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's No. 3 Marnus Labuschagne admitted that India would be underconfident heading into the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024/25 opener&nbsp;in Perth on Nov. 22 (Friday), but added that his side would 'never underestimate' them. India are heading into the upcoming BGT on the back of a 0-3&nbsp;whitewash at the hands of New Zealand&nbsp;at home. It became the first instance of a team&nbsp;whitewashing India in a three-match series in their backyard. Thus, the Rohit Sharma-less Indian team would be low on confidence ahead of the Perth Test, however, Labuschagne stated that the hosts will not write India off.

Talking to reporters ahead of the series opener, Labuschagne said, "It's really hard to judge; they played on completely different conditions, spinning conditions. But, I mean, having India come here on the back of a loss at home, that's something that has never happened before. So, I think that's a good thing because they are probably a little bit lower on confidence, not coming off a Test victory, losing to New Zealand 0-3. That's going to do a little bit of damage to their confidence."

"But, at the end of the day, they are a quality line-up, they are one of the best teams in the world. You can never underestimate a team like that," he further opined.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/border-gavaskar-trophy-202425-full-schedule-match-timings-squads-all-you-need-to-know-777288">Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25: Full schedule, match timings, squads - All you need to know</a>

Labuschagne lauded India for standing tall to win the previous BGT Down Under, in 2020/21, despite battling various injury concerns. In addition, India's then captain Virat Kohli returned home (due to paternity leave) and the side was also 0-1&nbsp;down after losing the first Test in Adelaide (where they were bundled out for 36 in their second essay). Yet, a second-stringed Ajinkya Rahane-led side rose to the occasion, with many youngsters performing on all cylinders, to stun Australia on their home soil.

In this regard, the 30-year-old Labuschagne added,&nbsp;"That's what happened in 2021. The likes of Natarajan played. Siraj got his first crack in Australia. Washington Sundar played. Shubman Gill played those last couple of games. But, they were a quality line-up. They have shown that over a period of time you can't ever underestimate the depth of Indian cricket. Anyone who gets the opportunity to play for India has done a lot of hard work to get into the side. To get into the team, you have to play a good player."

Labuschagne ended as the highest run-getter when the last BGT was held in Australia. The right-hander returned with 426 runs, with one hundred and two fifties.

India, on the other hand, will be without regular captain Rohit Sharma (due to paternity leave) whereas No. 3 batter Shubman Gill is also expected to&nbsp;miss out due to a thumb injury&nbsp;for the Perth Test. In Rohit's absence, Jasprit Bumrah will lead the side.

India will be desperate to win three back-to-back Test series in Australia, however, they would know that Pat Cummins-led Australia would come hard at them.

Australia's No. 3 Marnus Labuschagne admitted that India would be underconfident heading into the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024/25 opener in Perth on Nov. 22 (Friday), but added that his side would 'never underestimate' them.

Australia's No. 3 Marnus Labuschagne admitted that India would be underconfident heading into the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024/25 opener in Perth on Nov. 22 (Friday), but added that his side would 'never underestimate' them. India are heading into the upcoming BGT on the back of a 0-3 whitewash at the hands of New Zealand at home. It became the first instance of a team whitewashing India in a three-match series in their backyard. Thus, the Rohit Sharma-less Indian team would be low on confidence ahead of the Perth Test, however, Labuschagne stated that the hosts will not write India off. Talking to reporters ahead of the series opener, Labuschagne said, "It's really hard to judge; they played on completely different conditions, spinning conditions. But, I mean, having India come here on the back of a loss at home, that's something that has never happened before. So, I think that's a good thing because they are probably a little bit lower on confidence, not coming off a Test victory, losing to New Zealand 0-3. That's going to do a little bit of damage to their confidence." "But, at the end of the day, they are a quality line-up, they are one of the best teams in the world. You can never underestimate a team like that," he further opined. Also read: Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25: Full schedule, match timings, squads - All you need to know Labuschagne lauded India for standing tall to win the previous BGT Down Under, in 2020/21, despite battling various injury concerns. In addition, India's then captain Virat Kohli returned home (due to paternity leave) and the side was also 0-1 down after losing the first Test in Adelaide (where they were bundled out for 36 in their second essay). Yet, a second-stringed Ajinkya Rahane-led side rose to the occasion, with many youngsters performing on all cylinders, to stun Australia on their home soil. In this regard, the 30-year-old Labuschagne added, "That's what happened in 2021. The likes of Natarajan played. Siraj got his first crack in Australia. Washington Sundar played. Shubman Gill played those last couple of games. But, they were a quality line-up. They have shown that over a period of time you can't ever underestimate the depth of Indian cricket. Anyone who gets the opportunity to play for India has done a lot of hard work to get into the side. To get into the team, you have to play a good player." Labuschagne ended as the highest run-getter when the last BGT was held in Australia. The right-hander returned with 426 runs, with one hundred and two fifties. India, on the other hand, will be without regular captain Rohit Sharma (due to paternity leave) whereas No. 3 batter Shubman Gill is also expected to miss out due to a thumb injury for the Perth Test. In Rohit's absence, Jasprit Bumrah will lead the side. India will be desperate to win three back-to-back Test series in Australia, however, they would know that Pat Cummins-led Australia would come hard at them.

BGT 2024/25: 'They're low on confidence, but...', Labuschagne shrugs off India's poor form ahead of Perth Test

Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson has urged Pat Cummins &amp; Co&nbsp;against engaging with Virat Kohli in heated on-field exchanges in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024/25 edition, in Australia. Ahead of the first Test, which gets underway on Friday (Nov 22) in Perth, Watson&nbsp;suggested that Kohli might pose less of a threat if he is left undisturbed by the Australians. Kohli is heading into this year's BGT following a poor run in India's home season. In India's five Tests at home, against Bangladesh (two) and New Zealand (three) respectively, the right-hander managed only 191 runs at an average of 21.33 with a solitary fifty. Since 2020, Kohli has slammed only two hundreds in the purest format.

Talking about Kohli, Watson said in the Willow Talk Podcast, "The one thing that I know of Virat is... because the fire burns so brightly and deep inside him, the intensity he brings to every ball that he is engaged in a game has been superhuman. But, there have been in recent times where moments in this career that fire has started to go out because it is just so hard to maintain that intensity in every moment he is involved in a game. And, that is where Australia have to leave him alone and hope he doesn't bring the intensity – nine out of 10 intensity – to every ball," he further opined.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-theyre-low-on-confidence-but-labuschagne-shrugs-off-indias-poor-form-ahead-of-perth-test-777403">BGT 2024/25: 'They're low on confidence, but...', Labuschagne shrugs off India's poor form ahead of Perth Test</a>

Watson recalled Kohli's past success in Australia and added, "When he has succeeded in Australia, it’s because he has been completely engaged with everything happening on the field. Every ball, every moment — he is fiercely intense, and that focus blocks out all distractions. That’s when he’s at his absolute best. If there’s noise around him and that intensity isn’t there, you’ll see a lesser version of Virat. From an Australian perspective, let’s hope we get that version of him."

In Australia, Kohli averages an impressive&nbsp;54.08 and has amassed 1,352 runs in 13 Tests, including six hundreds and four half-centuries. For India, they will be hoping for Kohli's return to form from the series opener. The visitors are already without regular captain Rohit Sharma (out on paternity leave).

The first Test commences on Friday&nbsp;(Nov 22)&nbsp;morning at the Perth Stadium, Perth.

Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson has urged Pat Cummins & Co against engaging with Virat Kohli in heated on-field exchanges in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024/25 edition, in Australia.

Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson has urged Pat Cummins & Co against engaging with Virat Kohli in heated on-field exchanges in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024/25 edition, in Australia. Ahead of the first Test, which gets underway on Friday (Nov 22) in Perth, Watson suggested that Kohli might pose less of a threat if he is left undisturbed by the Australians. Kohli is heading into this year's BGT following a poor run in India's home season. In India's five Tests at home, against Bangladesh (two) and New Zealand (three) respectively, the right-hander managed only 191 runs at an average of 21.33 with a solitary fifty. Since 2020, Kohli has slammed only two hundreds in the purest format. Talking about Kohli, Watson said in the Willow Talk Podcast, "The one thing that I know of Virat is... because the fire burns so brightly and deep inside him, the intensity he brings to every ball that he is engaged in a game has been superhuman. But, there have been in recent times where moments in this career that fire has started to go out because it is just so hard to maintain that intensity in every moment he is involved in a game. And, that is where Australia have to leave him alone and hope he doesn't bring the intensity – nine out of 10 intensity – to every ball," he further opined. Also read: BGT 2024/25: 'They're low on confidence, but...', Labuschagne shrugs off India's poor form ahead of Perth Test Watson recalled Kohli's past success in Australia and added, "When he has succeeded in Australia, it’s because he has been completely engaged with everything happening on the field. Every ball, every moment — he is fiercely intense, and that focus blocks out all distractions. That’s when he’s at his absolute best. If there’s noise around him and that intensity isn’t there, you’ll see a lesser version of Virat. From an Australian perspective, let’s hope we get that version of him." In Australia, Kohli averages an impressive 54.08 and has amassed 1,352 runs in 13 Tests, including six hundreds and four half-centuries. For India, they will be hoping for Kohli's return to form from the series opener. The visitors are already without regular captain Rohit Sharma (out on paternity leave). The first Test commences on Friday (Nov 22) morning at the Perth Stadium, Perth.

Don't poke Virat Kohli: Former Aussie all-rounder warns Pat Cummins & Co ahead of BGT 2024/25 opener

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh took a sly dig at Indian cricket fans for changing sides too quickly but backed Sunil Gavaskar’s opinion on why Jasprit Bumrah should captain India in all five Tests against Australia, regardless of Rohit Sharma’s situation.

Following Gavaskar’s comments on why India should have one captain throughout the Border-Gavaskar Trophy that irked plenty of fans, including Rohit's wife, Ritika, Harbhajan seconded&nbsp;the idea following the uniformity in decision-making from management.&nbsp;

During a chat with India Today publication earlier this month, Gavaskar said should Rohit miss the first, which later got confirmed, Bumrah should captain the side, and upon returning, Rohit can resume duty as a player.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-when-virat-kohli-riled-up-mitchell-johnson-with-his-comments-on-not-respecting-him-776999">BGT: When Virat Kohli riled up Mitchell Johnson with his comments on ‘not respecting him’</a>

Meanwhile, Bhajji, who played with Rohit in the Indian Team and IPL alongside Bumrah, noted that in any way, the fans would change sides regardless of the results. He said if India wins the Perth Test, a section of cricket fans would defend why Bumrah should continue for the remainder of the series, and in another case, if India loses the first match or even the series under Rohit and Bumrah, another section of fans would argue why India should bring back Kohli as the Test skipper.

“If you win the first two Tests, then all Indians would want Bumrah to remain as captain. On the contrary, if India loses both of those games, they would want Rohit to return. We change sides very quickly. I'm not talking about Sunny sir here; I'm talking about the general public,” Harbhajan said during a chat with broadcaster Jatin Sapru on his YouTube channel.&nbsp;

“I feel it's a great suggestion to have one captain for the entire series. That would be better.”

“If India loses, nobody will question it. However, if India wins and Rohit returns for the subsequent matches and then the team lose, that will spark a whole different scenario. But if India loses under both Rohit and Bumrah, they might want Virat Kohli as captain,” Harbhajan said.

However, when asked about his thoughts on Gavaskar’s comments, Harbhajan said it’s not a bad idea.&nbsp;

“It might not be a bad idea. There shouldn't be any problem as well because Bumrah has the ability to lead a team,” he continued.&nbsp;

<h2>No Gill, Rohit for India in Perth</h2>

The Indian Team will be without Rohit and Shubman Gill for the first Test in Perth. While Rohit will link up with the team ahead of the second Test in Adelaide starting December 6, Gill is out with a broken thumb.&nbsp;

In their absence, KL Rahul will open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, while the latest reports claim that the management could bring in Devdutt Padikkal as Gill’s replacement for the first Test.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh took a sly dig at Indian cricket fans for changing sides too quickly but backed Sunil Gavaskar’s opinion on why Jasprit Bumrah should captain India in all five Tests against Australia, regardless of Rohit Sharma’s situation.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh took a sly dig at Indian cricket fans for changing sides too quickly but backed Sunil Gavaskar’s opinion on why Jasprit Bumrah should captain India in all five Tests against Australia, regardless of Rohit Sharma’s situation. Following Gavaskar’s comments on why India should have one captain throughout the Border-Gavaskar Trophy that irked plenty of fans, including Rohit's wife, Ritika, Harbhajan seconded the idea following the uniformity in decision-making from management. During a chat with India Today publication earlier this month, Gavaskar said should Rohit miss the first, which later got confirmed, Bumrah should captain the side, and upon returning, Rohit can resume duty as a player. ALSO READ: BGT: When Virat Kohli riled up Mitchell Johnson with his comments on ‘not respecting him’ Meanwhile, Bhajji, who played with Rohit in the Indian Team and IPL alongside Bumrah, noted that in any way, the fans would change sides regardless of the results. He said if India wins the Perth Test, a section of cricket fans would defend why Bumrah should continue for the remainder of the series, and in another case, if India loses the first match or even the series under Rohit and Bumrah, another section of fans would argue why India should bring back Kohli as the Test skipper. “If you win the first two Tests, then all Indians would want Bumrah to remain as captain. On the contrary, if India loses both of those games, they would want Rohit to return. We change sides very quickly. I'm not talking about Sunny sir here; I'm talking about the general public,” Harbhajan said during a chat with broadcaster Jatin Sapru on his YouTube channel. “I feel it's a great suggestion to have one captain for the entire series. That would be better.” “If India loses, nobody will question it. However, if India wins and Rohit returns for the subsequent matches and then the team lose, that will spark a whole different scenario. But if India loses under both Rohit and Bumrah, they might want Virat Kohli as captain,” Harbhajan said. However, when asked about his thoughts on Gavaskar’s comments, Harbhajan said it’s not a bad idea. “It might not be a bad idea. There shouldn't be any problem as well because Bumrah has the ability to lead a team,” he continued. No Gill, Rohit for India in Perth The Indian Team will be without Rohit and Shubman Gill for the first Test in Perth. While Rohit will link up with the team ahead of the second Test in Adelaide starting December 6, Gill is out with a broken thumb. In their absence, KL Rahul will open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, while the latest reports claim that the management could bring in Devdutt Padikkal as Gill’s replacement for the first Test. (With inputs from agencies)

‘That would be better’ – Harbhajan seconds Gavaskar’s opinion on Bumrah leading in all five Tests vs Australia

Former India coach Ravi Shastri has picked three pacers and two all-rounders in his India playing XI for the first Test against Australia in Perth starting November 22. With regular captain Rohit Sharma’s availability status for the first game remaining&nbsp;unclear, the selectors and team management are looking to put KL Rahul or Abhimanyu Easwaran in his place, but Shastri, under whom India won Down Under twice, differs.

Rahul, Easwaran and spare keeper-batter Dhruv Jurel were part of the India-A XI for the second unofficial Test against Australia-A, with both openers failing miserably across two outings. Easwaran too was not among runs in the first game. Jurel, however, was the only silver lining among the BGT-bound batters at the MCG, scoring twin fifties and pressing his case for a spot in the playing XI.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-v-ind-4th-t20i-female-fan-inconsolable-after-samsons-six-hits-her-face-batter-apologises-watch-776614">SA v IND, 4th T20I: Female fan inconsolable after Samson's six hits her face, batter apologises - WATCH</a>

Meanwhile, Rahul&nbsp;suffered an elbow injury on day one of the WACA simulation game, retiring hurt and playing no further part in the game. Though that comes as a scare for the touring team, who would need a specialist to play at the top alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shastri has thrown a new name in the mix, a player already part of the playing XI.

"It's horses for courses in many ways. Most of the team will pick themselves, but there'll be one or two cases where you might have to just go and dig deep and go with gut feeling," Shastri said while speaking on ‘The ICC Review’.

"You can push Shubman (Gill) back up the order, and he has opened in the past in Australia. Otherwise, you'll have to then make an alternative. Easwaran hasn't done that well (for India-A in Australia). But it's how he's batting in the nets, how Rahul is batting in the nets. But that Shubman Gill option is also there,” Shastri said of Jaiswal’s new opening partner in Tests.

<h2>Rahul down to number three</h2>

Ahead of departing for Australia, Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir addressed the media in Mumbai, shedding light on who could replace Rohit at the top for the Perth Test should he remain unavailable for selection. Hinting at it could be KL Rahul, Gautam said players like Rahul can bat anywhere in the lineup, something Shastri agrees on.&nbsp;

He said regardless of his form, KL has performed in Australia before and with his feet moving nicely, he can take up that number three slot.&nbsp;

"Sometimes runs are not important, but if a player is moving well, and if the feet are moving nicely, and you try and understand his (KL Rahul) game, and you realize if he has the game for those conditions if he has the right kind of shots for those kinds of pitches. These are the things you've got to look at when you start picking a side overseas," he said.&nbsp;

"I would be watching them like a hawk in the nets, the batters and the bowlers because for me as a bowler, rhythm is important. And as a batter, again, tempo and rhythm is important,” Shastri continued.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Shastri’s India XI for the Perth Test reads –&nbsp;

Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja/Washington Sundar, Nitish Reddy, Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj

(With inputs from agencies)

Former India coach Ravi Shastri has picked three pacers and two all-rounders in his India playing XI for the first Test against Australia in Perth starting November 22.

Former India coach Ravi Shastri has picked three pacers and two all-rounders in his India playing XI for the first Test against Australia in Perth starting November 22. With regular captain Rohit Sharma’s availability status for the first game remaining unclear, the selectors and team management are looking to put KL Rahul or Abhimanyu Easwaran in his place, but Shastri, under whom India won Down Under twice, differs. Rahul, Easwaran and spare keeper-batter Dhruv Jurel were part of the India-A XI for the second unofficial Test against Australia-A, with both openers failing miserably across two outings. Easwaran too was not among runs in the first game. Jurel, however, was the only silver lining among the BGT-bound batters at the MCG, scoring twin fifties and pressing his case for a spot in the playing XI. ALSO READ: SA v IND, 4th T20I: Female fan inconsolable after Samson's six hits her face, batter apologises - WATCH Meanwhile, Rahul suffered an elbow injury on day one of the WACA simulation game, retiring hurt and playing no further part in the game. Though that comes as a scare for the touring team, who would need a specialist to play at the top alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shastri has thrown a new name in the mix, a player already part of the playing XI. "It's horses for courses in many ways. Most of the team will pick themselves, but there'll be one or two cases where you might have to just go and dig deep and go with gut feeling," Shastri said while speaking on ‘The ICC Review’. "You can push Shubman (Gill) back up the order, and he has opened in the past in Australia. Otherwise, you'll have to then make an alternative. Easwaran hasn't done that well (for India-A in Australia). But it's how he's batting in the nets, how Rahul is batting in the nets. But that Shubman Gill option is also there,” Shastri said of Jaiswal’s new opening partner in Tests. Rahul down to number three Ahead of departing for Australia, Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir addressed the media in Mumbai, shedding light on who could replace Rohit at the top for the Perth Test should he remain unavailable for selection. Hinting at it could be KL Rahul, Gautam said players like Rahul can bat anywhere in the lineup, something Shastri agrees on. He said regardless of his form, KL has performed in Australia before and with his feet moving nicely, he can take up that number three slot. "Sometimes runs are not important, but if a player is moving well, and if the feet are moving nicely, and you try and understand his (KL Rahul) game, and you realize if he has the game for those conditions if he has the right kind of shots for those kinds of pitches. These are the things you've got to look at when you start picking a side overseas," he said. "I would be watching them like a hawk in the nets, the batters and the bowlers because for me as a bowler, rhythm is important. And as a batter, again, tempo and rhythm is important,” Shastri continued. Meanwhile, Shastri’s India XI for the Perth Test reads – Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja/Washington Sundar, Nitish Reddy, Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Ravi Shastri picks three seamers, two all-rounders in India’s XI for Perth Test against Australia

Australia batter Marcus Harris leads the race to open against India in the first Test in Perth starting November 22. The left-handed opener pressed his case for a Test return following his gritty 74 (for Australia A) against India A on day two of the second unofficial Test at the MCG. Harris was Australia A’s highest scorer, with their number 10 Corey Rocchiccioli second on the list for scoring 35.

The other Test hopefuls failed to deliver, with two contenders fighting for the same spot – Cameron Bancroft and Sam Konstas scoring three each.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/haris-rauf-and-saim-ayub-power-pakistan-to-first-odi-win-in-australia-since-2017-774614">Haris Rauf and Saim Ayub power Pakistan to first ODI win in Australia since 2017</a>

Cricket Australia’s chief selector George Bailey was present at the venue, with the latest reports suggesting that selectors have zeroed in on Harris and Australia A captain Nathan McSweeney as part of the 13-man Aussie squad for the first Test to be announced after the conclusion of this game. However, no official word on their selection is made public.

Asked if he did enough to ensure that he plays the first Test against India, Harris said if he gets a call-up, he is ready to pounce on this chance and make it count.&nbsp;

“I think, externally obviously this game was getting built up a lot, which is fair enough. I feel like I've been batting well, but so have lots of other people,” Harris said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

“So, if I get called upon I feel like I'm ready to go, and if I don't, then so be it. I feel pretty well-equipped. I think maybe if I was in this position 12 months ago, I probably wouldn't have been able to perform the way I have at the start of this season. My results last year probably said that. So I've been proud of that,” he continued.

<h2>‘I’ll open in the first game’</h2>

Harris opened in both matches against India A, with Sam Konstas in the first Test and McSweeney in the next. Though 17, 36 and 74 (across three outings) put him in a commanding position to take up that vacant top-order spot in Australia’s Test side, Harris revealed what he made of the brief chat he had with the selectors in the lead-up to both games.&nbsp;

"They just said that I'll open in the first game, and we're not really sure what's going to happen with the second game," Harris said. "So, I don't know if that was the plan."

Harris admitted enjoying scoring runs on a difficult wicket on day two at MCG; he, however, shied away from reading too much into it, given how the situation panned out for him last year when the selectors picked Matthew Renshaw ahead of him for the away Border-Gavaskar Trophy.&nbsp;

"It was probably pretty obvious what was happening. You'd have to ask them, to be honest. You never know. Like last year, for example, we had the bat-off in Canberra, and they picked Renners [Matt Renshaw], who was batting at three. So, yeah, I don't know,” Harris continued.

Meanwhile, after getting all out on 223 in reply to India A’s 161 in the first innings, Australia A reduced their opponents to 73 for five at stumps on day two, with the visitors leading by 11 runs.

(With inputs from agencies)

Australia batter Marcus Harris leads the race to open against India in the first Test in Perth starting November 22. The left-handed opener pressed his case for a Test return following his gritty 74 (for Australia A) against India A on day two of the second unofficial Test at the MCG.

Australia batter Marcus Harris leads the race to open against India in the first Test in Perth starting November 22. The left-handed opener pressed his case for a Test return following his gritty 74 (for Australia A) against India A on day two of the second unofficial Test at the MCG. Harris was Australia A’s highest scorer, with their number 10 Corey Rocchiccioli second on the list for scoring 35. The other Test hopefuls failed to deliver, with two contenders fighting for the same spot – Cameron Bancroft and Sam Konstas scoring three each. ALSO READ: Haris Rauf and Saim Ayub power Pakistan to first ODI win in Australia since 2017 Cricket Australia’s chief selector George Bailey was present at the venue, with the latest reports suggesting that selectors have zeroed in on Harris and Australia A captain Nathan McSweeney as part of the 13-man Aussie squad for the first Test to be announced after the conclusion of this game. However, no official word on their selection is made public. Asked if he did enough to ensure that he plays the first Test against India, Harris said if he gets a call-up, he is ready to pounce on this chance and make it count. “I think, externally obviously this game was getting built up a lot, which is fair enough. I feel like I've been batting well, but so have lots of other people,” Harris said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. “So, if I get called upon I feel like I'm ready to go, and if I don't, then so be it. I feel pretty well-equipped. I think maybe if I was in this position 12 months ago, I probably wouldn't have been able to perform the way I have at the start of this season. My results last year probably said that. So I've been proud of that,” he continued. ‘I’ll open in the first game’ Harris opened in both matches against India A, with Sam Konstas in the first Test and McSweeney in the next. Though 17, 36 and 74 (across three outings) put him in a commanding position to take up that vacant top-order spot in Australia’s Test side, Harris revealed what he made of the brief chat he had with the selectors in the lead-up to both games. "They just said that I'll open in the first game, and we're not really sure what's going to happen with the second game," Harris said. "So, I don't know if that was the plan." Harris admitted enjoying scoring runs on a difficult wicket on day two at MCG; he, however, shied away from reading too much into it, given how the situation panned out for him last year when the selectors picked Matthew Renshaw ahead of him for the away Border-Gavaskar Trophy. "It was probably pretty obvious what was happening. You'd have to ask them, to be honest. You never know. Like last year, for example, we had the bat-off in Canberra, and they picked Renners [Matt Renshaw], who was batting at three. So, yeah, I don't know,” Harris continued. Meanwhile, after getting all out on 223 in reply to India A’s 161 in the first innings, Australia A reduced their opponents to 73 for five at stumps on day two, with the visitors leading by 11 runs. (With inputs from agencies)

AUS A vs IND A: Marcus Harris leads race to open against India in Perth Test after gritty 74 at MCG

After India's humiliating Test series whitewash against New Zealand, captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that he is 'not sure' of his availability for the Australia series opener in Perth. Former cricketer Abhinav Mukund&nbsp;confirmed, on air&nbsp;during the third Test in Mumbai, that Rohit and his wife Ritika are expecting the birth of their second child. After the final Test, Rohit also spoke about his availability and made a big statement.

After the third Test in Mumbai, Rohit told reporters, "Right now, I am not too sure whether I'll be going, but let's see. Fingers crossed." In the recent past, there have been rumours of Rohit missing the Australia Test series opener in Perth due to personal reasons. Mukund, while speaking on Jio Cinema, confirmed Rohit is set to become a father once again and, hence, Hitman is likely to be absent for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-out-bcci-set-to-take-harsh-calls-on-seniors-post-australia-tests-report-773055">Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli out? BCCI set to take harsh calls on seniors post Australia Tests: Report</a>

Jasprit Bumrah to&nbsp;lead?

In Rohit's absence, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah will lead the Indian team in the Perth Test, starting on Nov 22. It will be the second instance of the wily pacer leading India in the purest format. In mid-2022, Bumrah led India in the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, in Edgbaston, which the visitors lost by seven wickets.

At present, Rohit-led India are in a precarious position in the 2023-25 WTC cycle. Following a shocking 0-3 whitewash versus the Kiwis at home, India need to beat Aussies 4-0 in their own backyard to qualify for the WTC final, in June 2025. If this does not happen, they will have to depend on other results to qualify.

India are set to travel to Australia for a five-match Test series. They have beaten the Aussies in their last two Test series Down Under.

India squad for Australia Tests

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, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar.

After India's humiliating Test series whitewash against New Zealand, captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that he is 'not sure' of his availability for the Australia series opener in Perth.

After India's humiliating Test series whitewash against New Zealand, captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that he is 'not sure' of his availability for the Australia series opener in Perth. Former cricketer Abhinav Mukund confirmed, on air during the third Test in Mumbai, that Rohit and his wife Ritika are expecting the birth of their second child. After the final Test, Rohit also spoke about his availability and made a big statement. After the third Test in Mumbai, Rohit told reporters, "Right now, I am not too sure whether I'll be going, but let's see. Fingers crossed." In the recent past, there have been rumours of Rohit missing the Australia Test series opener in Perth due to personal reasons. Mukund, while speaking on Jio Cinema, confirmed Rohit is set to become a father once again and, hence, Hitman is likely to be absent for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener. Also read: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli out? BCCI set to take harsh calls on seniors post Australia Tests: Report Jasprit Bumrah to lead? In Rohit's absence, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah will lead the Indian team in the Perth Test, starting on Nov 22. It will be the second instance of the wily pacer leading India in the purest format. In mid-2022, Bumrah led India in the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, in Edgbaston, which the visitors lost by seven wickets. At present, Rohit-led India are in a precarious position in the 2023-25 WTC cycle. Following a shocking 0-3 whitewash versus the Kiwis at home, India need to beat Aussies 4-0 in their own backyard to qualify for the WTC final, in June 2025. If this does not happen, they will have to depend on other results to qualify. India are set to travel to Australia for a five-match Test series. They have beaten the Aussies in their last two Test series Down Under. India squad for Australia Tests 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, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar.

BGT 2024/25: More miseries for India? Rohit Sharma 'not sure' of his participation in Perth Test

Ahead of the New Zealand Test series opener, on Wednesday (Oct 16) in Bengaluru, India captain Rohit Sharma addressed the rumours surrounding his&nbsp;captaincy takeover for the first Test versus Australia, in the upcoming five-match Test series Down Under, in Perth. It is being reported that Rohit might miss the Australia series opener, due to personal reasons, and, thus, Bumrah can lead the side in his absence. The pacer is the vice-captain for the home series versus the Kiwis. Rohit stated that Bumrah has a good head on his shoulder and is someone who understands the game well.&nbsp;

<h2>'When you are in a situation where you need a leader to step up, I think Bumrah will be one of them'</h2>

Rohit said during the pre-match press conference, for the Bengaluru Test, on Tuesday (Oct 15), "Bumrah has played a lot of cricket. I have played a lot of cricket with him. He understands the game pretty well. He has got a good head on his shoulder. Tactically, I can't say much, because he has not captained much. He has captained one Test and a couple of Tests. But, when you talk to him, he understands the game, understands what is required. When you are in a situation where you need a leader to step up, I think Bumrah will be one of them."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-rohit-sharma-drops-huge-update-on-md-shami-admits-pacer-uncertain-for-australia-tour-767589">Ind vs NZ, 1st Test: Rohit Sharma drops HUGE update on Md Shami, admits pacer uncertain for Australia tour</a>

Hitman added, "He has always been in our leadership group – whether it is speaking to the young bowlers or taking the lead to discuss about how to move forward. He is experienced as well. It's probably the right thing to have him around and speak to the bowlers and internally discuss how to take the team forward."

At present, Rohit is focused on leading India in the three-match Test series versus the Black Caps. Soon after, India's Test team will leave for Australia for five Tests. As per reports, the veteran batter&nbsp;conveyed to the chief selector Ajit Agarkar and top officials of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that he could miss the Perth Test, starting November 22, due to personal reasons.&nbsp;The 37-year-old is reportedly dealing with a personal matter, and he might opt out&nbsp;if the issue persists. However, BCCI is&nbsp;yet to receive an official confirmation from him.

Ahead of the New Zealand Test series opener, on Wednesday (Oct 16) in Bengaluru, India captain Rohit Sharma addressed the rumours surrounding his captaincy takeover for the first Test versus Australia, in the upcoming five-match Test series Down Under, in Perth.

Ahead of the New Zealand Test series opener, on Wednesday (Oct 16) in Bengaluru, India captain Rohit Sharma addressed the rumours surrounding his captaincy takeover for the first Test versus Australia, in the upcoming five-match Test series Down Under, in Perth. It is being reported that Rohit might miss the Australia series opener, due to personal reasons, and, thus, Bumrah can lead the side in his absence. The pacer is the vice-captain for the home series versus the Kiwis. Rohit stated that Bumrah has a good head on his shoulder and is someone who understands the game well. 'When you are in a situation where you need a leader to step up, I think Bumrah will be one of them' Rohit said during the pre-match press conference, for the Bengaluru Test, on Tuesday (Oct 15), "Bumrah has played a lot of cricket. I have played a lot of cricket with him. He understands the game pretty well. He has got a good head on his shoulder. Tactically, I can't say much, because he has not captained much. He has captained one Test and a couple of Tests. But, when you talk to him, he understands the game, understands what is required. When you are in a situation where you need a leader to step up, I think Bumrah will be one of them." Also read: Ind vs NZ, 1st Test: Rohit Sharma drops HUGE update on Md Shami, admits pacer uncertain for Australia tour Hitman added, "He has always been in our leadership group – whether it is speaking to the young bowlers or taking the lead to discuss about how to move forward. He is experienced as well. It's probably the right thing to have him around and speak to the bowlers and internally discuss how to take the team forward." At present, Rohit is focused on leading India in the three-match Test series versus the Black Caps. Soon after, India's Test team will leave for Australia for five Tests. As per reports, the veteran batter conveyed to the chief selector Ajit Agarkar and top officials of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that he could miss the Perth Test, starting November 22, due to personal reasons. The 37-year-old is reportedly dealing with a personal matter, and he might opt out if the issue persists. However, BCCI is yet to receive an official confirmation from him.

Ind vs NZ: Bumrah always part of leadership group - Rohit on rumours of captaincy takeover for Perth Test

The selectors of the Indian men’s national team will have a good headache in the coming days after reports emerged of Rohit Sharma’s unavailability for the first Test in Perth against Australia next month. With India set to take on Australia in a five-match Test series in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the selector’s panel led by Ajit Agarkar will now have to decide on who will succeed Rohit with long-term commitments also in sight.

<h2>Gill, Bumrah to lead in India?</h2>

After reports emerged of Rohit’s unavailability for the Perth Test, the attention has turned to who could succeed the veteran as skipper. Currently, the Indian team has no designated vice-captain but with Rohit unlikely to be available, the attention is now switched to the captaincy role. Bumrah is slightly ahead of Gill considering he has led the Indian team in the past.

The veteran fast bowler led India in the one-off Test match against England at Edgbaston in 2022 while Rohit was out with COVID-19. He also led India in the T20I series against Ireland in 2023 before the ODI World Cup.

Gill’s claims for the captaincy role are strengthened by his ability to lead Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He also led the India team during the Zimbabwe tour in July while taking charge of the side in the Irani Cup.

The selectors will have the final say on the situation as India get ready for the high-voltage series Down Under.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/baby-ab-dewald-brevis-earns-maiden-call-up-for-bangladesh-tests-bavuma-ruled-out-with-muscle-strain-766674">'Baby AB' Dewald Brevis earns maiden call-up for Bangladesh Tests; Bavuma ruled out with muscle strain</a>

The Indian team has been victorious in the last two visits to Australia and also won the Boxing Day Test in 2020. Rohit Sharma’s men will look to repeat the heroics as they look to take a giant step towards the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s.

<h2>Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) 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

The selectors of the Indian men’s national team will have a good headache in the coming days after reports emerged of Rohit Sharma’s unavailability for the first Test in Perth against Australia next month.

The selectors of the Indian men’s national team will have a good headache in the coming days after reports emerged of Rohit Sharma’s unavailability for the first Test in Perth against Australia next month. With India set to take on Australia in a five-match Test series in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the selector’s panel led by Ajit Agarkar will now have to decide on who will succeed Rohit with long-term commitments also in sight. Gill, Bumrah to lead in India? After reports emerged of Rohit’s unavailability for the Perth Test, the attention has turned to who could succeed the veteran as skipper. Currently, the Indian team has no designated vice-captain but with Rohit unlikely to be available, the attention is now switched to the captaincy role. Bumrah is slightly ahead of Gill considering he has led the Indian team in the past. The veteran fast bowler led India in the one-off Test match against England at Edgbaston in 2022 while Rohit was out with COVID-19. He also led India in the T20I series against Ireland in 2023 before the ODI World Cup. Gill’s claims for the captaincy role are strengthened by his ability to lead Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He also led the India team during the Zimbabwe tour in July while taking charge of the side in the Irani Cup. The selectors will have the final say on the situation as India get ready for the high-voltage series Down Under. ALSO READ | 'Baby AB' Dewald Brevis earns maiden call-up for Bangladesh Tests; Bavuma ruled out with muscle strain The Indian team has been victorious in the last two visits to Australia and also won the Boxing Day Test in 2020. Rohit Sharma’s men will look to repeat the heroics as they look to take a giant step towards the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s. Border-Gavaskar Trophy (India tour of Australia) 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: Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah front-runners for vice-captaincy role with Rohit likely to miss Perth Test

India are set to tour Australia later this year, for a five-match Test series; i.e. the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. During the 2018/19 tour, Virat Kohli-led India created history, becoming the first-ever Asian team to win a Test series on Australian soil. During the second Test, of the four-match series, in Perth, there was a heated argument between Ishant Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja. While it was a disagreement over the two teammates on the field, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra recently revealed that the Australian broadcasters purposely made a big deal out of the argument to create a controversy versus India.&nbsp;

Talking in a podcast on 2 Sloggers YouTube channel, Chopra said, "This is one thing I learnt when I travelled to Australia in 2018 for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for a commentary stint with Channel 7. Generally, we were taught to stay neutral in commentary. India won the first Test there and lost the second, and then I understood that when India plays in Australia, they don't play against the Australian team only but against a whole country, which includes their whole press."

<h2>'When Ponting tore into the Indian team, I was stunned...'</h2>

He further mentioned, "They used to release videos - they did it in front of me when Ishant Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja had a heated exchange with each other while standing in the 30-yard circle. The broadcasters amped up the stump mic as they were abusing each other. They cut the clip and shared it with the press in front of me. After that, when we were talking off the field, I was like, what are we actually trying to achieve because it's nothing? Then Ricky (Ponting) was there with us, and he said that 'making a mountain out of a molehill'. The moment he went into the air, he tore into the Indian team, and I was stunned that he had just said something else a few minutes back."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/how-do-you-bowl-slower-one-pakistan-born-pacer-reveals-bumrahs-query-recalls-rohit-being-in-awe-of-him-759282">How do you bowl slower one?: Pakistan-born pacer recalls Bumrah's query, Rohit's words of praise</a>

Chopra added, "Channel 7 was very kind at that time; they called me in the commentary box. I didn't have the stint at that time, but they called me to present India's case. I said there is no team where players have no disagreements; it's a game played by adults." He concluded, "The next day when we lost the Perth Test, I was driving somewhere and picked a newspaper, and the front page news was about Ishant and Jadeja with the headline, "There is in-fighting in the Indian cricket team," it was front-page news. Then, I understood that leave the neutral commentary when you are playing against Australia in Australia and then understand that the flag of India is more important."

Talking about India's 2018/19 series versus hosts Australia, Kohli &amp; Co. won 2-1 and replicated the same during their 2020/21 tour Down Under. In the 2020/21 series, regular captain Kohli returned home due to paternity leave following the series opener loss. However, a young and depleted India stunned the Aussies by winning the series 2-1, under Ajinkya Rahane's captaincy.

The upcoming India-Australia Test series gets underway on Nov 22 in Perth. It will be a five-match series including a day-night Test in Adelaide.

India are set to tour Australia later this year, for a five-match Test series; i.e. the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. During the 2018/19 tour, Virat Kohli-led India created history, becoming the first-ever Asian team to win a Test series on Australian soil.

India are set to tour Australia later this year, for a five-match Test series; i.e. the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. During the 2018/19 tour, Virat Kohli-led India created history, becoming the first-ever Asian team to win a Test series on Australian soil. During the second Test, of the four-match series, in Perth, there was a heated argument between Ishant Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja. While it was a disagreement over the two teammates on the field, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra recently revealed that the Australian broadcasters purposely made a big deal out of the argument to create a controversy versus India. Talking in a podcast on 2 Sloggers YouTube channel, Chopra said, "This is one thing I learnt when I travelled to Australia in 2018 for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for a commentary stint with Channel 7. Generally, we were taught to stay neutral in commentary. India won the first Test there and lost the second, and then I understood that when India plays in Australia, they don't play against the Australian team only but against a whole country, which includes their whole press." 'When Ponting tore into the Indian team, I was stunned...' He further mentioned, "They used to release videos - they did it in front of me when Ishant Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja had a heated exchange with each other while standing in the 30-yard circle. The broadcasters amped up the stump mic as they were abusing each other. They cut the clip and shared it with the press in front of me. After that, when we were talking off the field, I was like, what are we actually trying to achieve because it's nothing? Then Ricky (Ponting) was there with us, and he said that 'making a mountain out of a molehill'. The moment he went into the air, he tore into the Indian team, and I was stunned that he had just said something else a few minutes back." Also read: How do you bowl slower one?: Pakistan-born pacer recalls Bumrah's query, Rohit's words of praise Chopra added, "Channel 7 was very kind at that time; they called me in the commentary box. I didn't have the stint at that time, but they called me to present India's case. I said there is no team where players have no disagreements; it's a game played by adults." He concluded, "The next day when we lost the Perth Test, I was driving somewhere and picked a newspaper, and the front page news was about Ishant and Jadeja with the headline, "There is in-fighting in the Indian cricket team," it was front-page news. Then, I understood that leave the neutral commentary when you are playing against Australia in Australia and then understand that the flag of India is more important." Talking about India's 2018/19 series versus hosts Australia, Kohli & Co. won 2-1 and replicated the same during their 2020/21 tour Down Under. In the 2020/21 series, regular captain Kohli returned home due to paternity leave following the series opener loss. However, a young and depleted India stunned the Aussies by winning the series 2-1, under Ajinkya Rahane's captaincy. The upcoming India-Australia Test series gets underway on Nov 22 in Perth. It will be a five-match series including a day-night Test in Adelaide.

Ishant vs Jadeja: SHOCKING! Aakash Chopra reveals how Australian broadcasters created controversy vs India

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday (Dec 21), charged Australia opener Usman Khawaja for&nbsp;breaching ICC regulations for sporting a black armband during Pat Cummins &amp; Co.'s first Test against Pakistan in Perth&nbsp;without prior approval. The opening batter wore the armband and took to the field with writing on his shoes that read "all lives are equal" and "freedom is a human right". It was an attempt to raise&nbsp;awareness of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

An ICC spokesperson told ESPN Cricinfo, "Usman Khawaja has been charged for breaching Clause F of the Clothing and Equipment Regulations. Usman displayed a personal message (armband) during the first Test Match against Pakistan without seeking the prior approval of Cricket Australia and the ICC to display it, as required in the regulations for personal messages. This is a breach under the category of an 'other breach' and the sanction for a first offence is a reprimand."

Notably, the ICC's clothing and equipment regulations state: "Players and team officials shall not be permitted to wear, display or otherwise convey personal messages on their clothing, equipment or otherwise, irrespective of whether such messages are affixed to clothing, equipment or otherwise and whether such messages are displayed or conveyed through the use of the specific clothing or other items (eg. an arm band) or by the use of words, symbol, graphic message, images or otherwise ('personal messages'), unless approved in advance by both the player or team official's board and the ICC Cricket Operations Department. Approval shall not be granted for messages which relate to political, religious or racial activities or causes."'

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympic-medalist-sakshi-malik-to-quit-wrestling-after-brij-bhushan-aid-sanjay-singh-wins-wfi-elections-672172">Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik quits wrestling after Brij Bhushan aid Sanjay Singh wins WFI elections</a>

Ahead of the Perth Test, Khawaja had made heads turn after opting not to wear the shoes with the writing following ICC's indifferent take. Later, in an emotional social media post&nbsp;he stated&nbsp;that he was not trying to make any political claims and was not backing any sides.

In the video, the 37-year-old said, "What I've written on my shoes is not political. I'm not taking sides. Human life to me is equal. One Jewish life is equal to one Muslim life is equal to one Hindu life and so on. I'm just speaking up for those who don't have a voice." He added, "The ICC have told me I can't wear my shoes on the field because they feel it's a political statement under their guidelines. I don't believe it's so. It's a humanitarian appeal. I will respect their view and decision. But I will fight it and seek to gain approval."

Amid all this, the veteran batter also received support from the Cricket Australia (CA). It said in a statement: "We support the right of our players to express personal opinions. But the ICC has rules in place which prohibit the display of personal messages which we expect the players to uphold."

Talking about the three-match Test series between Australia and Pakistan, the hosts lead the series 1-0 following their 360-run win over Pakistan. Khawaja contributed with 41 and 90. On Friday, the left-hander&nbsp;is due to speak in Melbourne with regard to being charged by the ICC.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday (Dec 21), charged Australia opener Usman Khawaja for breaching ICC regulations for sporting a black armband during Pat Cummins & Co.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday (Dec 21), charged Australia opener Usman Khawaja for breaching ICC regulations for sporting a black armband during Pat Cummins & Co.'s first Test against Pakistan in Perth without prior approval. The opening batter wore the armband and took to the field with writing on his shoes that read "all lives are equal" and "freedom is a human right". It was an attempt to raise awareness of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. An ICC spokesperson told ESPN Cricinfo, "Usman Khawaja has been charged for breaching Clause F of the Clothing and Equipment Regulations. Usman displayed a personal message (armband) during the first Test Match against Pakistan without seeking the prior approval of Cricket Australia and the ICC to display it, as required in the regulations for personal messages. This is a breach under the category of an 'other breach' and the sanction for a first offence is a reprimand." Notably, the ICC's clothing and equipment regulations state: "Players and team officials shall not be permitted to wear, display or otherwise convey personal messages on their clothing, equipment or otherwise, irrespective of whether such messages are affixed to clothing, equipment or otherwise and whether such messages are displayed or conveyed through the use of the specific clothing or other items (eg. an arm band) or by the use of words, symbol, graphic message, images or otherwise ('personal messages'), unless approved in advance by both the player or team official's board and the ICC Cricket Operations Department. Approval shall not be granted for messages which relate to political, religious or racial activities or causes."' Also read: Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik quits wrestling after Brij Bhushan aid Sanjay Singh wins WFI elections Ahead of the Perth Test, Khawaja had made heads turn after opting not to wear the shoes with the writing following ICC's indifferent take. Later, in an emotional social media post he stated that he was not trying to make any political claims and was not backing any sides. In the video, the 37-year-old said, "What I've written on my shoes is not political. I'm not taking sides. Human life to me is equal. One Jewish life is equal to one Muslim life is equal to one Hindu life and so on. I'm just speaking up for those who don't have a voice." He added, "The ICC have told me I can't wear my shoes on the field because they feel it's a political statement under their guidelines. I don't believe it's so. It's a humanitarian appeal. I will respect their view and decision. But I will fight it and seek to gain approval." Amid all this, the veteran batter also received support from the Cricket Australia (CA). It said in a statement: "We support the right of our players to express personal opinions. But the ICC has rules in place which prohibit the display of personal messages which we expect the players to uphold." Talking about the three-match Test series between Australia and Pakistan, the hosts lead the series 1-0 following their 360-run win over Pakistan. Khawaja contributed with 41 and 90. On Friday, the left-hander is due to speak in Melbourne with regard to being charged by the ICC.

Usman Khawaja charged by ICC for black armband protest during Australia vs Pakistan Perth Test

Australia won the toss and opted to bat first in the three-match Test series opener on Thursday (Dec 14) at Perth Stadium, Perth. Riding on David Warner's 67-ball 72* and Usman Khawaja's sedate 37* (84), Australia ended the first session at 117 for no loss, scoring at nearly five per over.&nbsp;

During the opening session, Warner was on a roll. He ended with 11 fours and a six. In the 22nd over, he took on Shaheen Afridi and smacked him for a huge six towards the deep fine leg region. Talking about the delivery, it was a length and angling into the left-hander. Warner got down low, used his body to get inside the line and deposited the ball into the stands for an audacious six.&nbsp;

Here is the video Warner's outrageous six:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Gosh what a six that was from Warner . He is Super super beast.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Warner?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Warner</a> || <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsPAK</a> || <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvPAK</a> || <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShaheenAfridi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShaheenAfridi</a> <a href="https://t.co/PbGrUEEv7E">pic.twitter.com/PbGrUEEv7E</a>
— Haris Arshad (@harris00071) <a href="https://twitter.com/harris00071/status/1735151456284496151?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2023</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/sports/sa-vs-ind-t20is-when-rinku-singh-performs-well-whole-of-india-becomes-happy-former-opener-gautam-gambhir-669479">SA vs Ind, T20Is: When Rinku Singh performs well, whole of India becomes happy - Former opener Gautam Gambhir</a>

Warner, who averages over 80 versus Pakistan in Tests, is playing his last Test series and has started off on a positive note. He looks set to score a daddy hundred and take Australia to a commanding position on Day 1 of the series opener. Shan Masood-led Pakistan have their task cut out to stage a strong comeback in the remainder of the opening day's play.&nbsp;

Ahead of the Test series, there was a lot of noise on Warner following his ex-teammate Mitchell Johnson slamming him for getting a fitting farewell in whites after his involvement in the Sandpaper Gate fiasco. However, it seems Warner remains unperturbed and wants to do all the talking with the bat.

Australia won the toss and opted to bat first in the three-match Test series opener on Thursday (Dec 14) at Perth Stadium, Perth. Riding on David Warner's 67-ball 72* and Usman Khawaja's sedate 37* (84), Australia ended the first session at 117 for no loss, scoring at nearly five per over.

Australia won the toss and opted to bat first in the three-match Test series opener on Thursday (Dec 14) at Perth Stadium, Perth. Riding on David Warner's 67-ball 72* and Usman Khawaja's sedate 37* (84), Australia ended the first session at 117 for no loss, scoring at nearly five per over. During the opening session, Warner was on a roll. He ended with 11 fours and a six. In the 22nd over, he took on Shaheen Afridi and smacked him for a huge six towards the deep fine leg region. Talking about the delivery, it was a length and angling into the left-hander. Warner got down low, used his body to get inside the line and deposited the ball into the stands for an audacious six. Here is the video Warner's outrageous six: Gosh what a six that was from Warner . He is Super super beast.#Warner || #AUSvsPAK || #AUSvPAK || #ShaheenAfridi pic.twitter.com/PbGrUEEv7E — Haris Arshad (@harris00071) December 14, 2023 × Also read: SA vs Ind, T20Is: When Rinku Singh performs well, whole of India becomes happy - Former opener Gautam Gambhir Warner, who averages over 80 versus Pakistan in Tests, is playing his last Test series and has started off on a positive note. He looks set to score a daddy hundred and take Australia to a commanding position on Day 1 of the series opener. Shan Masood-led Pakistan have their task cut out to stage a strong comeback in the remainder of the opening day's play. Ahead of the Test series, there was a lot of noise on Warner following his ex-teammate Mitchell Johnson slamming him for getting a fitting farewell in whites after his involvement in the Sandpaper Gate fiasco. However, it seems Warner remains unperturbed and wants to do all the talking with the bat.

VIDEO: David Warner turns into T20I mode, smacks Shaheen Afridi for HUGE six on Day 1 of Perth Test

On Friday (December 02), former Australian captain Ricky Ponting was rushed to the hospital after suffering a heart scare while on commentary duties during Day 3 of the Perth Test between Australia and West Indies.&nbsp;“Ricky Ponting is unwell and will not be providing commentary for the remainder of today’s coverage,” a Channel 7 spokesperson said via The Daily Telegraph. The former No. 3 batter&nbsp;is part of the commentary panel for Channel 7, also including stalwarts such as Matthew Hayden and ex-Aussie head coach Justin Langer.

As per a report in ESPNCricinfo,&nbsp;Ponting suffered a heart scare but no confirmed details have emerged about his condition. The 47-year-old came out of the Seven's commentary panel&nbsp;on the stroke of lunch after being on-air for as many&nbsp;as 40 minutes. The former Aussie captain was accompanied by close friend Langer to a car and taken to the hospital. After this, he didn't make a return but it is&nbsp;believed that he told his colleagues that he is&nbsp;doing well at the hospital.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-scored-500-when-shoaib-akhtar-reacts-to-englands-batting-onslaught-on-day-1-of-rawalpindi-test-539405">'They scored 500 when...': Shoaib Akhtar reacts to England's batting onslaught on Day 1 of Rawalpindi Test</a>

Ponting is a legend of the game. He represented Australia in 168 Tests, 375 ODIs and 17 T20Is.&nbsp;He ended with a whopping 13,378 Test runs along with 13,704 and 401 runs in ODIs and T2OIs, respectively. Under him, Australia won the 2003 and 2007 ODI World Cup and also clinched the 2006 and 2009 Champions Trophy titles. He is serving as the head coach of the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL and has led the franchise to the playoffs in IPL 2019, IPL 2021 and to the final in IPL 2020.

Talking about the Australia-West Indies Test, in Perth, WI were all-out for 283 in reply to Australia's mammoth 598/4 decl. In their second innings, Pat Cummins &amp; Co. are 29 for 1, with an overall lead of 344 at stumps on the third day.

On Friday (December 02), former Australian captain Ricky Ponting was rushed to the hospital after suffering a heart scare while on commentary duties during Day 3 of the Perth Test between Australia and West Indies.

On Friday (December 02), former Australian captain Ricky Ponting was rushed to the hospital after suffering a heart scare while on commentary duties during Day 3 of the Perth Test between Australia and West Indies. “Ricky Ponting is unwell and will not be providing commentary for the remainder of today’s coverage,” a Channel 7 spokesperson said via The Daily Telegraph. The former No. 3 batter is part of the commentary panel for Channel 7, also including stalwarts such as Matthew Hayden and ex-Aussie head coach Justin Langer. As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, Ponting suffered a heart scare but no confirmed details have emerged about his condition. The 47-year-old came out of the Seven's commentary panel on the stroke of lunch after being on-air for as many as 40 minutes. The former Aussie captain was accompanied by close friend Langer to a car and taken to the hospital. After this, he didn't make a return but it is believed that he told his colleagues that he is doing well at the hospital. Also read: 'They scored 500 when...': Shoaib Akhtar reacts to England's batting onslaught on Day 1 of Rawalpindi Test Ponting is a legend of the game. He represented Australia in 168 Tests, 375 ODIs and 17 T20Is. He ended with a whopping 13,378 Test runs along with 13,704 and 401 runs in ODIs and T2OIs, respectively. Under him, Australia won the 2003 and 2007 ODI World Cup and also clinched the 2006 and 2009 Champions Trophy titles. He is serving as the head coach of the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL and has led the franchise to the playoffs in IPL 2019, IPL 2021 and to the final in IPL 2020. Talking about the Australia-West Indies Test, in Perth, WI were all-out for 283 in reply to Australia's mammoth 598/4 decl. In their second innings, Pat Cummins & Co. are 29 for 1, with an overall lead of 344 at stumps on the third day.

Aussie great Ricky Ponting taken to hospital after heart scare during commentary duty in Perth Test

Australia have so far dominated the first Test versus West Indies in Perth. Opting to bat first, Pat Cummins-led Australia rode on Marnus Labuschagne's 204 and Steve Smith's unbeaten 200, and the hosts posted a mammoth 598-4 decl. While Usman Khawaja (65) and Travis Head (99) also contributed, Labuschagne-Smith were the most impressive of the lot with the latter returning to his best format after long.&nbsp;

With his splendid knock versus Kraigg Brathwaite-led Windies, Smith scored his 29th Test hundred and equalled Sir Don Bradman's tally; joint fourth-most tons by an Aussie batter in whites.&nbsp;The right-handed batter reached the milestone in his 88th game and took 155 innings. In the overall list, Ricky Ponting, Steve Waugh and Matthew Hayden are ahead of Smith. Here's the top five batters with most hundreds in Test cricket for Australia:

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/had-i-been-the-fittest-guy-i-wouldve-former-pakistan-pacer-shoaib-akhtar-makes-big-claim-538847">'Had I been the fittest guy, I would’ve...': Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar makes big claim</a>

Most hundreds for Australia in Men's Tests:

Ricky Ponting - 41 
Steve Waugh&nbsp;- 32 
Matthew Hayden - 30 
Sir Don Bradman - 29 
Steve Smith* - 29

Given Smith's love for scoring daddy hundreds in Tests, the former Aussie captain is sure to climb up the ladder in the overall list and won't be surprising if he goes past Ponting's tally as well. At 33, the right-hander is fit enough to carry on for as many as four-five years and can break plethora of records in the purest format.&nbsp;

Talking about the first Test, in Perth, West Indies openers negated any threat from the Australian bowlers to go to stumps on Day Two at 74 for no loss. The visitors trail Australia by 524 runs and have debutant&nbsp;Tagenarine Chanderpaul (47*) and skipper Brathwaite (18 not out) in the middle. A tough third day's play is on the cards as Aussies will like to tighten their grip on the game and go 1-0 up in the series.

Australia have so far dominated the first Test versus West Indies in Perth. Opting to bat first, Pat Cummins-led Australia rode on Marnus Labuschagne's 204 and Steve Smith's unbeaten 200, and the hosts posted a mammoth 598-4 decl.

Australia have so far dominated the first Test versus West Indies in Perth. Opting to bat first, Pat Cummins-led Australia rode on Marnus Labuschagne's 204 and Steve Smith's unbeaten 200, and the hosts posted a mammoth 598-4 decl. While Usman Khawaja (65) and Travis Head (99) also contributed, Labuschagne-Smith were the most impressive of the lot with the latter returning to his best format after long. With his splendid knock versus Kraigg Brathwaite-led Windies, Smith scored his 29th Test hundred and equalled Sir Don Bradman's tally; joint fourth-most tons by an Aussie batter in whites. The right-handed batter reached the milestone in his 88th game and took 155 innings. In the overall list, Ricky Ponting, Steve Waugh and Matthew Hayden are ahead of Smith. Here's the top five batters with most hundreds in Test cricket for Australia: Also read: 'Had I been the fittest guy, I would’ve...': Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar makes big claim Most hundreds for Australia in Men's Tests: Ricky Ponting - 41 Steve Waugh - 32 Matthew Hayden - 30 Sir Don Bradman - 29 Steve Smith* - 29 Given Smith's love for scoring daddy hundreds in Tests, the former Aussie captain is sure to climb up the ladder in the overall list and won't be surprising if he goes past Ponting's tally as well. At 33, the right-hander is fit enough to carry on for as many as four-five years and can break plethora of records in the purest format. Talking about the first Test, in Perth, West Indies openers negated any threat from the Australian bowlers to go to stumps on Day Two at 74 for no loss. The visitors trail Australia by 524 runs and have debutant Tagenarine Chanderpaul (47*) and skipper Brathwaite (18 not out) in the middle. A tough third day's play is on the cards as Aussies will like to tighten their grip on the game and go 1-0 up in the series.

Run machine Steve Smith equals Don Bradman's tally with splendid knock in Australia-West Indies Test

Marnus Labuschagne's third hundred in three innings handed Australia the initiative on Day-1 of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-name-unchanged-squad-for-first-daynight-test-against-new-zealand-267739"> day and night Test</a> against trans-tasman rivals New Zealand in Perth on Thursday.

Tim Paine won the toss and opted to bat and David Warner and Joe Burns had a steady opening stand of 40 before burns fell for 9 to Colin de Grandhomme.

Labuschagne walked in to join Warner and the two carried on from their two massive century stands against Pakistan.

Warner fell just before lunch to a sensational return catch from Neil wagner for 43. Steve Smith was content to let Labuschagne take centerstage and he didn't disappoint with some breathtaking shots.

Smith was handed a reprieve in the slips when on 20 as Australia went into tea at 160 for 2.

Labuschagne danced down the track to deposit Mitchell Santner into the stands to bring up his century off 166 balls.

Smith fell just after to Wagner for 43, sucked into a short ball trap set by the Kiwis.

The second new ball then accounted for new man Matthew Wade as Tim Southee bowled an almost unplayable delivery but Labushagne and Travis Head were able to see-off the remaining overs and take the hosts to stumps well placed at 248 for 8.

Marnus Labuschagne's third hundred in three innings handed Australia the initiative on Day-1 of the day and night Test against trans-tasman rivals New Zealand in Perth on Thursday.

Marnus Labuschagne's third hundred in three innings handed Australia the initiative on Day-1 of the day and night Test against trans-tasman rivals New Zealand in Perth on Thursday. Tim Paine won the toss and opted to bat and David Warner and Joe Burns had a steady opening stand of 40 before burns fell for 9 to Colin de Grandhomme. Labuschagne walked in to join Warner and the two carried on from their two massive century stands against Pakistan. Warner fell just before lunch to a sensational return catch from Neil wagner for 43. Steve Smith was content to let Labuschagne take centerstage and he didn't disappoint with some breathtaking shots. Smith was handed a reprieve in the slips when on 20 as Australia went into tea at 160 for 2. Labuschagne danced down the track to deposit Mitchell Santner into the stands to bring up his century off 166 balls. Smith fell just after to Wagner for 43, sucked into a short ball trap set by the Kiwis. The second new ball then accounted for new man Matthew Wade as Tim Southee bowled an almost unplayable delivery but Labushagne and Travis Head were able to see-off the remaining overs and take the hosts to stumps well placed at 248 for 8.

Day/night Test: Labuschagne's ton rescues Australia on Day-1 against New Zealand

Australia named an unchanged squad in the first Test against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-draw-second-test-with-england-win-series-265850">New Zealand</a> in the day/night encounter to take place at Perth.

The Kiwis have had just three days to acclimatise to the hot conditions at Perth as they begin their quest for a first Test series win in Australia since 1985-86.

They come into the series as the number two ranked side in Test cricket and fresh off a series win against England.

Australia, on the other hand, has been rampant in Test cricket since losing to India last year. They regained the Ashes in the summer and followed it up with a brutal 2-0 thrashing of Pakistan last month.

"We've been playing some really good cricket, happy with the way it's going so we're trying to get a consistent team together," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tim-paine-takes-a-dig-at-virat-kohli-who-are-slated-to-play-test-series-next-year-264214">skipper Paine said</a>.

"And as I touched on after Adelaide (second Test against Pakistan), the great thing is we've got guys that are performing really well."

"That's what we wanted so we're going to go with the same team," the Australian captain said.

History is on the side of Paine's team as Australia have never lost at the new Perth stadium and have won all six day-night Tests they have played since 2015.

"We're a professional team. Our preparation and recovery is a little bit more important," Paine said.

Australia named an unchanged squad in the first Test against New Zealand in the day/night encounter to take place at Perth. The Kiwis have had just three days to acclimatise to the hot conditions at Perth as they begin their quest for a first Test series win in Australia since 1985-86.

Australia named an unchanged squad in the first Test against New Zealand in the day/night encounter to take place at Perth. The Kiwis have had just three days to acclimatise to the hot conditions at Perth as they begin their quest for a first Test series win in Australia since 1985-86. They come into the series as the number two ranked side in Test cricket and fresh off a series win against England. Australia, on the other hand, has been rampant in Test cricket since losing to India last year. They regained the Ashes in the summer and followed it up with a brutal 2-0 thrashing of Pakistan last month. "We've been playing some really good cricket, happy with the way it's going so we're trying to get a consistent team together," skipper Paine said. "And as I touched on after Adelaide (second Test against Pakistan), the great thing is we've got guys that are performing really well." "That's what we wanted so we're going to go with the same team," the Australian captain said. History is on the side of Paine's team as Australia have never lost at the new Perth stadium and have won all six day-night Tests they have played since 2015. "We're a professional team. Our preparation and recovery is a little bit more important," Paine said.

Australia name unchanged squad for first day/night Test against New Zealand

Former Test cricketers Mitchell Johnson and Michael Vaughan have slammed the ICC for giving an 'average' rating to the Perth Stadium pitch, which hosted India's second Test against Australia.&nbsp;

Match referee Ranjan Madugalle on Friday rated the pitch at Perth Stadium as 'average', the lowest pass mark provided by the ICC when they assess the pitch and outfield of Test grounds.&nbsp;

Australia had defeated India by 146 runs on the fifth and final day of the second Test at the Perth Stadium.&nbsp;

"Nothing wrong with it. It was exciting to watch a contest between bat and ball for a change and not these dull flat tracks being served up constantly. I'd actually be interested in knowing what a good pitch is? Hope for another exciting Test at the MCG," Johnson wrote on his twitter handle.&nbsp;

Vaughan also took to Twitter to criticise ICC's decision.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"And they wonder why Test Match cricket is struggling .. Was a tremendously exciting pitch which had a bit for everyone .. Should be more like this IMO..."&nbsp;

The ICC's rating is presumably due to the uneven bounce that became more prevalent later in the match.&nbsp;

However, Johnson disagreed.&nbsp;

"Inconsistent bounce use to happen a lot, the pitch is supposed to deteriorate. Is it any different to a pitch that spins a metre or more &amp; stays low?," he wrote.&nbsp;

The Perth pitch saw some sharp bounce with one Mohammed Shami delivery hitting Australian opener Aaron Finch's right glove, forcing him to retire hurt.&nbsp;

Usman Khawaja and Tim Paine were also dismissed in Australia's second innings by balls that reared sharply off a good length.&nbsp;

However, Khawaja's 72 after India skipper Virat Kohli's 123 in the first innings proved there were runs on offer in the wicket.&nbsp;

At the start of the year, the ICC introduced a disciplinary system in a bid to improve the standard of pitches around the world and can provide six ratings, very good, good, average, below average, poor and unfit, when rating Test venues.&nbsp;

The third Test between India and Australia will be held at the MCG, which had received a 'poor' rating last year and there will be a lot of focus on new MCG curator Matthew Page this week.

Former Test cricketers Mitchell Johnson and Michael Vaughan have slammed the ICC for giving an 'average' rating to the Perth Stadium pitch, which hosted India's second Test against Australia.

Former Test cricketers Mitchell Johnson and Michael Vaughan have slammed the ICC for giving an 'average' rating to the Perth Stadium pitch, which hosted India's second Test against Australia. Match referee Ranjan Madugalle on Friday rated the pitch at Perth Stadium as 'average', the lowest pass mark provided by the ICC when they assess the pitch and outfield of Test grounds. Australia had defeated India by 146 runs on the fifth and final day of the second Test at the Perth Stadium. "Nothing wrong with it. It was exciting to watch a contest between bat and ball for a change and not these dull flat tracks being served up constantly. I'd actually be interested in knowing what a good pitch is? Hope for another exciting Test at the MCG," Johnson wrote on his twitter handle. Vaughan also took to Twitter to criticise ICC's decision. "And they wonder why Test Match cricket is struggling .. Was a tremendously exciting pitch which had a bit for everyone .. Should be more like this IMO..." The ICC's rating is presumably due to the uneven bounce that became more prevalent later in the match. However, Johnson disagreed. "Inconsistent bounce use to happen a lot, the pitch is supposed to deteriorate. Is it any different to a pitch that spins a metre or more & stays low?," he wrote. The Perth pitch saw some sharp bounce with one Mohammed Shami delivery hitting Australian opener Aaron Finch's right glove, forcing him to retire hurt. Usman Khawaja and Tim Paine were also dismissed in Australia's second innings by balls that reared sharply off a good length. However, Khawaja's 72 after India skipper Virat Kohli's 123 in the first innings proved there were runs on offer in the wicket. At the start of the year, the ICC introduced a disciplinary system in a bid to improve the standard of pitches around the world and can provide six ratings, very good, good, average, below average, poor and unfit, when rating Test venues. The third Test between India and Australia will be held at the MCG, which had received a 'poor' rating last year and there will be a lot of focus on new MCG curator Matthew Page this week.

Mitchell Johnson, Michael Vaughan slam ICC's Perth pitch rating

Australia beat India by 146 runs in the Perth Test to level the series 1-1 in a four-match Test series.

Despite <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-virat-kohli-slams-25th-test-century-in-perth-test-184408">Virat Kohli's century</a> in the first innings, India were thrashed by a huge margin while chasing a target of 287 to win the match.

India resumed at 115 for five on the final day and lost the remaining for just 21 runs as they were dismissed for 140 on the fifth and final day.

In the post-match presentation, Virat Kohli praised the opponents, he said, "Australia played better cricket than us and they deserved to win."

Cricket pundits questioned Virat's unusual decision to play with four seamers and not picking a single spinner in the playing squad for Perth Test.

Spinner Ravi Ashwin was ruled out with an abdominal strain and Virat recalled Umesh Yadav ahead of Ravindra Jadeja.

India skipper Kohli said, "When we looked at the pitch, we didn't think about the Jadeja option. We thought four quicks would be enough."

He added, "We never thought about the spin option, to be honest."

Earlier, Mohammed Shami questioned the selection after the fourth day's play and said that he believed a spinner would have been a better decision.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Nathan Lyon-led bowling attack helps Australia level the series 1-1 as they beat India by 146 runs in the second Test in Perth. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> REPORT 👇<a href="https://t.co/8MmFioFlqU">https://t.co/8MmFioFlqU</a> <a href="https://t.co/55myWBgBIt">pic.twitter.com/55myWBgBIt</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1074889251848765441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2018</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>

Kohli praised spinner Lyon, who was given player of the match award, for his brilliant performance, saying, "Nathan Lyon bowled really well."

"With the skill levels and consistency that he has to get something out of this wicket was really good," Kohli added.

On being asked about India's bowling performance, Kohli said: "(Our bowlers) are outstanding as a pack, to see them dominate was really good to see and something we want to build on. They are relentless even if they aren't getting wickets which is a great quality."

The 30-year-old reacted on his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-out-or-not-out-debate-over-virat-kohlis-wicket-is-on-184445">controversial wicket</a> saying, "It was a decision made on the field, it stays there. There is nothing more to it."

Asked about his 123-run innings in the first innings, Kohli said: "When you don't win you don't really rank your performances so it's irrelevant because we didn't get the result we wanted.

"I am focused on the next game and I hope I can contribute on a winning note."

"Boxing Day is going to be a full house, it's a memorable Test for all of us and we as a team are also excited and looking forward to that Test match," Kohli concluded.

Australia beat India by 146 runs in the Perth Test to level the series 1-1 in a four-match Test series. Despite Virat Kohli's century in the first innings, India were thrashed by a huge margin while chasing a target of 287 to win the match.

Australia beat India by 146 runs in the Perth Test to level the series 1-1 in a four-match Test series. Despite Virat Kohli's century in the first innings, India were thrashed by a huge margin while chasing a target of 287 to win the match. India resumed at 115 for five on the final day and lost the remaining for just 21 runs as they were dismissed for 140 on the fifth and final day. In the post-match presentation, Virat Kohli praised the opponents, he said, "Australia played better cricket than us and they deserved to win." Cricket pundits questioned Virat's unusual decision to play with four seamers and not picking a single spinner in the playing squad for Perth Test. Spinner Ravi Ashwin was ruled out with an abdominal strain and Virat recalled Umesh Yadav ahead of Ravindra Jadeja. India skipper Kohli said, "When we looked at the pitch, we didn't think about the Jadeja option. We thought four quicks would be enough." He added, "We never thought about the spin option, to be honest." Earlier, Mohammed Shami questioned the selection after the fourth day's play and said that he believed a spinner would have been a better decision. Nathan Lyon-led bowling attack helps Australia level the series 1-1 as they beat India by 146 runs in the second Test in Perth. #AUSvIND REPORT 👇https://t.co/8MmFioFlqU pic.twitter.com/55myWBgBIt — ICC (@ICC) December 18, 2018 × Kohli praised spinner Lyon, who was given player of the match award, for his brilliant performance, saying, "Nathan Lyon bowled really well." "With the skill levels and consistency that he has to get something out of this wicket was really good," Kohli added. On being asked about India's bowling performance, Kohli said: "(Our bowlers) are outstanding as a pack, to see them dominate was really good to see and something we want to build on. They are relentless even if they aren't getting wickets which is a great quality." The 30-year-old reacted on his controversial wicket saying, "It was a decision made on the field, it stays there. There is nothing more to it." Asked about his 123-run innings in the first innings, Kohli said: "When you don't win you don't really rank your performances so it's irrelevant because we didn't get the result we wanted. "I am focused on the next game and I hope I can contribute on a winning note." "Boxing Day is going to be a full house, it's a memorable Test for all of us and we as a team are also excited and looking forward to that Test match," Kohli concluded.

India vs Australia: 'We thought four quicks would be enough,' says Virat Kohli after losing Perth Test

Australia beat India by 146 runs in the morning session of the fifth and final day of the second Test on Tuesday to level up the four-match series at 1-1.

The tourists, chasing 287 runs for victory, were dismissed for 140 at the new Perth Stadium when Jasprit Bumrah was caught and bowled by quick Pat Cummins as the last wicket of the innings.

Left-arm paceman Mitchell Starc finished with 3-46, while spinner Nathan Lyon took 3-39 on a feisty pitch. For India, Ajinkya Rahane made 30 with the bat and Rishabh Pant also 30.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
🙌 AUSTRALIA WIN 🙌 
 
The hosts register a convincing 146-run win by bowling India out for 140 early in the morning session on Day 5.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> SCORECARD ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/viG01B7TWC">https://t.co/viG01B7TWC</a> <a href="https://t.co/siotOPs9LR">pic.twitter.com/siotOPs9LR</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1074870379561111552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2018</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>

In the post-match&nbsp;presentation, Virat Kohli said, "Australia played better cricket than us and they deserved to win."

Cricket pundits questioned&nbsp;Virat's decision&nbsp;to play with four seamers and not picking a single spinner in the playing squad for Perth Test.

India skipper Kohli said, "When we looked at the pitch, we didn't think about the Jadeja option. We thought four quicks would be enough."

He justified saying, "We never thought about the spin option, to be honest."

Kohli praised spinner Lyon, who won player of the match, for his brilliant performance. Kohli said, "Nathan Lyon bowled really well."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
With match-winning figures of 8/106 in the Perth Test, Nathan Lyon is named the Player of the Match. 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/agHLjqKga5">pic.twitter.com/agHLjqKga5</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1074878396847382528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2018</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>

It was a first win in eight Test matches for Australia. India, who won the opener at Adelaide Oval by 31 runs, have never won a Test series in Australia.

The series continues with the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground starting on December 26 before concluding with the fourth Test in Sydney in the New Year.

Australia beat India by 146 runs in the morning session of the fifth and final day of the second Test on Tuesday to level up the four-match series at 1-1. The tourists, chasing 287 runs for victory, were dismissed for 140 at the new Perth Stadium when Jasprit Bumrah was caught and bowled by quick Pat Cummins as the last wicket of the innings.

Australia beat India by 146 runs in the morning session of the fifth and final day of the second Test on Tuesday to level up the four-match series at 1-1. The tourists, chasing 287 runs for victory, were dismissed for 140 at the new Perth Stadium when Jasprit Bumrah was caught and bowled by quick Pat Cummins as the last wicket of the innings. Left-arm paceman Mitchell Starc finished with 3-46, while spinner Nathan Lyon took 3-39 on a feisty pitch. For India, Ajinkya Rahane made 30 with the bat and Rishabh Pant also 30. 🙌 AUSTRALIA WIN 🙌 The hosts register a convincing 146-run win by bowling India out for 140 early in the morning session on Day 5.#AUSvIND SCORECARD ⬇️ https://t.co/viG01B7TWC pic.twitter.com/siotOPs9LR — ICC (@ICC) December 18, 2018 × In the post-match presentation, Virat Kohli said, "Australia played better cricket than us and they deserved to win." Cricket pundits questioned Virat's decision to play with four seamers and not picking a single spinner in the playing squad for Perth Test. India skipper Kohli said, "When we looked at the pitch, we didn't think about the Jadeja option. We thought four quicks would be enough." He justified saying, "We never thought about the spin option, to be honest." Kohli praised spinner Lyon, who won player of the match, for his brilliant performance. Kohli said, "Nathan Lyon bowled really well." With match-winning figures of 8/106 in the Perth Test, Nathan Lyon is named the Player of the Match. 👏#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/agHLjqKga5 — ICC (@ICC) December 18, 2018 × It was a first win in eight Test matches for Australia. India, who won the opener at Adelaide Oval by 31 runs, have never won a Test series in Australia. The series continues with the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground starting on December 26 before concluding with the fourth Test in Sydney in the New Year.

Australia thrash India to win Perth Test by 146 runs, level series 1-1

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting reckons India's batting woes have outweighed their opponents after the visitors slumped to a massive 146 run defeat in the second Test.&nbsp;

"I compared the two teams at the start of the series and I didn't think India could win here just because of the frailties of their batting and I think that's been highlighted this week," told Ponting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The injury of Prithvi Shaw, which ruled him out of the entire Test series, was the first blow to India. The youngster had suffered a left ankle injury while attempting a catch in a practice game against Cricket Australia XI.

Batsman Rohit Sharma and spinner Ravichandran Ashwin were also ruled out before the Perth Test. India have called opener Mayank Agarwal and all-rounder Hardik Pandya to bolster their batting.

"They've had to call in another opener, they've brought in another all-rounder as well to try and bolster that middle order. They've got as much on their plate as the Australian boys have, if not more now that they've lost this game.

"(There is) a lot of uncertainty around their group and they haven't got long to turn things around," Ponting said.

Ponting advised Australia to carry forward the winning momentum to the third Test at Melbourne.

"Just not relax. They've set a bit of blueprint this week (of how to beat India) with the way they've played. They just have to build on that now.

"There's no doubt with one win a bit of belief comes but they can't just rock up in Melbourne and expect India are going to play like they did here," he said.&nbsp;

Ponting, under whom Australia dominated world cricket, also cautioned Australia that the remaining two venues are more suited to Indians.

"If you think about the MCG and SCG, they are conditions that will suit the Indians more than Adelaide and Perth.&nbsp;

"The Aussie boys will have their work cut out, but as long they play the brand of cricket they know that they can play and I think they showed that (with) some great aggression this week, I hope that continues for the next couple of weeks&nbsp;if they can do that then I think they're going to be hard to beat," he said.&nbsp;

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting reckons India's batting woes have outweighed their opponents after the visitors slumped to a massive 146 run defeat in the second Test.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting reckons India's batting woes have outweighed their opponents after the visitors slumped to a massive 146 run defeat in the second Test. "I compared the two teams at the start of the series and I didn't think India could win here just because of the frailties of their batting and I think that's been highlighted this week," told Ponting. The injury of Prithvi Shaw, which ruled him out of the entire Test series, was the first blow to India. The youngster had suffered a left ankle injury while attempting a catch in a practice game against Cricket Australia XI. Batsman Rohit Sharma and spinner Ravichandran Ashwin were also ruled out before the Perth Test. India have called opener Mayank Agarwal and all-rounder Hardik Pandya to bolster their batting. "They've had to call in another opener, they've brought in another all-rounder as well to try and bolster that middle order. They've got as much on their plate as the Australian boys have, if not more now that they've lost this game. "(There is) a lot of uncertainty around their group and they haven't got long to turn things around," Ponting said. Ponting advised Australia to carry forward the winning momentum to the third Test at Melbourne. "Just not relax. They've set a bit of blueprint this week (of how to beat India) with the way they've played. They just have to build on that now. "There's no doubt with one win a bit of belief comes but they can't just rock up in Melbourne and expect India are going to play like they did here," he said. Ponting, under whom Australia dominated world cricket, also cautioned Australia that the remaining two venues are more suited to Indians. "If you think about the MCG and SCG, they are conditions that will suit the Indians more than Adelaide and Perth. "The Aussie boys will have their work cut out, but as long they play the brand of cricket they know that they can play and I think they showed that (with) some great aggression this week, I hope that continues for the next couple of weeks if they can do that then I think they're going to be hard to beat," he said.

Perth Test shows India's batting weaker than Australia's, says Ricky Ponting

Warring captains Virat Kohli and Tim Paine on Monday resumed their verbal duel, forcing on-field umpire Chris Gaffaney to warn both the players on the fourth morning of the second Test between India and Australia.&nbsp;

During the 71st over bowled by Jasprit Bumrah, the respective captains were seen exchanging words after Kohli decided to field close to the non-striker and Gaffaney had to step in.

"You're the one that lost it yesterday. Why are you trying to be cool today" Paine told Kohli.

"That's enough, that's enough," Gaffaney interrupted.

"Come on, play the game. You guys are the captains. Tim, you're the captain."&nbsp;

Paine replied: "We're just having a conversation. There's no swearing ... Keep your cool Virat."

Also Watch: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-stump-mic-reveals-on-pitch-chats-between-virat-kohli-and-tim-paine-in-perth-test-184628">Stump mic reveals ugly on-pitch chats between Kohli and Paine in Perth Test</a>

Kohli said something which couldn't be picked up by the microphones.

A couple of balls later, the warring duo almost came close to chest bumping when the India skipper walked in front of Paine while he was completing a run.

Kohli later appeared to plead his case to square-leg umpire Kumar Dharmasena as Paine and Usman Khawaja continued to extend Australia's second-innings lead.

"I reckon it's a sign Kohli is starting to lose it," former Test bowler Damien Fleming said on SEN radio.

India commentator Sanjay Manjrekar wasn't too pleased with Kohli's behaviour but former Australian skippers Ricky Ponting and Michael Clarke said they had no issue with the verbal exchange between the two captains and that no line has been crossed so far.

Warring captains Virat Kohli and Tim Paine on Monday resumed their verbal duel, forcing on-field umpire Chris Gaffaney to warn both the players on the fourth morning of the second Test between India and Australia.

Warring captains Virat Kohli and Tim Paine on Monday resumed their verbal duel, forcing on-field umpire Chris Gaffaney to warn both the players on the fourth morning of the second Test between India and Australia. During the 71st over bowled by Jasprit Bumrah, the respective captains were seen exchanging words after Kohli decided to field close to the non-striker and Gaffaney had to step in. "You're the one that lost it yesterday. Why are you trying to be cool today" Paine told Kohli. "That's enough, that's enough," Gaffaney interrupted. "Come on, play the game. You guys are the captains. Tim, you're the captain." Paine replied: "We're just having a conversation. There's no swearing ... Keep your cool Virat." Also Watch: Stump mic reveals ugly on-pitch chats between Kohli and Paine in Perth Test Kohli said something which couldn't be picked up by the microphones. A couple of balls later, the warring duo almost came close to chest bumping when the India skipper walked in front of Paine while he was completing a run. Kohli later appeared to plead his case to square-leg umpire Kumar Dharmasena as Paine and Usman Khawaja continued to extend Australia's second-innings lead. "I reckon it's a sign Kohli is starting to lose it," former Test bowler Damien Fleming said on SEN radio. India commentator Sanjay Manjrekar wasn't too pleased with Kohli's behaviour but former Australian skippers Ricky Ponting and Michael Clarke said they had no issue with the verbal exchange between the two captains and that no line has been crossed so far.

India vs Australia: Umpire issues warning to Kohli, Paine as their on-pitch chat continued on Day 4

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>Charisma seems to me a limited asset to a captain... (C)harisma does not imply steadiness, patience, concentration, or considerateness, all invaluable in a captain: Mike Brealey on the "Art of Captaincy"</h5>
</blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Charisma seems to me a limited asset to a captain... (C)harisma does not imply steadiness, patience, concentration, or considerateness, all invaluable in a captain: Mike Brealey on the Art of Captaincy" target="_blank">&nbsp;</a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">×</a></div>
</div>
</div>

Sachin Tendulkar has the best batting record in the world, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-stump-mic-reveals-on-pitch-chats-between-virat-kohli-and-tim-paine-in-perth-test-184628">the Mumbai maestro is no doubt</a> a legend. However, history shows the best batsman in the team almost always makes the worst captain.

Tendulkar's record as captain in 1997 was generally regarded as a blot on his career. The Mumbai legend won just 4 Tests and lost 9 during his captaincy, a dismal 16 per cent win-loss record. In ODIs, Sachin was no better winning just 31 per cent of the matches for India.

India at the time was in transition between the near-end of the Azhar era(which dragged on till the 1999 World Cup because there were no captaincy claimants) and the yet-to-begin Saurav, Dravid era.

Sachin at the time did not look the part and after Saurav came into the scene quickly faded as a possible captaincy candidate.

India is witnessing somewhat the same era like the 1990s, Virat Kohli is India's best batsman, he is no doubt ahead of Sachin on current form and statistics prove it, however, his captaincy skills are still debatable.

The decision to go in with four fast bowlers at the WACA when the highest wicket-taker in the first innings at Perth was Nathan Lyon, ignoring Jadeja even as it was common knowledge that rough areas would develop on the pitch, clearly the innovation of Saurav and Dhoni are missing in the current captain.

No one should blame Kohli, after all, he leads from the front and has been India's principal run-getter, in fact, statistics show his run-gathering ability has improved since he became captain of Team India.

However, critics and cricket commentators have a problem with his decision-making skills. The tactical awareness and ability to make quick "instinctive" changes have been missing in Kohli.

Kohli has been unable to solve India's "opening riddle", the team's permanent Achilles heel.

Murli Vijay has consistently let the team down away from home and KL Rahul has proved he does not have "Test ability" at the highest level. Kohli should look at the facts and move on.

Remember how Sourav upgraded Sehwag from No-6 in ODIs straight into the opening slot in Tests which at the time was considered a masterstroke.

Kohli is yet to come up with a selection masterstroke - the hallmark of a great captain.

Cricket matches, like life, are dependent on seizing the initiative, Kohli the batsman is a master at it, however, he still hasn't captured the imagination in as far as his captaincy is concerned.

Mike Brealey recently said although Kohli was brilliant as a captain but seemed "detached" and "uninvolved" during the Oval Test in the recently concluded India-England series when Team India was under the gun. It is a dangerous precedent, especially for India which has one of the worst records in world cricket while playing abroad.

Cricket is also the art of theatre, sometimes it is a platform to "out-sledge" an opponent or team, and for a captain "charisma" counts but India can ill-afford its best batsman to be concentrating on small qualities and not look at the big picture.

Remember, World Cup final is less than six months away and the world will remember Kohli not as a batsman if India fails but as a captain. A real petty!

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Charisma seems to me a limited asset to a captain... (C)harisma does not imply steadiness, patience, concentration, or considerateness, all invaluable in a captain: Mike Brealey on the "Art of Captaincy" × Sachin Tendulkar has the best batting record in the world, the Mumbai maestro is no doubt a legend.

Charisma seems to me a limited asset to a captain... (C)harisma does not imply steadiness, patience, concentration, or considerateness, all invaluable in a captain: Mike Brealey on the "Art of Captaincy" × Sachin Tendulkar has the best batting record in the world, the Mumbai maestro is no doubt a legend. However, history shows the best batsman in the team almost always makes the worst captain. Tendulkar's record as captain in 1997 was generally regarded as a blot on his career. The Mumbai legend won just 4 Tests and lost 9 during his captaincy, a dismal 16 per cent win-loss record. In ODIs, Sachin was no better winning just 31 per cent of the matches for India. India at the time was in transition between the near-end of the Azhar era(which dragged on till the 1999 World Cup because there were no captaincy claimants) and the yet-to-begin Saurav, Dravid era. Sachin at the time did not look the part and after Saurav came into the scene quickly faded as a possible captaincy candidate. India is witnessing somewhat the same era like the 1990s, Virat Kohli is India's best batsman, he is no doubt ahead of Sachin on current form and statistics prove it, however, his captaincy skills are still debatable. The decision to go in with four fast bowlers at the WACA when the highest wicket-taker in the first innings at Perth was Nathan Lyon, ignoring Jadeja even as it was common knowledge that rough areas would develop on the pitch, clearly the innovation of Saurav and Dhoni are missing in the current captain. No one should blame Kohli, after all, he leads from the front and has been India's principal run-getter, in fact, statistics show his run-gathering ability has improved since he became captain of Team India. However, critics and cricket commentators have a problem with his decision-making skills. The tactical awareness and ability to make quick "instinctive" changes have been missing in Kohli. Kohli has been unable to solve India's "opening riddle", the team's permanent Achilles heel. Murli Vijay has consistently let the team down away from home and KL Rahul has proved he does not have "Test ability" at the highest level. Kohli should look at the facts and move on. Remember how Sourav upgraded Sehwag from No-6 in ODIs straight into the opening slot in Tests which at the time was considered a masterstroke. Kohli is yet to come up with a selection masterstroke - the hallmark of a great captain. Cricket matches, like life, are dependent on seizing the initiative, Kohli the batsman is a master at it, however, he still hasn't captured the imagination in as far as his captaincy is concerned. Mike Brealey recently said although Kohli was brilliant as a captain but seemed "detached" and "uninvolved" during the Oval Test in the recently concluded India-England series when Team India was under the gun. It is a dangerous precedent, especially for India which has one of the worst records in world cricket while playing abroad. Cricket is also the art of theatre, sometimes it is a platform to "out-sledge" an opponent or team, and for a captain "charisma" counts but India can ill-afford its best batsman to be concentrating on small qualities and not look at the big picture. Remember, World Cup final is less than six months away and the world will remember Kohli not as a batsman if India fails but as a captain. A real petty! (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

How 'Sachin syndrome' traumatises captain Virat Kohli

The stump&nbsp;mic has revealed the ugly war of words between Indian captain Virat Kohli and Australian skipper Tim Paine on the third day of Perth Test on Sunday.

The match got spiced up on the third day when Virat Kohli completed his&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-virat-kohli-slams-25th-test-century-in-perth-test-184408">25th Test</a> hundred got India to 283 runs but&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-out-or-not-out-debate-over-virat-kohlis-wicket-is-on-184445">caught at second slip</a>&nbsp;after a controversial catch by Peter Handscomb.

Virat looked unhappy with the decision and tensions flared-up when Australia started batting in their second innings.

Both the captains,&nbsp;Virat Kohli and Tim Paine, kept exchanging words, which carried on until stumps.

The hosts finished 175 runs ahead on day three.

Virat was heard yelling at Paine,&nbsp;"If he messes it up, it's 2-0."

The chats were picked up by the microphone after he and his teammates made a loud caught-behind appeal for Paine in the final over of the day.&nbsp;

The Australian captain did not hold himself back and replied: "You've got to bat first, **** head".&nbsp;

Watch the video:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
KOHLI : If u mess it up it's 2-0 
 
PAINE : You Got to Bat First D***Head 
 
Verbals from Skippers😂😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Bjtx6VTT2B">pic.twitter.com/Bjtx6VTT2B</a>
— karthick shivaraman (@ISkarthi) <a href="https://twitter.com/ISkarthi/status/1074292853742829569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</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>

The hosts star-spinner Nathan Lyon, however, played down the incident.

"I think Tim just asked him where he was going for dinner that's all. I've played enough cricket against Virat to know what he's like, and I'm not worried about what he's doing or what India's doing," said Lyon.&nbsp;

"Virat is a great player, he plays on emotion, we all know that, and to be honest I'm not too concerned how Virat reacts or the way he conducts himself. I'm just worried about what we can control in the Australian dressing room and I thought as bowlers we came out today and performed pretty well," he said.&nbsp;

Lyon said: "The wicket seems like it's starting to play a few more little tricks. We were expecting the cracks to play a little bit more, but with that rain yesterday it probably softened our ball up quite a fair bit. I know as bowlers the ball in cricket terms felt like it had no air left in it, so it lost a little bit of zip off the wicket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"But we were pretty happy with the way we bowled and we know that come the second dig we can bowl much better than that. So we can take a few lessons off that first innings," he added.&nbsp;

The stump mic has revealed the ugly war of words between Indian captain Virat Kohli and Australian skipper Tim Paine on the third day of Perth Test on Sunday. The match got spiced up on the third day when Virat Kohli completed his 25th Test hundred got India to 283 runs but caught at second slip after a controversial catch by Peter Handscomb.

The stump mic has revealed the ugly war of words between Indian captain Virat Kohli and Australian skipper Tim Paine on the third day of Perth Test on Sunday. The match got spiced up on the third day when Virat Kohli completed his 25th Test hundred got India to 283 runs but caught at second slip after a controversial catch by Peter Handscomb. Virat looked unhappy with the decision and tensions flared-up when Australia started batting in their second innings. Both the captains, Virat Kohli and Tim Paine, kept exchanging words, which carried on until stumps. The hosts finished 175 runs ahead on day three. Virat was heard yelling at Paine, "If he messes it up, it's 2-0." The chats were picked up by the microphone after he and his teammates made a loud caught-behind appeal for Paine in the final over of the day. The Australian captain did not hold himself back and replied: "You've got to bat first, **** head". Watch the video: KOHLI : If u mess it up it's 2-0 PAINE : You Got to Bat First D***Head Verbals from Skippers😂😂#AUSvIND #AUSvsIND pic.twitter.com/Bjtx6VTT2B — karthick shivaraman (@ISkarthi) December 16, 2018 × The hosts star-spinner Nathan Lyon, however, played down the incident. "I think Tim just asked him where he was going for dinner that's all. I've played enough cricket against Virat to know what he's like, and I'm not worried about what he's doing or what India's doing," said Lyon. "Virat is a great player, he plays on emotion, we all know that, and to be honest I'm not too concerned how Virat reacts or the way he conducts himself. I'm just worried about what we can control in the Australian dressing room and I thought as bowlers we came out today and performed pretty well," he said. Lyon said: "The wicket seems like it's starting to play a few more little tricks. We were expecting the cracks to play a little bit more, but with that rain yesterday it probably softened our ball up quite a fair bit. I know as bowlers the ball in cricket terms felt like it had no air left in it, so it lost a little bit of zip off the wicket. "But we were pretty happy with the way we bowled and we know that come the second dig we can bowl much better than that. So we can take a few lessons off that first innings," he added.

Watch: Stump mic reveals ugly on-pitch chats between Kohli and Paine in Perth Test

Australia need five wickets in the second test to secure a series-levelling victory with India's daunting run chase on a menacing pitch teetering at stumps on day four on Monday.

Chasing 287 runs after bowling out Australia’s second innings for 243, India reached the close at 112 for five with Hanuma Vihari 24 not out and Rishabh Pant unbeaten on nine.

Struggling on the Perth Stadium pitch marked by widening cracks, India made a poor start losing the key wickets of Lokesh Rahul for a fourth-ball duck and Cheteshwar Pujara, India’s first test hero in Adelaide, for four.

India’s faint hopes rested on captain Virat Kohli who counter-attacked with several flowing drives in reminiscent fashion to his masterful first innings of 123.

Kohli combined with opener Murali Vijay to stabilise India before he edged a straight Nathan Lyon delivery to Usman Khawaja at slip for 17, sparking scenes of jubilation from the Australian players.

The off-spinner claimed the India talisman for a record seventh time, the most by a bowler, and in his next over bowled Vijay for 20 off an inside edge.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Lyon and Hazlewood strike in the final session of day four to put Australia in a strong position to level the series in Perth. India are 112/5 at stumps, needing 175 runs on the final day to claim victory.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> scorecard ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc">https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc</a> <a href="https://t.co/edmRkR9Mqr">pic.twitter.com/edmRkR9Mqr</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1074604124208009216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2018</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>

Lyon continued his stranglehold over India, continually troubling the batsmen by targeting the expansive rough patches.

Ajinkya Rahane played his strokes and combined well with Vihari before the India vice-captain fell just before stumps, slashing a Josh Hazlewood delivery straight to point for 30.

The bowling onslaught has Australia on the cusp of snapping a barren six-test run without a win and providing skipper Tim Paine with his first triumph as captain.

Australia's bowlers regained firm control of the match after their batsmen had crumbled against quick Mohammed Shami in the middle session.

After a wicketless morning session, India came alive through blistering short-pitched bowling from Shami, who made the ball steeple off the deteriorating wicket to finish with a career-best 6-56.

Australia spectacularly lost four wickets for six runs starting with Paine (37) falling to a vicious short ball from Shami, which spat off the pitch hitting the glove and ballooned to slip.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Australia pick two quick wickets, and India are 15/2 at Tea. Starc &amp; Hazlewood pick one wicket each. Kohli 0*, Vijay 6* <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/eKdq5ELmIw">pic.twitter.com/eKdq5ELmIw</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1074561545605017600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2018</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>

Shami was on a hat-trick when he had Aaron Finch caught behind down the leg-side in a fleeting resumption for the opener.

Finch retired hurt on day three on 25 after being struck on the glove by a searing short ball from Shami but X-Rays cleared him of serious injury to his right index finger.

Shami was denied the hat-trick but soon claimed his fifth wicket with another menacing bouncer that caught Khawaja's glove to be caught behind for 72.

Australia's lead was 250 before Hazlewood (17 not out) and Mitchell Starc (14) added an invaluable 36 runs for the last wicket.

The pyrotechnics contrasted a sedate morning session dominated by Australia, who grabbed control of a fluctuating match with Khawaja and Paine batting through to lunch.

Australia need five wickets in the second test to secure a series-levelling victory with India's daunting run chase on a menacing pitch teetering at stumps on day four on Monday.

Australia need five wickets in the second test to secure a series-levelling victory with India's daunting run chase on a menacing pitch teetering at stumps on day four on Monday. Chasing 287 runs after bowling out Australia’s second innings for 243, India reached the close at 112 for five with Hanuma Vihari 24 not out and Rishabh Pant unbeaten on nine. Struggling on the Perth Stadium pitch marked by widening cracks, India made a poor start losing the key wickets of Lokesh Rahul for a fourth-ball duck and Cheteshwar Pujara, India’s first test hero in Adelaide, for four. India’s faint hopes rested on captain Virat Kohli who counter-attacked with several flowing drives in reminiscent fashion to his masterful first innings of 123. Kohli combined with opener Murali Vijay to stabilise India before he edged a straight Nathan Lyon delivery to Usman Khawaja at slip for 17, sparking scenes of jubilation from the Australian players. The off-spinner claimed the India talisman for a record seventh time, the most by a bowler, and in his next over bowled Vijay for 20 off an inside edge. Lyon and Hazlewood strike in the final session of day four to put Australia in a strong position to level the series in Perth. India are 112/5 at stumps, needing 175 runs on the final day to claim victory.#AUSvIND scorecard ➡️ https://t.co/viG01Bpvlc pic.twitter.com/edmRkR9Mqr — ICC (@ICC) December 17, 2018 × Lyon continued his stranglehold over India, continually troubling the batsmen by targeting the expansive rough patches. Ajinkya Rahane played his strokes and combined well with Vihari before the India vice-captain fell just before stumps, slashing a Josh Hazlewood delivery straight to point for 30. The bowling onslaught has Australia on the cusp of snapping a barren six-test run without a win and providing skipper Tim Paine with his first triumph as captain. Australia's bowlers regained firm control of the match after their batsmen had crumbled against quick Mohammed Shami in the middle session. After a wicketless morning session, India came alive through blistering short-pitched bowling from Shami, who made the ball steeple off the deteriorating wicket to finish with a career-best 6-56. Australia spectacularly lost four wickets for six runs starting with Paine (37) falling to a vicious short ball from Shami, which spat off the pitch hitting the glove and ballooned to slip. Australia pick two quick wickets, and India are 15/2 at Tea. Starc & Hazlewood pick one wicket each. Kohli 0*, Vijay 6* #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/eKdq5ELmIw — BCCI (@BCCI) December 17, 2018 × Shami was on a hat-trick when he had Aaron Finch caught behind down the leg-side in a fleeting resumption for the opener. Finch retired hurt on day three on 25 after being struck on the glove by a searing short ball from Shami but X-Rays cleared him of serious injury to his right index finger. Shami was denied the hat-trick but soon claimed his fifth wicket with another menacing bouncer that caught Khawaja's glove to be caught behind for 72. Australia's lead was 250 before Hazlewood (17 not out) and Mitchell Starc (14) added an invaluable 36 runs for the last wicket. The pyrotechnics contrasted a sedate morning session dominated by Australia, who grabbed control of a fluctuating match with Khawaja and Paine batting through to lunch.

India vs Australia, 2nd Test, Day 4: Australia five wickets away from winning

perth-test

Perth Test, News on Perth Test, stories on Perth Test, articles on Perth Test, Perth Test stories at Wion, Perth Test news, Perth Test latest news

perth test