<p>Former Indian chief selector MSK Prasad slammed Rohit Sharma for his ordinary batting and poor captaincy in the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. On Day 2 of the fourth and penultimate Test between India and Australia, on Friday (Dec 27), Rohit's torrid run continued with the bat as he opened and departed for 3. Moreover, he looked clueless in his bowling changes as Australia posted 474 after being asked to bat first on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test. Hence, MSK lashed out at Rohit.</p>
<p>Rohit missed the series opener of the ongoing BGT, in Perth. In his absence, India won by 295 runs but everything has gone downhill for the visitors since Rohit's arrival. He has struggled with the bat and several questions have been raised on Hitman's captaincy, for his team selection and on-field calls.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In this regard, MSK said, on commentary, during Day 2 of the MCG Test, "You really raised the topic of Rohit Sharma's captaincy. Heading into this series, you know, we had our 3-match series against New Zealand. It was pathetic. It never happened in the history of Indian cricket that we lost back-to-back 3 games. Rohit got absolutely no runs in that series, so he comes into this series. He didn't play the first game. Bumrah led the side very well, so Rohit comes after the backdrop of continuous failures."</p>
<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/mcg-test-day-2-report-india-hurt-by-late-setbacks-in-response-to-australias-474-border-gavaskar-trophy-boxing-day-test-8569799" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">MCG Test, Day 2 report: India hurt by late setbacks in response to Australia's 474</a></strong></p>
<p class="edpara">The former Indian keeper-batter added, "I personally feel that has got a direct impact, you know, if you see that, you know, captain, you know, if he comes with some sort of form that has a direct impact on the side and he comes after a series of failures and that has clearly shown the way he led the side also he's not proactive on many occasions. If you see in this Test match itself, you know, he had 11 overs bowled by Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah on a trot, especially when Sam Konstas was going tongs and tongs and that's has been the case with his captaincy. He's been struggling a bit both with his bat and also in captaincy."</p>
<p class="edpara">Talking about the second day's play of the MCG Test, India ended at 164-5 in response to Australia's 474. After Steve Smith's 140 propelled the hosts to a big score, India fell from 153-2 to 164-5. Rohit opened the innings, after his failures at No. 6, but fell for 3 whereas Yashasvi Jaiswal (82) and Virat Kohli (36) fell in quick succession before stumps.</p>
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BGT: 'He's been struggling', - MSK Prasad SLAMS Rohit Sharma's captaincy as India struggle in MCG Test

Former Indian chief selector MSK Prasad slammed Rohit Sharma for his ordinary batting and poor captaincy in the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. On Day 2 of the fourth and penultimate Test between India and Australia, on Friday (Dec 27), Rohit's torrid run continued with the bat as he opened and departed for 3. Moreover, he looked clueless in his bowling changes as Australia posted 474 after being asked to bat first on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test. Hence, MSK lashed out at Rohit. Rohit missed the series opener of the ongoing BGT, in Perth. In his absence, India won by 295 runs but everything has gone downhill for the visitors since Rohit's arrival. He has struggled with the bat and several questions have been raised on Hitman's captaincy, for his team selection and on-field calls. In this regard, MSK said, on commentary, during Day 2 of the MCG Test, "You really raised the topic of Rohit Sharma's captaincy. Heading into this series, you know, we had our 3-match series against New Zealand. It was pathetic. It never happened in the history of Indian cricket that we lost back-to-back 3 games. Rohit got absolutely no runs in that series, so he comes into this series. He didn't play the first game. Bumrah led the side very well, so Rohit comes after the backdrop of continuous failures." Also read: MCG Test, Day 2 report: India hurt by late setbacks in response to Australia's 474 The former Indian keeper-batter added, "I personally feel that has got a direct impact, you know, if you see that, you know, captain, you know, if he comes with some sort of form that has a direct impact on the side and he comes after a series of failures and that has clearly shown the way he led the side also he's not proactive on many occasions. If you see in this Test match itself, you know, he had 11 overs bowled by Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah on a trot, especially when Sam Konstas was going tongs and tongs and that's has been the case with his captaincy. He's been struggling a bit both with his bat and also in captaincy." Talking about the second day's play of the MCG Test, India ended at 164-5 in response to Australia's 474. After Steve Smith's 140 propelled the hosts to a big score, India fell from 153-2 to 164-5. Rohit opened the innings, after his failures at No. 6, but fell for 3 whereas Yashasvi Jaiswal (82) and Virat Kohli (36) fell in quick succession before stumps.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">India&rsquo;s batting coach Abhishek Nayar has made a major revelation on the team&rsquo;s batting position with skipper Rohit Sharma set to return to the opening spot in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Nayar, after Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test spoke to the broadcasters and media as he confirmed the news of Rohit&rsquo;s batting position in the Boxing Day Test against Australia. This will mean KL Rahul is likely to drop into the middle order.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;"><strong>Nayar confirms Rohit&rsquo;s position</strong><o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">&ldquo;Rohit will come up in the order and more likely than not he will open the innings for us,&rdquo; Nayar said to the reporters on Thursday.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">&nbsp;&ldquo;I feel for Shubman but he understands. He&rsquo;s not really dropped, just couldn&rsquo;t find his way in the combination,&rdquo; Nayar said.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">The Indian skipper skipped the opening Test match in Perth due to paternity leave before returning to the side for the pink-ball contest in Adelaide. However, an impressive show with the bat from Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul in the opener&rsquo;s position saw Rohit drop to the middle-order, a position he has been familiar with. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">However, Jaiswal and Rahul have been inconsistent in their roles at the top, so the Indian team management has now decided to move the latter into the middle order.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">ALSO READ | </span><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-steve-smith-joins-donald-bradman-on-elite-list-with-68-on-day-one-of-boxing-day-test-8567176" aria-label="BGT: Smith joins Bradman on elite list with 68* on day one at MCG">BGT: Smith joins Bradman on elite list with 68* on day one at MCG</a></strong></p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;"><strong>Sam Konstas makes headlines on Day 1</strong><o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">Playing on Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Sam Konstas made headlines with a 52-ball fifty. He was in good form for the hosts having become the youngest opener for Australia in Test history. On debut, he scored 60 runs before being dismissed. The Aussie top-order was seen in top form with out-of-form Usman Khawaja (57) and Marnus Labuschagne (72) scoring respective fifties. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">Steven Smith (68) is unbeaten for the hosts alongside skipper Pat Cummins (6) as they closed the day at 311/6 in 86 overs.</span></p>

Abhishek Nayar, after Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test spoke to the broadcasters and media as he confirmed the news of Rohit Sharma’s batting position in the Boxing Day Test against Australia. This will mean KL Rahul is likely to drop into the middle order. 

India’s batting coach Abhishek Nayar has made a major revelation on the team’s batting position with skipper Rohit Sharma set to return to the opening spot in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Nayar, after Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test spoke to the broadcasters and media as he confirmed the news of Rohit’s batting position in the Boxing Day Test against Australia. This will mean KL Rahul is likely to drop into the middle order. Nayar confirms Rohit’s position “Rohit will come up in the order and more likely than not he will open the innings for us,” Nayar said to the reporters on Thursday. “I feel for Shubman but he understands. He’s not really dropped, just couldn’t find his way in the combination,” Nayar said. The Indian skipper skipped the opening Test match in Perth due to paternity leave before returning to the side for the pink-ball contest in Adelaide. However, an impressive show with the bat from Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul in the opener’s position saw Rohit drop to the middle-order, a position he has been familiar with. However, Jaiswal and Rahul have been inconsistent in their roles at the top, so the Indian team management has now decided to move the latter into the middle order. ALSO READ | BGT: Smith joins Bradman on elite list with 68* on day one at MCG Sam Konstas makes headlines on Day 1 Playing on Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Sam Konstas made headlines with a 52-ball fifty. He was in good form for the hosts having become the youngest opener for Australia in Test history. On debut, he scored 60 runs before being dismissed. The Aussie top-order was seen in top form with out-of-form Usman Khawaja (57) and Marnus Labuschagne (72) scoring respective fifties. Steven Smith (68) is unbeaten for the hosts alongside skipper Pat Cummins (6) as they closed the day at 311/6 in 86 overs.

BGT 2024/25: Abhishek Nayar confirms Rohit Sharma's batting position, says 'he will...'

<p>Australia ended Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test versus India, at the MCG, Melbourne, at 311-6 on Thursday (Dec 26). There was plenty of drama and action during the opening day's play which saw Australia's top four impress with a fifty each with debutant Sam Konstas making a 65-ball 60. For India, in-form pacer Jasprit Bumrah remained among wickets as he managed to account for three big scalps, also removing Travis Head for a duck, to stage his side's recovery after the Aussies were 237-2 at one stage.</p>
<p>The day's play commenced with Rohit Sharma-led visitors asking Australia to bat first at the iconic venue. The new opening pair of Konstas and Usman Khawaja started positively. The debutant impressed one and all by taking on Bumrah, with a reverse-sweep six, and wasn't afraid to charge down the ground as well. He scored a blazing 65-ball 60 as Australian openers put on 89 in 19 overs. Ravindra Jadeja dismissed him before the lunch break as Australia ended the first session at 112-1.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/border-gavaskar-trophy-2024-25-australia-end-day-1-of-boxing-day-test-at-311-6-debutant-sam-konstas-impresses-with-fiery-60-8566856" rel="dofollow">Also read | BGT: Australia end Day 1 of Boxing Day Test at 311-6, debutant Sam Konstas impresses with fiery 60</a></p>
<p>The second session saw Australia progress steadily as India got one breakthrough with Bumrah removing Khawaja (57). The third session saw Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith continue to add runs on the board as the duo complemented each other very well. Labuschagne got out for 72 against the run of play, taking on Washington Sundar. This opened the doors for India's comeback as Bumrah struck twice in quick succession. From 237-2, Australia was reduced to 246-5.</p>
<p>Alex Carey and Smith stitched an important 53-run sixth-wicket stand with both taking on the attack. Before the end of the play, Carey was dismissed by Akash Deep. The home side ended with 311-6. They scored at a healthy pace in the first and last session, however, India would be content with their comeback and aim to dismiss the hosts before the 350-run mark on Day 2, on Friday (Dec 27).&nbsp;</p>

BGT: Australia ended Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test at 311-6 with fifties from the top four. Debutant Sam Konstas impressed with a fiery 60.

Australia ended Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test versus India, at the MCG, Melbourne, at 311-6 on Thursday (Dec 26). There was plenty of drama and action during the opening day's play which saw Australia's top four impress with a fifty each with debutant Sam Konstas making a 65-ball 60. For India, in-form pacer Jasprit Bumrah remained among wickets as he managed to account for three big scalps, also removing Travis Head for a duck, to stage his side's recovery after the Aussies were 237-2 at one stage. The day's play commenced with Rohit Sharma-led visitors asking Australia to bat first at the iconic venue. The new opening pair of Konstas and Usman Khawaja started positively. The debutant impressed one and all by taking on Bumrah, with a reverse-sweep six, and wasn't afraid to charge down the ground as well. He scored a blazing 65-ball 60 as Australian openers put on 89 in 19 overs. Ravindra Jadeja dismissed him before the lunch break as Australia ended the first session at 112-1. Also read | BGT: Australia end Day 1 of Boxing Day Test at 311-6, debutant Sam Konstas impresses with fiery 60 The second session saw Australia progress steadily as India got one breakthrough with Bumrah removing Khawaja (57). The third session saw Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith continue to add runs on the board as the duo complemented each other very well. Labuschagne got out for 72 against the run of play, taking on Washington Sundar. This opened the doors for India's comeback as Bumrah struck twice in quick succession. From 237-2, Australia was reduced to 246-5. Alex Carey and Smith stitched an important 53-run sixth-wicket stand with both taking on the attack. Before the end of the play, Carey was dismissed by Akash Deep. The home side ended with 311-6. They scored at a healthy pace in the first and last session, however, India would be content with their comeback and aim to dismiss the hosts before the 350-run mark on Day 2, on Friday (Dec 27).

BGT: Australia end Day 1 of Boxing Day Test at 311-6, debutant Sam Konstas impresses with fiery 60

<p><span class="region">New Delhi, India</span>
<p>Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed his unwavering support to Virat Kohli for being able to counter his woes outside off-stump deliveries ahead of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia, at the MCG, Melbourne. Kohli scored a hundred in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series opener, in Perth, but fell flat in the next two games, due to his weakness outside off-stump. Thus, Rohit supported the 'modern-day great' in tackling his issues and becoming good at the MCG, with the five-match series tied at 1-1 after three Tests.</p></p>
<p>When asked if he had spoken to Kohli about his weakness, Rohit Sharma said in the pre-match presser, "You only said he is a modern-day great. Modern-day greats will figure out their way or the path (to overcome issues)."</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-head-coach-andrew-mcdonald-confirms-sam-konstas-debut-for-boxing-day-test-travis-head-uncertain-786336">BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain</a></strong></p>
<p>Speaking of Rohit, Hitman has also struggled for runs in the ongoing series versus Pat Cummins-led Australia. After missing the series opener, due to paternity leave, Rohit has had scores of 3, 6 and 10. He demoted himself from opening the innings to batting at No. 6 but the move hasn't paid dividends. He did this to ensure KL Rahul bats at the top, who has been in good form since the series opener.</p>
<p>On being asked about his batting spot, Rohit said, "Let's not worry about that. I think 'who bats where?' is something that we need to figure out within ourselves. It's not something I should be discussing at every press conference. Whatever it takes for our team to look good or give the best chance to succeed, we will do that."</p>
<p>The Boxing Day Test commences on Thursday (Dec 26) as both sides will look to take an unassailable lead in the five-match series. If India win, they will be able to retain the BGT once again, since 2016/17.</p>


BGT 2024/25: Indian captain Rohit Sharma backed 'modern-day great' Virat Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in the Boxing Day Test, in Melbourne.



New Delhi, India Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed his unwavering support to Virat Kohli for being able to counter his woes outside off-stump deliveries ahead of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia, at the MCG, Melbourne. Kohli scored a hundred in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series opener, in Perth, but fell flat in the next two games, due to his weakness outside off-stump. Thus, Rohit supported the 'modern-day great' in tackling his issues and becoming good at the MCG, with the five-match series tied at 1-1 after three Tests. When asked if he had spoken to Kohli about his weakness, Rohit Sharma said in the pre-match presser, "You only said he is a modern-day great. Modern-day greats will figure out their way or the path (to overcome issues)." Also read: BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain Speaking of Rohit, Hitman has also struggled for runs in the ongoing series versus Pat Cummins-led Australia. After missing the series opener, due to paternity leave, Rohit has had scores of 3, 6 and 10. He demoted himself from opening the innings to batting at No. 6 but the move hasn't paid dividends. He did this to ensure KL Rahul bats at the top, who has been in good form since the series opener. On being asked about his batting spot, Rohit said, "Let's not worry about that. I think 'who bats where?' is something that we need to figure out within ourselves. It's not something I should be discussing at every press conference. Whatever it takes for our team to look good or give the best chance to succeed, we will do that." The Boxing Day Test commences on Thursday (Dec 26) as both sides will look to take an unassailable lead in the five-match series. If India win, they will be able to retain the BGT once again, since 2016/17.

BGT: Rohit backs 'modern-day great' Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in Boxing Day Test

<p><span class="region">Melbourne, Australia</span>
<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma has declared himself fit for the Boxing Day Test match against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, dismissing any injury concerns. Speaking to the press ahead of the fourth Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Rohit said his knee is doing fine and will be available for selection in the traditional contest. On the other hand, he has also backed the likes of Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill to come good in the series as India chase a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.</p></p>
<h2><strong>Rohit dismisses injury concern</strong></h2>
<p>"My knee is fine," said Rohit on Christmas Eve ahead of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Test between India and Australia.</p>
<p>"Let's not worry about who bats where. Something that we need to figure out and not something I would be discussing here. We will do what is best for the team," Rohit on Kohli's form.</p>
<p>Rohit was hit on the knee on Monday during the practice session at MCG. India will head into the Boxing Day contest fighting for a place in the WTC final, with a win putting them in pole position. Rohit’s men have a proud recent record at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) having avoided defeats on their last three defeats. Interestingly, India have won the last two Tests at the venue under the leadership of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively. Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, India drew the 2014 Boxing Day Test while Australia’s last win came in the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.</p>
<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-head-coach-andrew-mcdonald-confirms-sam-konstas-debut-for-boxing-day-test-travis-head-uncertain-786336">BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>Pant, Gill to come good at MCG?</strong></h2>
<p>So far in the BGT, Rishabh Pant has scored 96 runs in the five innings, scoring at an average of 19.2. On the other hand, Gill has scored 151 runs in five innings, again being a concern for the management. However, Rohit has backed them to come good in the BGT and show their class. Yashasvi Jaiswal has also struggled to cope with the Aussie bowling attack excluding his second innings heroics at Optus Stadium in Perth.</p>
<p>Currently, the BGT is all square at 1-1 after a draw at Gabba between India and Australia. Earlier, India had won the Perth Test with a record margin of 295 runs while Australia returned the favours with a 10-wicket win in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.</p>


Speaking to the press ahead of the fourth Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Rohit Sharma said his knee is doing fine and will be available for selection in the traditional contest. On the other hand, he has also backed the likes of Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill to come good in the series as India chase a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.



Melbourne, Australia India skipper Rohit Sharma has declared himself fit for the Boxing Day Test match against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, dismissing any injury concerns. Speaking to the press ahead of the fourth Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Rohit said his knee is doing fine and will be available for selection in the traditional contest. On the other hand, he has also backed the likes of Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill to come good in the series as India chase a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Rohit dismisses injury concern "My knee is fine," said Rohit on Christmas Eve ahead of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Test between India and Australia. "Let's not worry about who bats where. Something that we need to figure out and not something I would be discussing here. We will do what is best for the team," Rohit on Kohli's form. Rohit was hit on the knee on Monday during the practice session at MCG. India will head into the Boxing Day contest fighting for a place in the WTC final, with a win putting them in pole position. Rohit’s men have a proud recent record at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) having avoided defeats on their last three defeats. Interestingly, India have won the last two Tests at the venue under the leadership of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively. Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, India drew the 2014 Boxing Day Test while Australia’s last win came in the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain Pant, Gill to come good at MCG? So far in the BGT, Rishabh Pant has scored 96 runs in the five innings, scoring at an average of 19.2. On the other hand, Gill has scored 151 runs in five innings, again being a concern for the management. However, Rohit has backed them to come good in the BGT and show their class. Yashasvi Jaiswal has also struggled to cope with the Aussie bowling attack excluding his second innings heroics at Optus Stadium in Perth. Currently, the BGT is all square at 1-1 after a draw at Gabba between India and Australia. Earlier, India had won the Perth Test with a record margin of 295 runs while Australia returned the favours with a 10-wicket win in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.

BGT 2024/25: 'My knee is fine, let's not worry,' says Rohit Sharma ahead of Boxing Day Test against Australia

<p>Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed his unwavering support to Virat Kohli for being able to counter his woes outside off-stump deliveries ahead of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia, at the MCG, Melbourne. Kohli scored a hundred in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series opener, in Perth, but fell flat in the next two games, due to his weakness outside off-stump. Thus, Rohit supported the 'modern-day great' in tackling his issues and becoming good at the MCG, with the five-match series tied at 1-1 after three Tests.</p>

<p>When asked if he had spoken to Kohli about his&nbsp;weakness, Rohit Sharma said in the pre-match presser, "You only said he is a modern-day great. Modern-day greats will figure out their way or the path (to overcome issues)."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-head-coach-andrew-mcdonald-confirms-sam-konstas-debut-for-boxing-day-test-travis-head-uncertain-786336">BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking of Rohit, Hitman has also struggled for runs in the ongoing series versus Pat Cummins-led Australia. After missing the series opener, due to paternity leave, Rohit has had scores of 3, 6 and 10. He demoted himself from opening the innings to batting at No. 6 but the move hasn't paid dividends. He did this to ensure KL Rahul bats at the top, who has been in good form since the series opener.</p>

<p>On being asked about his batting spot, Rohit said, "Let's not worry about that. I think 'who bats where?' is something that we need to figure out within ourselves. It's not something I should be discussing at every press conference. Whatever it takes for our team to look good or give the best chance to succeed, we will do that."</p>

<p>The Boxing Day Test commences on Thursday (Dec 26) as both sides will look to take an unassailable lead in the five-match series. If India win, they will be able to retain the BGT once again, since 2016/17.</p>


Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed his unwavering support to Virat Kohli for being able to counter his woes outside off-stump deliveries ahead of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia, at the MCG, Melbourne.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed his unwavering support to Virat Kohli for being able to counter his woes outside off-stump deliveries ahead of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia, at the MCG, Melbourne. Kohli scored a hundred in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series opener, in Perth, but fell flat in the next two games, due to his weakness outside off-stump. Thus, Rohit supported the 'modern-day great' in tackling his issues and becoming good at the MCG, with the five-match series tied at 1-1 after three Tests. When asked if he had spoken to Kohli about his weakness, Rohit Sharma said in the pre-match presser, "You only said he is a modern-day great. Modern-day greats will figure out their way or the path (to overcome issues)." Also read: BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain Speaking of Rohit, Hitman has also struggled for runs in the ongoing series versus Pat Cummins-led Australia. After missing the series opener, due to paternity leave, Rohit has had scores of 3, 6 and 10. He demoted himself from opening the innings to batting at No. 6 but the move hasn't paid dividends. He did this to ensure KL Rahul bats at the top, who has been in good form since the series opener. On being asked about his batting spot, Rohit said, "Let's not worry about that. I think 'who bats where?' is something that we need to figure out within ourselves. It's not something I should be discussing at every press conference. Whatever it takes for our team to look good or give the best chance to succeed, we will do that." The Boxing Day Test commences on Thursday (Dec 26) as both sides will look to take an unassailable lead in the five-match series. If India win, they will be able to retain the BGT once again, since 2016/17.

<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma has declared himself fit for the Boxing Day Test match against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, dismissing any injury concerns. Speaking to the press ahead of the fourth Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Rohit said his knee is doing fine and will be available for selection in the traditional contest. On the other hand, he has also backed the likes of Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill to come good in the series as India chase a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.</p>

<h2><strong>Rohit dismisses injury concern</strong></h2>

<p>"My knee is fine," said Rohit on Christmas Eve ahead of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Test between India and Australia.</p>

<p>"Let's not worry about who bats where. Something that we need to figure out and not something I would be discussing here. We will do what is best for the team," Rohit on Kohli's form.</p>

<p>Rohit was hit on the knee on Monday during the practice session at MCG. India will head into the Boxing Day contest fighting for a place in the WTC final, with a win putting them in pole position. Rohit’s men have a proud recent record at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) having avoided defeats on their last three defeats. Interestingly, India have won the last two Tests at the venue under the leadership of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively. Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, India drew the 2014 Boxing Day Test while Australia’s last win came in the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-head-coach-andrew-mcdonald-confirms-sam-konstas-debut-for-boxing-day-test-travis-head-uncertain-786336">BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Pant, Gill to come good at MCG?</strong></h2>

<p>So far in the BGT, Rishabh Pant has scored 96 runs in the five innings, scoring at an average of 19.2. On the other hand, Gill has scored 151 runs in five innings, again being a concern for the management. However, Rohit has backed them to come good in the BGT and show their class. Yashasvi Jaiswal has also struggled to cope with the Aussie bowling attack excluding his second innings heroics at Optus Stadium in Perth.</p>

<p>Currently, the BGT is all square at 1-1 after a draw at Gabba between India and Australia. Earlier, India had won the Perth Test with a record margin of 295 runs while Australia returned the favours with a 10-wicket win in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.</p>


India skipper Rohit Sharma has declared himself fit for the Boxing Day Test match against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, dismissing any injury concerns.

India skipper Rohit Sharma has declared himself fit for the Boxing Day Test match against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, dismissing any injury concerns. Speaking to the press ahead of the fourth Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Rohit said his knee is doing fine and will be available for selection in the traditional contest. On the other hand, he has also backed the likes of Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill to come good in the series as India chase a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Rohit dismisses injury concern "My knee is fine," said Rohit on Christmas Eve ahead of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Test between India and Australia. "Let's not worry about who bats where. Something that we need to figure out and not something I would be discussing here. We will do what is best for the team," Rohit on Kohli's form. Rohit was hit on the knee on Monday during the practice session at MCG. India will head into the Boxing Day contest fighting for a place in the WTC final, with a win putting them in pole position. Rohit’s men have a proud recent record at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) having avoided defeats on their last three defeats. Interestingly, India have won the last two Tests at the venue under the leadership of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively. Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, India drew the 2014 Boxing Day Test while Australia’s last win came in the 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain Pant, Gill to come good at MCG? So far in the BGT, Rishabh Pant has scored 96 runs in the five innings, scoring at an average of 19.2. On the other hand, Gill has scored 151 runs in five innings, again being a concern for the management. However, Rohit has backed them to come good in the BGT and show their class. Yashasvi Jaiswal has also struggled to cope with the Aussie bowling attack excluding his second innings heroics at Optus Stadium in Perth. Currently, the BGT is all square at 1-1 after a draw at Gabba between India and Australia. Earlier, India had won the Perth Test with a record margin of 295 runs while Australia returned the favours with a 10-wicket win in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.

<p><span class="region">Melbourne, Australia</span>
<p>India cricket team skipper Rohit Sharma suffered an injury scare during practice ahead of the Boxing Day Test - the fourth of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series. Rohit was seen wearing a knee brace on the sidelines of the net session at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).</p></p>
<p>Rohit can be seen ice-packing the left knee in a photo doing rounds on social media platform X. Have a look at the picture below:</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">During the practice session, Rohit Sharma was hit on the knee and KL Rahul on the right hand. <a href="https://t.co/iod1uPYD6U">pic.twitter.com/iod1uPYD6U</a></p>
<p>— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vipintiwari952/status/1870640159106171167?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p>The skipper anyway is dealing with a loss of form and the pressure on him would be immense going into the fourth Test of the series with the World Test Championship (WTC) final on the line.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/hope-that-you-will-continue-india-pm-narendra-modi-writes-heartfelt-letter-to-ravi-ashwin-on-retirement-785920">'Hope that you will continue...,' Indian PM Narendra Modi writes heartfelt letter to R Ashwin on retirement</a></p>
<p>Rohit decided to bat in the middle order after KL Rahul did well in the first BGT Test in Perth as the opener during which Rohit was absent due to his second child's birth.</p>
<p>The skipper's form, however, has been a cause of concern long before the Australia tour. In the five Tests he played before the BGT, Rohit scored only 133 runs in 10 innings at an average of 13.33 with a highest of 52. It is to be noted that all those five Tests were played at home.</p>
<p>Rahul, on the other hand, has been doing a fine job as an opener in Australia. The batter has scored 235 runs in six innings - the highest for India in the series so far and second highest overall behind Travis Head's 409.</p>
<p>Rahul has scored those runs at an average of 47 with two fifties and a highest of 84, which he hit in Brisbane, helping India draw the rain-affected Test.</p>
<p>The five-Test series currently stands equal at 1-1 with one more Test to go after Boxing Day Test. India won the first Test of the series before losing the second, while the third Test ended in a draw.</p>


The skipper anyway is dealing with a loss of form and the pressure on him would be immense going into the fourth Test of the series with the World Test Championship (WTC) final on the line.



Melbourne, Australia India cricket team skipper Rohit Sharma suffered an injury scare during practice ahead of the Boxing Day Test - the fourth of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series. Rohit was seen wearing a knee brace on the sidelines of the net session at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Rohit can be seen ice-packing the left knee in a photo doing rounds on social media platform X. Have a look at the picture below: During the practice session, Rohit Sharma was hit on the knee and KL Rahul on the right hand. pic.twitter.com/iod1uPYD6U — Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) December 22, 2024 × The skipper anyway is dealing with a loss of form and the pressure on him would be immense going into the fourth Test of the series with the World Test Championship (WTC) final on the line. Also Read: 'Hope that you will continue...,' Indian PM Narendra Modi writes heartfelt letter to R Ashwin on retirement Rohit decided to bat in the middle order after KL Rahul did well in the first BGT Test in Perth as the opener during which Rohit was absent due to his second child's birth. The skipper's form, however, has been a cause of concern long before the Australia tour. In the five Tests he played before the BGT, Rohit scored only 133 runs in 10 innings at an average of 13.33 with a highest of 52. It is to be noted that all those five Tests were played at home. Rahul, on the other hand, has been doing a fine job as an opener in Australia. The batter has scored 235 runs in six innings - the highest for India in the series so far and second highest overall behind Travis Head's 409. Rahul has scored those runs at an average of 47 with two fifties and a highest of 84, which he hit in Brisbane, helping India draw the rain-affected Test. The five-Test series currently stands equal at 1-1 with one more Test to go after Boxing Day Test. India won the first Test of the series before losing the second, while the third Test ended in a draw.

BGT 2024-25: India skipper Rohit Sharma suffers injury scare ahead of Boxing Day Test

<p>India cricket team skipper Rohit Sharma suffered an injury scare during practice ahead of the Boxing Day Test - the fourth of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series. Rohit was seen wearing a knee brace on the sidelines of the net session at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).</p>

<p>Rohit can be seen ice-packing the left knee in a photo doing rounds on social media platform X. Have a look at the picture below:</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">During the practice session, Rohit Sharma was hit on the knee and KL Rahul on the right hand. <a href="https://t.co/iod1uPYD6U">pic.twitter.com/iod1uPYD6U</a></p>
— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vipintiwari952/status/1870640159106171167?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The skipper anyway is dealing with a loss of form and the pressure on him would be immense going into the fourth Test of the series with the World Test Championship (WTC) final on the line.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/hope-that-you-will-continue-india-pm-narendra-modi-writes-heartfelt-letter-to-ravi-ashwin-on-retirement-785920">'Hope that you will continue...,' Indian PM Narendra Modi writes heartfelt letter to R Ashwin on retirement</a></p>

<p>Rohit decided to bat in the middle order after KL Rahul did well in the first BGT Test in Perth as the opener during which Rohit was absent due to his second child's birth.</p>

<p>The skipper's form, however, has been a cause of concern long before the Australia tour. In the five Tests he played before the BGT, Rohit scored only 133 runs in 10 innings at an average of 13.33 with a highest of 52. It is to be noted that all those five Tests were played at home.</p>

<p>Rahul, on the other hand, has been doing a fine job as an opener in Australia. The batter has scored 235 runs in six innings - the highest for India in the series so far and second highest overall behind Travis Head's 409.</p>

<p>Rahul has scored those runs at an average of 47 with two fifties and a highest of 84, which he hit in Brisbane, helping India draw the rain-affected Test.</p>

<p>The five-Test series currently stands equal at 1-1 with one more Test to go after Boxing Day Test. India won the first Test of the series before losing the second, while the third Test ended in a draw.</p>


India cricket team skipper Rohit Sharma suffered an injury scare during practice ahead of the Boxing Day Test - the fourth of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series.

India cricket team skipper Rohit Sharma suffered an injury scare during practice ahead of the Boxing Day Test - the fourth of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series. Rohit was seen wearing a knee brace on the sidelines of the net session at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Rohit can be seen ice-packing the left knee in a photo doing rounds on social media platform X. Have a look at the picture below: During the practice session, Rohit Sharma was hit on the knee and KL Rahul on the right hand. pic.twitter.com/iod1uPYD6U — Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) December 22, 2024 × The skipper anyway is dealing with a loss of form and the pressure on him would be immense going into the fourth Test of the series with the World Test Championship (WTC) final on the line. Also Read: 'Hope that you will continue...,' Indian PM Narendra Modi writes heartfelt letter to R Ashwin on retirement Rohit decided to bat in the middle order after KL Rahul did well in the first BGT Test in Perth as the opener during which Rohit was absent due to his second child's birth. The skipper's form, however, has been a cause of concern long before the Australia tour. In the five Tests he played before the BGT, Rohit scored only 133 runs in 10 innings at an average of 13.33 with a highest of 52. It is to be noted that all those five Tests were played at home. Rahul, on the other hand, has been doing a fine job as an opener in Australia. The batter has scored 235 runs in six innings - the highest for India in the series so far and second highest overall behind Travis Head's 409. Rahul has scored those runs at an average of 47 with two fifties and a highest of 84, which he hit in Brisbane, helping India draw the rain-affected Test. The five-Test series currently stands equal at 1-1 with one more Test to go after Boxing Day Test. India won the first Test of the series before losing the second, while the third Test ended in a draw.

<p><span class="region">New Delhi, India</span>
<p>Team India finally ended their barren run of 17 years to win their second T20 World Cup after they beat South Africa in the final on 29 June 2024. Defending 177, India beat South Africa by seven runs to win a last-over thriller in Barbados. The Men in Blue also ended their 11-year wait for an ICC trophy having last won the Champions Trophy in 2013. Virat Kohli was the star of the match having scored 76 runs in the final while Indian bowlers deserved credit having pulled off a master class with the ball in the death overs.</p></p>
<h2><strong>India win last-over thriller</strong></h2>
<p>Tasked to defend 177, South Africa were in the driver’s seat until the last three overs when they needed 27 runs to win from 28 balls. However, a show of class with the ball and then in the field saw India pull off a great win. Suryakumar Yadav’s catch of David Miller in the final over was also decisive. India restricted South Africa to 169/8 in 20 overs and won the T20 World Cup for the first time since 2007.</p>
<p>South Africa got off to a poor start in their innings having lost Reeza Hendricks (4) and Aiden Markram (4) in the opening three overs. However, the Proteas then recovered well Tristan Stubbs (31) and Klaasen stitching a partnership of 58 runs for the third wicket. Despite Stubbs’ wicket, Klaasen continued his onslaught with the ball to help South Africa take the driver’s seat. His innings consisted of 5 sixes and 2 fours and he scored 52 off 27 deliveries in his innings.</p>
<p>However, Klaasen’s wicket on the first ball of the 17th over completely changed the course of the match with further wickets of Marco Jansen (2) and Miller (21) adding to India’s win.</p>
<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/explained-the-complex-and-strained-cricketing-ties-between-india-and-pakistan-785829">Explained: The complex and strained cricketing ties between India and Pakistan</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>Virat Kohli comes good with the bat</strong></h2>
<p>Batting first, like South Africa, India also suffered blows at the start of the innings with skipper Rohit Sharma (9), Rishabh Pant (0) and Suryakumar Yadav (3) all getting out in the powerplay. India were 34/3 at one stage, however, they recovered well after Virat and Axar Patel helped the 2007 champions recover. Virat scored 76 off 59 while Axar was unfortunate to get run out on 47 off 31 when was caught napping by Quinton de Kock.</p>
<p>Shivam Dube also played a valuable innings of 27 runs off 16 balls which helped India post 176/7 in their 20 overs. Keshav Maharaj (23/2) and Anrich Nortje (26/2) were the pick of the bowlers for South Africa in the final.</p>
<p>The victory also meant India became the third team after West Indies and England to win the T20 World Cup on multiple occasions.</p>


Defending 177, India beat South Africa by seven runs to win a last-over thriller in Barbados. The Men in Blue also ended their 11-year wait for an ICC trophy having last won the Champions Trophy in 2013. Virat Kohli was the star of the match having scored 76 runs in the final while Indian bowlers deserved credit having pulled off a master class with the ball in the death overs.



New Delhi, India Team India finally ended their barren run of 17 years to win their second T20 World Cup after they beat South Africa in the final on 29 June 2024. Defending 177, India beat South Africa by seven runs to win a last-over thriller in Barbados. The Men in Blue also ended their 11-year wait for an ICC trophy having last won the Champions Trophy in 2013. Virat Kohli was the star of the match having scored 76 runs in the final while Indian bowlers deserved credit having pulled off a master class with the ball in the death overs. India win last-over thriller Tasked to defend 177, South Africa were in the driver’s seat until the last three overs when they needed 27 runs to win from 28 balls. However, a show of class with the ball and then in the field saw India pull off a great win. Suryakumar Yadav’s catch of David Miller in the final over was also decisive. India restricted South Africa to 169/8 in 20 overs and won the T20 World Cup for the first time since 2007. South Africa got off to a poor start in their innings having lost Reeza Hendricks (4) and Aiden Markram (4) in the opening three overs. However, the Proteas then recovered well Tristan Stubbs (31) and Klaasen stitching a partnership of 58 runs for the third wicket. Despite Stubbs’ wicket, Klaasen continued his onslaught with the ball to help South Africa take the driver’s seat. His innings consisted of 5 sixes and 2 fours and he scored 52 off 27 deliveries in his innings. However, Klaasen’s wicket on the first ball of the 17th over completely changed the course of the match with further wickets of Marco Jansen (2) and Miller (21) adding to India’s win. ALSO READ | Explained: The complex and strained cricketing ties between India and Pakistan Virat Kohli comes good with the bat Batting first, like South Africa, India also suffered blows at the start of the innings with skipper Rohit Sharma (9), Rishabh Pant (0) and Suryakumar Yadav (3) all getting out in the powerplay. India were 34/3 at one stage, however, they recovered well after Virat and Axar Patel helped the 2007 champions recover. Virat scored 76 off 59 while Axar was unfortunate to get run out on 47 off 31 when was caught napping by Quinton de Kock. Shivam Dube also played a valuable innings of 27 runs off 16 balls which helped India post 176/7 in their 20 overs. Keshav Maharaj (23/2) and Anrich Nortje (26/2) were the pick of the bowlers for South Africa in the final. The victory also meant India became the third team after West Indies and England to win the T20 World Cup on multiple occasions.

Rewind 2024: Rohit Sharma's Team India ends 17-year T20 World Cup drought in West Indies

<p>Team India finally ended their barren run of 17 years to win their second T20 World Cup after they beat South Africa in the final on 29 June 2024. Defending 177, India beat South Africa by seven&nbsp;runs&nbsp;to win a last-over thriller in Barbados. The Men in Blue also ended their 11-year wait for an ICC trophy having last won the Champions Trophy in 2013. Virat Kohli was the star of the match having scored 76 runs in the final while Indian bowlers deserved credit having pulled off a master class with the ball in the death overs.</p>

<h2><strong>India win last-over thriller</strong></h2>

<p>Tasked to defend 177, South Africa were in the driver’s seat until the last three overs when they needed 27 runs to win from 28 balls. However, a show of class with the ball and then in the field saw India pull off a great win. Suryakumar Yadav’s catch of David Miller in the final over was also decisive. India restricted South Africa to 169/8 in 20 overs and won the T20 World Cup for the first time since 2007.</p>

<p>South Africa got off to a poor start in their innings having lost Reeza Hendricks (4) and Aiden Markram (4) in the opening three overs. However, the Proteas then recovered well Tristan Stubbs (31) and Klaasen stitching a partnership of 58 runs for the third wicket. Despite Stubbs’ wicket, Klaasen continued his onslaught with the ball to help South Africa take the driver’s seat. His innings consisted of 5 sixes and 2 fours and he scored 52 off 27 deliveries in his innings.</p>

<p>However, Klaasen’s wicket on the first ball of the 17th over completely changed the course of the match with further wickets of Marco Jansen (2) and Miller (21) adding to India’s win.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/explained-the-complex-and-strained-cricketing-ties-between-india-and-pakistan-785829">Explained: The complex and strained cricketing ties between India and Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Virat Kohli comes good with the bat</strong></h2>

<p>Batting first, like South Africa, India also suffered blows at the start of the innings with skipper Rohit Sharma (9), Rishabh Pant (0) and Suryakumar Yadav (3) all getting out in the powerplay. India were 34/3 at one stage, however, they recovered well after Virat and Axar Patel helped the 2007 champions recover. Virat scored 76 off 59 while Axar was unfortunate to get run out on 47 off 31 when was caught napping by Quinton de Kock.</p>

<p>Shivam Dube also played a valuable innings of 27 runs off 16 balls which helped India post 176/7 in their 20 overs. Keshav Maharaj (23/2) and Anrich Nortje (26/2) were the pick of the bowlers for South Africa in the final.</p>

<p>The victory also meant India became the third team after West Indies and England to win the T20 World Cup on multiple occasions.</p>


Team India finally ended their barren run of 17 years to win their second T20 World Cup after they beat South Africa in the final on 29 June 2024. Defending 177, India beat South Africa by seven runs to win a last-over thriller in Barbados.

Team India finally ended their barren run of 17 years to win their second T20 World Cup after they beat South Africa in the final on 29 June 2024. Defending 177, India beat South Africa by seven runs to win a last-over thriller in Barbados. The Men in Blue also ended their 11-year wait for an ICC trophy having last won the Champions Trophy in 2013. Virat Kohli was the star of the match having scored 76 runs in the final while Indian bowlers deserved credit having pulled off a master class with the ball in the death overs. India win last-over thriller Tasked to defend 177, South Africa were in the driver’s seat until the last three overs when they needed 27 runs to win from 28 balls. However, a show of class with the ball and then in the field saw India pull off a great win. Suryakumar Yadav’s catch of David Miller in the final over was also decisive. India restricted South Africa to 169/8 in 20 overs and won the T20 World Cup for the first time since 2007. South Africa got off to a poor start in their innings having lost Reeza Hendricks (4) and Aiden Markram (4) in the opening three overs. However, the Proteas then recovered well Tristan Stubbs (31) and Klaasen stitching a partnership of 58 runs for the third wicket. Despite Stubbs’ wicket, Klaasen continued his onslaught with the ball to help South Africa take the driver’s seat. His innings consisted of 5 sixes and 2 fours and he scored 52 off 27 deliveries in his innings. However, Klaasen’s wicket on the first ball of the 17th over completely changed the course of the match with further wickets of Marco Jansen (2) and Miller (21) adding to India’s win. ALSO READ | Explained: The complex and strained cricketing ties between India and Pakistan Virat Kohli comes good with the bat Batting first, like South Africa, India also suffered blows at the start of the innings with skipper Rohit Sharma (9), Rishabh Pant (0) and Suryakumar Yadav (3) all getting out in the powerplay. India were 34/3 at one stage, however, they recovered well after Virat and Axar Patel helped the 2007 champions recover. Virat scored 76 off 59 while Axar was unfortunate to get run out on 47 off 31 when was caught napping by Quinton de Kock. Shivam Dube also played a valuable innings of 27 runs off 16 balls which helped India post 176/7 in their 20 overs. Keshav Maharaj (23/2) and Anrich Nortje (26/2) were the pick of the bowlers for South Africa in the final. The victory also meant India became the third team after West Indies and England to win the T20 World Cup on multiple occasions.

<p><span class="region">New Delhi, India</span>
<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma is going through a rough patch in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series and batting at number 6 hasn't helped the cause either. Rohit has scored only 19 runs in three innings he has played in the BGT series with 10 being the highest score.</p></p>
<p>After his dismissal in Brisbane's first innings, veteran India batter Cheteshwar Pujara explained how changing the batting position may have put a doubt in Rohit's mind.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-indias-greatest-fast-bowler-aussies-in-awe-of-jasprit-bumrah-785154">'India's greatest fast bowler,' Aussies in awe of Jasprit Bumrah</a></p>
<p>“He has been opening the innings, now he's batting at number 6. That is for the team, but I still feel that when you are so much used to opening the innings and when you have to wait, then you put yourself in that doubt. I mean, it doesn't help you when you're opening innings and you suddenly start batting at number 6. So that you don't get that momentum either,” Pujara said while talking on Star Sports.</p>
<p>Rohit decided to bat in the middle order after KL Rahul did well in the first BGT Test in Perth as the opener during which Rohit was absent due to his second child's birth.</p>
<p>The skipper's form, however, has been a cause of concern long before the Australia tour. In the five Tests he played before the BGT, Rohit scored only 133 runs in 10 innings at an average of 13.33 with a highest of 52. It is to be noted that all those five Tests were played at home.</p>
<p>Rahul, on the other hand, has been doing a fine job as an opener in Australia. The batter has scored 235 runs in six innings - the highest for India in the series so far and second highest overall behind Travis Head's 409.</p>
<p>Rahul has scored those runs at an average of 47 with two fifties and a highest of 84, which he hit in Brisbane, helping India draw the rain-affected Test.</p>


Rohit decided to bat in the middle order after KL Rahul did well in the first BGT Test in Perth as the opener during which Rohit was absent due to his second child's birth.



New Delhi, India India skipper Rohit Sharma is going through a rough patch in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series and batting at number 6 hasn't helped the cause either. Rohit has scored only 19 runs in three innings he has played in the BGT series with 10 being the highest score. After his dismissal in Brisbane's first innings, veteran India batter Cheteshwar Pujara explained how changing the batting position may have put a doubt in Rohit's mind. Also Read: 'India's greatest fast bowler,' Aussies in awe of Jasprit Bumrah “He has been opening the innings, now he's batting at number 6. That is for the team, but I still feel that when you are so much used to opening the innings and when you have to wait, then you put yourself in that doubt. I mean, it doesn't help you when you're opening innings and you suddenly start batting at number 6. So that you don't get that momentum either,” Pujara said while talking on Star Sports. Rohit decided to bat in the middle order after KL Rahul did well in the first BGT Test in Perth as the opener during which Rohit was absent due to his second child's birth. The skipper's form, however, has been a cause of concern long before the Australia tour. In the five Tests he played before the BGT, Rohit scored only 133 runs in 10 innings at an average of 13.33 with a highest of 52. It is to be noted that all those five Tests were played at home. Rahul, on the other hand, has been doing a fine job as an opener in Australia. The batter has scored 235 runs in six innings - the highest for India in the series so far and second highest overall behind Travis Head's 409. Rahul has scored those runs at an average of 47 with two fifties and a highest of 84, which he hit in Brisbane, helping India draw the rain-affected Test.

BGT 2024-25: 'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6

<p><span class="region">Brisbane, Australia</span>
<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma revealed that off spinner Ravi Ashwin understood the thinking of the team which prompted him to announce his retirement from internationals. Ashwin bid adieu to international cricket after the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18).</p></p>
<p>"He understands what the team is thinking. He understands what kind of combinations we are thinking of. When we came here as well, we were not sure about which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us, But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, this was a chat we had, and I somehow convinced him to stay for that pink ball Test," Rohit said at the post match press conference.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-it-doesnt-help-cheteshwar-pujara-reveals-reason-behind-rohits-struggles-at-number-6-785179">'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6</a></p>
<p>"It just happened so that if you know where he felt that, 'if I'm not needed right now in the series, I'm better off. Saying goodbye to the game, but obviously, we've not been to Melbourne yet, so we don't know what sort of conditions we expect there and what sort of combination, but just keeping Ash in particularly in mind, giving him that respect that this if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way and we should all stand by," he added.</p>
<p>Ashwin retired as India second highest wicket-taker in international cricket. The offie took 765 in Tests (537), ODIs (157) and T20Is (72) combined, second only to Anil Kumble's 953.</p>
<p>In Tests also, Ashwin is the second highest wicket-taker for India behind Kumble's 619. His 37 Test five-for are joint second most in the history along with Shane Warne and behind only Muthiah Muralidaran's 67.</p>
<p>In the ongoing BGT, Ashwin played in the second Test in Adelaide under the lights and returned with figures of 1/53 in India's 10-wicket loss.</p>


Ashwin retired as India second highest wicket-taker in international cricket. The offie took 765 in Tests (537), ODIs (157) and T20Is (72) combined, second only to Anil Kumble's 953.



Brisbane, Australia India skipper Rohit Sharma revealed that off spinner Ravi Ashwin understood the thinking of the team which prompted him to announce his retirement from internationals. Ashwin bid adieu to international cricket after the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). "He understands what the team is thinking. He understands what kind of combinations we are thinking of. When we came here as well, we were not sure about which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us, But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, this was a chat we had, and I somehow convinced him to stay for that pink ball Test," Rohit said at the post match press conference. Also Read: 'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6 "It just happened so that if you know where he felt that, 'if I'm not needed right now in the series, I'm better off. Saying goodbye to the game, but obviously, we've not been to Melbourne yet, so we don't know what sort of conditions we expect there and what sort of combination, but just keeping Ash in particularly in mind, giving him that respect that this if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way and we should all stand by," he added. Ashwin retired as India second highest wicket-taker in international cricket. The offie took 765 in Tests (537), ODIs (157) and T20Is (72) combined, second only to Anil Kumble's 953. In Tests also, Ashwin is the second highest wicket-taker for India behind Kumble's 619. His 37 Test five-for are joint second most in the history along with Shane Warne and behind only Muthiah Muralidaran's 67. In the ongoing BGT, Ashwin played in the second Test in Adelaide under the lights and returned with figures of 1/53 in India's 10-wicket loss.

BGT 2024-25: 'He understands team's thinking,' says skipper Rohit Sharma on Ravi Ashwin's retirement

<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma is going through a rough patch in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series and batting at number 6 hasn't helped the cause either. Rohit has scored only 19 runs in three innings he has played in the BGT series with 10 being the highest score.</p>

<p>After his dismissal in Brisbane's first innings, veteran India batter Cheteshwar Pujara explained how changing the batting position may have put a doubt in Rohit's mind.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-indias-greatest-fast-bowler-aussies-in-awe-of-jasprit-bumrah-785154">'India's greatest fast bowler,' Aussies in awe of Jasprit Bumrah</a></p>

<p>“He has been opening the innings, now he's batting at number 6. That is for the team, but I still feel that when you are so much used to opening the innings and when you have to wait, then you put yourself in that doubt. I mean, it doesn't help you when you're opening innings and you suddenly start batting at number 6. So that you don't get that momentum either,” Pujara said while talking on Star Sports.</p>

<p>Rohit decided to bat in the middle order after KL Rahul did well in the first BGT Test in Perth as the opener during which Rohit was absent due to his second child's birth.</p>

<p>The skipper's form, however, has been a cause of concern long before the Australia tour. In the five Tests he played before the BGT, Rohit scored only 133 runs in 10 innings at an average of 13.33 with a highest of 52. It is to be noted that all those five Tests were played at home.</p>

<p>Rahul, on the other hand, has been doing a fine job as an opener in Australia. The batter has scored 235 runs in six innings - the highest for India in the series so far and second highest overall behind Travis Head's 409.</p>

<p>Rahul has scored those runs at an average of 47 with two fifties and a highest of 84, which he hit in Brisbane, helping India draw the rain-affected Test.</p>


India skipper Rohit Sharma is going through a rough patch in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series and batting at number 6 hasn't helped the cause either.

India skipper Rohit Sharma is going through a rough patch in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series and batting at number 6 hasn't helped the cause either. Rohit has scored only 19 runs in three innings he has played in the BGT series with 10 being the highest score. After his dismissal in Brisbane's first innings, veteran India batter Cheteshwar Pujara explained how changing the batting position may have put a doubt in Rohit's mind. Also Read: 'India's greatest fast bowler,' Aussies in awe of Jasprit Bumrah “He has been opening the innings, now he's batting at number 6. That is for the team, but I still feel that when you are so much used to opening the innings and when you have to wait, then you put yourself in that doubt. I mean, it doesn't help you when you're opening innings and you suddenly start batting at number 6. So that you don't get that momentum either,” Pujara said while talking on Star Sports. Rohit decided to bat in the middle order after KL Rahul did well in the first BGT Test in Perth as the opener during which Rohit was absent due to his second child's birth. The skipper's form, however, has been a cause of concern long before the Australia tour. In the five Tests he played before the BGT, Rohit scored only 133 runs in 10 innings at an average of 13.33 with a highest of 52. It is to be noted that all those five Tests were played at home. Rahul, on the other hand, has been doing a fine job as an opener in Australia. The batter has scored 235 runs in six innings - the highest for India in the series so far and second highest overall behind Travis Head's 409. Rahul has scored those runs at an average of 47 with two fifties and a highest of 84, which he hit in Brisbane, helping India draw the rain-affected Test.

<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma revealed that off spinner Ravi Ashwin understood the thinking of the team which prompted him to announce his retirement from internationals. Ashwin bid adieu to international cricket after the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18).</p>

<p>"He understands what the team is thinking. He understands what kind of combinations we are thinking of. When we came here as well, we were not sure about which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us, But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, this was a chat we had, and I somehow convinced him to stay for that pink ball Test," Rohit said at the post match press conference.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-it-doesnt-help-cheteshwar-pujara-reveals-reason-behind-rohits-struggles-at-number-6-785179">'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6</a></p>

<p>"It just happened so that if you know where he felt that, 'if I'm not needed right now in the series, I'm better off. Saying goodbye to the game, but obviously, we've not been to Melbourne yet, so we don't know what sort of conditions we expect there and what sort of combination, but just keeping Ash in particularly in mind, giving him that respect that this if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way and we should all stand by," he added.</p>

<p>Ashwin retired as India second highest wicket-taker in international cricket. The offie took 765 in Tests (537), ODIs (157) and T20Is (72) combined, second only to Anil Kumble's 953.</p>

<p>In Tests also, Ashwin is the second highest wicket-taker for India behind Kumble's 619. His 37 Test five-for are joint second most in the history along with Shane Warne and behind only Muthiah Muralidaran's 67.</p>

<p>In the ongoing BGT, Ashwin played in the second Test in Adelaide under the lights and returned with&nbsp;figures of 1/53 in India's 10-wicket loss.</p>


India skipper Rohit Sharma revealed that off spinner Ravi Ashwin understood the thinking of the team which prompted him to announce his retirement from internationals.

India skipper Rohit Sharma revealed that off spinner Ravi Ashwin understood the thinking of the team which prompted him to announce his retirement from internationals. Ashwin bid adieu to international cricket after the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test ended in a draw on Wednesday (Dec 18). "He understands what the team is thinking. He understands what kind of combinations we are thinking of. When we came here as well, we were not sure about which spinner was going to play. We just wanted to assess and see what kind of conditions we get in front of us, But yeah, when I arrived in Perth, this was a chat we had, and I somehow convinced him to stay for that pink ball Test," Rohit said at the post match press conference. Also Read: 'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6 "It just happened so that if you know where he felt that, 'if I'm not needed right now in the series, I'm better off. Saying goodbye to the game, but obviously, we've not been to Melbourne yet, so we don't know what sort of conditions we expect there and what sort of combination, but just keeping Ash in particularly in mind, giving him that respect that this if this is what he thinks, we should allow him to think that way and we should all stand by," he added. Ashwin retired as India second highest wicket-taker in international cricket. The offie took 765 in Tests (537), ODIs (157) and T20Is (72) combined, second only to Anil Kumble's 953. In Tests also, Ashwin is the second highest wicket-taker for India behind Kumble's 619. His 37 Test five-for are joint second most in the history along with Shane Warne and behind only Muthiah Muralidaran's 67. In the ongoing BGT, Ashwin played in the second Test in Adelaide under the lights and returned with figures of 1/53 in India's 10-wicket loss.

<p><span class="region">Gabba, Brisbane</span>
<p>Mohammed Shami has resumed bowling but remains uncertain of a Test call-up for the remainder of the BGT Down Under. Following the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, which ended in a draw, all thanks to countless and continuous rain interruptions throughout, India captain Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Shami’s potential return to the side for the remaining two matches at the MCG and SCG, respectively.</p></p>
<p>Rohit said the ball is in the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, formerly the National Cricket Academy (NCA) court, to clarify his fitness concerns. Although Shami returned last month for Bengal playing the Ranji Trophy and has since played several games across formats, including in SMAT, Rohit said there were complaints about his knee causing concerns, which restricts him from considering his India call-up.</p>
<p>The right-arm seamer is also picked in the Bengal squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy starting December 21.</p>
<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/he-could-have-said-i-am-sunil-gavaskar-critical-of-r-ashwins-sudden-international-retirement-784947">He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement</a></strong></p>
<p>"About Shami, I think it's high time somebody from NCA talks about him, where he is rehabbing. Those guys are the ones who need to come up and give us some kind of update,” Rohit said at the post-match presser in Brisbane. </p>
<h2>Fit Shami better than risking his return</h2>
<p>The Indian skipper said he knows that Shami has returned to playing domestic cricket back home following an extended hiatus but remains cautious of a possible recurrence of an injury, which remains a bigger concern to Shami’s future than he re-linking with the Indian Team in Australia and help them complete the three-peat. </p>
<p>"I understand he's playing a lot of cricket back home, but there have been some complaints about his knee as well. So, look, the last thing you want is the player coming here and then pulling out in the middle of the game. You know what happens when that kind of thing happens."</p>
<p>"So, there is no way we want to take that chance unless we are like, not 100%, 200% sure, we're not going to take any risk. But yeah, like I said in the last press conference, the door is open if those guys at the NCA feel that he is okay to go and recover and play, we'll be happy to have him,” Rohit continued.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, as things stand, the BCCI’s medical team is yet to clear Shami of any discomfort, something even Rohit picked upon following the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide.</p>
<p>Though Shami’s comeback looks unlikely given three Tests against Australia are already over, he could be handy for the ODI side in the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled for the February-March window. </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The right-arm seamer is also picked in the Bengal squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy starting December 21.



Gabba, Brisbane Mohammed Shami has resumed bowling but remains uncertain of a Test call-up for the remainder of the BGT Down Under. Following the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, which ended in a draw, all thanks to countless and continuous rain interruptions throughout, India captain Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Shami’s potential return to the side for the remaining two matches at the MCG and SCG, respectively. Rohit said the ball is in the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, formerly the National Cricket Academy (NCA) court, to clarify his fitness concerns. Although Shami returned last month for Bengal playing the Ranji Trophy and has since played several games across formats, including in SMAT, Rohit said there were complaints about his knee causing concerns, which restricts him from considering his India call-up. The right-arm seamer is also picked in the Bengal squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy starting December 21. ALSO READ: He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement "About Shami, I think it's high time somebody from NCA talks about him, where he is rehabbing. Those guys are the ones who need to come up and give us some kind of update,” Rohit said at the post-match presser in Brisbane. Fit Shami better than risking his return The Indian skipper said he knows that Shami has returned to playing domestic cricket back home following an extended hiatus but remains cautious of a possible recurrence of an injury, which remains a bigger concern to Shami’s future than he re-linking with the Indian Team in Australia and help them complete the three-peat. "I understand he's playing a lot of cricket back home, but there have been some complaints about his knee as well. So, look, the last thing you want is the player coming here and then pulling out in the middle of the game. You know what happens when that kind of thing happens." "So, there is no way we want to take that chance unless we are like, not 100%, 200% sure, we're not going to take any risk. But yeah, like I said in the last press conference, the door is open if those guys at the NCA feel that he is okay to go and recover and play, we'll be happy to have him,” Rohit continued. Meanwhile, as things stand, the BCCI’s medical team is yet to clear Shami of any discomfort, something even Rohit picked upon following the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide. Though Shami’s comeback looks unlikely given three Tests against Australia are already over, he could be handy for the ODI side in the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled for the February-March window. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns

<p><span class="region">Brisbane, Australia</span>
<p>India’s legendary all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin called time on his illustrious career on Wednesday (Dec 18) as he took the cricketing fraternity by surprise. Ashwin, having represented India in 106 Test matches announced his retirement after the Gabba Test match between India and Australia ended in a draw. After the match skipper, Rohit Sharma opened on the insights into Ashwin’s retirement plans saying he came to know about the decision after landing in Perth.</p></p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">????? ??? ?????? ?</p>
<p>A name synonymous with mastery, wizardry, brilliance, and innovation ??</p>
<p>The ace spinner and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s invaluable all-rounder announces his retirement from international cricket.</p>
<p>Congratulations on a legendary career, <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/swSwcP3QXA">pic.twitter.com/swSwcP3QXA</a></p>
<p>— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1869258427987562621?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Rohit shares insights on Ashwin</strong></h2>
<p>"Heard about R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. He understands what the team is thinking, combinations what the team is thinking. I convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test," said Rohit at the post-match press conference.</p>
<p>The 2011 World Cup winner retired with a tally of 537 Test wickets in 106 matches while also scoring 3503 runs. He scored six hundreds in the format and was India’s most reliable all-rounder for over a decade. In the ODI format, Ashwin represented India in 116 matches and scalped 156 wickets while in the T20Is he has 72 wickets in 65 matches.</p>
<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/mitchell-santner-takes-over-as-new-white-ball-captain-of-new-zealand-784862">Mitchell Santner takes over as new white-ball captain of New Zealand</a></strong></p>
<p>He goes down as one of the legends of Indian cricket and at the time of retirement is the second most successful Test bowler for the nation. Only Anil Kumble with 619 scalped more wickets than Ashwin in the red-ball format. Overall, he is the seventh most successful bowler in Test format, underlining his name as one of the best in the world.</p>
<p>As things stand, Ashwin will return to India on Thursday (Dec 19), leaving big shoes to fill in the side. His presence in the Indian team during the home series will be felt as the majority of his success came on home turf. He scalped 383 wickets on home turf making him one of the successful bowlers in the sub-continent conditions.</p>


Ravichandran Ashwin, having represented India in 106 Test matches announced his retirement after the Gabba Test match between India and Australia ended in a draw. After the match skipper, Rohit Sharma opened on the insights into Ashwin’s retirement plans saying he came to know about the decision after landing in Perth.



Brisbane, Australia India’s legendary all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin called time on his illustrious career on Wednesday (Dec 18) as he took the cricketing fraternity by surprise. Ashwin, having represented India in 106 Test matches announced his retirement after the Gabba Test match between India and Australia ended in a draw. After the match skipper, Rohit Sharma opened on the insights into Ashwin’s retirement plans saying he came to know about the decision after landing in Perth. ????? ??? ?????? ? A name synonymous with mastery, wizardry, brilliance, and innovation ?? The ace spinner and #TeamIndia's invaluable all-rounder announces his retirement from international cricket. Congratulations on a legendary career, @ashwinravi99 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/swSwcP3QXA — BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024 × Rohit shares insights on Ashwin "Heard about R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. He understands what the team is thinking, combinations what the team is thinking. I convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test," said Rohit at the post-match press conference. The 2011 World Cup winner retired with a tally of 537 Test wickets in 106 matches while also scoring 3503 runs. He scored six hundreds in the format and was India’s most reliable all-rounder for over a decade. In the ODI format, Ashwin represented India in 116 matches and scalped 156 wickets while in the T20Is he has 72 wickets in 65 matches. ALSO READ | Mitchell Santner takes over as new white-ball captain of New Zealand He goes down as one of the legends of Indian cricket and at the time of retirement is the second most successful Test bowler for the nation. Only Anil Kumble with 619 scalped more wickets than Ashwin in the red-ball format. Overall, he is the seventh most successful bowler in Test format, underlining his name as one of the best in the world. As things stand, Ashwin will return to India on Thursday (Dec 19), leaving big shoes to fill in the side. His presence in the Indian team during the home series will be felt as the majority of his success came on home turf. He scalped 383 wickets on home turf making him one of the successful bowlers in the sub-continent conditions.

Rohit Sharma shares insights on R Ashwin's retirement plans, says 'I convinced him to stay for pink-ball Test'

<p>Mohammed Shami has resumed bowling but remains uncertain of a Test call-up for the remainder of the BGT Down Under. Following the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, which ended in a draw, all thanks to countless and continuous rain interruptions throughout, India captain Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Shami’s potential return to the side for the remaining two matches at the MCG and SCG, respectively.</p>

<p>Rohit said the ball is in the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, formerly the National Cricket Academy (NCA) court, to clarify his fitness concerns. Although Shami returned last month for Bengal playing the Ranji Trophy and has since played several games across formats, including in SMAT, Rohit said there were complaints about his knee causing concerns, which restricts him from considering his India call-up.</p>

<p>The right-arm seamer is also picked in the Bengal squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy starting December 21.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/he-could-have-said-i-am-sunil-gavaskar-critical-of-r-ashwins-sudden-international-retirement-784947">He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement</a></strong></p>

<p>"About Shami, I think it's high time somebody from NCA talks about him, where he is rehabbing. Those guys are the ones who need to come up and give us some kind of update,” Rohit said at the post-match presser in Brisbane.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Fit Shami better than risking his return</h2>

<p>The Indian skipper said he knows that Shami has returned to playing domestic cricket back home following an extended hiatus but remains cautious of a possible recurrence of an injury, which remains a bigger concern to Shami’s future than he re-linking with the Indian Team in Australia and help them complete the three-peat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I understand he's playing a lot of cricket back home, but there have been some complaints about his knee as well. So, look, the last thing you want is the player coming here and then pulling out in the middle of the game. You know what happens when that kind of thing happens."</p>

<p>"So, there is no way we want to take that chance unless we are like, not 100%, 200% sure, we're not going to take any risk. But yeah, like I said in the last press conference, the door is open if those guys at the NCA feel that he is okay to go and recover and play, we'll be happy to have him,” Rohit continued.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, as things stand, the BCCI’s medical team is yet to clear Shami of any discomfort, something even Rohit picked upon following the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide.</p>

<p>Though Shami’s comeback looks unlikely given three Tests against Australia are already over, he could be handy for the ODI side in the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled for the February-March window.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Mohammed Shami has resumed bowling but remains uncertain of a Test call-up for the remainder of the BGT Down Under. Following the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, which ended in a draw, all thanks to countless and continuous rain interruptions throughout, India captain Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Shami’s potential return to the side for the remaining two matches at the MCG and SCG, respectively.

Mohammed Shami has resumed bowling but remains uncertain of a Test call-up for the remainder of the BGT Down Under. Following the third Test between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, which ended in a draw, all thanks to countless and continuous rain interruptions throughout, India captain Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Shami’s potential return to the side for the remaining two matches at the MCG and SCG, respectively. Rohit said the ball is in the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, formerly the National Cricket Academy (NCA) court, to clarify his fitness concerns. Although Shami returned last month for Bengal playing the Ranji Trophy and has since played several games across formats, including in SMAT, Rohit said there were complaints about his knee causing concerns, which restricts him from considering his India call-up. The right-arm seamer is also picked in the Bengal squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy starting December 21. ALSO READ: He could have said, 'I am....': Sunil Gavaskar critical of R Ashwin's sudden international retirement "About Shami, I think it's high time somebody from NCA talks about him, where he is rehabbing. Those guys are the ones who need to come up and give us some kind of update,” Rohit said at the post-match presser in Brisbane. Fit Shami better than risking his return The Indian skipper said he knows that Shami has returned to playing domestic cricket back home following an extended hiatus but remains cautious of a possible recurrence of an injury, which remains a bigger concern to Shami’s future than he re-linking with the Indian Team in Australia and help them complete the three-peat. "I understand he's playing a lot of cricket back home, but there have been some complaints about his knee as well. So, look, the last thing you want is the player coming here and then pulling out in the middle of the game. You know what happens when that kind of thing happens." "So, there is no way we want to take that chance unless we are like, not 100%, 200% sure, we're not going to take any risk. But yeah, like I said in the last press conference, the door is open if those guys at the NCA feel that he is okay to go and recover and play, we'll be happy to have him,” Rohit continued. Meanwhile, as things stand, the BCCI’s medical team is yet to clear Shami of any discomfort, something even Rohit picked upon following the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide. Though Shami’s comeback looks unlikely given three Tests against Australia are already over, he could be handy for the ODI side in the Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled for the February-March window. (With inputs from agencies)

<p>India’s legendary all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin called time on his illustrious career on Wednesday (Dec 18) as he took the cricketing fraternity by surprise. Ashwin, having represented India in 106 Test matches announced his retirement after the Gabba Test match between India and Australia ended in a draw. After the match skipper, Rohit Sharma opened on the insights into Ashwin’s retirement plans saying he came to know about the decision after landing in Perth.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝘼𝙨𝙝𝙬𝙞𝙣 🫡<br />
<br />
A name synonymous with mastery, wizardry, brilliance, and innovation 👏👏<br />
<br />
The ace spinner and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s invaluable all-rounder announces his retirement from international cricket.<br />
<br />
Congratulations on a legendary career, <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/swSwcP3QXA">pic.twitter.com/swSwcP3QXA</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1869258427987562621?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Rohit shares insights on Ashwin</strong></h2>

<p>"Heard about R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. He understands what the team is thinking, combinations what the team is thinking. I convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test," said Rohit at the post-match press conference.</p>

<p>The 2011 World Cup winner retired with a tally of 537 Test wickets in 106 matches while also scoring 3503 runs. He scored six hundreds in the format and was India’s most reliable all-rounder for over a decade. In the ODI format, Ashwin represented India in 116 matches and scalped 156 wickets while in the T20Is he has 72 wickets in 65 matches.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/mitchell-santner-takes-over-as-new-white-ball-captain-of-new-zealand-784862">Mitchell Santner takes over as new white-ball captain of New Zealand</a></strong></p>

<p>He goes down as one of the legends of Indian cricket and at the time of retirement is the second most successful Test bowler for the nation. Only Anil Kumble with 619 scalped more wickets than Ashwin in the red-ball format. Overall, he is the seventh most successful bowler in Test format, underlining his name as one of the best in the world.</p>

<p>As things stand, Ashwin will return to India on Thursday (Dec 19), leaving big shoes to fill in the side. His presence in the Indian team during the home series will be felt as the majority of his success came on home turf. He scalped 383 wickets on home turf making him one of the successful bowlers in the sub-continent conditions.</p>


India’s legendary all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin called time on his illustrious career on Wednesday (Dec 18) as he took the cricketing fraternity by surprise. Ashwin, having represented India in 106 Test matches announced his retirement after the Gabba Test match between India and Australia ended in a draw.

India’s legendary all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin called time on his illustrious career on Wednesday (Dec 18) as he took the cricketing fraternity by surprise. Ashwin, having represented India in 106 Test matches announced his retirement after the Gabba Test match between India and Australia ended in a draw. After the match skipper, Rohit Sharma opened on the insights into Ashwin’s retirement plans saying he came to know about the decision after landing in Perth. 𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝘼𝙨𝙝𝙬𝙞𝙣 🫡 A name synonymous with mastery, wizardry, brilliance, and innovation 👏👏 The ace spinner and #TeamIndia's invaluable all-rounder announces his retirement from international cricket. Congratulations on a legendary career, @ashwinravi99 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/swSwcP3QXA — BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2024 × Rohit shares insights on Ashwin "Heard about R Ashwin’s retirement when I came to Perth. He understands what the team is thinking, combinations what the team is thinking. I convinced him to stay for the pink-ball Test," said Rohit at the post-match press conference. The 2011 World Cup winner retired with a tally of 537 Test wickets in 106 matches while also scoring 3503 runs. He scored six hundreds in the format and was India’s most reliable all-rounder for over a decade. In the ODI format, Ashwin represented India in 116 matches and scalped 156 wickets while in the T20Is he has 72 wickets in 65 matches. ALSO READ | Mitchell Santner takes over as new white-ball captain of New Zealand He goes down as one of the legends of Indian cricket and at the time of retirement is the second most successful Test bowler for the nation. Only Anil Kumble with 619 scalped more wickets than Ashwin in the red-ball format. Overall, he is the seventh most successful bowler in Test format, underlining his name as one of the best in the world. As things stand, Ashwin will return to India on Thursday (Dec 19), leaving big shoes to fill in the side. His presence in the Indian team during the home series will be felt as the majority of his success came on home turf. He scalped 383 wickets on home turf making him one of the successful bowlers in the sub-continent conditions.

<p><span class="region">New Delhi, India </span>
<p>Indian captain Rohit Sharma is struggling for runs in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 edition in Australia. After missing the series opener, in Perth, Rohit walked into the playing XI but hasn't managed to create any impact with the bat, demoting himself to No. 6 (owing to KL Rahul's success as an opener). He has had scores of 3, 6 and 10 and, hence, fingers are being pointed at him. Veteran Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara decoded Hitman's failures and feels with him not opening the innings, it has caused the lean patch.</p></p>
<p>Speaking on Rohit's dismissal (10) on Day 4 of the rain-marred Gabba Test, in Brisbane, on Tuesday (Dec 17), Pujara said on Star Sports, "It wasn't a length where you can drive. We have seen that even a fuller-length ball, it's hard to drive. He, kind of tried to punch that ball. He should have defended that ball, and allowed the ball to come to him rather than going for that ball. And I think the tough part is he hasn't been, amongst runs, and, that's where the pressure is."</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/gabba-test-indian-batters-falter-as-australia-in-drivers-seat-despite-rain-playing-havoc-on-day-3-784332">BGT, Gabba Test: Indian batters falter again, Australia in driver's seat despite rain playing havoc on Day 3</a></strong></p>
<h2>'Doesn't help you when you're opening innings and suddenly start batting at No. 6'</h2>
<p>Pujara added, "He has been opening the innings (since 2019), now he's batting at number 6. That is for the team, but I still feel that when you are so much used to opening the innings and when you have to wait, then you put yourself in that doubt. I mean, it doesn't help you when you're opening innings and you suddenly start batting at number 6. So that you don't get that momentum either."</p>
<p>At present, the Rohit-led Indian team has negated the follow-on threat on Day 4 of the Gabba Test in Brisbane after Australia posted 445. At stumps on the fourth day, India are 252-9, trailing by 193 runs.</p>
<p>The five-match Test series is currently tied at 1-1. Captain Rohit will be desperate to make a strong mark with the bat in the remainder of the series.</p>


Gabba Test: Veteran Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara feels Rohit Sharma not opening the innings is a major reason behind his poor form in the ongoing BGT 2024/25 edition.



New Delhi, India Indian captain Rohit Sharma is struggling for runs in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 edition in Australia. After missing the series opener, in Perth, Rohit walked into the playing XI but hasn't managed to create any impact with the bat, demoting himself to No. 6 (owing to KL Rahul's success as an opener). He has had scores of 3, 6 and 10 and, hence, fingers are being pointed at him. Veteran Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara decoded Hitman's failures and feels with him not opening the innings, it has caused the lean patch. Speaking on Rohit's dismissal (10) on Day 4 of the rain-marred Gabba Test, in Brisbane, on Tuesday (Dec 17), Pujara said on Star Sports, "It wasn't a length where you can drive. We have seen that even a fuller-length ball, it's hard to drive. He, kind of tried to punch that ball. He should have defended that ball, and allowed the ball to come to him rather than going for that ball. And I think the tough part is he hasn't been, amongst runs, and, that's where the pressure is." Also read: BGT, Gabba Test: Indian batters falter again, Australia in driver's seat despite rain playing havoc on Day 3 'Doesn't help you when you're opening innings and suddenly start batting at No. 6' Pujara added, "He has been opening the innings (since 2019), now he's batting at number 6. That is for the team, but I still feel that when you are so much used to opening the innings and when you have to wait, then you put yourself in that doubt. I mean, it doesn't help you when you're opening innings and you suddenly start batting at number 6. So that you don't get that momentum either." At present, the Rohit-led Indian team has negated the follow-on threat on Day 4 of the Gabba Test in Brisbane after Australia posted 445. At stumps on the fourth day, India are 252-9, trailing by 193 runs. The five-match Test series is currently tied at 1-1. Captain Rohit will be desperate to make a strong mark with the bat in the remainder of the series.

Gabba Test: 'Rohit not opening, major reason behind his poor form,' Pujara decodes Hitman's failures in BGT

<p>Rohit Sharma looks clueless about his batting, captaincy and Test future. On day two of the third BGT Test at the Gabba in Brisbane, his tactics and field changes raised eyebrows in the commentary box and on the internet, with the fans and former cricketers coming hard on the Indian skipper. Ex-Aussie batter Simon Katich even called his captaincy ‘dumb’.</p>

<p>Just after lunch on day two, Siraj and Bumrah tried the short-ball tactic against Head, knowing his knack for falling prey to it. Though Rohit did have a third man in the position for one of Siraj's overs, he removed it in his next after Siraj failed to bowl him to the plan. That move, however, gave Head the leverage to play an overhead shot for a boundary, only for Katich to bash Rohit for his mediocre tactics.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-gabba-test-travis-head-rocks-india-with-another-hundred-after-pace-duo-escaped-injury-scare-784084">BGT, Gabba Test: Travis Head rocks India with another hundred after pace duo escaped injury scare</a></strong></p>

<p>“He had a fielder for that shot &amp; then he moved them to 2 leg-side fielders. Now, with that boundary, Rohit has moved the fielder over there again.&nbsp;The horse has just bolted,” Katich said of Rohit’s field change during Siraj’s over after lunch.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here –</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"That is dumb. Dumb cricket!"<br />
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Simon Katich didn't miss Siraj and India for this delivery that Travis Head ramped to the boundary...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/tvGRG2CfIK">pic.twitter.com/tvGRG2CfIK</a></p>
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/7Cricket/status/1868148658417365050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Head hits hundred at Gabba</h2>

<p>Travis Head has been a thorn in Team India’s flesh for over a year. Since costing them the WTC Final 2025 with a stunning hundred, Head broke a billion hearts with a decisive and match-winning 137 against the hosts in the 2023 ODI World Cup Final. Though his magnificent 89 against Rohit’s team in this year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas went in vain, his one in the second Test in Adelaide in the ongoing BGT didn’t.</p>

<p>Thanks to his 140 in the Pink-Ball Test, Australia won the second game, levelling the five-match series 1-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, coming to the Gabba, Head slammed another one, his second of the series and ninth overall in Tests, to put Australia on the front foot.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">HE'S DONE IT AGAIN!<br />
<br />
Travis Head brings up another hundred ⭐️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayOfTheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayOfTheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/10yBuL883X">pic.twitter.com/10yBuL883X</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868159132416483776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Rohit’s lack of application as a captain seemed to cost India in Brisbane, as the partnership for the fourth wicket crossed 200 between Smith and Head.</p>

<p>Here is how social media reacted to Rohit’s captaincy in the Gabba Test -</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If you are still defending Rohit Sharma's clueless &amp; defensive captaincy, then you are just making a fool out of yourself. He's just not meant for this job, he needs to accept it and resign immediately after this test irrespective of the outcome of this match</p>
— Pallavi (@Pallavi_paul21) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pallavi_paul21/status/1868152509941837847?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rohit Sharma is just shameless to not give up the captaincy. Can’t score runs. Can’t set fields. Can’t put pressure. Lost 3 Tests at home. Losing here too.</p>
— Gabbar (@GabbbarSingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/GabbbarSingh/status/1868160435255730535?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">*Rohit Sharma trying to have a good day*<br />
<br />
Travis Head everytime: <a href="https://t.co/KQGz5RfNGM">pic.twitter.com/KQGz5RfNGM</a></p>
— Sagar (@sagarcasm) <a href="https://twitter.com/sagarcasm/status/1868157690238947381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">After this ultra-defensive, no-plans, and putting everything on the bowlers in the BGT series, I find it difficult to envision Rohit Sharma continuing as the Test captain. &amp; I know I’ll get flak for this. <a href="https://t.co/0bOSP5ZkIS">pic.twitter.com/0bOSP5ZkIS</a></p>
— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vipintiwari952/status/1868151893270339980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Don't even feel like tweeting the same thing over and over again. Rohit sharma's defensive tactics have ruined the test cricket for me. I think it's time to take a break till he captains.</p>
— Archer (@poserarcher) <a href="https://twitter.com/poserarcher/status/1868165229873659915?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rohit Sharma is on the verge of losing 5th consecutive tests. We need to start a serious discussion on his captaincy now and also sack Gambhir for the betterment of indian cricket.</p>
— Div🦁 (@div_yumm) <a href="https://twitter.com/div_yumm/status/1868156859321844049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hey Travis,all your last 3 Innings at Gabba ended in a Duck. You must be feeling the pressure.<br />
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Head- Pressure? What Pressure? The Captain of the bowling team is Rohit Sharma 💀 <a href="https://t.co/EtuLtiVlzk">pic.twitter.com/EtuLtiVlzk</a></p>
— Dinda Academy (@academy_dinda) <a href="https://twitter.com/academy_dinda/status/1868145311560167472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Rohit Sharma looks clueless about his batting, captaincy and Test future. On day two of the third BGT Test at the Gabba in Brisbane, his tactics and field changes raised eyebrows in the commentary box and on the internet, with the fans and former cricketers coming hard on the Indian skipper.

Rohit Sharma looks clueless about his batting, captaincy and Test future. On day two of the third BGT Test at the Gabba in Brisbane, his tactics and field changes raised eyebrows in the commentary box and on the internet, with the fans and former cricketers coming hard on the Indian skipper. Ex-Aussie batter Simon Katich even called his captaincy ‘dumb’. Just after lunch on day two, Siraj and Bumrah tried the short-ball tactic against Head, knowing his knack for falling prey to it. Though Rohit did have a third man in the position for one of Siraj's overs, he removed it in his next after Siraj failed to bowl him to the plan. That move, however, gave Head the leverage to play an overhead shot for a boundary, only for Katich to bash Rohit for his mediocre tactics. ALSO READ: BGT, Gabba Test: Travis Head rocks India with another hundred after pace duo escaped injury scare “He had a fielder for that shot & then he moved them to 2 leg-side fielders. Now, with that boundary, Rohit has moved the fielder over there again. The horse has just bolted,” Katich said of Rohit’s field change during Siraj’s over after lunch. Watch the video here – "That is dumb. Dumb cricket!" Simon Katich didn't miss Siraj and India for this delivery that Travis Head ramped to the boundary...#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/tvGRG2CfIK — 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 15, 2024 × Head hits hundred at Gabba Travis Head has been a thorn in Team India’s flesh for over a year. Since costing them the WTC Final 2025 with a stunning hundred, Head broke a billion hearts with a decisive and match-winning 137 against the hosts in the 2023 ODI World Cup Final. Though his magnificent 89 against Rohit’s team in this year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas went in vain, his one in the second Test in Adelaide in the ongoing BGT didn’t. Thanks to his 140 in the Pink-Ball Test, Australia won the second game, levelling the five-match series 1-1. Meanwhile, coming to the Gabba, Head slammed another one, his second of the series and ninth overall in Tests, to put Australia on the front foot. HE'S DONE IT AGAIN! Travis Head brings up another hundred ⭐️#AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/10yBuL883X — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Rohit’s lack of application as a captain seemed to cost India in Brisbane, as the partnership for the fourth wicket crossed 200 between Smith and Head. Here is how social media reacted to Rohit’s captaincy in the Gabba Test - If you are still defending Rohit Sharma's clueless & defensive captaincy, then you are just making a fool out of yourself. He's just not meant for this job, he needs to accept it and resign immediately after this test irrespective of the outcome of this match — Pallavi (@Pallavi_paul21) December 15, 2024 × Rohit Sharma is just shameless to not give up the captaincy. Can’t score runs. Can’t set fields. Can’t put pressure. Lost 3 Tests at home. Losing here too. — Gabbar (@GabbbarSingh) December 15, 2024 × *Rohit Sharma trying to have a good day* Travis Head everytime: pic.twitter.com/KQGz5RfNGM — Sagar (@sagarcasm) December 15, 2024 × After this ultra-defensive, no-plans, and putting everything on the bowlers in the BGT series, I find it difficult to envision Rohit Sharma continuing as the Test captain. & I know I’ll get flak for this. pic.twitter.com/0bOSP5ZkIS — Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) December 15, 2024 × Don't even feel like tweeting the same thing over and over again. Rohit sharma's defensive tactics have ruined the test cricket for me. I think it's time to take a break till he captains. — Archer (@poserarcher) December 15, 2024 × Rohit Sharma is on the verge of losing 5th consecutive tests. We need to start a serious discussion on his captaincy now and also sack Gambhir for the betterment of indian cricket. — Div🦁 (@div_yumm) December 15, 2024 × Hey Travis,all your last 3 Innings at Gabba ended in a Duck. You must be feeling the pressure. Head- Pressure? What Pressure? The Captain of the bowling team is Rohit Sharma 💀 pic.twitter.com/EtuLtiVlzk — Dinda Academy (@academy_dinda) December 15, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: ‘Dumb cricket’- Simon Katich tears into Rohit Sharma’s clueless captaincy as Head hits hundred at Gabba

<p>Indian captain Rohit Sharma is struggling for runs in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 edition in Australia. After missing the series opener, in Perth, Rohit walked into the playing XI but hasn't managed to create any impact with the bat, demoting himself to No. 6 (owing to KL Rahul's success as an opener). He has had scores of 3, 6 and 10 and, hence, fingers are being pointed at him. Veteran Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara decoded Hitman's failures and feels with him not opening the innings, it has caused the lean patch.</p>

<p>Speaking on Rohit's dismissal (10) on Day 4 of the rain-marred Gabba Test, in Brisbane, on Tuesday (Dec 17), Pujara said on Star Sports, "It wasn't a length where you can drive. We have seen that even a fuller-length ball, it's hard to drive. He, kind of tried to punch that ball. He should have defended that ball, and allowed the ball to come to him rather than going for that ball. And I think the tough part is he hasn't been, amongst runs, and, that's where the pressure is."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/gabba-test-indian-batters-falter-as-australia-in-drivers-seat-despite-rain-playing-havoc-on-day-3-784332">BGT, Gabba Test: Indian batters falter again, Australia in driver's seat despite rain playing havoc on Day 3</a></strong></p>

<h2>'Doesn't help you when you're opening innings and suddenly start batting at No. 6'</h2>

<p>Pujara added, "He has been opening the innings (since 2019), now he's batting at number 6. That is for the team, but I still feel that when you are so much used to opening the innings and when you have to wait, then you put yourself in that doubt. I mean, it doesn't help you when you're opening innings and you suddenly start batting at number 6. So that you don't get that momentum either."</p>

<p>At present, the Rohit-led Indian team has negated the follow-on threat on Day 4 of the Gabba Test in Brisbane after Australia posted 445. At stumps on the fourth day, India are 252-9, trailing by 193 runs.</p>

<p>The five-match Test series is currently tied at 1-1. Captain Rohit will be desperate to make a strong mark with the bat in the remainder of the series.</p>


Indian captain Rohit Sharma is struggling for runs in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 edition in Australia. After missing the series opener, in Perth, Rohit walked into the playing XI but hasn't managed to create any impact with the bat, demoting himself to No.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma is struggling for runs in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 edition in Australia. After missing the series opener, in Perth, Rohit walked into the playing XI but hasn't managed to create any impact with the bat, demoting himself to No. 6 (owing to KL Rahul's success as an opener). He has had scores of 3, 6 and 10 and, hence, fingers are being pointed at him. Veteran Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara decoded Hitman's failures and feels with him not opening the innings, it has caused the lean patch. Speaking on Rohit's dismissal (10) on Day 4 of the rain-marred Gabba Test, in Brisbane, on Tuesday (Dec 17), Pujara said on Star Sports, "It wasn't a length where you can drive. We have seen that even a fuller-length ball, it's hard to drive. He, kind of tried to punch that ball. He should have defended that ball, and allowed the ball to come to him rather than going for that ball. And I think the tough part is he hasn't been, amongst runs, and, that's where the pressure is." Also read: BGT, Gabba Test: Indian batters falter again, Australia in driver's seat despite rain playing havoc on Day 3 'Doesn't help you when you're opening innings and suddenly start batting at No. 6' Pujara added, "He has been opening the innings (since 2019), now he's batting at number 6. That is for the team, but I still feel that when you are so much used to opening the innings and when you have to wait, then you put yourself in that doubt. I mean, it doesn't help you when you're opening innings and you suddenly start batting at number 6. So that you don't get that momentum either." At present, the Rohit-led Indian team has negated the follow-on threat on Day 4 of the Gabba Test in Brisbane after Australia posted 445. At stumps on the fourth day, India are 252-9, trailing by 193 runs. The five-match Test series is currently tied at 1-1. Captain Rohit will be desperate to make a strong mark with the bat in the remainder of the series.

<p><span class="region">Gabba, Brisbane</span>
<p>Rohit Sharma looks clueless about his batting, captaincy and Test future. On day two of the third BGT Test at the Gabba in Brisbane, his tactics and field changes raised eyebrows in the commentary box and on the internet, with the fans and former cricketers coming hard on the Indian skipper. Ex-Aussie batter Simon Katich even called his captaincy ‘dumb’.</p></p>
<p>Just after lunch on day two, Siraj and Bumrah tried the short-ball tactic against Head, knowing his knack for falling prey to it. Though Rohit did have a third man in the position for one of Siraj's overs, he removed it in his next after Siraj failed to bowl him to the plan. That move, however, gave Head the leverage to play an overhead shot for a boundary, only for Katich to bash Rohit for his mediocre tactics.</p>
<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-gabba-test-travis-head-rocks-india-with-another-hundred-after-pace-duo-escaped-injury-scare-784084">BGT, Gabba Test: Travis Head rocks India with another hundred after pace duo escaped injury scare</a></strong></p>
<p>“He had a fielder for that shot &amp; then he moved them to 2 leg-side fielders. Now, with that boundary, Rohit has moved the fielder over there again. The horse has just bolted,” Katich said of Rohit’s field change during Siraj’s over after lunch.</p>
<p><strong>Watch the video here –</strong></p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"That is dumb. Dumb cricket!"</p>
<p>Simon Katich didn't miss Siraj and India for this delivery that Travis Head ramped to the boundary...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/tvGRG2CfIK">pic.twitter.com/tvGRG2CfIK</a></p>
<p>— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/7Cricket/status/1868148658417365050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<h2>Head hits hundred at Gabba</h2>
<p>Travis Head has been a thorn in Team India’s flesh for over a year. Since costing them the WTC Final 2025 with a stunning hundred, Head broke a billion hearts with a decisive and match-winning 137 against the hosts in the 2023 ODI World Cup Final. Though his magnificent 89 against Rohit’s team in this year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas went in vain, his one in the second Test in Adelaide in the ongoing BGT didn’t.</p>
<p>Thanks to his 140 in the Pink-Ball Test, Australia won the second game, levelling the five-match series 1-1. </p>
<p>Meanwhile, coming to the Gabba, Head slammed another one, his second of the series and ninth overall in Tests, to put Australia on the front foot. </p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">HE'S DONE IT AGAIN!</p>
<p>Travis Head brings up another hundred ⭐️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayOfTheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayOfTheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/10yBuL883X">pic.twitter.com/10yBuL883X</a></p>
<p>— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1868159132416483776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p>Rohit’s lack of application as a captain seemed to cost India in Brisbane, as the partnership for the fourth wicket crossed 200 between Smith and Head.</p>
<p>Here is how social media reacted to Rohit’s captaincy in the Gabba Test -</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If you are still defending Rohit Sharma's clueless &amp; defensive captaincy, then you are just making a fool out of yourself. He's just not meant for this job, he needs to accept it and resign immediately after this test irrespective of the outcome of this match</p>
<p>— Pallavi (@Pallavi_paul21) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pallavi_paul21/status/1868152509941837847?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rohit Sharma is just shameless to not give up the captaincy. Can’t score runs. Can’t set fields. Can’t put pressure. Lost 3 Tests at home. Losing here too.</p>
<p>— Gabbar (@GabbbarSingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/GabbbarSingh/status/1868160435255730535?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">*Rohit Sharma trying to have a good day*</p>
<p>Travis Head everytime: <a href="https://t.co/KQGz5RfNGM">pic.twitter.com/KQGz5RfNGM</a></p>
<p>— Sagar (@sagarcasm) <a href="https://twitter.com/sagarcasm/status/1868157690238947381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">After this ultra-defensive, no-plans, and putting everything on the bowlers in the BGT series, I find it difficult to envision Rohit Sharma continuing as the Test captain. &amp; I know I’ll get flak for this. <a href="https://t.co/0bOSP5ZkIS">pic.twitter.com/0bOSP5ZkIS</a></p>
<p>— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vipintiwari952/status/1868151893270339980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Don't even feel like tweeting the same thing over and over again. Rohit sharma's defensive tactics have ruined the test cricket for me. I think it's time to take a break till he captains.</p>
<p>— Archer (@poserarcher) <a href="https://twitter.com/poserarcher/status/1868165229873659915?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rohit Sharma is on the verge of losing 5th consecutive tests. We need to start a serious discussion on his captaincy now and also sack Gambhir for the betterment of indian cricket.</p>
<p>— Div? (@div_yumm) <a href="https://twitter.com/div_yumm/status/1868156859321844049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hey Travis,all your last 3 Innings at Gabba ended in a Duck. You must be feeling the pressure.</p>
<p>Head- Pressure? What Pressure? The Captain of the bowling team is Rohit Sharma ? <a href="https://t.co/EtuLtiVlzk">pic.twitter.com/EtuLtiVlzk</a></p>
<p>— Dinda Academy (@academy_dinda) <a href="https://twitter.com/academy_dinda/status/1868145311560167472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


On day two of the third BGT Test at the Gabba in Brisbane, his tactics and field changes raised eyebrows in the commentary box and on the internet, with the fans and former cricketers coming hard on the Indian skipper.



Gabba, Brisbane Rohit Sharma looks clueless about his batting, captaincy and Test future. On day two of the third BGT Test at the Gabba in Brisbane, his tactics and field changes raised eyebrows in the commentary box and on the internet, with the fans and former cricketers coming hard on the Indian skipper. Ex-Aussie batter Simon Katich even called his captaincy ‘dumb’. Just after lunch on day two, Siraj and Bumrah tried the short-ball tactic against Head, knowing his knack for falling prey to it. Though Rohit did have a third man in the position for one of Siraj's overs, he removed it in his next after Siraj failed to bowl him to the plan. That move, however, gave Head the leverage to play an overhead shot for a boundary, only for Katich to bash Rohit for his mediocre tactics. ALSO READ: BGT, Gabba Test: Travis Head rocks India with another hundred after pace duo escaped injury scare “He had a fielder for that shot & then he moved them to 2 leg-side fielders. Now, with that boundary, Rohit has moved the fielder over there again. The horse has just bolted,” Katich said of Rohit’s field change during Siraj’s over after lunch. Watch the video here – "That is dumb. Dumb cricket!" Simon Katich didn't miss Siraj and India for this delivery that Travis Head ramped to the boundary...#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/tvGRG2CfIK — 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 15, 2024 × Head hits hundred at Gabba Travis Head has been a thorn in Team India’s flesh for over a year. Since costing them the WTC Final 2025 with a stunning hundred, Head broke a billion hearts with a decisive and match-winning 137 against the hosts in the 2023 ODI World Cup Final. Though his magnificent 89 against Rohit’s team in this year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas went in vain, his one in the second Test in Adelaide in the ongoing BGT didn’t. Thanks to his 140 in the Pink-Ball Test, Australia won the second game, levelling the five-match series 1-1. Meanwhile, coming to the Gabba, Head slammed another one, his second of the series and ninth overall in Tests, to put Australia on the front foot. HE'S DONE IT AGAIN! Travis Head brings up another hundred ⭐️#AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/10yBuL883X — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 15, 2024 × Rohit’s lack of application as a captain seemed to cost India in Brisbane, as the partnership for the fourth wicket crossed 200 between Smith and Head. Here is how social media reacted to Rohit’s captaincy in the Gabba Test - If you are still defending Rohit Sharma's clueless & defensive captaincy, then you are just making a fool out of yourself. He's just not meant for this job, he needs to accept it and resign immediately after this test irrespective of the outcome of this match — Pallavi (@Pallavi_paul21) December 15, 2024 × Rohit Sharma is just shameless to not give up the captaincy. Can’t score runs. Can’t set fields. Can’t put pressure. Lost 3 Tests at home. Losing here too. — Gabbar (@GabbbarSingh) December 15, 2024 × *Rohit Sharma trying to have a good day* Travis Head everytime: pic.twitter.com/KQGz5RfNGM — Sagar (@sagarcasm) December 15, 2024 × After this ultra-defensive, no-plans, and putting everything on the bowlers in the BGT series, I find it difficult to envision Rohit Sharma continuing as the Test captain. & I know I’ll get flak for this. pic.twitter.com/0bOSP5ZkIS — Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) December 15, 2024 × Don't even feel like tweeting the same thing over and over again. Rohit sharma's defensive tactics have ruined the test cricket for me. I think it's time to take a break till he captains. — Archer (@poserarcher) December 15, 2024 × Rohit Sharma is on the verge of losing 5th consecutive tests. We need to start a serious discussion on his captaincy now and also sack Gambhir for the betterment of indian cricket. — Div? (@div_yumm) December 15, 2024 × Hey Travis,all your last 3 Innings at Gabba ended in a Duck. You must be feeling the pressure. Head- Pressure? What Pressure? The Captain of the bowling team is Rohit Sharma ? pic.twitter.com/EtuLtiVlzk — Dinda Academy (@academy_dinda) December 15, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: ‘Dumb cricket’ Simon Katich tears into Rohit Sharma’s clueless captaincy as Head hits hundred at Gabba

<p>Team India has locked in their openers for the third Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane starting December 14, while the skipper Rohit Sharma’s batting position has also been sealed, per the latest reports. After India drew first blood in this marquee five-match series with the win in Perth by 295 runs, they suffered an embarrassing 10-wicket loss in the second Test under the lights in Adelaide.</p>

<p>Following defeat&nbsp;in the Pink-Ball Test, several pundits and ex-cricketers shared contrasting views on India's batting order and failure. India conceded the lead within three days at the Adelaide Oval. With the scores level heading into Brisbane, reports of the team management locking KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal as openers are doing rounds.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-gabba-test-bcci-needs-robust-selectors-to-take-tough-calls-greg-chappell-on-kohli-rohits-test-future-783378">BGT, Gabba Test - BCCI needs robust selectors to take tough calls: Greg Chappell on Kohli, Rohit’s Test future</a></strong></p>

<p>This left-right combination did wonders for India in the series opener in Perth in Rohit Sharma’s absence, who missed the first Test due to personal reasons. Though both suffered Down Under blues in the first innings, they stitched a 202-run stand for the opening partnership, with Jaiswal completing his maiden Test hundred in Australia, hitting a superb 161.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the next game, both failed to replicate their Perth heroics, with Rohit failing miserably across both innings in his return game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, per the first practice session in Brisbane on Thursday (Dec 12), both openers hit the nets first before Rohit walked in earlier than the last time, replacing Rahul. KL returned for another batting session later. Considering India is unlikely to change their playing XI for the third time, barring injury concerns (if any), the batting order might look the same.</p>

<h2>Kohli, Bumrah take charge</h2>

<p>Another highlight of Team India’s first training session in Brisbane was Virat Kohli’s animated pep talk before the proceedings began. He assembled everyone and pumped them up before hitting the nets for an extended session. Virat also kept talking with batting coach Ryan ten Doeschate about working on the rising deliveries that troubled him twice in two matches.</p>

<p>On the other hand, pace leader Jasprit Bumrah led the charge, sharing inputs with newcomer Nitish Kumar Reddy on navigating his weight in the right direction, extracting more pace out of it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mohammed Siraj, who made headlines for his send-off to Travis Head during the Adelaide Test, also spent time with Team India’s video analyst Hari and bowling coach Morne Morkel, working on his release point to get more swing.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Team India has locked in their openers for the third Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane starting December 14, while the skipper Rohit Sharma’s batting position has also been sealed, per the latest reports.

Team India has locked in their openers for the third Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane starting December 14, while the skipper Rohit Sharma’s batting position has also been sealed, per the latest reports. After India drew first blood in this marquee five-match series with the win in Perth by 295 runs, they suffered an embarrassing 10-wicket loss in the second Test under the lights in Adelaide. Following defeat in the Pink-Ball Test, several pundits and ex-cricketers shared contrasting views on India's batting order and failure. India conceded the lead within three days at the Adelaide Oval. With the scores level heading into Brisbane, reports of the team management locking KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal as openers are doing rounds. ALSO READ: BGT, Gabba Test - BCCI needs robust selectors to take tough calls: Greg Chappell on Kohli, Rohit’s Test future This left-right combination did wonders for India in the series opener in Perth in Rohit Sharma’s absence, who missed the first Test due to personal reasons. Though both suffered Down Under blues in the first innings, they stitched a 202-run stand for the opening partnership, with Jaiswal completing his maiden Test hundred in Australia, hitting a superb 161. In the next game, both failed to replicate their Perth heroics, with Rohit failing miserably across both innings in his return game. However, per the first practice session in Brisbane on Thursday (Dec 12), both openers hit the nets first before Rohit walked in earlier than the last time, replacing Rahul. KL returned for another batting session later. Considering India is unlikely to change their playing XI for the third time, barring injury concerns (if any), the batting order might look the same. Kohli, Bumrah take charge Another highlight of Team India’s first training session in Brisbane was Virat Kohli’s animated pep talk before the proceedings began. He assembled everyone and pumped them up before hitting the nets for an extended session. Virat also kept talking with batting coach Ryan ten Doeschate about working on the rising deliveries that troubled him twice in two matches. On the other hand, pace leader Jasprit Bumrah led the charge, sharing inputs with newcomer Nitish Kumar Reddy on navigating his weight in the right direction, extracting more pace out of it. Mohammed Siraj, who made headlines for his send-off to Travis Head during the Adelaide Test, also spent time with Team India’s video analyst Hari and bowling coach Morne Morkel, working on his release point to get more swing. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT: India lock openers for Gabba Test, Rohit Sharma to continue batting at 6 – Report

<p>After India suffered an embarrassing 10-wicket defeat against Australia in the second BGT Test in Adelaide, several former players and pundits came down hard on the visiting camp, mainly veteran duo of Virat Kohli and skipper Rohit Sharma, for their poor outing in the Pink-Ball Test. While Kohli got out chasing the fifth stump line in the second innings, Rohit never looked in his element across both, playing at number six in his return game.</p>

<p>The Indian captain missed the series opener in Perth for personal reasons and linked up with the BGT-bound squad midway through the first Test. Though he played the warm-up match against Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra, getting out cheaply, his demotion in the batting order to adjust KL Rahul at the top, who did wonders at the Optus Stadium, hurt Rohit and India massively in Adelaide.</p>

<p>As the star players failed to deliver under the lights, India conceded the 1-0 lead, with the scores tied heading into the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane starting December 14.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-chairman-jay-shah-arrives-in-brisbane-to-attend-the-2032-olympics-meet-783369">ICC chairman Jay Shah arrives in Brisbane to attend the 2032 Olympics meet</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, former India coach and Australia great Greg Chapell expressed his views on the Test future of these two stalwarts. Backing them to continue playing for as long as they wish, adding they deserve to take a call on their future whenever they want, Chappell argued if Virat and Rohit’s form is hurting India, the Indian Board must have robust selectors to take tougher calls for the betterment of their cricket.</p>

<p>“You know yourself whether you’re at your peak or not. But they obviously love playing the game. They want to play it as long as they can, and they have every reason, every right to want to go as long as they can. That’s why you need good, robust selection policies and selection panels to make those tough decisions,” Chappell said, as quoted by the Hindustan Times. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s not up to the players necessarily to make those decisions. They might want to make that decision. But it’s a well-paid job. Who’s going to walk away from it? Someone else has to make that decision. That’s why you need robust selection panels and policies,” he continued.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>‘Tough to take those calls’</h2>

<p>Pressing on how important it is for the selectors, the players and the board to be on the same page, with a mutual interest being the improvement and winning series and titles for the team, Chappell said it’s never easy to chat with ‘Big Boys’ of any team about their futures.</p>

<p>“It’s very tough. You’ve got to pick the right people to be selectors, the ones that are prepared to have those tough conversations. They can be. Depends on the relationships between the various people in the room. But we all go through it, everyone that plays at that level.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“You’ll have your ups and downs as a player. With good players, you prefer to give them a game too many than a game too few. So, it’s always tough to get that balance right.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Everyone goes through it; every team goes through it. No cricket team is ever a finished article. You’re always looking at ways that you might improve it. So, you’re constantly bringing players in, bringing players out. But when you get the superstars, you want them to go as long as they possibly can. So, occasionally you might let them go a bit too long,” Chappell noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After India suffered an embarrassing 10-wicket defeat against Australia in the second BGT Test in Adelaide, several former players and pundits came down hard on the visiting camp, mainly veteran duo of Virat Kohli and skipper Rohit Sharma, for their poor outing in the Pink-Ball Test.

After India suffered an embarrassing 10-wicket defeat against Australia in the second BGT Test in Adelaide, several former players and pundits came down hard on the visiting camp, mainly veteran duo of Virat Kohli and skipper Rohit Sharma, for their poor outing in the Pink-Ball Test. While Kohli got out chasing the fifth stump line in the second innings, Rohit never looked in his element across both, playing at number six in his return game. The Indian captain missed the series opener in Perth for personal reasons and linked up with the BGT-bound squad midway through the first Test. Though he played the warm-up match against Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra, getting out cheaply, his demotion in the batting order to adjust KL Rahul at the top, who did wonders at the Optus Stadium, hurt Rohit and India massively in Adelaide. As the star players failed to deliver under the lights, India conceded the 1-0 lead, with the scores tied heading into the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane starting December 14. ALSO READ: ICC chairman Jay Shah arrives in Brisbane to attend the 2032 Olympics meet Meanwhile, former India coach and Australia great Greg Chapell expressed his views on the Test future of these two stalwarts. Backing them to continue playing for as long as they wish, adding they deserve to take a call on their future whenever they want, Chappell argued if Virat and Rohit’s form is hurting India, the Indian Board must have robust selectors to take tougher calls for the betterment of their cricket. “You know yourself whether you’re at your peak or not. But they obviously love playing the game. They want to play it as long as they can, and they have every reason, every right to want to go as long as they can. That’s why you need good, robust selection policies and selection panels to make those tough decisions,” Chappell said, as quoted by the Hindustan Times. “It’s not up to the players necessarily to make those decisions. They might want to make that decision. But it’s a well-paid job. Who’s going to walk away from it? Someone else has to make that decision. That’s why you need robust selection panels and policies,” he continued. ‘Tough to take those calls’ Pressing on how important it is for the selectors, the players and the board to be on the same page, with a mutual interest being the improvement and winning series and titles for the team, Chappell said it’s never easy to chat with ‘Big Boys’ of any team about their futures. “It’s very tough. You’ve got to pick the right people to be selectors, the ones that are prepared to have those tough conversations. They can be. Depends on the relationships between the various people in the room. But we all go through it, everyone that plays at that level. “You’ll have your ups and downs as a player. With good players, you prefer to give them a game too many than a game too few. So, it’s always tough to get that balance right. “Everyone goes through it; every team goes through it. No cricket team is ever a finished article. You’re always looking at ways that you might improve it. So, you’re constantly bringing players in, bringing players out. But when you get the superstars, you want them to go as long as they possibly can. So, occasionally you might let them go a bit too long,” Chappell noted. (With inputs from agencies)

BGT, Gabba Test - BCCI needs robust selectors to take tough calls: Greg Chappell on Kohli, Rohit’s Test future

<p>India lost the second Test, in Adelaide, to Australia by ten wickets as the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is now levelled at 1-1. While India looked clueless in the pink-ball contest, despite a big win in the series opener in Perth, captain Rohit Sharma made heads turn with his decision-making. He was blamed for being defensive as it allowed Australia to take a&nbsp;sizeable 157-run lead, after India bundled out for 180, whereas his decision to bat at No. 6 surprised many. The opener demoted himself down the order to not disturb the opening pair of KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who flourished in Perth.</p>

<p>However, the move didn't pay dividends as Rohit and the opening pair failed. Many former cricketers believe Hitman should go back to opening the innings, which he has been doing since late 2019, however, veteran Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara explained why Rohit batting down the order is ideal.</p>

<p>In the build-up to the third Test, in Brisbane, Pujara told ESPNCricinfo, "He has not scored a lot of runs against New Zealand and did not start well in Australia, so there is a bit of pressure on him to perform. But someone like him who knows his game will have to be more positive and work a bit more on his footwork. If he has a slightly bigger stride, it will help him.&nbsp;The stump line has been troubling him a lot. He has been getting out bowled and LBW, which is a bit of a concern for him. That's the line he will have to work on in the nets because in the balls outside off stump, he is looking more comfortable. I think he should continue to bat at No. 6."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-do-not-hold-back-one-bit-shastri-shares-advice-for-md-siraj-after-heated-exchange-with-travis-head-782966">BGT: 'Do not hold back one bit,' Shastri shares advice for Md Siraj after heated exchange with Travis Head</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'I think he should continue to bat at No.6. We are looking at India's future'</strong></h2>

<p>Pujara added, "We are looking at India's future, KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal. They batted really well in the 1st Test match, Shubman also is likely to bat at No.3. We should think about the long term and that's why I think that Rohit should continue to bat at No. 6."</p>

<p>Rahul and Jaiswal recorded the highest opening stand for India in Tests in Australia (201) during the Perth Test. Hence, they are likely to continue as openers for the remainder of the series. However, it will be interesting to see if Rohit regains form at No. 6, where he batted for a long time before cementing his spot as an opener since Sep 2019.</p>


India lost the second Test, in Adelaide, to Australia by ten wickets as the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is now levelled at 1-1. While India looked clueless in the pink-ball contest, despite a big win in the series opener in Perth, captain Rohit Sharma made heads turn with his decision-making.

India lost the second Test, in Adelaide, to Australia by ten wickets as the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is now levelled at 1-1. While India looked clueless in the pink-ball contest, despite a big win in the series opener in Perth, captain Rohit Sharma made heads turn with his decision-making. He was blamed for being defensive as it allowed Australia to take a sizeable 157-run lead, after India bundled out for 180, whereas his decision to bat at No. 6 surprised many. The opener demoted himself down the order to not disturb the opening pair of KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who flourished in Perth. However, the move didn't pay dividends as Rohit and the opening pair failed. Many former cricketers believe Hitman should go back to opening the innings, which he has been doing since late 2019, however, veteran Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara explained why Rohit batting down the order is ideal. In the build-up to the third Test, in Brisbane, Pujara told ESPNCricinfo, "He has not scored a lot of runs against New Zealand and did not start well in Australia, so there is a bit of pressure on him to perform. But someone like him who knows his game will have to be more positive and work a bit more on his footwork. If he has a slightly bigger stride, it will help him. The stump line has been troubling him a lot. He has been getting out bowled and LBW, which is a bit of a concern for him. That's the line he will have to work on in the nets because in the balls outside off stump, he is looking more comfortable. I think he should continue to bat at No. 6." Also read: BGT: 'Do not hold back one bit,' Shastri shares advice for Md Siraj after heated exchange with Travis Head 'I think he should continue to bat at No.6. We are looking at India's future' Pujara added, "We are looking at India's future, KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal. They batted really well in the 1st Test match, Shubman also is likely to bat at No.3. We should think about the long term and that's why I think that Rohit should continue to bat at No. 6." Rahul and Jaiswal recorded the highest opening stand for India in Tests in Australia (201) during the Perth Test. Hence, they are likely to continue as openers for the remainder of the series. However, it will be interesting to see if Rohit regains form at No. 6, where he batted for a long time before cementing his spot as an opener since Sep 2019.

BGT: Cheteshwar Pujara explains why Rohit Sharma should continue to bat at No. 6 as Brisbane Test nears

<p>England's Harry Brook replaced countryman Joe Root to become the new No. 1 batter in the latest ICC Test Rankings for batters. On the updated list released on Wednesday (Dec 11), Brook was rewarded for his sensational run in his side's ongoing three-match Test series versus New Zealand, in New Zealand. The right-hander has impressed with scores of 171, 123 and 55 to take the numero uno position. Meanwhile, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant are the only two Indian batters in the top ten.</p>

<p><strong>Here is the updated list:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>ICC Test Rankings For Batters</strong></p>

<p>1. Harry Brook - 898 rating points<br />
2. Joe Root - 897 rating points<br />
3. Kane Williamson - 812 rating points<br />
4. Yashasvi Jaiswal - 811 rating points<br />
5. Travis Head - 781 rating points<br />
6. Kamindu Mendis - 759 rating points<br />
7. Temba Bavuma - 753 rating points<br />
8. Darly Mitchell - 729 rating points<br />
9. Rishabh Pant - 724 rating points<br />
10. Saud Shakeel - 724 rating points</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Australia's Travis Head also returned to the top 10 following his match-winning 140-run knock versus India in the recently-held Adelaide Test.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-tour-of-england-2025-ticket-demand-for-second-test-in-edgbaston-sets-new-record-783196">India tour of England 2025: Ticket demand for second Test in Edgbaston sets new record</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Indian batters in Top 35</strong></p>

<p>Yashasvi Jaiswal (No. 4)<br />
Rishabh Pant (No. 9)<br />
Shubman Gill (No. 17)<br />
Virat Kohli (No. 20)<br />
Rohit Sharma (No. 31)</p>

<p>The likes of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have suffered massive drops following the second Test between India and Australia, at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. In the second Test, of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), Rohit returned with scores of 3 for 6 to drop five places. Kohli, who scored a ton in the series opener in Perth, flopped in the pink-ball contest and, as a result, suffered a drop of six places.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about the bowlers, Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah remains at the top. There is only one change in the top five with R Ashwin being replaced by Australian skipper Pat Cummins at the No. 4 spot. Cummins ended the Adelaide Test with a five-fer in the second innings.</p>

<p><strong>ICC Test Rankings For Bowlers</strong></p>

<p>1. Jasprit Bumrah - 890 rating points<br />
2. Kagiso Rabada - 856 rating points<br />
3. Josh Hazlewood - 851 rating points<br />
4. Pat Cummins - 816 rating points<br />
5. R Ashwin - 797 rating points<br />
6. Ravindra Jadeja - 786 rating points<br />
7. Nathan Lyon - 779 rating points<br />
8. Prabath Jayasuriya - 768 rating points<br />
9. Matt Henry - 764 rating points<br />
10. Noman Ali - 759 rating points</p>


England's Harry Brook replaced countryman Joe Root to become the new No. 1 batter in the latest ICC Test Rankings for batters. On the updated list released on Wednesday (Dec 11), Brook was rewarded for his sensational run in his side's ongoing three-match Test series versus New Zealand, in New Zealand.

England's Harry Brook replaced countryman Joe Root to become the new No. 1 batter in the latest ICC Test Rankings for batters. On the updated list released on Wednesday (Dec 11), Brook was rewarded for his sensational run in his side's ongoing three-match Test series versus New Zealand, in New Zealand. The right-hander has impressed with scores of 171, 123 and 55 to take the numero uno position. Meanwhile, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant are the only two Indian batters in the top ten. Here is the updated list: ICC Test Rankings For Batters 1. Harry Brook - 898 rating points 2. Joe Root - 897 rating points 3. Kane Williamson - 812 rating points 4. Yashasvi Jaiswal - 811 rating points 5. Travis Head - 781 rating points 6. Kamindu Mendis - 759 rating points 7. Temba Bavuma - 753 rating points 8. Darly Mitchell - 729 rating points 9. Rishabh Pant - 724 rating points 10. Saud Shakeel - 724 rating points Meanwhile, Australia's Travis Head also returned to the top 10 following his match-winning 140-run knock versus India in the recently-held Adelaide Test. Also read: India tour of England 2025: Ticket demand for second Test in Edgbaston sets new record Indian batters in Top 35 Yashasvi Jaiswal (No. 4) Rishabh Pant (No. 9) Shubman Gill (No. 17) Virat Kohli (No. 20) Rohit Sharma (No. 31) The likes of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have suffered massive drops following the second Test between India and Australia, at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. In the second Test, of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), Rohit returned with scores of 3 for 6 to drop five places. Kohli, who scored a ton in the series opener in Perth, flopped in the pink-ball contest and, as a result, suffered a drop of six places. Talking about the bowlers, Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah remains at the top. There is only one change in the top five with R Ashwin being replaced by Australian skipper Pat Cummins at the No. 4 spot. Cummins ended the Adelaide Test with a five-fer in the second innings. ICC Test Rankings For Bowlers 1. Jasprit Bumrah - 890 rating points 2. Kagiso Rabada - 856 rating points 3. Josh Hazlewood - 851 rating points 4. Pat Cummins - 816 rating points 5. R Ashwin - 797 rating points 6. Ravindra Jadeja - 786 rating points 7. Nathan Lyon - 779 rating points 8. Prabath Jayasuriya - 768 rating points 9. Matt Henry - 764 rating points 10. Noman Ali - 759 rating points

ICC Test Rankings: Harry Brook replaces Joe Root to become No. 1, Virat and Rohit suffer massive drops

<p>Images taken by a NASA Mars orbiter indicate that a missing European space probe dispatched to Mars on a trial run had crashed and exploded on the Red Planet on Friday.</p>

<p>Confirming Europe&#39;s second failed attempt to reach the planet, the mission said they lost contact with the Schiaparelli probe 50 seconds before its scheduled touchdown.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The tiny disc-shaped lander was part of the Russian-European ExoMars programme to search for evidence of life on the Red Planet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The European Space Agency said&nbsp;the image contained a white spot, believed to be the lander&#39;s parachute spread out on the crash site. The black spot is &quot;larger than it would have been if Schiaparelli was in one piece&quot;, flight director Michel Denis told AFP. &quot;It is smashed.&quot;</p>

<p>The ESA said the lander&#39;s speed-breaking retro-rocket boosters appeared to have switched off prematurely. &quot;Estimates are that Schiaparelli dropped from a height of between two and four kilometres, therefore impacting at a considerable speed, greater than 300 kilometres (186 miles) per hour,&quot; it said in a statement. &quot;It is also possible that the lander exploded on impact as its thruster propellant tanks were likely still full.&quot;</p>

<p>The agency insisted the problems encountered by Schiaparelli were part of the trial-run and would inform the rover design. Its mothership Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) had entered Mars&#39; orbit as planned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pair comprised phase one of a project dubbed ExoMars through which Europe and Russia seek to join the United States in operating a successful rover on Mars. It agency said it would also seek additional funding from European governments for ExMars, due to be launched in 2020.</p>

<p>(WION with inputs from agencies)<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Images taken by a NASA Mars orbiter indicate that a missing European space probe dispatched to Mars on a trial run had crashed and exploded on the Red Planet on Friday.

Images taken by a NASA Mars orbiter indicate that a missing European space probe dispatched to Mars on a trial run had crashed and exploded on the Red Planet on Friday. Confirming Europe's second failed attempt to reach the planet, the mission said they lost contact with the Schiaparelli probe 50 seconds before its scheduled touchdown. The tiny disc-shaped lander was part of the Russian-European ExoMars programme to search for evidence of life on the Red Planet. The European Space Agency said the image contained a white spot, believed to be the lander's parachute spread out on the crash site. The black spot is "larger than it would have been if Schiaparelli was in one piece", flight director Michel Denis told AFP. "It is smashed." The ESA said the lander's speed-breaking retro-rocket boosters appeared to have switched off prematurely. "Estimates are that Schiaparelli dropped from a height of between two and four kilometres, therefore impacting at a considerable speed, greater than 300 kilometres (186 miles) per hour," it said in a statement. "It is also possible that the lander exploded on impact as its thruster propellant tanks were likely still full." The agency insisted the problems encountered by Schiaparelli were part of the trial-run and would inform the rover design. Its mothership Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) had entered Mars' orbit as planned. The pair comprised phase one of a project dubbed ExoMars through which Europe and Russia seek to join the United States in operating a successful rover on Mars. It agency said it would also seek additional funding from European governments for ExMars, due to be launched in 2020. (WION with inputs from agencies)

BGT 2024/25: Harbhajan Singh backs Rohit Sharma at No. 6, suggests two changes for Brisbane Test

<p>Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra blamed Rohit Sharma for India's 10-wicket loss to Australia in the second Test of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), held at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. On Day 3 on Sunday (Dec 8), India lost the second Test as Pat Cummins &amp; Co levelled the five-match series 1-1.</p>

<p>Shortly after the loss, Chopra rued Rohit's defensive captaincy, especially for under bowling vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah in a crucial part of the first innings, for the visitors' heavy defeat.</p>

<p>Chopra pointed out Rohit's mistake from Day 2, on Saturday (Dec 7), when he gave only a four-over spell to Bumrah in the morning session, allowing Australia to post 337 in response to India's 180.</p>

<p>"Jasprit Bumrah had bowled a four-over spell and had already picked up a wicket in that. So why did he bowl only four overs, and didn't bowl after that at all? He didn't bowl in the entire session. So you are 100 percent right when you say you missed a trick in captaincy. Rohit's captaincy - let's call a spade a spade. We saw defensive captaincy. He allowed the match to drift," Chopra said on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p>Bumrah bowled only a handful of deliveries to Travis Head when he came out to bat. As a result,&nbsp;he scored a majestic 141-ball 140 and propelled his side's lead to 157.</p>

<p>It proved to be the turning point of the second Test as India never staged a comeback. In the second essay, India fell flat and managed only 175, setting a 19-run target to lose heavily.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-siraj-head-may-face-repercussions-for-adelaide-brawl-as-iccs-disciplinary-hearing-looms-report-782572">BGT: Siraj, Head may face repercussions for Adelaide brawl as ICC’s disciplinary hearing looms - Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Chopra further added pressure on Rohit, reminding him of losing three successive Tests at home (versus New Zealand in October). Even the Perth Test win came under Bumrah with Rohit unavailable due to paternity leave.</p>

<p>Chopra added, "He wasn't the captain in the Perth match. So that win doesn't count for him. If we leave the last century, it's Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit, and the biggest concerning thing, which might not be with anyone else, is three consecutive losses at home. The captaincy has been a little lacklustre."</p>

<p>Rohit has lots riding on his shoulders. In 2024, he averages a poor&nbsp;27.13 in whites and has now lost four Test matches in a row as captain. Will he lead India's bounce back in the third Test, in Brisbane?</p>

<p>Only time will tell.</p>


Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra blamed Rohit Sharma for India's 10-wicket loss to Australia in the second Test of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), held at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide.

Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra blamed Rohit Sharma for India's 10-wicket loss to Australia in the second Test of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), held at the Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. On Day 3 on Sunday (Dec 8), India lost the second Test as Pat Cummins & Co levelled the five-match series 1-1. Shortly after the loss, Chopra rued Rohit's defensive captaincy, especially for under bowling vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah in a crucial part of the first innings, for the visitors' heavy defeat. Chopra pointed out Rohit's mistake from Day 2, on Saturday (Dec 7), when he gave only a four-over spell to Bumrah in the morning session, allowing Australia to post 337 in response to India's 180. "Jasprit Bumrah had bowled a four-over spell and had already picked up a wicket in that. So why did he bowl only four overs, and didn't bowl after that at all? He didn't bowl in the entire session. So you are 100 percent right when you say you missed a trick in captaincy. Rohit's captaincy - let's call a spade a spade. We saw defensive captaincy. He allowed the match to drift," Chopra said on his YouTube channel. Bumrah bowled only a handful of deliveries to Travis Head when he came out to bat. As a result, he scored a majestic 141-ball 140 and propelled his side's lead to 157. It proved to be the turning point of the second Test as India never staged a comeback. In the second essay, India fell flat and managed only 175, setting a 19-run target to lose heavily. Also read: BGT: Siraj, Head may face repercussions for Adelaide brawl as ICC’s disciplinary hearing looms - Report Chopra further added pressure on Rohit, reminding him of losing three successive Tests at home (versus New Zealand in October). Even the Perth Test win came under Bumrah with Rohit unavailable due to paternity leave. Chopra added, "He wasn't the captain in the Perth match. So that win doesn't count for him. If we leave the last century, it's Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit, and the biggest concerning thing, which might not be with anyone else, is three consecutive losses at home. The captaincy has been a little lacklustre." Rohit has lots riding on his shoulders. In 2024, he averages a poor 27.13 in whites and has now lost four Test matches in a row as captain. Will he lead India's bounce back in the third Test, in Brisbane? Only time will tell.

BGT: 'We saw defensive captaincy,' former Indian opener slams Rohit Sharma after India's Adelaide Test loss

<p>Former India skipper Kapil Dev has said that it's too early for talks of Jasprit Bumrah replacing Rohit Sharma as the Test skipper. The comments were made in response to a question after India lost the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test under Rohit after winning the first one under Bumrah.</p>

<p>"I think it is too early to talk about that. With one performance, you can't say he is one of the best, and with one bad performance, you can't say he doesn't deserve that. Let the player play a lot of cricket. There will be ups and downs. Then you will judge how he reacts during difficult time," Kapil told reporters on Monday (Dec. 9) during an event, reported news agency ANI.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-with-every-smat-game-mohammed-shami-gets-inch-closer-to-much-needed-test-return-for-india-782745">With every SMAT game, Mohammed Shami gets an inch closer to much-needed Test return for India</a></p>

<p>Rohit is facing a lot of heat for not just captaincy but batting as well. Before losing the Adelaide Test, India also lost a three-Test series 0-3 against New Zealand at home with Rohit at command.</p>

<p>Rohit has played in four of India's last five matches but has managed just 100 runs in eight innings with a best of 52 in the second innings of the first Test against New Zealand at home.</p>

<p>Batting in Australia, Rohit has managed to score only 417 runs in 16 innings at an average of 27.80 and the highest score of 63 not out.</p>

<p>Overall, India's failure with the bat is becoming more and more evident, with the team not being able to cross the 200-run mark in the first innings of the four&nbsp;previous Tests they have played. Out of those four games, two were at home against New Zealand.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Australia have equalled the five-Test series 1-1 with the 10-wicket win in the day-night Adelaide Test. They had lost the first game in Perth by 295 runs. The third match of the series is scheduled to be played from December 14 at the iconic Gabba Stadium in Brisbane.</p>


Former India skipper Kapil Dev has said that it's too early for talks of Jasprit Bumrah replacing Rohit Sharma as the Test skipper. The comments were made in response to a question after India lost the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test under Rohit after winning the first one under Bumrah.

Former India skipper Kapil Dev has said that it's too early for talks of Jasprit Bumrah replacing Rohit Sharma as the Test skipper. The comments were made in response to a question after India lost the second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test under Rohit after winning the first one under Bumrah. "I think it is too early to talk about that. With one performance, you can't say he is one of the best, and with one bad performance, you can't say he doesn't deserve that. Let the player play a lot of cricket. There will be ups and downs. Then you will judge how he reacts during difficult time," Kapil told reporters on Monday (Dec. 9) during an event, reported news agency ANI. Also Read: With every SMAT game, Mohammed Shami gets an inch closer to much-needed Test return for India Rohit is facing a lot of heat for not just captaincy but batting as well. Before losing the Adelaide Test, India also lost a three-Test series 0-3 against New Zealand at home with Rohit at command. Rohit has played in four of India's last five matches but has managed just 100 runs in eight innings with a best of 52 in the second innings of the first Test against New Zealand at home. Batting in Australia, Rohit has managed to score only 417 runs in 16 innings at an average of 27.80 and the highest score of 63 not out. Overall, India's failure with the bat is becoming more and more evident, with the team not being able to cross the 200-run mark in the first innings of the four previous Tests they have played. Out of those four games, two were at home against New Zealand. Meanwhile, Australia have equalled the five-Test series 1-1 with the 10-wicket win in the day-night Adelaide Test. They had lost the first game in Perth by 295 runs. The third match of the series is scheduled to be played from December 14 at the iconic Gabba Stadium in Brisbane.

BGT 2024-25: 'Doesn't deserve...,' Kapil Dev on Jasprit Bumrah replacing Rohit Sharma as India Test skipper

<p>Former India coach Ravi Shastri wants skipper Rohit Sharma to be back at opening the batting after the loss in second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test. Rohit, who didn't play first Test, batted at number 6 in the Adelaide Test while KL Rahul opened the innings.</p>

<p>The skipper, however, failed in both innings in the middle order and managed just nine runs in the match while Rahul failed at the top, scoring 44 runs across both innings as India went on to lose the match by 10 wickets.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rohit-hints-at-mohammed-shamis-addition-to-test-squad-after-adelaide-mauling-says-door-very-much-open-782429">Rohit hints at Mohammed Shami's addition to Test squad after Adelaide mauling, says 'door very much open'</a></p>

<p>“I would like to see Rohit Sharma back at the top of the order. Pat Cummins made a statement by leading from the front in this Test match, by body language, and by his aggression. Rohit Sharma has to be back at the top. I think that’s where he’s the best,” said Shastri while commentating during the match.</p>

<p>In Australia, India have failed to cross 200 three times in four innings - further showing their struggle with the bat. All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who made his debut in Perth Test, has been the top scorer for India in all those three innings where they failed to touch 200.</p>

<p>India's failure with the bat is becoming more and more evident with the team not able to cross 200-run mark in first innings of the four of the previous Tests they have played. Out of those four games two were at home against New Zealand.</p>

<p>Rohit played in four of those five matches but has managed just 100 runs in eight innings with a best of 52 in second innings of first Test against New Zealand at home.</p>

<p>Batting in Australia, Rohit has managed to score only 417 runs in 16 innings at an average of 27.80 and the highest score of 63 not out.</p>

<p>With three more matches left in the series which is level at 1-1, India would hope for its skipper to come back into form sooner than later. The third match, meanwhile, is scheduled to be played at the iconic Gabba stadium in Brisbane from December 14.</p>


Former India coach Ravi Shastri wants skipper Rohit Sharma to be back at opening the batting after the loss in second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test. Rohit, who didn't play first Test, batted at number 6 in the Adelaide Test while KL Rahul opened the innings.

Former India coach Ravi Shastri wants skipper Rohit Sharma to be back at opening the batting after the loss in second Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test. Rohit, who didn't play first Test, batted at number 6 in the Adelaide Test while KL Rahul opened the innings. The skipper, however, failed in both innings in the middle order and managed just nine runs in the match while Rahul failed at the top, scoring 44 runs across both innings as India went on to lose the match by 10 wickets. Also Read: Rohit hints at Mohammed Shami's addition to Test squad after Adelaide mauling, says 'door very much open' “I would like to see Rohit Sharma back at the top of the order. Pat Cummins made a statement by leading from the front in this Test match, by body language, and by his aggression. Rohit Sharma has to be back at the top. I think that’s where he’s the best,” said Shastri while commentating during the match. In Australia, India have failed to cross 200 three times in four innings - further showing their struggle with the bat. All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who made his debut in Perth Test, has been the top scorer for India in all those three innings where they failed to touch 200. India's failure with the bat is becoming more and more evident with the team not able to cross 200-run mark in first innings of the four of the previous Tests they have played. Out of those four games two were at home against New Zealand. Rohit played in four of those five matches but has managed just 100 runs in eight innings with a best of 52 in second innings of first Test against New Zealand at home. Batting in Australia, Rohit has managed to score only 417 runs in 16 innings at an average of 27.80 and the highest score of 63 not out. With three more matches left in the series which is level at 1-1, India would hope for its skipper to come back into form sooner than later. The third match, meanwhile, is scheduled to be played at the iconic Gabba stadium in Brisbane from December 14.

BGT 2024-25: 'Would like to see...,' Former India coach Ravi Shastri on Rohit Sharma after Adelaide loss

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BGT: 'He's been struggling', - MSK Prasad SLAMS Rohit Sharma's captaincy as India struggle in MCG Test

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BGT: Rohit backs 'modern-day great' Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in Boxing Day Test

BGT 2024/25: 'My knee is fine, let's not worry,' says Rohit Sharma ahead of Boxing Day Test against Australia

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BGT 2024-25: India skipper Rohit Sharma suffers injury scare ahead of Boxing Day Test

Rewind 2024: Rohit Sharma's Team India ends 17-year T20 World Cup drought in West Indies

Rewind 2024: Rohit Sharma's Team India ends 17-year T20 World Cup drought in West Indies

BGT 2024-25: 'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6

BGT 2024-25: 'He understands team's thinking,' says skipper Rohit Sharma on Ravi Ashwin's retirement

BGT 2024-25: 'It doesn't help...,' Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles at number 6

BGT 2024-25: 'He understands team's thinking,' says skipper Rohit Sharma on Ravi Ashwin's retirement

BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns

Rohit Sharma shares insights on R Ashwin's retirement plans, says 'I convinced him to stay for pink-ball Test'

BGT: Rohit Sharma unwilling to push for Mohammed Shami’s Test call-up amid fitness concerns

Rohit Sharma shares insights on R Ashwin's retirement plans, says 'I convinced him to stay for pink-ball Test'

Gabba Test: 'Rohit not opening, major reason behind his poor form,' Pujara decodes Hitman's failures in BGT

BGT: ‘Dumb cricket’- Simon Katich tears into Rohit Sharma’s clueless captaincy as Head hits hundred at Gabba

Gabba Test: 'Rohit not opening, major reason behind his poor form,' Pujara decodes Hitman's failures in BGT

BGT: ‘Dumb cricket’ Simon Katich tears into Rohit Sharma’s clueless captaincy as Head hits hundred at Gabba

BGT: India lock openers for Gabba Test, Rohit Sharma to continue batting at 6 – Report

BGT, Gabba Test - BCCI needs robust selectors to take tough calls: Greg Chappell on Kohli, Rohit’s Test future

BGT: Cheteshwar Pujara explains why Rohit Sharma should continue to bat at No. 6 as Brisbane Test nears