preparation of individuals for the upcoming Test summer,” George Bailey said.&nbsp;

“The one-day side had a great result in the UK, particularly given illness and injury challenges. We view this as an opportunity to expand on that achievement in preparation for next February in Pakistan,” he continued.&nbsp;

<h2>Stoinis returns; new opening pair ready</h2>

While Marcus Stoinis returned to the ODI squad for the first time since the 2023 World Cup in India, Australia will also have a new opening pair in Matthew Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk. Josh Inglis is picked as the lone keeper-batter, with the hosts extending all-rounder Aaron Hardie’s run in the coloured jersey.&nbsp;

Following the three ODIs, Australia will face Pakistan in as many T20Is from November 14 to 18, with no Test-bound players likely to get picked.&nbsp;

Australia’s ODI squad for Pakistan series –

Pat Cummins (captain), Sean Abbott, Cooper Connolly, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis and Adam Zampa

(With inputs from agencies)

Pat Cummins is picked in Australia’s 14-man squad for the Pakistan ODIs starting November 4 in Melbourne. The ace seamer returns to the Australian team for the first time since the T20 World Cup in the Americas, with the selectors also picking pacers Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood.

Pat Cummins is picked in Australia’s 14-man squad for the Pakistan ODIs starting November 4 in Melbourne. The ace seamer returns to the Australian team for the first time since the T20 World Cup in the Americas, with the selectors also picking pacers Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. Regular openers Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh are out on paternity leaves; all-rounder Cameron Green will be away for the whole summer with a back injury. Considering Pakistan ODIs are Australia’s last scheduled white-ball series before the Champions Trophy next year, the selectors and the management will use this to settle their best XI heading into the eight-team tournament in Pakistan. ALSO READ: Australia selector George Bailey confirms Steve Smith’s batting position against India; Green ruled out of BGT While Cummins is unlikely to play a Sheffield Shield game before the India series beginning November 22, he might feature in the only one-day domestic match for New South Wales on October 25 before captaining Australia against the touring Pakistan side. Cummins, however, might not even feature in all three games, given just a one-day gap between the second and third match and a long-distance flight between Adelaide and Perth. Cummins’ bowling partners, Starc and Hazlewood, will be rotated for the same reason, but both hope to play at least one Shield match before the Pakistan series. “This is our last ODI series before the Champions Trophy, and the balance of the squad was focused on that as well as continuing to focus on the preparation of individuals for the upcoming Test summer,” George Bailey said. “The one-day side had a great result in the UK, particularly given illness and injury challenges. We view this as an opportunity to expand on that achievement in preparation for next February in Pakistan,” he continued. Stoinis returns; new opening pair ready While Marcus Stoinis returned to the ODI squad for the first time since the 2023 World Cup in India, Australia will also have a new opening pair in Matthew Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk. Josh Inglis is picked as the lone keeper-batter, with the hosts extending all-rounder Aaron Hardie’s run in the coloured jersey. Following the three ODIs, Australia will face Pakistan in as many T20Is from November 14 to 18, with no Test-bound players likely to get picked. Australia’s ODI squad for Pakistan series – Pat Cummins (captain), Sean Abbott, Cooper Connolly, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis and Adam Zampa (With inputs from agencies)

Pat Cummins returns to Australia squad for Pakistan ODIs; Marsh, Head out on paternity leave

Australia skipper Pat Cummins believes that managing players throughout the matches in the upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar series against India will be the key to making it a closely fought series. The comments come as part of the build of the highly-anticipated series which starts November 22 next month in Perth, Australia.

“In a couple of Test series I played against India, the matches were fought closely. The last test series was decided during the final session at the Gabba. That’s a good thing to remember. So you will have to manage the players throughout the matches,’ Cummins said to Sydney Morning Herald.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-must-be-thinking-shoaib-akhtar-on-pakistans-status-as-test-team-after-humiliating-loss-vs-england-766832">'ICC must be thinking...,' Shoaib Akhtar on Pakistan's status as Test team after humiliating loss vs England</a>

It is to be noted that Australia have lost their last two Test series at home against India with the last tour win coming against almost a second-string Indian side. Since 2014, Australia have not managed to win a Test series against India including two at home and two away.

Australia's chances in the upcoming series also took a hit with all-rounder Cameron Green being doubtful for the five Tests due to injury.

“We wanted to see him bowling as he has a long career ahead of him. He is young, and I am sure he will play a lot of cricket for Australia," Cummins said about Green. “Fast bowlers are prone to injuries, and the hardest thing in cricket is to miss games. It could be pretty lonely when you don’t play cricket because of injuries,” he added.

India, on the other hand, might also be without their skipper Rohit Sharma for the first Test in Perth as per some reports. The Board on Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has earmarked pacer Jasprit Bumrah as the replacement for captaincy.

Bumrah's ascension became almost official after he was named the vice-captain for India's upcoming three-Test home series against New Zealand which starts on October 16.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins believes that managing players throughout the matches in the upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar series against India will be the key to making it a closely fought series.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins believes that managing players throughout the matches in the upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar series against India will be the key to making it a closely fought series. The comments come as part of the build of the highly-anticipated series which starts November 22 next month in Perth, Australia. “In a couple of Test series I played against India, the matches were fought closely. The last test series was decided during the final session at the Gabba. That’s a good thing to remember. So you will have to manage the players throughout the matches,’ Cummins said to Sydney Morning Herald. Also Read: 'ICC must be thinking...,' Shoaib Akhtar on Pakistan's status as Test team after humiliating loss vs England It is to be noted that Australia have lost their last two Test series at home against India with the last tour win coming against almost a second-string Indian side. Since 2014, Australia have not managed to win a Test series against India including two at home and two away. Australia's chances in the upcoming series also took a hit with all-rounder Cameron Green being doubtful for the five Tests due to injury. “We wanted to see him bowling as he has a long career ahead of him. He is young, and I am sure he will play a lot of cricket for Australia," Cummins said about Green. “Fast bowlers are prone to injuries, and the hardest thing in cricket is to miss games. It could be pretty lonely when you don’t play cricket because of injuries,” he added. India, on the other hand, might also be without their skipper Rohit Sharma for the first Test in Perth as per some reports. The Board on Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has earmarked pacer Jasprit Bumrah as the replacement for captaincy. Bumrah's ascension became almost official after he was named the vice-captain for India's upcoming three-Test home series against New Zealand which starts on October 16.

'Have to manage...,' Australia skipper Pat Cummins shares BOLD prediction for upcoming India Test series

Australia Test and ODI captain Pat Cummins is clear about his priorities to remain fit and available for his country over any franchise-based league worldwide. Cummins, a leader of the highest quality, helped Australia taste success in two ICC events last year – the World Test Championship Final and ODI World Cup, with both wins coming against India. However, appointed SunRisers Hyderabad captain ahead of the previous edition, Cummins said he is unbothered by new IPL rules surrounding overseas players.

The new IPL ruling allows the governing council to ban any overseas player who decides to skip the following edition after getting picked in the auction for reasons barring health and emergency, from the league for two years. Given several players, mostly English continued this practice over the years, the IPL decision-makers have put a full stop to it.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hong-kong-sixes-veteran-batter-robin-uthappa-to-lead-indias-six-man-squad-766813">Hong Kong Sixes: Veteran batter Robin Uthappa to lead India’s six-man squad</a>

Meanwhile, part of the IPL set-up for over a decade now, Cummins has never sidelined himself after getting picked in the auction. Though he prioritised playing for Australia ahead of anything else, Cummins has also abided by his commitment to his IPL teams over the years.

During an exclusive chat with the Sydney Morning Herald, Cummins showed no reluctance at IPL’s new ruling on overseas players.&nbsp;

“I’ll work out in the next little bit what this season looks like. There’s a bit of a tweak in the rules, but I don’t know whether that would have affected me in the past, I’ve never pulled out after the auction. But it is one more factor to consider with the IPL.&nbsp;

“Test cricket is the absolute No. 1 priority, World Cups are right up there, and then I think you use them as your tent poles and work out what else makes sense around that," Cummins said.

<h2>Cummins readies for Border-Gavaskar series</h2>

With Australia scheduled to play five Tests against India at home, starting in Perth on November 22, Cummins has already begun his preparations.&nbsp;

Cricket Australia rested the star seamer for the UK Tour to have a refreshed Cummins available for the marquee Border-Gavaskar series.

With Australia hosting Pakistan in the white-ball series, it remains to be seen if the selectors pick the pace trio of Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood or rest them for evident reasons.

Meanwhile, with one eye on the IPL retention list, whose submission's last date is October 31, SRH will retain Cummins, with several Indian players in the queue to join the list, including Abhishek Sharma, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Umran Malik. SRH would also like to retain Travis Head and Heinrich Klaasen.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Australia Test and ODI captain Pat Cummins is clear about his priorities to remain fit and available for his country over any franchise-based league worldwide. Cummins, a leader of the highest quality, helped Australia taste success in two ICC events last year – the World Test Championship Final and ODI World Cup, with both wins coming against India.

Australia Test and ODI captain Pat Cummins is clear about his priorities to remain fit and available for his country over any franchise-based league worldwide. Cummins, a leader of the highest quality, helped Australia taste success in two ICC events last year – the World Test Championship Final and ODI World Cup, with both wins coming against India. However, appointed SunRisers Hyderabad captain ahead of the previous edition, Cummins said he is unbothered by new IPL rules surrounding overseas players. The new IPL ruling allows the governing council to ban any overseas player who decides to skip the following edition after getting picked in the auction for reasons barring health and emergency, from the league for two years. Given several players, mostly English continued this practice over the years, the IPL decision-makers have put a full stop to it. ALSO READ: Hong Kong Sixes: Veteran batter Robin Uthappa to lead India’s six-man squad Meanwhile, part of the IPL set-up for over a decade now, Cummins has never sidelined himself after getting picked in the auction. Though he prioritised playing for Australia ahead of anything else, Cummins has also abided by his commitment to his IPL teams over the years. During an exclusive chat with the Sydney Morning Herald, Cummins showed no reluctance at IPL’s new ruling on overseas players. “I’ll work out in the next little bit what this season looks like. There’s a bit of a tweak in the rules, but I don’t know whether that would have affected me in the past, I’ve never pulled out after the auction. But it is one more factor to consider with the IPL. “Test cricket is the absolute No. 1 priority, World Cups are right up there, and then I think you use them as your tent poles and work out what else makes sense around that," Cummins said. Cummins readies for Border-Gavaskar series With Australia scheduled to play five Tests against India at home, starting in Perth on November 22, Cummins has already begun his preparations. Cricket Australia rested the star seamer for the UK Tour to have a refreshed Cummins available for the marquee Border-Gavaskar series. With Australia hosting Pakistan in the white-ball series, it remains to be seen if the selectors pick the pace trio of Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood or rest them for evident reasons. Meanwhile, with one eye on the IPL retention list, whose submission's last date is October 31, SRH will retain Cummins, with several Indian players in the queue to join the list, including Abhishek Sharma, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Umran Malik. SRH would also like to retain Travis Head and Heinrich Klaasen. (With inputs from agencies)

Pat Cummins unbothered by new IPL rule on overseas players, says ‘never pulled out after the auction’

Australia skipper Pat Cummins believes that keeping India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant quiet during the upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar series will be important. Pant, who recently made a comeback to Test cricket after a life-threatening accident in December 2022, was the key for India's win during their last two Test series Down Under.&nbsp;

"I think those guys, you know that they are going to be aggressive, take the game on. Like Rishabh Pant might play a reverse slap and it is an incredible shot and that's just part of who he is," Cummins said while talking on Star Sports.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/thinking-and-class-former-pak-player-highlights-difference-between-india-and-pakistan-pacers-761418">'Thinking and class,' former Pak player highlights difference between India and Pakistan pacers</a>

"He's someone that has a big influence in a couple of series and we have got to try and keep him quiet," added the Aussie skipper.

Pant has played seven Tests in Australia, scoring 624 runs in 12 innings at an average of 62.40 and a highest of 159 not out. He has also scored two fifties and a hundred.

Pant was the star on India's last tout of Australia where he scored 97 in Sydney to help India draw the Test before hitting 89 not out in last Test in Brisbane to help clinch India the Test and the series.

Overall, Pant has 2,419 Test runs to his name in 34 Tests at an average of almost 45 with six hundreds and 11 fifties. His six tons are the most for India by a wicketkeeper-batter alongside MS Dhoni.

Pant is also the only India wicketkeeper-batter to have a ton in Australia, England and South Africa.

In his most recent outing against Bangladesh in Chennai, Pant scored a hundred on the Test comeback to help India put in a commanding position.

“Definitely, it was emotional because coming back, I wanted to score in each and every match, which I couldn't do,” Pant said after the Chennai Test.&nbsp;

Australia skipper Pat Cummins believes that keeping India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant quiet during the upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar series will be important.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins believes that keeping India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant quiet during the upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar series will be important. Pant, who recently made a comeback to Test cricket after a life-threatening accident in December 2022, was the key for India's win during their last two Test series Down Under. "I think those guys, you know that they are going to be aggressive, take the game on. Like Rishabh Pant might play a reverse slap and it is an incredible shot and that's just part of who he is," Cummins said while talking on Star Sports. Also Read: 'Thinking and class,' former Pak player highlights difference between India and Pakistan pacers "He's someone that has a big influence in a couple of series and we have got to try and keep him quiet," added the Aussie skipper. Pant has played seven Tests in Australia, scoring 624 runs in 12 innings at an average of 62.40 and a highest of 159 not out. He has also scored two fifties and a hundred. Pant was the star on India's last tout of Australia where he scored 97 in Sydney to help India draw the Test before hitting 89 not out in last Test in Brisbane to help clinch India the Test and the series. Overall, Pant has 2,419 Test runs to his name in 34 Tests at an average of almost 45 with six hundreds and 11 fifties. His six tons are the most for India by a wicketkeeper-batter alongside MS Dhoni. Pant is also the only India wicketkeeper-batter to have a ton in Australia, England and South Africa. In his most recent outing against Bangladesh in Chennai, Pant scored a hundred on the Test comeback to help India put in a commanding position. “Definitely, it was emotional because coming back, I wanted to score in each and every match, which I couldn't do,” Pant said after the Chennai Test.

Not Kohli or Bumrah, Aussie skipper Pat Cummins wants to keep THIS India player quiet in upcoming Test series

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