India and Australia commenced the fourth and final Test of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Thursday (March 09), at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. After Steve Smith-led Australia opted to bat first at the coin toss, the Aussie openers Travis Head and Usman Khawaja added 61 runs for the first wicket. However, India could have had their first breakthrough in the sixth over had wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat held onto a regulation catch.&nbsp;

The incident took place in the sixth over when Umesh Yadav had the ball in hand. He induced an edge off in-form Head and it went straight to Bharat, who has impressed one and all with his keeping skills in the series. However, the 29-year-old made a mess of a simple catch and dropped it. The cameras soon turned towards skipper Rohit Sharma, who had a blank reaction to the mistake from Bharat. Here's the video:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Gussa <a href="https://t.co/BIexaLfsm3">pic.twitter.com/BIexaLfsm3</a>
— javed ansari (@javedan00643948) <a href="https://twitter.com/javedan00643948/status/1633687178013474821?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cleaned-up-md-shami-rattles-marnus-labuschagnes-stumps-on-day-1-of-ahmedabad-test-watch-570152">CLEANED UP! Md Shami rattles Marnus Labuschagne's stumps on Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test - Watch</a>

In the first session, Australia managed to get to 75 runs and lost Head and Marnus Labuschagne. Head was given a lifeline when he was batting on five and eventually fell for 32. Labuschagne, on the other hand, saw his stumps being rattled by&nbsp;Md Shami but the visitors had opener Usman Khawaja unbeaten during the lunch break. At the time of publishing this report, Khawaja-Smith have managed to keep Indian bowlers at bay post the lunch break and are moving the scoreboard forward.&nbsp;

Australia will aim for anything over 350 in the four-match Test series decider in Ahmedabad. India lead the series 2-1 but need a win to not only clinch the series but also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finale, where Australia have already confirmed a spot.

India and Australia commenced the fourth and final Test of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Thursday (March 09), at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad.

India and Australia commenced the fourth and final Test of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Thursday (March 09), at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. After Steve Smith-led Australia opted to bat first at the coin toss, the Aussie openers Travis Head and Usman Khawaja added 61 runs for the first wicket. However, India could have had their first breakthrough in the sixth over had wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat held onto a regulation catch. The incident took place in the sixth over when Umesh Yadav had the ball in hand. He induced an edge off in-form Head and it went straight to Bharat, who has impressed one and all with his keeping skills in the series. However, the 29-year-old made a mess of a simple catch and dropped it. The cameras soon turned towards skipper Rohit Sharma, who had a blank reaction to the mistake from Bharat. Here's the video: Gussa pic.twitter.com/BIexaLfsm3 — javed ansari (@javedan00643948) March 9, 2023 × Also read: CLEANED UP! Md Shami rattles Marnus Labuschagne's stumps on Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test - Watch In the first session, Australia managed to get to 75 runs and lost Head and Marnus Labuschagne. Head was given a lifeline when he was batting on five and eventually fell for 32. Labuschagne, on the other hand, saw his stumps being rattled by Md Shami but the visitors had opener Usman Khawaja unbeaten during the lunch break. At the time of publishing this report, Khawaja-Smith have managed to keep Indian bowlers at bay post the lunch break and are moving the scoreboard forward. Australia will aim for anything over 350 in the four-match Test series decider in Ahmedabad. India lead the series 2-1 but need a win to not only clinch the series but also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finale, where Australia have already confirmed a spot.

WATCH: KS Bharat drops a sitter to give a reprieve to Travis Head, Rohit Sharma's blank reaction goes viral

Ahead of the fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team celebrated Holi, the festival of colours, in Ahmedabad. The fourth and final Test kicks off at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Thursday (March 9) but before that the home side made sure to enjoy the festival in the dressing room, team bus&nbsp;along with support staff and security personnel.

Captain Rohit led the charge in the celebrations as he started applying colour before Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Cheteshwar Pujara and others joined in. Here's the viral video, shared on BCCI's official Twitter handle, where the Indian players were seen celebrating the joyous occasion:

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-4th-test-team-india-goes-full-of-colours-as-players-staff-celebrate-holi-ahead-of-ahmedabad-clash-569661">IND vs AUS 4th Test: Team India goes full of colours as players, staff celebrate Holi ahead of Ahmedabad clash</a>

BCCI captioned the post, "Colours, smiles &amp; more! Do not miss #TeamIndia's Holi celebration in Ahmedabad". Watch video:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Colours, smiles &amp; more! 🥳 ☺️ 
 
Do not miss <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>’s Holi celebration in Ahmedabad 🎨 <a href="https://t.co/jOAKsxayBA">pic.twitter.com/jOAKsxayBA</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1633351211792633856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

India lead the four-match series, 2-1, but lost the third and penultimate Test in Indore by nine wickets and the series became alive even though India have already taken an unassailable lead. While Australia, who have already qualified for the WTC final, will aim for a memorable 2-2 scoreline, Rohit &amp; Co. will be desperate to win the series 3-1 and get the ticket to enter the WTC summit clash. If India lose or the series finale ends in a draw, they will hope for New Zealand to not lose both their Tests versus visitors Sri Lanka with their series kicking off on Thursday as well, in Christchurch.

Apart from India, Sri Lanka also have a faint chance of entering the WTC final. Nonetheless, Rohit &amp; Co. can put an end to SL's hopes with a win in Ahmedabad.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Ahead of the fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team celebrated Holi, the festival of colours, in Ahmedabad.

Ahead of the fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team celebrated Holi, the festival of colours, in Ahmedabad. The fourth and final Test kicks off at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Thursday (March 9) but before that the home side made sure to enjoy the festival in the dressing room, team bus along with support staff and security personnel. Captain Rohit led the charge in the celebrations as he started applying colour before Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Cheteshwar Pujara and others joined in. Here's the viral video, shared on BCCI's official Twitter handle, where the Indian players were seen celebrating the joyous occasion: Also read: IND vs AUS 4th Test: Team India goes full of colours as players, staff celebrate Holi ahead of Ahmedabad clash BCCI captioned the post, "Colours, smiles & more! Do not miss #TeamIndia's Holi celebration in Ahmedabad". Watch video: Colours, smiles & more! 🥳 ☺️ Do not miss #TeamIndia’s Holi celebration in Ahmedabad 🎨 pic.twitter.com/jOAKsxayBA — BCCI (@BCCI) March 8, 2023 × India lead the four-match series, 2-1, but lost the third and penultimate Test in Indore by nine wickets and the series became alive even though India have already taken an unassailable lead. While Australia, who have already qualified for the WTC final, will aim for a memorable 2-2 scoreline, Rohit & Co. will be desperate to win the series 3-1 and get the ticket to enter the WTC summit clash. If India lose or the series finale ends in a draw, they will hope for New Zealand to not lose both their Tests versus visitors Sri Lanka with their series kicking off on Thursday as well, in Christchurch. Apart from India, Sri Lanka also have a faint chance of entering the WTC final. Nonetheless, Rohit & Co. can put an end to SL's hopes with a win in Ahmedabad. ×

UNMISSABLE! Rohit Sharma leads the charge as Team India celebrate Holi in Ahmedabad - Watch

India face Australia in the fourth and final Test, of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. The series decider commences on Thursday morning (March 9) where Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will aim for a 3-1 series scoreline and also confirm&nbsp;a place in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Captain Rohit, on the other hand, is also eyeing to emulate one of Sunil Gavaskar's elite feats.

So far, Rohit has been India's top performer with the bat in the series, which has comprised batting on tough pitches. In the three Tests, the Hitman has scored&nbsp;207 runs and remains the only batter with a hundred (120). He is the leading run-getter of the four-match series. If he scores another ton in the series finale, he will&nbsp;join Sunil Gavaskar and&nbsp;become the only second Indian captain to have&nbsp;more than one hundred&nbsp;in India-Australia home Test matches.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unmissable-rohit-sharma-leads-the-charge-as-team-india-celebrate-holi-in-ahmedabad-watch-569894">UNMISSABLE! Rohit Sharma leads the charge as Team India celebrate Holi in Ahmedabad - Watch</a>

MOST HUNDREDS IN IND v AUS TESTS AT HOME (CAPTAINS)

Sunil Gavaskar - 2 in 6 Tests - 425 runs 
MS Dhoni - 1 in 8 Tests - 643 runs 
Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi - 1 in 8 Tests - 490 runs 
Mohammad Azharuddin - 1 in 3 Tests - 311 runs 
Kapil Dev - 1 in 3 Tests - 120 runs 
Rohit Sharma - 1 in 3 Tests - 207 runs*

Gavaskar had a memorable run in the home series versus Australia in 1979. He returned with&nbsp;425 runs in the six-match series, including two tons and an equal number of fifties.

Meanwhile, MS Dhoni has most runs as India captain in India-Australia home Tests.&nbsp;He scored 643 runs, including a double hundred and as many as four&nbsp;half-centuries in eight&nbsp;matches.

Rohit will aim for a daddy hundred and lead India to a memorable series win over Steve Smith &amp; Co. With a win in the final Test, India will also qualify for the WTC final. Australia became the first finalist after their Indore Test victory.

India face Australia in the fourth and final Test, of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. The series decider commences on Thursday morning (March 9) where Rohit Sharma & Co.

India face Australia in the fourth and final Test, of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. The series decider commences on Thursday morning (March 9) where Rohit Sharma & Co. will aim for a 3-1 series scoreline and also confirm a place in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Captain Rohit, on the other hand, is also eyeing to emulate one of Sunil Gavaskar's elite feats. So far, Rohit has been India's top performer with the bat in the series, which has comprised batting on tough pitches. In the three Tests, the Hitman has scored 207 runs and remains the only batter with a hundred (120). He is the leading run-getter of the four-match series. If he scores another ton in the series finale, he will join Sunil Gavaskar and become the only second Indian captain to have more than one hundred in India-Australia home Test matches. Also read: UNMISSABLE! Rohit Sharma leads the charge as Team India celebrate Holi in Ahmedabad - Watch MOST HUNDREDS IN IND v AUS TESTS AT HOME (CAPTAINS) Sunil Gavaskar - 2 in 6 Tests - 425 runs MS Dhoni - 1 in 8 Tests - 643 runs Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi - 1 in 8 Tests - 490 runs Mohammad Azharuddin - 1 in 3 Tests - 311 runs Kapil Dev - 1 in 3 Tests - 120 runs Rohit Sharma - 1 in 3 Tests - 207 runs* Gavaskar had a memorable run in the home series versus Australia in 1979. He returned with 425 runs in the six-match series, including two tons and an equal number of fifties. Meanwhile, MS Dhoni has most runs as India captain in India-Australia home Tests. He scored 643 runs, including a double hundred and as many as four half-centuries in eight matches. Rohit will aim for a daddy hundred and lead India to a memorable series win over Steve Smith & Co. With a win in the final Test, India will also qualify for the WTC final. Australia became the first finalist after their Indore Test victory.

IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma aims to emulate Sunil Gavaskar’s elite feat in Test series finale at Ahmedabad

India skipper Rohit Sharma has dismissed Ravi Shastri’s assertion of overconfidence and claimed it as ‘absolutely rubbish’ as his side prepares for the final Border-Gavaskar Test in Ahmedabad. India who lost the third Test in Indore by nine wickets were criticised by the former coach who thought that India had a sense of overconfidence in them. India lead the four-match Test series 2-1, but will need a draw in Ahmedabad to claim a spot in the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June.

<h3>Rohit takes dig at Shastri</h3>

"Honestly, when you win two games and people on the outside feel that we are overconfident, it's absolutely rubbish, because you want to do your best in all four games,” Rohit said while addressing Shastri’s claims.

Rohit called his side "ruthless" more than arrogant.

"Ravi himself has been in this dressing room, he knows what sort of mindset we have," said Rohit.

Shastri had accused the team of "a little complacency, a little bit of overconfidence".

India lost the previous match by nine wickets on a viciously turning pitch at Indore, but the track at the world's biggest cricket stadium is expected to give the batsmen some respite. Rohit though has had enough of the talk about pitches.

"How challenging the pitches are? How much is it turning? How much is it seaming? We are trying to keep all of that away," said Rohit.

Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami is all set to return to the playing XI for the final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad as India eye a slot in the finals of the WTC. Shami was rested for the third Test in Indore as part of the workload management drill by the BCCI and team management for the key players who are in the scheme of things for the 50-over World Cup.

The hosts took a 2-0 lead in the four-match series to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy before losing the third Test in Indore in just over two days.

<h3>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-rohit-sharma-aims-to-emulate-sunil-gavaskars-elite-feat-in-test-series-finale-in-ahmedabad-569904">IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma aims to emulate Sunil Gavaskar's elite feat in Test series finale in Ahmedabad</a></h3>

<h3>India to seal WTC final place?</h3>

India will have a do-or-die contest in hand as they try to seal a place in the final of the WTC. Having retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, India will need a clear win to keep their fate in their own hands. The hosts won the opening two contests of the series in Nagpur and Delhi respectively, while they were beaten convincingly in Indore. The win in Indore for the Aussies saw them clinch one place in the WTC final while leaving India, South Africa and Sri Lanka fighting for the other.

India skipper Rohit Sharma has dismissed Ravi Shastri’s assertion of overconfidence and claimed it as ‘absolutely rubbish’ as his side prepares for the final Border-Gavaskar Test in Ahmedabad.

India skipper Rohit Sharma has dismissed Ravi Shastri’s assertion of overconfidence and claimed it as ‘absolutely rubbish’ as his side prepares for the final Border-Gavaskar Test in Ahmedabad. India who lost the third Test in Indore by nine wickets were criticised by the former coach who thought that India had a sense of overconfidence in them. India lead the four-match Test series 2-1, but will need a draw in Ahmedabad to claim a spot in the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June. Rohit takes dig at Shastri "Honestly, when you win two games and people on the outside feel that we are overconfident, it's absolutely rubbish, because you want to do your best in all four games,” Rohit said while addressing Shastri’s claims. Rohit called his side "ruthless" more than arrogant. "Ravi himself has been in this dressing room, he knows what sort of mindset we have," said Rohit. Shastri had accused the team of "a little complacency, a little bit of overconfidence". India lost the previous match by nine wickets on a viciously turning pitch at Indore, but the track at the world's biggest cricket stadium is expected to give the batsmen some respite. Rohit though has had enough of the talk about pitches. "How challenging the pitches are? How much is it turning? How much is it seaming? We are trying to keep all of that away," said Rohit. Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami is all set to return to the playing XI for the final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad as India eye a slot in the finals of the WTC. Shami was rested for the third Test in Indore as part of the workload management drill by the BCCI and team management for the key players who are in the scheme of things for the 50-over World Cup. The hosts took a 2-0 lead in the four-match series to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy before losing the third Test in Indore in just over two days. ALSO READ | IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma aims to emulate Sunil Gavaskar's elite feat in Test series finale in Ahmedabad India to seal WTC final place? India will have a do-or-die contest in hand as they try to seal a place in the final of the WTC. Having retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, India will need a clear win to keep their fate in their own hands. The hosts won the opening two contests of the series in Nagpur and Delhi respectively, while they were beaten convincingly in Indore. The win in Indore for the Aussies saw them clinch one place in the WTC final while leaving India, South Africa and Sri Lanka fighting for the other.

IND vs AUS 4th Test: Rohit Sharma calls Ravi Shastri's 'overconfidence' comment RUBBISH

Axar Patel has had an interesting run in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. So far, Axar has featured in all three Tests for Team India, versus Australia, on home soil. While he has only managed a solitary wicket in five innings, bowling 39 overs, he has led the charge with the bat -- coming with vital contributions down the order in the opening two games -- and is the second-highest run-getter of the 2022/23 BGT.

Axar is only behind skipper Rohit Sharma, who scored a majestic 120 in the series opener in Nagpur, with&nbsp;185 runs in four outings, at 92.50, including two fifties with a best of 84. He remained not-out in both innings in the Indore Test, where India's main batters fell flat versus the Aussie spinners. Nonetheless, there have been&nbsp;a few who have surprisingly called for his omission, to make way for Kuldeep Yadav in the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad.

Former Indian stumper and BCCI selector Saba Karim has backed Axar and feels his batting contributions have been one of the&nbsp;main reasons for India having an unassailable 2-1 lead in the four-match series.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bgt-202223-wont-appreciate-test-matches-finishing-in-25-days-opines-gautam-gambhir-569845">BGT 2022/23: Won't appreciate Test matches finishing in 2.5 days, opines Gautam Gambhir</a>

"India should continue playing Axar Patel," Karim said&nbsp;during a discussion on India News Sports. "India have a 2-1 lead in the series because Axar has batted really well. He hasn't had enough opportunities with the ball, as Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, the two prime spinners, have bowled most of the overs."

"He doesn't deserve to sit out. Since Ahmedabad is his home ground, he knows the dimensions of the ground and the conditions very well," added Karim.

Axar will be gearing up to play on his home ground as India host Australia in the series decider, on Thursday (March 09) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. On debut, the left-arm spinner had taken a memorable 11-fer at the same venue in a day-night Test versus England, in 2021. He will be eager to replicate the same feat and lead India to a series win, and take them to the WTC final.

India need a win in the series finale to emerge on top by a 3-1 margin and also confirm their place in the WTC final. Australia already qualified with their nine-wicket win in the third Test in Indore.

Axar Patel has had an interesting run in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. So far, Axar has featured in all three Tests for Team India, versus Australia, on home soil.

Axar Patel has had an interesting run in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. So far, Axar has featured in all three Tests for Team India, versus Australia, on home soil. While he has only managed a solitary wicket in five innings, bowling 39 overs, he has led the charge with the bat -- coming with vital contributions down the order in the opening two games -- and is the second-highest run-getter of the 2022/23 BGT. Axar is only behind skipper Rohit Sharma, who scored a majestic 120 in the series opener in Nagpur, with 185 runs in four outings, at 92.50, including two fifties with a best of 84. He remained not-out in both innings in the Indore Test, where India's main batters fell flat versus the Aussie spinners. Nonetheless, there have been a few who have surprisingly called for his omission, to make way for Kuldeep Yadav in the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad. Former Indian stumper and BCCI selector Saba Karim has backed Axar and feels his batting contributions have been one of the main reasons for India having an unassailable 2-1 lead in the four-match series. Also read: BGT 2022/23: Won't appreciate Test matches finishing in 2.5 days, opines Gautam Gambhir "India should continue playing Axar Patel," Karim said during a discussion on India News Sports. "India have a 2-1 lead in the series because Axar has batted really well. He hasn't had enough opportunities with the ball, as Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, the two prime spinners, have bowled most of the overs." "He doesn't deserve to sit out. Since Ahmedabad is his home ground, he knows the dimensions of the ground and the conditions very well," added Karim. Axar will be gearing up to play on his home ground as India host Australia in the series decider, on Thursday (March 09) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. On debut, the left-arm spinner had taken a memorable 11-fer at the same venue in a day-night Test versus England, in 2021. He will be eager to replicate the same feat and lead India to a series win, and take them to the WTC final. India need a win in the series finale to emerge on top by a 3-1 margin and also confirm their place in the WTC final. Australia already qualified with their nine-wicket win in the third Test in Indore.

India have a 2-1 lead because of him: Ex-India stumper backs star player ahead of 4th Test

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the Indore Test versus Australia as the visitors kept the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive with hosts leading 2-1, ahead of the final match in Ahmedabad. Rohit &amp; Co. received a setback but will be hungry for success in the series decider, which kicks off on March 09 (Thursday), to not only win the series 3-1 but also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.

With Australia having already qualified for the WTC final, following their win in Indore, they will come hard versus the Indian team. Ahead of the Ahmedabad Test, former Aussie captain Ricky Ponting has urged the Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team to consider making one big change in their batting line-up if they reach the WTC finale, to be held at The Oval, London on June 07-11.

With conditions being different in England, as compared to the sub-continent, Ponting feels India should go ahead with both out-of-form KL Rahul and Shubman Gill. "With someone like KL Rahul having gone out of this side and Shubman Gill having come in, both these guys have played a bit of Test match cricket, and you could potentially have both of those guys in the same team," Ponting told ICC.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-vs-sl-explained-how-sri-lanka-can-play-spoilsport-to-indias-wtc-final-chances-569483">NZ vs SL: EXPLAINED! How Sri Lanka can play spoilsport to India's WTC final chances</a>

"Maybe Shubman could start at the top and KL could potentially move down into the middle order, because he's played cricket in those (English) conditions before, albeit at the top of the order," he added.

Gill replaced Rahul in India's playing XI for the third and penultimate Test in Indore versus Australia. Rahul has been in woeful form in whites, managing only 192 runs in last 12 innings, but his replacement Gill also fell flat in both the innings of the Indore Test match. The young right-hander managed scores of 21 anf 5 as India lost by nine wickets in a low-scoring match.

It will be interesting to see if India go back to Rahul or persist with Gill for the final Test. It is highly unlikely that India will go ahead with both of them in the playing XI for the Ahmedabad Test.

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the Indore Test versus Australia as the visitors kept the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive with hosts leading 2-1, ahead of the final match in Ahmedabad.

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the Indore Test versus Australia as the visitors kept the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive with hosts leading 2-1, ahead of the final match in Ahmedabad. Rohit & Co. received a setback but will be hungry for success in the series decider, which kicks off on March 09 (Thursday), to not only win the series 3-1 but also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. With Australia having already qualified for the WTC final, following their win in Indore, they will come hard versus the Indian team. Ahead of the Ahmedabad Test, former Aussie captain Ricky Ponting has urged the Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team to consider making one big change in their batting line-up if they reach the WTC finale, to be held at The Oval, London on June 07-11. With conditions being different in England, as compared to the sub-continent, Ponting feels India should go ahead with both out-of-form KL Rahul and Shubman Gill. "With someone like KL Rahul having gone out of this side and Shubman Gill having come in, both these guys have played a bit of Test match cricket, and you could potentially have both of those guys in the same team," Ponting told ICC. Also read: NZ vs SL: EXPLAINED! How Sri Lanka can play spoilsport to India's WTC final chances "Maybe Shubman could start at the top and KL could potentially move down into the middle order, because he's played cricket in those (English) conditions before, albeit at the top of the order," he added. Gill replaced Rahul in India's playing XI for the third and penultimate Test in Indore versus Australia. Rahul has been in woeful form in whites, managing only 192 runs in last 12 innings, but his replacement Gill also fell flat in both the innings of the Indore Test match. The young right-hander managed scores of 21 anf 5 as India lost by nine wickets in a low-scoring match. It will be interesting to see if India go back to Rahul or persist with Gill for the final Test. It is highly unlikely that India will go ahead with both of them in the playing XI for the Ahmedabad Test.

Ricky Ponting urges Team India to make a big change in batting order if they enter WTC final

IND vs AUS 4th Test playing XI: The fourth Test match of the 4-match series between India and Australia is scheduled to start from March 9. And with India’s qualification for WTC final at stake, the men in blue are not taking chances with the preparations. Captain Rohit Sharma understands that the key to India’s success in the IND vs AUS 4th Test could be the choice of playing XI.

As per the latest media reports, team India is expected to keep KL Rahul on the bench and include Shubman Gill in the playing XI. As far as India’s bowling attack is concerned, Mohammed Siraj could be asked to take rest before the upcoming IND vs AUS ODI series. Instead, Mohammad Shami could be asked to join the playing XI for the final Test match between India and Australia.

<h2>Playing XI: Inside details before IND vs AUS 4th Test match</h2>

After a crushing defeat to Australia in the third Test, India is looking to change its strategy in order to keep the visitors at bay. Initially, the team was preparing for a lush green pitch to prepare for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, but now they are considering playing on a surface that favours spin.

However, India's batters have struggled against the Australian spinners, with only Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Axar Patel showing the necessary grit. Captain Virat Kohli has had a poor showing in the series so far, while both openers KL Rahul and Shubman Gill have failed to perform.

With a must-win situation, India may consider adding an extra batter to the lineup and sacrificing a pacer. In the previous Test, Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav bowled only 13 overs combined, with the trio of Siraj, Mohammed Shami, and Umesh Yadav bowling only 61.1 overs in the entire series.

India's best chance of success in the fourth Test lies in both departments firing in tandem. The team will need to regroup and come up with a new game plan in order to defeat a resurgent Australian team.

<h2>IND vs AUS 4th Test playing XI (tentative)</h2>

India playing XI: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Umesh Yadav, Mohammad Shami

Australia playing XI: Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Seve Smith (C), Peter Handscomb, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Todd Murphy, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Matthew Kuhnemann

<h2>IND vs AUS 4th Test full squad</h2>

India Squad 4th Test: Rohit Sharma(c), KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Srikar Bharat(w), Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, Kuldeep Yadav, Suryakumar Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Umesh Yadav

Australia squad 4th Test: Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (c), Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Peter Handscomb, Mitchell Starc/Lance Morris, Matt Kuhnemann, Nathan Lyon and Todd Murphy

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-loses-3rd-test-match-against-australia-heres-how-india-can-still-qualify-for-wtc-final-match-568035">India loses 3rd Test match against Australia, Here's how India can still qualify for WTC final match</a>

IND vs AUS 4th Test playing XI: The fourth Test match of the 4-match series between India and Australia is scheduled to start from March 9. And with India’s qualification for WTC final at stake, the men in blue are not taking chances with the preparations.

IND vs AUS 4th Test playing XI: The fourth Test match of the 4-match series between India and Australia is scheduled to start from March 9. And with India’s qualification for WTC final at stake, the men in blue are not taking chances with the preparations. Captain Rohit Sharma understands that the key to India’s success in the IND vs AUS 4th Test could be the choice of playing XI. As per the latest media reports, team India is expected to keep KL Rahul on the bench and include Shubman Gill in the playing XI. As far as India’s bowling attack is concerned, Mohammed Siraj could be asked to take rest before the upcoming IND vs AUS ODI series. Instead, Mohammad Shami could be asked to join the playing XI for the final Test match between India and Australia. Playing XI: Inside details before IND vs AUS 4th Test match After a crushing defeat to Australia in the third Test, India is looking to change its strategy in order to keep the visitors at bay. Initially, the team was preparing for a lush green pitch to prepare for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, but now they are considering playing on a surface that favours spin. However, India's batters have struggled against the Australian spinners, with only Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Axar Patel showing the necessary grit. Captain Virat Kohli has had a poor showing in the series so far, while both openers KL Rahul and Shubman Gill have failed to perform. With a must-win situation, India may consider adding an extra batter to the lineup and sacrificing a pacer. In the previous Test, Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav bowled only 13 overs combined, with the trio of Siraj, Mohammed Shami, and Umesh Yadav bowling only 61.1 overs in the entire series. India's best chance of success in the fourth Test lies in both departments firing in tandem. The team will need to regroup and come up with a new game plan in order to defeat a resurgent Australian team. IND vs AUS 4th Test playing XI (tentative) India playing XI: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Umesh Yadav, Mohammad Shami Australia playing XI: Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Seve Smith (C), Peter Handscomb, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Todd Murphy, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Matthew Kuhnemann IND vs AUS 4th Test full squad India Squad 4th Test: Rohit Sharma(c), KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Srikar Bharat(w), Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, Kuldeep Yadav, Suryakumar Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Umesh Yadav Australia squad 4th Test: Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (c), Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Peter Handscomb, Mitchell Starc/Lance Morris, Matt Kuhnemann, Nathan Lyon and Todd Murphy Also Read | India loses 3rd Test match against Australia, Here's how India can still qualify for WTC final match

IND vs AUS 4th Test playing XI: Rohit Sharma seals KL Rahul’s fate, check inside details

Indian Test captain Rohit Sharma has backed his team despite facing an embarrassing nine-wicket defeat against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy third Test in Indore while also wanting to continue to play on turning pitches. After the debacle,&nbsp;Rohit was quick to point out the nature of the pitch and insisted his team would want similar pitch in the final Test match in Ahmedabad.

Rohit wants to continue playing on turning pitches

"Honestly speaking, these are the kind of pitches we want to play on," an honest Rohit Sharma admitted after the match on Friday, March 3.&nbsp;

"This is our strength, so when you're playing at your home, you always play to your strength, not worry about what people outside are talking about."

"We want to play to our strength, and that strength is spin bowling and that batting depth. And everyone uses that advantage outside [India], so what's wrong in that? We've got to do that as well, especially when we're getting results. If we were not getting the results, I would think otherwise, but I think we are playing well, we are getting the results that we want," the Indian skipper further added.

Rohit and Co face litmus test in Ahmedabad

Having already retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Indian team still needs a win to guarantee passage to the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) which will take place in June. The embarrassing defeat in Indore saw Australia secure their berth in the final of the WTC while leaving India, Sri Lanka and South Africa to scramble for the other spot.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-27-days-to-go-csk-begins-preparations-as-ms-dhoni-joins-the-camp-schedule-live-streaming-details-568417">IPL 2023, 27 days to go: CSK begins preparations as MS Dhoni joins the camp; Schedule &amp; live-streaming details</a>

While Rohit is India's leading run-scorer in the series with 207, the likes of Virat Kohli (111) and Cheteshwar Pujara (98) have disappointed with the bat.&nbsp;

India will have an opportunity to book their berth in the final of the WTC with a win in Ahmedabad, but anything less than a win will see them hand over the initiative&nbsp;to other teams. The third Test match will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium from March 9 while India lead the series 2-1.&nbsp;

Indian Test captain Rohit Sharma has backed his team despite facing an embarrassing nine-wicket defeat against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy third Test in Indore while also wanting to continue to play on turning pitches.

Indian Test captain Rohit Sharma has backed his team despite facing an embarrassing nine-wicket defeat against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy third Test in Indore while also wanting to continue to play on turning pitches. After the debacle, Rohit was quick to point out the nature of the pitch and insisted his team would want similar pitch in the final Test match in Ahmedabad. Rohit wants to continue playing on turning pitches "Honestly speaking, these are the kind of pitches we want to play on," an honest Rohit Sharma admitted after the match on Friday, March 3. "This is our strength, so when you're playing at your home, you always play to your strength, not worry about what people outside are talking about." "We want to play to our strength, and that strength is spin bowling and that batting depth. And everyone uses that advantage outside [India], so what's wrong in that? We've got to do that as well, especially when we're getting results. If we were not getting the results, I would think otherwise, but I think we are playing well, we are getting the results that we want," the Indian skipper further added. Rohit and Co face litmus test in Ahmedabad Having already retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Indian team still needs a win to guarantee passage to the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) which will take place in June. The embarrassing defeat in Indore saw Australia secure their berth in the final of the WTC while leaving India, Sri Lanka and South Africa to scramble for the other spot. ALSO READ | IPL 2023, 27 days to go: CSK begins preparations as MS Dhoni joins the camp; Schedule & live-streaming details While Rohit is India's leading run-scorer in the series with 207, the likes of Virat Kohli (111) and Cheteshwar Pujara (98) have disappointed with the bat. India will have an opportunity to book their berth in the final of the WTC with a win in Ahmedabad, but anything less than a win will see them hand over the initiative to other teams. The third Test match will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium from March 9 while India lead the series 2-1.

Rohit Sharma 'wants to continue playing' on turning pitches despite Indore debacle

Australia thumped India by nine wickets on Day 3 of the third and penultimate Test, at the Holkar Stadium, Indore, on Friday (March 03), to keep the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar series alive at 2-1, with the final Test on March 09. Resuming the day's play, Australia needed only 76 runs for a famous win and chased down the target with Travis Head leading the charge (49*). With this win, Australia have also qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.

The day's play started with R Ashwin getting rid of in-form opener Usman Khawaja. The left-hander failed to open his account and was caught behind by KS Bharat as Ashwin drew the first blood in the opening over. However, from thereon, there was not much to cheer for India as Head-Labuschagne looked confident, bought some time in the middle, and guided the side to a memorable nine-wicket triumph.&nbsp;

Talking about the Test match, Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bat first. Nothing clicked for India on a pitch that turned fair and square. The likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ravindra Jadeja, Shreyas Iyer, etc. all fell flat as&nbsp;Matthew Kuhnemann, playing his second Test, ended with a five-fer (5 for 16). India started with the ball by not being consistent in their line and length and Australia ended the opening day with a 47-run lead, with six wickets in hand.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-did-not-make-any-sense-sanjay-manjrekar-slams-rohit-sharmas-tactics-in-indore-test-568013">'It did not make any sense': Sanjay Manjrekar slams Rohit Sharma's tactics in Indore Test</a>

Day 2 saw a fightback from India with Jadeja, Umesh Yadav and Ashwin dismissing Australia for 197. However, the Steve Smith-led side managed to take a vital 88-run lead. In their second essay, India once again fell flat and got dismissed for 163 with Nathan Lyon taking 8 for 64 (ending with an 11-wicket haul). By virtue of his match-winning spell, Lyon&nbsp;became the second&nbsp;in the list of most wickets against India (going past Muttiah Muralitharan) and&nbsp;also equalled Richie Benaud's tally of most 5-fers&nbsp;(five) against India on their home soil.

On Friday morning, Australia ended the formalities by chasing a 76-run target and have qualified for the WTC final, to be held in early June at The Oval, London.&nbsp;

Shortest home Tests that ended in a defeat for India 
1135 balls Aus vs Ind Indore 2022/23 * 
1459 balls Eng vs Ind Kanpur 1951/52 
1474 balls WI vs Ind Kolkata 1983/84 
1476 balls Aus vs Ind Mumbai WS 2000/01

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy remains alive as both teams will now to go Ahmedabad for the series finale. India will aim for a revamp and end the series with a 3-1 scoreline and also enter the WTC final.

Australia thumped India by nine wickets on Day 3 of the third and penultimate Test, at the Holkar Stadium, Indore, on Friday (March 03), to keep the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar series alive at 2-1, with the final Test on March 09.

Australia thumped India by nine wickets on Day 3 of the third and penultimate Test, at the Holkar Stadium, Indore, on Friday (March 03), to keep the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar series alive at 2-1, with the final Test on March 09. Resuming the day's play, Australia needed only 76 runs for a famous win and chased down the target with Travis Head leading the charge (49*). With this win, Australia have also qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. The day's play started with R Ashwin getting rid of in-form opener Usman Khawaja. The left-hander failed to open his account and was caught behind by KS Bharat as Ashwin drew the first blood in the opening over. However, from thereon, there was not much to cheer for India as Head-Labuschagne looked confident, bought some time in the middle, and guided the side to a memorable nine-wicket triumph. Talking about the Test match, Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bat first. Nothing clicked for India on a pitch that turned fair and square. The likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ravindra Jadeja, Shreyas Iyer, etc. all fell flat as Matthew Kuhnemann, playing his second Test, ended with a five-fer (5 for 16). India started with the ball by not being consistent in their line and length and Australia ended the opening day with a 47-run lead, with six wickets in hand. Also read: 'It did not make any sense': Sanjay Manjrekar slams Rohit Sharma's tactics in Indore Test Day 2 saw a fightback from India with Jadeja, Umesh Yadav and Ashwin dismissing Australia for 197. However, the Steve Smith-led side managed to take a vital 88-run lead. In their second essay, India once again fell flat and got dismissed for 163 with Nathan Lyon taking 8 for 64 (ending with an 11-wicket haul). By virtue of his match-winning spell, Lyon became the second in the list of most wickets against India (going past Muttiah Muralitharan) and also equalled Richie Benaud's tally of most 5-fers (five) against India on their home soil. On Friday morning, Australia ended the formalities by chasing a 76-run target and have qualified for the WTC final, to be held in early June at The Oval, London. Shortest home Tests that ended in a defeat for India 1135 balls Aus vs Ind Indore 2022/23 * 1459 balls Eng vs Ind Kanpur 1951/52 1474 balls WI vs Ind Kolkata 1983/84 1476 balls Aus vs Ind Mumbai WS 2000/01 The Border-Gavaskar Trophy remains alive as both teams will now to go Ahmedabad for the series finale. India will aim for a revamp and end the series with a 3-1 scoreline and also enter the WTC final.

Indore Test: Nathan Lyon stars in visitors' famous win to keep series alive; Australia enter WTC final

India have been on the back foot in the third and penultimate Test versus Australia in Indore. They only managed 109 and 163 in the two innings and conceded a vital 88-run lead with Australia making 197 in their first essay. On Day 3, Australia need to chase down a paltry 76-run target to make the four-match Test series scoreline 2-1 with one match to go.

During the entire Test match, a lot has been said and written about India's poor tactics. Former cricketers and experts have questioned Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led think tank for not using R Ashwin early on during Day 2's morning session whereas in-form Axar Patel batted below the former in the second essay; running out of partners. In addition, Ravindra Jadeja batted above Shreyas Iyer, at No. 5, which wasn't well received by Sanjay Manjrekar.

Speaking to&nbsp;Star Sports&nbsp;at the end of Day 2, the cricketer-turned-commentator Manjrekar&nbsp;said, "It has just disappointed me in the last and this innings as well that Jadeja came ahead of Shreyas Iyer. You can't be doing that for left-right combination. You've got a proper batter...even if he is a right hander. And Jadeja coming in as a left-hander...I can understand when you have 2-3 left-arm spinners like Bangladesh used to have in the past. Here you have two quality off-spinners bowling. It did not make any sense to me. Iyer has a great feel for spinners so you want him ahead in the line-up. And he has shown his class."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-way-a-spin-bowler-should-come-on-in-sixth-over-matthew-hayden-slams-indore-test-pitch-567978">'No way a spin bowler should come on in sixth over': Matthew Hayden slams Indore Test pitch</a>

The ploy to promote Jadeja fell flat as the No. 1 Test all-rounder 4 and 7 in both the innings. Meanwhile, Iyer ended the Test with scores of 0 and 26. Day 3 started with India defending only a mere 76 and removed in-form Usman Khawaja in a flash. However, Travis Head-Marnus Labuschagne have steadied the ship for the Aussies and taken the side closer to a memorable win in Indore.

India have been on the back foot in the third and penultimate Test versus Australia in Indore. They only managed 109 and 163 in the two innings and conceded a vital 88-run lead with Australia making 197 in their first essay.

India have been on the back foot in the third and penultimate Test versus Australia in Indore. They only managed 109 and 163 in the two innings and conceded a vital 88-run lead with Australia making 197 in their first essay. On Day 3, Australia need to chase down a paltry 76-run target to make the four-match Test series scoreline 2-1 with one match to go. During the entire Test match, a lot has been said and written about India's poor tactics. Former cricketers and experts have questioned Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led think tank for not using R Ashwin early on during Day 2's morning session whereas in-form Axar Patel batted below the former in the second essay; running out of partners. In addition, Ravindra Jadeja batted above Shreyas Iyer, at No. 5, which wasn't well received by Sanjay Manjrekar. Speaking to Star Sports at the end of Day 2, the cricketer-turned-commentator Manjrekar said, "It has just disappointed me in the last and this innings as well that Jadeja came ahead of Shreyas Iyer. You can't be doing that for left-right combination. You've got a proper batter...even if he is a right hander. And Jadeja coming in as a left-hander...I can understand when you have 2-3 left-arm spinners like Bangladesh used to have in the past. Here you have two quality off-spinners bowling. It did not make any sense to me. Iyer has a great feel for spinners so you want him ahead in the line-up. And he has shown his class." Also Read: 'No way a spin bowler should come on in sixth over': Matthew Hayden slams Indore Test pitch The ploy to promote Jadeja fell flat as the No. 1 Test all-rounder 4 and 7 in both the innings. Meanwhile, Iyer ended the Test with scores of 0 and 26. Day 3 started with India defending only a mere 76 and removed in-form Usman Khawaja in a flash. However, Travis Head-Marnus Labuschagne have steadied the ship for the Aussies and taken the side closer to a memorable win in Indore.

'It did not make any sense': Sanjay Manjrekar slams Rohit Sharma's tactics in Indore Test

Nathan Lyon is the best overseas spinner to travel to India and achieve so much, reckons Indian captain Rohit Sharma following the Indore Test. For the third time in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, a Test match ended inside three days as Australia on Friday chased a moderate target of 76 with nine wickets in hand. With this win, they not only avoided the possibility of a series whitewash, but also punched their ticket for the finals of the World Test Championship.

Speaking to the media after the match, Rohit showered praise&nbsp;on Nathan Lyon, who for the second time in his career picked up an eight-wicket haul in an innings in India. During the second innings, Lyon produced the figures of eight for 63, accounting for almost everyone from top to bottom. Already under pressure with a deficit of nearly 100 runs after the end of Australia's first innings, the Indian batters tried taking the attack to the opposition but failed in their attempt big time.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-cricketers-did-not-rohit-sharma-on-ex-players-rant-on-indore-test-pitch-after-indias-defeat-568136">'Former cricketers did not...': Rohit Sharma on ex-players' rant on Indore Test pitch after India's defeat</a>

Starting with the openers Shubman Gill and Rohit, Lyon deceived them with the angle before trapping Ravindra Jadeja right in front of the wickets. He then picked up keeper KS Bharat before getting the fish in Cheteshwar Pujara. It was about time before he ran through the tail and wrapped up India’s second innings on a mere 163.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🐐<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/P5hVqfk74I">pic.twitter.com/P5hVqfk74I</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1631267230779609088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, when asked about how he would rate Nathan Lyon following his match-winning spell in Indore, Rohit said,

“Lyon should be at the top in my opinion. I have not played guys like Murali and Warner. Among the current crop he would be my number one overseas bowler to come and play here in India," Rohit Sharma said. "He has got so much consistency in his line and length. When someone is bowling with that accuracy you have to try and do something different to score runs.”

Earlier, it was during the Bengaluru Test in 2017 when Lyon picked up his first eight-wicket haul (8 for 50) against India in India. As of now, with 19 wickets in three Tests, Lyon is second on the list with most wickets in this series while Jadeja sits at the top with 21 scalps to his name.

The marquee four-match series currently stands at 2-1 in favour of India with one match left in Ahmedabad scheduled to begin on March 9th.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Nathan Lyon is the best overseas spinner to travel to India and achieve so much, reckons Indian captain Rohit Sharma following the Indore Test. For the third time in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, a Test match ended inside three days as Australia on Friday chased a moderate target of 76 with nine wickets in hand.

Nathan Lyon is the best overseas spinner to travel to India and achieve so much, reckons Indian captain Rohit Sharma following the Indore Test. For the third time in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, a Test match ended inside three days as Australia on Friday chased a moderate target of 76 with nine wickets in hand. With this win, they not only avoided the possibility of a series whitewash, but also punched their ticket for the finals of the World Test Championship. Speaking to the media after the match, Rohit showered praise on Nathan Lyon, who for the second time in his career picked up an eight-wicket haul in an innings in India. During the second innings, Lyon produced the figures of eight for 63, accounting for almost everyone from top to bottom. Already under pressure with a deficit of nearly 100 runs after the end of Australia's first innings, the Indian batters tried taking the attack to the opposition but failed in their attempt big time. ALSO READ: 'Former cricketers did not...': Rohit Sharma on ex-players' rant on Indore Test pitch after India's defeat Starting with the openers Shubman Gill and Rohit, Lyon deceived them with the angle before trapping Ravindra Jadeja right in front of the wickets. He then picked up keeper KS Bharat before getting the fish in Cheteshwar Pujara. It was about time before he ran through the tail and wrapped up India’s second innings on a mere 163. 🐐#INDvAUS pic.twitter.com/P5hVqfk74I — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) March 2, 2023 × Meanwhile, when asked about how he would rate Nathan Lyon following his match-winning spell in Indore, Rohit said, “Lyon should be at the top in my opinion. I have not played guys like Murali and Warner. Among the current crop he would be my number one overseas bowler to come and play here in India," Rohit Sharma said. "He has got so much consistency in his line and length. When someone is bowling with that accuracy you have to try and do something different to score runs.” Earlier, it was during the Bengaluru Test in 2017 when Lyon picked up his first eight-wicket haul (8 for 50) against India in India. As of now, with 19 wickets in three Tests, Lyon is second on the list with most wickets in this series while Jadeja sits at the top with 21 scalps to his name. The marquee four-match series currently stands at 2-1 in favour of India with one match left in Ahmedabad scheduled to begin on March 9th. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

IND vs AUS: Nathan Lyon is the best overseas spinner I have faced in India, says Rohit Sharma

WTC 2023 Points Table: On Friday (March 03), Australia thrashed India by nine wickets to win the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy to keep the series alive at 2-1.

WTC 2023 Points Table: On Friday (March 03), Australia thrashed India by nine wickets to win the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy to keep the series alive at 2-1. Moreover, Australia also qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, to be held at The Oval, London in early June, with their famous triumph on a turning track at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. Resuming Day 3, Australia started their run-chase, where they needed 76 for a win, and lost Usman Khawaja in the first over. Nonetheless, Travis Head's 49* and Marnus Labuschagne's 28 not out led the Steve Smith-led Aussies to victory, and through to the final of the second cycle of the WTC. The damage was done for India after they only managed 109, opting to bat first on Day 1 on Wednesday (March 01), before conceding a vital 88-run lead to the visitors -- who were all-out for 197 -- on a tough batting pitch tough. In their second essay, Rohit Sharma & Co. fell flat once again with Nathan Lyon taking 8 for 64 (ending with an 11-wicket haul in the match). Being all-out for 163, India gave a paltry 76-run target which the Aussies chased down in style during the first session of Day 3. With this win, Australia have become the first side to enter the WTC final. India have to wait for the final Test, in Ahmedabad and need a win to not depend on other results and meet the Aussies in the summit clash. Sri Lanka is the only other team who can play spoilsport for India and reach the final if they whitewash hosts New Zealand in their forthcoming two-match series. Here's a look at the updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Australia beat India in Indore Test: Also read: Indore Test: Nathan Lyon stars in visitors' famous win to keep series alive; Australia enter WTC final SN TEAM PCT (%) PTS W L D 1 AUSTRALIA 68.52 148 11 3 4 2 INDIA 60.29 123 10 5 2 3 SRI LANKA 53.33 64 5 4 1 4 SOUTH AFRICA 52.38 88 7 6 1 5 ENGLAND 46.97 124 10 8 4 6 PAKISTAN 38.1 64 4 6 4 7 WEST INDIES 37.5 54 4 6 2 8 NEW ZEALAND 27.27 36 2 6 3 9 BANGLADESH 11.11 16 1 10 1 At the post-match presentation, losing captain Rohit said, "We need to keep it simple and follow the plan. When you are playing on challenging pitches, we need to be brave. We allowed their bowlers to bowl on one particular spot. Not taking any credit away from their bowlers. especially Nathan Lyon, he kept challenging us hitting the right lengths. When the bowler is trying to do that, gotta be a little brave which I thought we were not. Things happen like that, but we can take a lot of credit about how we batted in the first 2 games." On the way forward, he opined, "Its all about everyone coming together and chipping in. We want few guys stand up and put their hand up to take the team through. You will falter in your plans and that's what happened in this game, we didn't adapt as well as we would have liked to." The fourth and final Test begins in Ahmedabad on March 09.

WTC points table 2023 ICC World Test Championship ranking after Australia beat India in Indore

Australia defeated India by nine wickets on Day 3 of the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, to keep the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive, with the scoreline being 2-1 in hosts' favour. A lot has been said and written about the nature of the pitch on offer at the Holkar Stadium, Indore where the match ended in less than three complete days. After the game, captain Rohit Sharma reacted to all such noises around the Indore pitch.

The likes of Matthew Hayden, Ravi Shastri, Sunil Gavaskar, Michael Clarke, etc. opined on the pitch ever since the Test commenced on Wednesday (March 01). While 14 wickets fell on the opening day, as many as 16 fell on Day 2. At the post-match presser, Rohit reacted to all such criticism and revealed that&nbsp;it was Indian team's&nbsp;collective decision&nbsp;to play on such surfaces despite being aware of the challenges.&nbsp;

Rohit said, "Former cricketers did not play on pitches like this. So I don't know. Like I said, this is the kind of pitch we wanted to play in and this is our strength. When you play in home, you want to play to your strength and not worry about what people outside are speaking about. And had we not gotten results, we would have thought otherwise."

Hitman pointed out how it is important to laud Nathan Lyon (Player-of-the-Match for his 11-wicket haul including 8 for 64 in India's second innings) and not just talk about the pitch. "This pitch talk is getting too much. Every time we play in India, the focus is only on pitch. Why are people not asking me about Nathan Lyon and how well he bowled? Or, how well Pujara batted in the second innings? Or, how well Usman Khawaja played? Those are the things I can give you a details on, but not on pitch because it is absolutely not necessary,” Rohit added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-championship-points-table-after-australia-beat-india-in-indore-568058">Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Australia beat India in Indore</a>

At the post-match presentation, Rohit also highlighted how India should tackle such tough batting surfaces. "We need to keep it simple and follow the plan. When you are playing on challenging pitches, we need to be brave. We allowed their bowlers to bowl on one particular spot. Not taking any credit away from their bowlers. especially Nathan Lyon, he kept challenging us hitting the right lengths. When the bowler is trying to do that, gotta be a little brave which I thought we were not," he said.

The fourth and final Test gets underway in Ahmedabad on March 09. Australia have already qualified for the WTC final whereas India still need a win to not depend on other results and march into the summit clash, to be held in early June in London.

Australia defeated India by nine wickets on Day 3 of the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, to keep the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive, with the scoreline being 2-1 in hosts' favour.

Australia defeated India by nine wickets on Day 3 of the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, to keep the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive, with the scoreline being 2-1 in hosts' favour. A lot has been said and written about the nature of the pitch on offer at the Holkar Stadium, Indore where the match ended in less than three complete days. After the game, captain Rohit Sharma reacted to all such noises around the Indore pitch. The likes of Matthew Hayden, Ravi Shastri, Sunil Gavaskar, Michael Clarke, etc. opined on the pitch ever since the Test commenced on Wednesday (March 01). While 14 wickets fell on the opening day, as many as 16 fell on Day 2. At the post-match presser, Rohit reacted to all such criticism and revealed that it was Indian team's collective decision to play on such surfaces despite being aware of the challenges. Rohit said, "Former cricketers did not play on pitches like this. So I don't know. Like I said, this is the kind of pitch we wanted to play in and this is our strength. When you play in home, you want to play to your strength and not worry about what people outside are speaking about. And had we not gotten results, we would have thought otherwise." Hitman pointed out how it is important to laud Nathan Lyon (Player-of-the-Match for his 11-wicket haul including 8 for 64 in India's second innings) and not just talk about the pitch. "This pitch talk is getting too much. Every time we play in India, the focus is only on pitch. Why are people not asking me about Nathan Lyon and how well he bowled? Or, how well Pujara batted in the second innings? Or, how well Usman Khawaja played? Those are the things I can give you a details on, but not on pitch because it is absolutely not necessary,” Rohit added. Also Read: Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Australia beat India in Indore At the post-match presentation, Rohit also highlighted how India should tackle such tough batting surfaces. "We need to keep it simple and follow the plan. When you are playing on challenging pitches, we need to be brave. We allowed their bowlers to bowl on one particular spot. Not taking any credit away from their bowlers. especially Nathan Lyon, he kept challenging us hitting the right lengths. When the bowler is trying to do that, gotta be a little brave which I thought we were not," he said. The fourth and final Test gets underway in Ahmedabad on March 09. Australia have already qualified for the WTC final whereas India still need a win to not depend on other results and march into the summit clash, to be held in early June in London.

'Former cricketers did not...': Rohit Sharma on ex-players' rant on Indore Test pitch after India's defeat

Indian batters fell flat in both innings of the ongoing third and penultimate Test versus Australia, being held at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. Winning the toss, on Wednesday (March 01), captain Rohit Sharma opted to bat first but India only managed a paltry 109. In reply, Indian bowlers -- led by Ravindra Jadeja, Umesh Yadav and R Ashwin -- managed to dismiss the Aussies for 197 but another poor show from the Indian batters, in their second essay, led to the home side bundling out for 163 at stumps on Day 2; setting up a mere 76-run target&nbsp;on Thursday (March 02).

With India starring on the brink of a heavy defeat in Indore, many former cricketers and fans have pointed fingers at Indian batters' flop showing in the entire Test. The likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat, Ravindra Jadeja, etc. fell flat whereas only Cheteshwar Pujara managed a fighting 59 in the second innings. Talking about Shubman Gill -- who has been in splendid form in white-ball format -- came into the playing XI in place of out-of-form KL Rahul. All eyes were on him but Gill returned with scores of 21 and 5. In the second innings, he danced down the track, off Nathan Lyon (who ended with 8 for 64), but was completely outfoxed by the off-spinner and departed&nbsp;for 5. Many criticised Gill's ploy but former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has backed the youngster.

“See, the game plan is simple here. You can't survive on this pitch with defence. Pujara was using his feet throughout his innings. If you're thinking that you can wait out for a spell and score runs later, it won't work. Even if you're playing on 70-80 on this pitch, you can get out with just one odd delivery,” Harbhajan said on Star Sports, the official broadcaster of the match.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-steve-smith-pulls-off-a-stunner-to-dismiss-cheteshwar-pujara-on-day-2-of-indore-test-567669">WATCH: Steve Smith pulls off a stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 2 of Indore Test</a>

“You have to look out for the opportunity to score runs. You need to see where you can get a four. Shubman wanted to go for a six, and when you consider the pitch condition here, his approach was right because you can't defend on this pitch for long,” Harbhajan further added.

Day 3 will commence on Friday (March 03) with Rohit &amp; Co. defending 76 runs in the final innings. Steve Smith-led Australia are on the cusp of winning the game and keeping the four-match series alive with a 2-1 scoreline.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Indian batters fell flat in both innings of the ongoing third and penultimate Test versus Australia, being held at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. Winning the toss, on Wednesday (March 01), captain Rohit Sharma opted to bat first but India only managed a paltry 109.

Indian batters fell flat in both innings of the ongoing third and penultimate Test versus Australia, being held at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. Winning the toss, on Wednesday (March 01), captain Rohit Sharma opted to bat first but India only managed a paltry 109. In reply, Indian bowlers -- led by Ravindra Jadeja, Umesh Yadav and R Ashwin -- managed to dismiss the Aussies for 197 but another poor show from the Indian batters, in their second essay, led to the home side bundling out for 163 at stumps on Day 2; setting up a mere 76-run target on Thursday (March 02). With India starring on the brink of a heavy defeat in Indore, many former cricketers and fans have pointed fingers at Indian batters' flop showing in the entire Test. The likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat, Ravindra Jadeja, etc. fell flat whereas only Cheteshwar Pujara managed a fighting 59 in the second innings. Talking about Shubman Gill -- who has been in splendid form in white-ball format -- came into the playing XI in place of out-of-form KL Rahul. All eyes were on him but Gill returned with scores of 21 and 5. In the second innings, he danced down the track, off Nathan Lyon (who ended with 8 for 64), but was completely outfoxed by the off-spinner and departed for 5. Many criticised Gill's ploy but former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has backed the youngster. “See, the game plan is simple here. You can't survive on this pitch with defence. Pujara was using his feet throughout his innings. If you're thinking that you can wait out for a spell and score runs later, it won't work. Even if you're playing on 70-80 on this pitch, you can get out with just one odd delivery,” Harbhajan said on Star Sports, the official broadcaster of the match. Also Read: WATCH: Steve Smith pulls off a stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 2 of Indore Test “You have to look out for the opportunity to score runs. You need to see where you can get a four. Shubman wanted to go for a six, and when you consider the pitch condition here, his approach was right because you can't defend on this pitch for long,” Harbhajan further added. Day 3 will commence on Friday (March 03) with Rohit & Co. defending 76 runs in the final innings. Steve Smith-led Australia are on the cusp of winning the game and keeping the four-match series alive with a 2-1 scoreline. ×

'His approach was...': Harbhajan defends India's star batter despite poor outings in Indore Test vs Australia

IND vs AUS 3rd Test: On Wednesday (March 01), India locked horns with Australia in the third and penultimate Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. Having an unassailable 2-0 lead, India are very close to finalising a spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.&nbsp;

India have been top-notch in the first two Tests versus Australia -- banking on Rohit Sharma's form, lower-order runs&nbsp;and spinners -- to win the back-to-back games and are just a step away from entering the WTC final, for the second time in a row. Here's what they need to do in the third and penultimate Test to book a slot in the summit clash, to be held at The Oval, London on June 07-11:&nbsp;

India are 2-0 ahead in the series and just need another win in the ongoing Test to cement a place in the WTC final. While India can go through even if they lose the next two encounters (but in such a case, they will have to depend on other results; hoping&nbsp;for Sri Lanka to not win their remaining two Tests), they will confirm a place with a 3-0, 3-1 or 4-0 scoreline. Hence, India already have one&nbsp;foot in the WTC finale.

On the other hand, Pat Cummins-led Australia -- who are the No. 1 ranked side in the purest format -- have so far had a forgettable trip to India. After being 2-0 down, they have a herculean task to end the series with a 2-2 scoreline. A 0-3 or 0-4 scoreline looks likely at this stage. For them to qualify, they can even do so despite being whitewashed by India. In such a scenario, they will have to hope for Sri Lanka to not whitewash the hosts New Zealand in their forthcoming two-match Test series. It is to be noted that Tim Southee &amp; Co. have not lost a home Test series since early 2017.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahuls-removal-as-vice-captain-doesnt-indicate-anything-says-rohit-sharma-ahead-of-ind-aus-3rd-test-566848">KL Rahul's removal as vice-captain doesn't indicate anything, says Rohit Sharma ahead of Ind-Aus 3rd Test</a>

Indore Test, Day 1

At the coin toss on Day 1&nbsp;of the Indore Test, Rohit called it right as India chose to bat first. India made two changes in their playing XI with former vice-captain and woefully out of form KL Rahul being sidelined whereas Md Shami was rested (with Shubman Gill and Umesh Yadav being the replacements, respectively).&nbsp;

At the toss, Rohit said, "We will have a bat first. It is a pretty good dressing room and like you said the morale is high. The guys are confident about their skills which is a good thing moving forward. We have played a lot of cricket (here) but this one (surface) is slightly different. Looks little dry and you have to adapt your skills and be at it all the time. We aren't there yet (WTC final) and we have to come and win this game, we have to try and repeat the things we did in the first two Tests. It is important to stay present. We have made two changes - Gill comes in place of KL. We have rested Shami and Umesh comes in."

Meanwhile, Australia are without regular skipper Cummins, who is in Australia to look after his ailing mother. In his absence, Steve Smith leads the side as they trail 0-2.&nbsp;

Playing XIs:

Australia: Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith(c), Peter Handscomb, Cameron Green, Alex Carey(w), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Todd Murphy, Matthew Kuhnemann

India&nbsp;Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Srikar Bharat(w), Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj

After opting to bat first, Rohit-led India are on the back foot currently, having lost half of their side for 45.

How has Team India fared in the second cycle of WTC?&nbsp;

After losing the inaugural WTC final, to New Zealand, in 2021, India have had a decent run in the ongoing second cycle. They started the new cycle with a 2-1 lead over hosts England in the 2021 five-match series, which ended in a 2-2 stalemate a year later, before winning a home series versus the Kiwis 1-0. They lost 1-2 to South Africa during their tour of the African nation in early 2022; prompting&nbsp;Virat Kohli to step down as the red-ball captain.&nbsp;

Rohit took over from there on and while he missed a few games, India went on to beat Sri Lanka 2-0 at home and also whitewash Bangladesh in their own backyard in December 2022.&nbsp;

At present, India are favourites to whitewash the Aussie and storm into the WTC final. Currently, it looks like it will be a mouth-watering India versus Australia finale in the second cycle of the WTC (unless third-positioned Sri Lanka pulls off a surprise in NZ).&nbsp;Will India end their ICC-title drought by winning the second edition of the WTC? Only time will tell...

IND vs AUS 3rd Test: On Wednesday (March 01), India locked horns with Australia in the third and penultimate Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Holkar Stadium, Indore.

IND vs AUS 3rd Test: On Wednesday (March 01), India locked horns with Australia in the third and penultimate Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. Having an unassailable 2-0 lead, India are very close to finalising a spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. India have been top-notch in the first two Tests versus Australia -- banking on Rohit Sharma's form, lower-order runs and spinners -- to win the back-to-back games and are just a step away from entering the WTC final, for the second time in a row. Here's what they need to do in the third and penultimate Test to book a slot in the summit clash, to be held at The Oval, London on June 07-11: India are 2-0 ahead in the series and just need another win in the ongoing Test to cement a place in the WTC final. While India can go through even if they lose the next two encounters (but in such a case, they will have to depend on other results; hoping for Sri Lanka to not win their remaining two Tests), they will confirm a place with a 3-0, 3-1 or 4-0 scoreline. Hence, India already have one foot in the WTC finale. On the other hand, Pat Cummins-led Australia -- who are the No. 1 ranked side in the purest format -- have so far had a forgettable trip to India. After being 2-0 down, they have a herculean task to end the series with a 2-2 scoreline. A 0-3 or 0-4 scoreline looks likely at this stage. For them to qualify, they can even do so despite being whitewashed by India. In such a scenario, they will have to hope for Sri Lanka to not whitewash the hosts New Zealand in their forthcoming two-match Test series. It is to be noted that Tim Southee & Co. have not lost a home Test series since early 2017. Also read: KL Rahul's removal as vice-captain doesn't indicate anything, says Rohit Sharma ahead of Ind-Aus 3rd Test Indore Test, Day 1 At the coin toss on Day 1 of the Indore Test, Rohit called it right as India chose to bat first. India made two changes in their playing XI with former vice-captain and woefully out of form KL Rahul being sidelined whereas Md Shami was rested (with Shubman Gill and Umesh Yadav being the replacements, respectively). At the toss, Rohit said, "We will have a bat first. It is a pretty good dressing room and like you said the morale is high. The guys are confident about their skills which is a good thing moving forward. We have played a lot of cricket (here) but this one (surface) is slightly different. Looks little dry and you have to adapt your skills and be at it all the time. We aren't there yet (WTC final) and we have to come and win this game, we have to try and repeat the things we did in the first two Tests. It is important to stay present. We have made two changes - Gill comes in place of KL. We have rested Shami and Umesh comes in." Meanwhile, Australia are without regular skipper Cummins, who is in Australia to look after his ailing mother. In his absence, Steve Smith leads the side as they trail 0-2. Playing XIs: Australia: Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith(c), Peter Handscomb, Cameron Green, Alex Carey(w), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Todd Murphy, Matthew Kuhnemann India Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Srikar Bharat(w), Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj After opting to bat first, Rohit-led India are on the back foot currently, having lost half of their side for 45. How has Team India fared in the second cycle of WTC? After losing the inaugural WTC final, to New Zealand, in 2021, India have had a decent run in the ongoing second cycle. They started the new cycle with a 2-1 lead over hosts England in the 2021 five-match series, which ended in a 2-2 stalemate a year later, before winning a home series versus the Kiwis 1-0. They lost 1-2 to South Africa during their tour of the African nation in early 2022; prompting Virat Kohli to step down as the red-ball captain. Rohit took over from there on and while he missed a few games, India went on to beat Sri Lanka 2-0 at home and also whitewash Bangladesh in their own backyard in December 2022. At present, India are favourites to whitewash the Aussie and storm into the WTC final. Currently, it looks like it will be a mouth-watering India versus Australia finale in the second cycle of the WTC (unless third-positioned Sri Lanka pulls off a surprise in NZ). Will India end their ICC-title drought by winning the second edition of the WTC? Only time will tell...

IND vs AUS, Indore Test: EXPLAINED! How Rohit Sharma & Co. can confirm a slot in WTC final

After the second Test between India and Australia, in the national capital, KL Rahul was removed as the vice-captain when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the national side's squad for the final two Tests. Rahul has been in woeful form and has been facing severe criticism from all corners. It is to be noted that Rahul has only 198 runs in the last 12 innings and has only managed 38 runs in the three outings in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy at home.&nbsp;

Hence, a lot has been said and written about Rahul. Many feel he should be dropped with Shubman Gill being in the form of his life. His sacking as the Test vice-captain has also been highlighted but captain Rohit Sharma stated that his opening partner's removal from the post indicates nothing.&nbsp;

"I said it after the last game also. When we talk about players going through a tough time, anyone with potential will be given enough time to prove himself. Being vice-captain or not being vice-captain doesn't tell you anything. At that point in time, when he was the vice-captain, he was probably the most senior. His removal of the vice-captaincy doesn't indicate anything," Rohit said on Tuesday ahead of the third and penultimate Test, which kicks off on Wednesday (March 01) in Indore.

Also Read:&nbsp;

On being&nbsp;asked about the practice sessions and if Gill's active participation in the nets ahead of the Indore Test means he is set to replace Rahul in the playing XI, Rohit shied away from sharing any details on the team combination.

"As far as Gill and KL are both concerned, that is how they train and practice before any game. Today was an optional training session for the entire group. All 17-18 are in the reckoning. It's not just about Gill and Rahul. But as far as our XI is concerned, we have not finalised it yet. I prefer it to be announced at the toss. Can't count out last-minute injuries and all and we will keep it interesting for you guys as well," Rohit added.

India squad for final two Tests vs Australia

India’s Test squad for the third and fourth Test against Australia: Rohit Sharma (Captain), K L Rahul, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat.

After the second Test between India and Australia, in the national capital, KL Rahul was removed as the vice-captain when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the national side's squad for the final two Tests.

After the second Test between India and Australia, in the national capital, KL Rahul was removed as the vice-captain when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the national side's squad for the final two Tests. Rahul has been in woeful form and has been facing severe criticism from all corners. It is to be noted that Rahul has only 198 runs in the last 12 innings and has only managed 38 runs in the three outings in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy at home. Hence, a lot has been said and written about Rahul. Many feel he should be dropped with Shubman Gill being in the form of his life. His sacking as the Test vice-captain has also been highlighted but captain Rohit Sharma stated that his opening partner's removal from the post indicates nothing. "I said it after the last game also. When we talk about players going through a tough time, anyone with potential will be given enough time to prove himself. Being vice-captain or not being vice-captain doesn't tell you anything. At that point in time, when he was the vice-captain, he was probably the most senior. His removal of the vice-captaincy doesn't indicate anything," Rohit said on Tuesday ahead of the third and penultimate Test, which kicks off on Wednesday (March 01) in Indore. Also Read: On being asked about the practice sessions and if Gill's active participation in the nets ahead of the Indore Test means he is set to replace Rahul in the playing XI, Rohit shied away from sharing any details on the team combination. "As far as Gill and KL are both concerned, that is how they train and practice before any game. Today was an optional training session for the entire group. All 17-18 are in the reckoning. It's not just about Gill and Rahul. But as far as our XI is concerned, we have not finalised it yet. I prefer it to be announced at the toss. Can't count out last-minute injuries and all and we will keep it interesting for you guys as well," Rohit added. India squad for final two Tests vs Australia India’s Test squad for the third and fourth Test against Australia: Rohit Sharma (Captain), K L Rahul, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat.

KL Rahul's removal as vice-captain doesn't indicate anything, says Rohit Sharma ahead of Ind-Aus 3rd Test

The former Australian batter and a very good player of spin bowling, Michael Hussey has urged the struggling Aussies to pull off a Rohit Sharma on how to tackle spin in the remaining two Tests. Australia has conceded the Border-Gavaskar series within six days this time, having lost the first two Tests inside three days each. Such is the despair that of the 40 wickets that had fallen across all four innings, 32 of those have gone to the India spinners.

Looking dejected against the Indian spin trio of Ravindra Jadeja, Ravi Ashwin and Axar Patel - who is even yet to shine with the ball, Australia will be keen on finding the right answers to remain the contest.

Hussey, who had his share of ups and downs against spin bowling on the sub-continent tracks in the past, advised if Australians could only learn by observing how Rohit had batted so far in the series, they could actually benefit themselves and can avoid the whitewash, which would further dent their chances of directly qualifying for the WTC finals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-what-future-holds-for-chennai-super-kings-after-ms-dhoni-leaves-who-will-take-forward-his-legacy-565804">Explained: What future holds for Chennai Super Kings after Dhoni? Who will take forward his legacy?</a>

Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma is currently the leading run-getter in the series (183) having scored a match-winning hundred (120) in the first innings of the Nagpur Test. To put this in perspective, no other batter scored a hundred while Axar and Jadeja have come close with 84 and 70, respectively.

“Obviously, the Australians can take a leaf out of Rohit Sharma’s book and have a look at the way he has batted so far. The way Rohit has gone about his job is certainly a good way to tackle spin and score runs in such conditions. The Indian batsmen have grown up playing on such pitches and so are more used to them. But it’s not really possible to bat exactly like how he (Rohit) has been doing. For instance, I couldn’t bat like Matthew Hayden," said Hussey, as quoted by the Telegraph.

During the second match in Delhi, especially in the second innings, most of the Aussie batters got out playing the sweep shot. Commenting on the same, Hussey said instead of playing just one pre-decided shot, every player must concentrate on playing as per their strengths and that is where the result will come from.

“So, the focus of the Australian batsmen should be on gauging how best each one of them can score runs. Each one has a different method of batting. So, some should look to hit the boundaries and be more aggressive, while some should look to play the anchor role. Batsmen need to focus on their strengths and the strokes that yield them runs instead of everyone trying one particular shot,” Hussey said.

The third Test will start in Indore from March 1st.

The former Australian batter and a very good player of spin bowling, Michael Hussey has urged the struggling Aussies to pull off a Rohit Sharma on how to tackle spin in the remaining two Tests.

The former Australian batter and a very good player of spin bowling, Michael Hussey has urged the struggling Aussies to pull off a Rohit Sharma on how to tackle spin in the remaining two Tests. Australia has conceded the Border-Gavaskar series within six days this time, having lost the first two Tests inside three days each. Such is the despair that of the 40 wickets that had fallen across all four innings, 32 of those have gone to the India spinners. Looking dejected against the Indian spin trio of Ravindra Jadeja, Ravi Ashwin and Axar Patel - who is even yet to shine with the ball, Australia will be keen on finding the right answers to remain the contest. Hussey, who had his share of ups and downs against spin bowling on the sub-continent tracks in the past, advised if Australians could only learn by observing how Rohit had batted so far in the series, they could actually benefit themselves and can avoid the whitewash, which would further dent their chances of directly qualifying for the WTC finals. ALSO READ: Explained: What future holds for Chennai Super Kings after Dhoni? Who will take forward his legacy? Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma is currently the leading run-getter in the series (183) having scored a match-winning hundred (120) in the first innings of the Nagpur Test. To put this in perspective, no other batter scored a hundred while Axar and Jadeja have come close with 84 and 70, respectively. “Obviously, the Australians can take a leaf out of Rohit Sharma’s book and have a look at the way he has batted so far. The way Rohit has gone about his job is certainly a good way to tackle spin and score runs in such conditions. The Indian batsmen have grown up playing on such pitches and so are more used to them. But it’s not really possible to bat exactly like how he (Rohit) has been doing. For instance, I couldn’t bat like Matthew Hayden," said Hussey, as quoted by the Telegraph. During the second match in Delhi, especially in the second innings, most of the Aussie batters got out playing the sweep shot. Commenting on the same, Hussey said instead of playing just one pre-decided shot, every player must concentrate on playing as per their strengths and that is where the result will come from. “So, the focus of the Australian batsmen should be on gauging how best each one of them can score runs. Each one has a different method of batting. So, some should look to hit the boundaries and be more aggressive, while some should look to play the anchor role. Batsmen need to focus on their strengths and the strokes that yield them runs instead of everyone trying one particular shot,” Hussey said. The third Test will start in Indore from March 1st.

Michael Hussey urges Australia to take a leaf out of Rohit Sharma's book on how to tackle spin

The 2023 Asia Cup has been much talked about. While Pakistan will host the 50-over continental tournament, the venue isn't finalised as India have made it clear that they won't travel to their neighbouring country due to the strained political relations between both sides. A final decision on the venue is likely to be out by March but Pakistan will remain the host for sure.

Ever since the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah revealed, in late 2022, that Team India won't get government clearance to go to Pakistan for the tournament, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have not taken things lightly. The then PCB chief Ramiz Raja had revealed that Pakistan will boycott the 2023 ODI World Cup, in India, if the Men in Blue pull out of Asia Cup. Now, Kamran Akmal -- the veteran keeper-batter -- has joined the bandwagon and backed Ramiz's claims.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-anjum-chopra-consoles-an-emotional-harmanpreet-kaur-after-indias-t20-world-cup-exit-565493">WATCH: Anjum Chopra consoles an emotional Harmanpreet Kaur after India's T20 World Cup exit</a>

Speaking on the Nadir Ali podcast, Kamran said that Pakistan also have respect and they shouldn't travel to their neighbouring country if India doesn't turn up for the Asia Cup.

"If India do not agree to come for the Asia Cup, we should not go to India to play the 2023 World Cup there. Hamaari bhi respect hai (We are also well respected). We have been world champions too, have topped rankings in all formats and have won the Champions Trophy too. This is between two governments; until they are on the same page, the teams won't go with each other. We have to see how long it goes," Kamran said.

India and Pakistan's senior men's team had last met during the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia, where Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. beat Babar Azam-led Men in Green by five wickets.

The 2023 Asia Cup has been much talked about. While Pakistan will host the 50-over continental tournament, the venue isn't finalised as India have made it clear that they won't travel to their neighbouring country due to the strained political relations between both sides.

The 2023 Asia Cup has been much talked about. While Pakistan will host the 50-over continental tournament, the venue isn't finalised as India have made it clear that they won't travel to their neighbouring country due to the strained political relations between both sides. A final decision on the venue is likely to be out by March but Pakistan will remain the host for sure. Ever since the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah revealed, in late 2022, that Team India won't get government clearance to go to Pakistan for the tournament, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have not taken things lightly. The then PCB chief Ramiz Raja had revealed that Pakistan will boycott the 2023 ODI World Cup, in India, if the Men in Blue pull out of Asia Cup. Now, Kamran Akmal -- the veteran keeper-batter -- has joined the bandwagon and backed Ramiz's claims. Also Read: WATCH: Anjum Chopra consoles an emotional Harmanpreet Kaur after India's T20 World Cup exit Speaking on the Nadir Ali podcast, Kamran said that Pakistan also have respect and they shouldn't travel to their neighbouring country if India doesn't turn up for the Asia Cup. "If India do not agree to come for the Asia Cup, we should not go to India to play the 2023 World Cup there. Hamaari bhi respect hai (We are also well respected). We have been world champions too, have topped rankings in all formats and have won the Champions Trophy too. This is between two governments; until they are on the same page, the teams won't go with each other. We have to see how long it goes," Kamran said. India and Pakistan's senior men's team had last met during the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia, where Rohit Sharma & Co. beat Babar Azam-led Men in Green by five wickets.

We are also well respected: Kamran Akmal in favour of Pak boycotting ODI WC if Ind pull out of Asia Cup

Rohit Sharma-led India has gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Pat Cummins-led Australia. After winning the series opener, in Nagpur, by innings and 132 runs, India defeated Australia in the second Test, in the national capital, by six wickets and are favourites to win the remaining two games as well. Ahead of the third and penultimate Test, to be held in Indore, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh feels the home side will whitewash the Aussies and slammed Cummins &amp; Co.

Speaking on Sports Tak, Harbhajan opined that the current Aussie team looks like a pale shadow of its former self and slammed them for creating so much confusion in their preparations. A lot was expected of the No. 1 ranked Aussie side but they are certainly on the mat with a chance to lose the series 4-0. Bhajji added that had it been a ten-match series, India would have still won 10-0.

“Australia practised against Ravichandran Ashwin’s duplicate, but I feel the Australian team itself is a duplicate one. Their mindset is such that they are only focusing on negative things," said the legendary spinner Harbhajan.

Bhajji asserted, "They created so much confusion that they lost the game even before the first ball was bowled. It doesn’t seem like they have done any preparation for this tour. Looking at their performance, I think the only thing they practised was getting out."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-we-leave-kl-rahul-alone-harbhajan-singh-backs-under-fire-indian-opener-amid-severe-criticism-564582">'Can we leave KL Rahul alone?': Harbhajan Singh backs under-fire Indian opener amid severe criticism</a>

Harbhajan further added, "I do not doubt that India will win 4-0. Even if it was a 10-match series, India would beat Australia 10-0 because this Australian team doesn’t have any firepower. If there is something on the pitch, they throw their wickets from the dressing room itself."

Australia will hope to put up a much better performance in the third and penultimate Test of the four-match series. India, on the other hand, will aim to win the Indore Test to secure a place in the WTC final and go for a 4-0 whitewash.

Rohit Sharma-led India has gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Pat Cummins-led Australia. After winning the series opener, in Nagpur, by innings and 132 runs, India defeated Australia in the second Test, in the national capital, by six wickets and are favourites to win the remaining two games as well.

Rohit Sharma-led India has gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Pat Cummins-led Australia. After winning the series opener, in Nagpur, by innings and 132 runs, India defeated Australia in the second Test, in the national capital, by six wickets and are favourites to win the remaining two games as well. Ahead of the third and penultimate Test, to be held in Indore, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh feels the home side will whitewash the Aussies and slammed Cummins & Co. Speaking on Sports Tak, Harbhajan opined that the current Aussie team looks like a pale shadow of its former self and slammed them for creating so much confusion in their preparations. A lot was expected of the No. 1 ranked Aussie side but they are certainly on the mat with a chance to lose the series 4-0. Bhajji added that had it been a ten-match series, India would have still won 10-0. “Australia practised against Ravichandran Ashwin’s duplicate, but I feel the Australian team itself is a duplicate one. Their mindset is such that they are only focusing on negative things," said the legendary spinner Harbhajan. Bhajji asserted, "They created so much confusion that they lost the game even before the first ball was bowled. It doesn’t seem like they have done any preparation for this tour. Looking at their performance, I think the only thing they practised was getting out." Also Read: 'Can we leave KL Rahul alone?': Harbhajan Singh backs under-fire Indian opener amid severe criticism Harbhajan further added, "I do not doubt that India will win 4-0. Even if it was a 10-match series, India would beat Australia 10-0 because this Australian team doesn’t have any firepower. If there is something on the pitch, they throw their wickets from the dressing room itself." Australia will hope to put up a much better performance in the third and penultimate Test of the four-match series. India, on the other hand, will aim to win the Indore Test to secure a place in the WTC final and go for a 4-0 whitewash.

If it were a 10-match series, Ind would've won 10-0: Harbhajan slams Cummins & Co., says hosts will win '4-0'

Former Indian captain Kapil Dev isn't pleased with current skipper Rohit Sharma's fitness standards. Ahead of the third and penultimate Test between India and Australia, in Indore, in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23, the 1983 World-Cup winning captain Kapil opined that while Rohit is a great captain and player, it is a shame that Hitman doesn't look fit on TV. Further, he cited Virat Kohli's fitness and urged Rohit to get in shape by taking inspiration from his teammate.

Speaking on an ABP show, Kapil said, "It is very important (to be fit). More so for a captain. It's a shame if you are not fit. Rohit needs to put some hard work on it. He is a great batter but when you talk about his fitness, he looks a bit overweight, at least on TV. Yes, it's different when you look at someone on TV and then in real life. But from whatever I see, Rohit is a great player and a great captain, but he needs to get fit," the former Indian captain further asserted.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-india-harmanpreet-uncertain-pooja-vastrakar-ruled-out-of-t20-wc-semi-final-tie-vs-australia-565086">Big blow to India! Harmanpreet uncertain, Pooja Vastrakar ruled out of T20 WC semi-final tie vs Australia</a>

He added, "Look at Virat, whenever you see him, you say, 'that's some fitness!" This isn't the first time that Rohit has been slammed for his fitness. In the last few years, he has missed plenty of games across formats due to hamstring injury or other issues. However, Hitman hasn't spoken at length on this issue and is focused on taking India to the ICC World Test Championship final (WTC), to be held in early June at The Oval, London.&nbsp;

Rohit-led India currently have an unassailable 2-0 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and will storm into the final with another win. So far, Rohit has been the leading run-scorer in the four-match Test series with 183 runs in three outings, including a majestic 120 in the series opener.

India take on Australia in the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, on March 01.

Former Indian captain Kapil Dev isn't pleased with current skipper Rohit Sharma's fitness standards. Ahead of the third and penultimate Test between India and Australia, in Indore, in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23, the 1983 World-Cup winning captain Kapil opined that while Rohit is a great captain and player, it is a shame that Hitman doesn't look fit on TV.

Former Indian captain Kapil Dev isn't pleased with current skipper Rohit Sharma's fitness standards. Ahead of the third and penultimate Test between India and Australia, in Indore, in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23, the 1983 World-Cup winning captain Kapil opined that while Rohit is a great captain and player, it is a shame that Hitman doesn't look fit on TV. Further, he cited Virat Kohli's fitness and urged Rohit to get in shape by taking inspiration from his teammate. Speaking on an ABP show, Kapil said, "It is very important (to be fit). More so for a captain. It's a shame if you are not fit. Rohit needs to put some hard work on it. He is a great batter but when you talk about his fitness, he looks a bit overweight, at least on TV. Yes, it's different when you look at someone on TV and then in real life. But from whatever I see, Rohit is a great player and a great captain, but he needs to get fit," the former Indian captain further asserted. Also Read: Big blow to India! Harmanpreet uncertain, Pooja Vastrakar ruled out of T20 WC semi-final tie vs Australia He added, "Look at Virat, whenever you see him, you say, 'that's some fitness!" This isn't the first time that Rohit has been slammed for his fitness. In the last few years, he has missed plenty of games across formats due to hamstring injury or other issues. However, Hitman hasn't spoken at length on this issue and is focused on taking India to the ICC World Test Championship final (WTC), to be held in early June at The Oval, London. Rohit-led India currently have an unassailable 2-0 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and will storm into the final with another win. So far, Rohit has been the leading run-scorer in the four-match Test series with 183 runs in three outings, including a majestic 120 in the series opener. India take on Australia in the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, on March 01.

BGT 2022/23: 'It's a shame if you are not fit' - Kapil Dev urges Rohit Sharma to get in shape

On Monday (February 20), Harmanpreet Kaur achieved a huge feat when India locked horns with Ireland in their last group stage match of the Women's T20 World Cup 2023 in South Africa. When skipper Harman came out for the coin toss, she became the first male or female player to&nbsp;play 150 T20I matches. The swashbuckling right-hander had surpassed Rohit Sharma (148), the senior Indian men's captain, in the overall list of most T20I matches played by a player during India's previous encounter, versus England, before moving past him to create history.&nbsp;

Most T20I matches played by a player 
Harmanpreet Kaur - 150 
Rohit Sharma - 148 
Suzie Bates - 143

Harmanpreet made her T20I debut in&nbsp;2009, against England, during the inaugural edition of the Women's T20 WC. Since then, she has featured in 150 games scoring 3,006 runs at an average of 27.83, including a solitary hundred. In the list of most runs in Women's T20Is, she features in the fourth spot. Under her, India reached the semi-finals of the 2018 edition and played the final of the 2020 edition in Australia, where the hosts won by a comprehensive margin.&nbsp;

During her 20-ball 13-run-knock in the India-Ireland contest, at the&nbsp;St George's Park, Gqeberha,&nbsp;Harmanpreet also became&nbsp;the first Indian woman to score 3,000 runs in the format. She will be eager to end the match by leading India to an easy win and confirm themselves a spot in the semi-finals.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prithvi-shaw-attack-accused-woman-and-3-others-sent-to-14-day-judicial-custody-563934">Prithvi Shaw attack: Accused woman and 3 others sent to 14-day judicial custody</a>

At the coin toss, skipper Harmanpreet said, "We are going to bat first. Looks a hard and dry surface. Many of us haven't got that many runs, we need to express ourselves. Devika is playing in place of Radha. It (playing 150 T20I games) means a lot, I got an emotional message from my team-mates. Thanks to BCCI and ICC, we are able to play so many games."

After opting to bat first versus the Irish line-up, India rode on Smriti Mandhana's 87 to post 155 for 5 in 20 overs. Will it be enough? Only time will tell...

On Monday (February 20), Harmanpreet Kaur achieved a huge feat when India locked horns with Ireland in their last group stage match of the Women's T20 World Cup 2023 in South Africa.

On Monday (February 20), Harmanpreet Kaur achieved a huge feat when India locked horns with Ireland in their last group stage match of the Women's T20 World Cup 2023 in South Africa. When skipper Harman came out for the coin toss, she became the first male or female player to play 150 T20I matches. The swashbuckling right-hander had surpassed Rohit Sharma (148), the senior Indian men's captain, in the overall list of most T20I matches played by a player during India's previous encounter, versus England, before moving past him to create history. Most T20I matches played by a player Harmanpreet Kaur - 150 Rohit Sharma - 148 Suzie Bates - 143 Harmanpreet made her T20I debut in 2009, against England, during the inaugural edition of the Women's T20 WC. Since then, she has featured in 150 games scoring 3,006 runs at an average of 27.83, including a solitary hundred. In the list of most runs in Women's T20Is, she features in the fourth spot. Under her, India reached the semi-finals of the 2018 edition and played the final of the 2020 edition in Australia, where the hosts won by a comprehensive margin. During her 20-ball 13-run-knock in the India-Ireland contest, at the St George's Park, Gqeberha, Harmanpreet also became the first Indian woman to score 3,000 runs in the format. She will be eager to end the match by leading India to an easy win and confirm themselves a spot in the semi-finals. Also Read: Prithvi Shaw attack: Accused woman and 3 others sent to 14-day judicial custody At the coin toss, skipper Harmanpreet said, "We are going to bat first. Looks a hard and dry surface. Many of us haven't got that many runs, we need to express ourselves. Devika is playing in place of Radha. It (playing 150 T20I games) means a lot, I got an emotional message from my team-mates. Thanks to BCCI and ICC, we are able to play so many games." After opting to bat first versus the Irish line-up, India rode on Smriti Mandhana's 87 to post 155 for 5 in 20 overs. Will it be enough? Only time will tell...

IND-W vs IRE-W, T20 WC: Harmanpreet Kaur achieves huge feat, becomes first player to feature in 150 T20Is

India thrashed Australia by six wickets on Day 3 of the second Test, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi, to go 2-0 up in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While Australia did put up a better show in the Test match, till the first innings, they fell flat in their second essay and gave a paltry 114-run target to Team India. In reply, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. chased down the score with six wickets to spare and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the process.&nbsp;

The likes of Rohit, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Md Shami have been India's top-performers so far but opener KL Rahul has been struggling for runs. The 30-year-old&nbsp;has only managed 198 runs in the last 12 innings. In the ongoing Test series, Rahul has a&nbsp;total of 38 runs in three innings and has looked completely out of form. Thus, many have slammed the Indian batter and former pacer Venkatesh Prasad has been quite vocal in his criticism of Rahul. He has time and again vented out his frustration with Rahul struggling for runs. Amid severe criticism, both captain Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid have backed the underfire opener.&nbsp;

After the Delhi Test win, Dravid told Star Sports, "I&nbsp;think he (Rahul) needs to trust his processes. This is just a phase, he has been one of our most successful overseas openers. He’s got centuries in South Africa and England, we’ll continue to back him. I believe he has the quality and class to come out of this."

Now, Prasad broke the notion of Rahul having a good overseas record and shared a series of tweets -- also comprising the opener's ordinary away numbers. He wrote, "There is a view that KL Rahul has an outstanding overseas Test record. But stats speak otherwise. He has a test avg of 30 overseas in 56 innings. He has scored 6 overseas centuries but followed it up with a string of low scores that’s why averaging 30. Let’s look at a few others. Shikhar Dhawan has the best overseas average amongst recent openers. Avg of nearly 40 with 5 100’s. Though he too hasn’t been consistent in Test but had Outstanding centuries in SL and NZ, plus a much better home record."

Further, Prasad added, "Mayank Agarwal after the brilliant start in Aust did struggle in away test matches. But he has by far the best home record. Avg of nearly 70 in 13 innings,2 double 100’s &amp; a 150 on a Wankhede pitch where everyone else struggled. Great against spin &amp; had a prolific domestic season. Shubhman Gill has had a brief international career and in 14 overseas innings averages 37, with his 91 at Gabba amongst the best overseas 4th innings and has been in outstanding form," he added in a long thread on Monday, February 20.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
There is a view that KL Rahul has an outstanding overseas Test record. But stats speak otherwise. He has a test avg of 30 overseas in 56 innings. He has scored 6 overseas centuries but followed it up with a string of low scores that’s why averaging 30. Let’s look at a few others <a href="https://t.co/MAvHM01TcY">pic.twitter.com/MAvHM01TcY</a>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1627528809720483840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Shikhar Dhawan has the best overseas average amongst recent openers. Avg of nearly 40 with 5 100’s. Though he too hasn’t been consistent in Test but had Outstanding centuries in SL and NZ, plus a much better home record. <a href="https://t.co/rH94R0a3A0">pic.twitter.com/rH94R0a3A0</a>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1627529402614706176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Mayank Agarwal after the brilliant start in Aust did struggle in away test matches.But he has by far the best home record. Avg of nearly 70 in 13 innings,2 double 100’s &amp; a 150 on a Wankhede pitch where everyone else struggled. Great against spin &amp; had a prolific domestic season <a href="https://t.co/EJOsZEbOCP">pic.twitter.com/EJOsZEbOCP</a>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1627530331862745089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
And if overseas performance is a criteria, Ajinkya Rahane despite being out of form and also inconsistent before being dropped had obe of the best overseas Test record, averaging over 40 overseas in 50 test matches. Was out of form and dropped … <a href="https://t.co/2Uj5YZe9Cr">pic.twitter.com/2Uj5YZe9Cr</a>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1627532250714898434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
But with KL being retained for the remaining 2 test matches, if he is picked in the playing 11, Indore is his best chance of coming back to form and silencing critics like me. Else needs to play county cricket, perform well and make a comeback in the Test side.
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1627535177118527488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-revealed-why-kl-rahul-has-been-axed-as-indias-vice-captain-for-remaining-tests-563823">IND vs AUS: Revealed! Why KL Rahul has been axed as India's vice-captain for remaining Tests</a>

Speaking about Rahul's Test career, the right-hander has&nbsp;2,642 runs in 47 Tests at an average of&nbsp;33.44 with 7 hundreds. He has two hundreds in England and one each in India, Sri Lanka, South Africa, West Indies and Australia. At home, he averages 40.13 but it goes down drastically in away Tests (30.69).

At the post-match press conference of the Delhi Test, captain Rohit indicated that Rahul will be given a longer rope. "Lately, there has been a lot of talk about Rahul’s batting. As team management, we always look at the potential of any individual, not just KL. I have been asked this in the past about a lot of players. If a guy has potential, he will get that extended run,” Sharma said.

Rahul has lost his vice-captaincy post for the remainder of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Hence, he will be desperate for a big knock in the remainder of the Australia Tests.&nbsp;

India thrashed Australia by six wickets on Day 3 of the second Test, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi, to go 2-0 up in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While Australia did put up a better show in the Test match, till the first innings, they fell flat in their second essay and gave a paltry 114-run target to Team India.

India thrashed Australia by six wickets on Day 3 of the second Test, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi, to go 2-0 up in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While Australia did put up a better show in the Test match, till the first innings, they fell flat in their second essay and gave a paltry 114-run target to Team India. In reply, Rohit Sharma & Co. chased down the score with six wickets to spare and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the process. The likes of Rohit, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Md Shami have been India's top-performers so far but opener KL Rahul has been struggling for runs. The 30-year-old has only managed 198 runs in the last 12 innings. In the ongoing Test series, Rahul has a total of 38 runs in three innings and has looked completely out of form. Thus, many have slammed the Indian batter and former pacer Venkatesh Prasad has been quite vocal in his criticism of Rahul. He has time and again vented out his frustration with Rahul struggling for runs. Amid severe criticism, both captain Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid have backed the underfire opener. After the Delhi Test win, Dravid told Star Sports, "I think he (Rahul) needs to trust his processes. This is just a phase, he has been one of our most successful overseas openers. He’s got centuries in South Africa and England, we’ll continue to back him. I believe he has the quality and class to come out of this." Now, Prasad broke the notion of Rahul having a good overseas record and shared a series of tweets -- also comprising the opener's ordinary away numbers. He wrote, "There is a view that KL Rahul has an outstanding overseas Test record. But stats speak otherwise. He has a test avg of 30 overseas in 56 innings. He has scored 6 overseas centuries but followed it up with a string of low scores that’s why averaging 30. Let’s look at a few others. Shikhar Dhawan has the best overseas average amongst recent openers. Avg of nearly 40 with 5 100’s. Though he too hasn’t been consistent in Test but had Outstanding centuries in SL and NZ, plus a much better home record." Further, Prasad added, "Mayank Agarwal after the brilliant start in Aust did struggle in away test matches. But he has by far the best home record. Avg of nearly 70 in 13 innings,2 double 100’s & a 150 on a Wankhede pitch where everyone else struggled. Great against spin & had a prolific domestic season. Shubhman Gill has had a brief international career and in 14 overseas innings averages 37, with his 91 at Gabba amongst the best overseas 4th innings and has been in outstanding form," he added in a long thread on Monday, February 20. There is a view that KL Rahul has an outstanding overseas Test record. But stats speak otherwise. He has a test avg of 30 overseas in 56 innings. He has scored 6 overseas centuries but followed it up with a string of low scores that’s why averaging 30. Let’s look at a few others pic.twitter.com/MAvHM01TcY — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 20, 2023 × Shikhar Dhawan has the best overseas average amongst recent openers. Avg of nearly 40 with 5 100’s. Though he too hasn’t been consistent in Test but had Outstanding centuries in SL and NZ, plus a much better home record. pic.twitter.com/rH94R0a3A0 — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 20, 2023 × Mayank Agarwal after the brilliant start in Aust did struggle in away test matches.But he has by far the best home record. Avg of nearly 70 in 13 innings,2 double 100’s & a 150 on a Wankhede pitch where everyone else struggled. Great against spin & had a prolific domestic season pic.twitter.com/EJOsZEbOCP — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 20, 2023 × And if overseas performance is a criteria, Ajinkya Rahane despite being out of form and also inconsistent before being dropped had obe of the best overseas Test record, averaging over 40 overseas in 50 test matches. Was out of form and dropped … pic.twitter.com/2Uj5YZe9Cr — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 20, 2023 × But with KL being retained for the remaining 2 test matches, if he is picked in the playing 11, Indore is his best chance of coming back to form and silencing critics like me. Else needs to play county cricket, perform well and make a comeback in the Test side. — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 20, 2023 × Also Read: IND vs AUS: Revealed! Why KL Rahul has been axed as India's vice-captain for remaining Tests Speaking about Rahul's Test career, the right-hander has 2,642 runs in 47 Tests at an average of 33.44 with 7 hundreds. He has two hundreds in England and one each in India, Sri Lanka, South Africa, West Indies and Australia. At home, he averages 40.13 but it goes down drastically in away Tests (30.69). At the post-match press conference of the Delhi Test, captain Rohit indicated that Rahul will be given a longer rope. "Lately, there has been a lot of talk about Rahul’s batting. As team management, we always look at the potential of any individual, not just KL. I have been asked this in the past about a lot of players. If a guy has potential, he will get that extended run,” Sharma said. Rahul has lost his vice-captaincy post for the remainder of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Hence, he will be desperate for a big knock in the remainder of the Australia Tests.

Venkatesh Prasad once again slams KL Rahul, hits back at 'he has great overseas Test record' claims

India defeated Australia on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi on Sunday (February 19). The day kicked off with Australia being well-placed at 61 for 1, with an overall lead of 62 runs, but fell flat on the third day after being dismissed for a paltry 113. Ravindra Jadeja (7 for 42) wreaked havoc with the red cherry before Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. chased down a target of 114 with six wickets in hand. With the win, India have an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and BCCI later named an unchanged squad for the last two Tests.&nbsp;

However, there was one big update. Indian opener KL Rahul was axed as the vice-captain amid his form concerns. It is to be noted that the stylish right-hander has only managed 198 runs in the last 12 innings. In the ongoing Test series versus the Baggy Greens, he has a&nbsp;total of 38 runs in three innings and has looked completely out of sorts. Thus, it is believed that he paid a price for his poor run of form and has been sacked as Rohit's deputy.&nbsp;As per a report by The Indian Express, the management has sought to unburden Rahul from the leadership role.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-pat-cummins-to-fly-home-mid-way-into-india-series-set-to-return-ahead-of-indore-test-563777">IND vs AUS: Pat Cummins to fly home mid-way into India series, set to return ahead of Indore Test</a>

It is to be noted that Rahul has served as Rohit's deputy ever since Hitman became India's full-time captain in early 2022. He led the national side in three Tests, six ODIs and one T20I in 2022 and served as India's white-ball vice-captain before losing the post to Hardik Pandya last month. Hence, he is now completely out of the leadership group and will have to step up with the bat to regain the vice-captaincy post, at least,&nbsp;in whites.&nbsp;

Amid his poor run of form, Rahul still has the support of captain Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid. After the Delhi Test, Rohit told in the post-match press conference, "Lately, there has been a lot of talk about Rahul’s batting. As team management, we always look at the potential of any individual, not just KL. I have been asked this in the past about a lot of players. If a guy has potential, he will get that extended run."

On the other hand, Dravid told Star Sports, "I&nbsp;think he (Rahul) needs to trust his processes. This is just a phase, he has been one of our most successful overseas openers. He’s got centuries in South Africa and England, we’ll continue to back him. I believe he has the quality and class to come out of this."

India defeated Australia on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi on Sunday (February 19). The day kicked off with Australia being well-placed at 61 for 1, with an overall lead of 62 runs, but fell flat on the third day after being dismissed for a paltry 113.

India defeated Australia on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi on Sunday (February 19). The day kicked off with Australia being well-placed at 61 for 1, with an overall lead of 62 runs, but fell flat on the third day after being dismissed for a paltry 113. Ravindra Jadeja (7 for 42) wreaked havoc with the red cherry before Rohit Sharma & Co. chased down a target of 114 with six wickets in hand. With the win, India have an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and BCCI later named an unchanged squad for the last two Tests. However, there was one big update. Indian opener KL Rahul was axed as the vice-captain amid his form concerns. It is to be noted that the stylish right-hander has only managed 198 runs in the last 12 innings. In the ongoing Test series versus the Baggy Greens, he has a total of 38 runs in three innings and has looked completely out of sorts. Thus, it is believed that he paid a price for his poor run of form and has been sacked as Rohit's deputy. As per a report by The Indian Express, the management has sought to unburden Rahul from the leadership role. Also Read: IND vs AUS: Pat Cummins to fly home mid-way into India series, set to return ahead of Indore Test It is to be noted that Rahul has served as Rohit's deputy ever since Hitman became India's full-time captain in early 2022. He led the national side in three Tests, six ODIs and one T20I in 2022 and served as India's white-ball vice-captain before losing the post to Hardik Pandya last month. Hence, he is now completely out of the leadership group and will have to step up with the bat to regain the vice-captaincy post, at least, in whites. Amid his poor run of form, Rahul still has the support of captain Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid. After the Delhi Test, Rohit told in the post-match press conference, "Lately, there has been a lot of talk about Rahul’s batting. As team management, we always look at the potential of any individual, not just KL. I have been asked this in the past about a lot of players. If a guy has potential, he will get that extended run." On the other hand, Dravid told Star Sports, "I think he (Rahul) needs to trust his processes. This is just a phase, he has been one of our most successful overseas openers. He’s got centuries in South Africa and England, we’ll continue to back him. I believe he has the quality and class to come out of this."

IND vs AUS: Revealed! Why KL Rahul has been axed as India's vice-captain for remaining Tests

Rohit Sharma-led India gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Sunday (February 19), with a six-wicket win on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. With this win, India have strengthened their chances of reaching the ICC World Test Championship final and look set to whitewash the Aussies in the four-match series with Pat Cummins &amp; Co. being clueless in front of the Indian spin trio.&nbsp;

After losing the Nagpur Test by an innings and 132 runs, Australia did put up a better show in the first innings of the Delhi Test. They managed 263 in their first essay and dismissed India for 262, gaining one-run lead, but fell flat in their second innings with their batters playing the sweep shots on a&nbsp;track which kept low, with Jadeja-Ashwin troubling them with spin. After the game, former Pakistan captain and PCB chairman Ramiz Raja feels 'Australia are not prepared' and went on to add that 'it is nearly impossible to beat Team India in India.'

"The Australians used to finish games against sub-continent teams in Perth or Brisbane. The tables have turned," Ramiz Raja said in his YouTube show. "It shows that Australia are not prepared, especially when it comes to playing good Test cricket in India. It's nearly impossible to beat Team India in India. An ordinary performance against spin. Nine wickets were dismissed in one session. Jadeja produced an excellent bowling performance," Raja added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-revealed-why-kl-rahul-has-been-axed-as-indias-vice-captain-for-remaining-tests-563823">IND vs AUS: Revealed! Why KL Rahul has been axed as India's vice-captain for remaining Tests</a>

India will be eager to go for a 4-0 whitewash versus the Aussies and storm their way into the WTC final. As of now, it looks certain that both sides will lock horns in the summit clash, to be held in early June at The Oval, London.&nbsp;

India’s Test squad for third and fourth Test against Australia: Rohit Sharma (Captain), K L Rahul, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat.

Rohit Sharma-led India gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Sunday (February 19), with a six-wicket win on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi.

Rohit Sharma-led India gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Sunday (February 19), with a six-wicket win on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. With this win, India have strengthened their chances of reaching the ICC World Test Championship final and look set to whitewash the Aussies in the four-match series with Pat Cummins & Co. being clueless in front of the Indian spin trio. After losing the Nagpur Test by an innings and 132 runs, Australia did put up a better show in the first innings of the Delhi Test. They managed 263 in their first essay and dismissed India for 262, gaining one-run lead, but fell flat in their second innings with their batters playing the sweep shots on a track which kept low, with Jadeja-Ashwin troubling them with spin. After the game, former Pakistan captain and PCB chairman Ramiz Raja feels 'Australia are not prepared' and went on to add that 'it is nearly impossible to beat Team India in India.' "The Australians used to finish games against sub-continent teams in Perth or Brisbane. The tables have turned," Ramiz Raja said in his YouTube show. "It shows that Australia are not prepared, especially when it comes to playing good Test cricket in India. It's nearly impossible to beat Team India in India. An ordinary performance against spin. Nine wickets were dismissed in one session. Jadeja produced an excellent bowling performance," Raja added. Also Read: IND vs AUS: Revealed! Why KL Rahul has been axed as India's vice-captain for remaining Tests India will be eager to go for a 4-0 whitewash versus the Aussies and storm their way into the WTC final. As of now, it looks certain that both sides will lock horns in the summit clash, to be held in early June at The Oval, London. India’s Test squad for third and fourth Test against Australia: Rohit Sharma (Captain), K L Rahul, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat.

BGT 2022/23: Beating India at home is almost impossible, says Ramiz Raja after Rohit & Co. take 2-0 lead

rohit-sharma

Rohit Sharma, News on Rohit Sharma, stories on Rohit Sharma, articles on Rohit Sharma, Rohit Sharma stories at Wion, Rohit Sharma news, Rohit Sharma latest news

rohit sharma