<p>The second of the five Ashes Tests between England and Australia is set to begin on Wednesday, June 28 at Lord's in London. The visitors are already 1-0 up in the series after winning the opening Test in Edgbaston. The England tour, however, still has many days left and former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie thinks Kangaroo skipper Pat Cummins could take a rest towards the end of the tour.</p>

<p>Gillespie, in a chat with media outlet Hindustan Times, said that Australia have enough depth in the bowling which could help Cummins take a breather. The former pacer, however, said that Cummins' rest would depend on 'how many overs Cameron Green bowls.'</p>

<p>"I wouldn’t discount Cummins rotating himself, particularly at the backend of the series where there are back-to-back Tests," said Gillespie on Cummins' workload.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-ben-stokes-opines-on-icec-report-says-we-need-to-learn-from-past-mistakes-609367">Ben Stokes opines on ICEC report, says 'we need to learn from past mistakes'</a></p>

<p>Notably, Cummins had also led Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India just before the start of the Ashes. As for the captaincy options, Gillespie pointed out Steve Smith and Alex Carey as Cummins' potential replacement. Smith was, in fact, Australia's skipper for a long time for being removed.</p>

<p>"They know they've got Steve Smith who is more than capable of leading, or Alex Carey," said Gillespie.</p>

<p>The former Aussie, however, added that while Australia have depth in bowling department, it depends on Cameron Green's workload as the fourth seamer to allow Cummins to take some rest.</p>

<p>"They have got enough depth in the bowling. The number of overs Cameron Green bowls is going to have a big impact. Because, if he bowls as few overs as he did in the first Test (eight), then it will put a bigger workload on Cummins and the other bowlers," said Gillespie.</p>

<p>With ICC ODI World Cup just about a 100 days away, Australia would definitely want their skipper to be fully fit as they try to win their first Ashes in England in over 20 years.</p>

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The second of the five Ashes Tests between England and Australia is set to begin on Wednesday, June 28 at Lord's in London. The visitors are already 1-0 up in the series after winning the opening Test in Edgbaston.

The second of the five Ashes Tests between England and Australia is set to begin on Wednesday, June 28 at Lord's in London. The visitors are already 1-0 up in the series after winning the opening Test in Edgbaston. The England tour, however, still has many days left and former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie thinks Kangaroo skipper Pat Cummins could take a rest towards the end of the tour. Gillespie, in a chat with media outlet Hindustan Times, said that Australia have enough depth in the bowling which could help Cummins take a breather. The former pacer, however, said that Cummins' rest would depend on 'how many overs Cameron Green bowls.' "I wouldn’t discount Cummins rotating himself, particularly at the backend of the series where there are back-to-back Tests," said Gillespie on Cummins' workload. Also Read: Ben Stokes opines on ICEC report, says 'we need to learn from past mistakes' Notably, Cummins had also led Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India just before the start of the Ashes. As for the captaincy options, Gillespie pointed out Steve Smith and Alex Carey as Cummins' potential replacement. Smith was, in fact, Australia's skipper for a long time for being removed. "They know they've got Steve Smith who is more than capable of leading, or Alex Carey," said Gillespie. The former Aussie, however, added that while Australia have depth in bowling department, it depends on Cameron Green's workload as the fourth seamer to allow Cummins to take some rest. "They have got enough depth in the bowling. The number of overs Cameron Green bowls is going to have a big impact. Because, if he bowls as few overs as he did in the first Test (eight), then it will put a bigger workload on Cummins and the other bowlers," said Gillespie. With ICC ODI World Cup just about a 100 days away, Australia would definitely want their skipper to be fully fit as they try to win their first Ashes in England in over 20 years. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: Ex-pacer names THIS player who can lead Australia apart from Steve Smith if Pat Cummins takes rest

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<p>For anyone with a beating heart to watch Steve Smith getting floored after being hit in the back of the head off Jofra Archer’s bouncer was a terrible sight. Imagine how painful it must be for Smith. Upon returning to the Mecca of Cricket – the Lord’s, for the first time since the 2019 Ashes Test, Smith recalls the incident wherein he got ruled out of the game due to concussion.</p>

<p>Smith was in tremendous form and was up against a bowler with raw pace – Jofra Archer. While batting on 80, Smith got hit on his arm off Archer’s steamy bouncer before one that hit the back of his head floored him. It was at that moment when everything inside that stadium stopped.</p>

<p>With team doctors running onto the field, Smith was down and was taken off immediately. Though he returned after the fall of the next wicket, following smashing Chris Woakes for a boundary, Smith got out LBW on 88. He then got ruled out of the game due to a concussion.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-marnus-steve-are-their-best-coaches-oz-batting-coach-on-star-pair-rising-from-edgbaston-slump-608503">Ashes 2023 - 'Marnus, Steve are their best coaches': Oz batting coach on star pair rising from Edgbaston slump</a></p>

<p>As the best Aussie batter returns to the same venue for the second Test of the ongoing Ashes 2023, Smith - in a conversation with the&nbsp;<em>Legend of the Ashes podcast,&nbsp;</em>recalls the horror memory of that incident.</p>

<p>"It was a very difficult period to get through. I caught one on the arm, got away with a few pull shots that are top edge and a couple in the gaps,” Smith said.</p>

<p>Revealing how painful that blow to the back of his head was, Smith said, "And then I copped one in the back of the head, which hurt a fair bit. At that stage, I didn't realise I was getting concussed. I went off and did all the tests, passed all the tests.</p>

<p>Steve added after the adrenalin went out of the system, the aftermaths of that hit struck him as he felt he was a couple of beers down.</p>

<p>"It wasn't until I came back out. Half-an-hour after, when the adrenalin sort of went out of my system, and I started to feel quite groggy - probably like I'd had a dozen beers, to be honest," the right-handed batter added.</p>

<h2>Blessing in disguise</h2>

<p>Very few must be aware that incident saw the birth of Marnus Labuschagne in Test cricket, as he made his debut as a substitute of a concussed player – Steve Smith.</p>

<p>Since getting into the Test setup, Marnus emerged as one of the best players in such a short period, and is now ranked number one in Tests.</p>

<p>While Smith, who scored over 700 runs in his previous outing in England, will aim to pile up runs as the second Test begins in three days time.</p>

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For anyone with a beating heart to watch Steve Smith getting floored after being hit in the back of the head off Jofra Archer’s bouncer was a terrible sight. Imagine how painful it must be for Smith.

For anyone with a beating heart to watch Steve Smith getting floored after being hit in the back of the head off Jofra Archer’s bouncer was a terrible sight. Imagine how painful it must be for Smith. Upon returning to the Mecca of Cricket – the Lord’s, for the first time since the 2019 Ashes Test, Smith recalls the incident wherein he got ruled out of the game due to concussion. Smith was in tremendous form and was up against a bowler with raw pace – Jofra Archer. While batting on 80, Smith got hit on his arm off Archer’s steamy bouncer before one that hit the back of his head floored him. It was at that moment when everything inside that stadium stopped. With team doctors running onto the field, Smith was down and was taken off immediately. Though he returned after the fall of the next wicket, following smashing Chris Woakes for a boundary, Smith got out LBW on 88. He then got ruled out of the game due to a concussion. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023 - 'Marnus, Steve are their best coaches': Oz batting coach on star pair rising from Edgbaston slump As the best Aussie batter returns to the same venue for the second Test of the ongoing Ashes 2023, Smith - in a conversation with the Legend of the Ashes podcast, recalls the horror memory of that incident. "It was a very difficult period to get through. I caught one on the arm, got away with a few pull shots that are top edge and a couple in the gaps,” Smith said. Revealing how painful that blow to the back of his head was, Smith said, "And then I copped one in the back of the head, which hurt a fair bit. At that stage, I didn't realise I was getting concussed. I went off and did all the tests, passed all the tests. Steve added after the adrenalin went out of the system, the aftermaths of that hit struck him as he felt he was a couple of beers down. "It wasn't until I came back out. Half-an-hour after, when the adrenalin sort of went out of my system, and I started to feel quite groggy - probably like I'd had a dozen beers, to be honest," the right-handed batter added. Blessing in disguise Very few must be aware that incident saw the birth of Marnus Labuschagne in Test cricket, as he made his debut as a substitute of a concussed player – Steve Smith. Since getting into the Test setup, Marnus emerged as one of the best players in such a short period, and is now ranked number one in Tests. While Smith, who scored over 700 runs in his previous outing in England, will aim to pile up runs as the second Test begins in three days time. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes: 'It was a very difficult period to get through: Steve Smith recalls 'painful' Lord's memory from 2019

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<p>Ranked number one batter in Tests, Marnus Labuschagne has had trouble settling down in four innings so far in the UK – two against India in the WTC Final and then against England in the first Ashes Test in Edgbaston. While star batter Steve Smith pounced on his chance against India, scoring his maiden WTC Final hundred in the first innings, he looked out of rhythm against England. After winning the first Test by a narrow margin of two wickets, the Australian pair will aim for a better outing at Lord’s.</p>

<p>Marnus got out on a golden duck in the first innings to Stuart Broad, with the seamer repealing rewards for perfectly executing his new out swinger that he was working on, especially for Marnus and Smith. While in the second innings, he got out in the same fashion, Australia’s batting coach Michael Di Venuto said these kinds of dismissals surprised them too but backed the right-hander to work on this and come on the top in the second Test, which begins on Wednesday, June 28.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-nasser-hussains-advice-to-ollie-robinson-after-backlash-over-khawaja-send-off-608448">Ashes 2023: Nasser Hussain's advice to Ollie Robinson after backlash over Khawaja send-off</a></p>

<p>Di Venuto said players like Marnus and Smith are their best coaches, and with them being good problem-solvers too, there is nothing much to read between the lines as both are likely to hit top form soon in the ongoing Ashes.</p>

<p>"Marnus is always working on his game," Australia’s batting coach said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. "You have all seen him train before; he is meticulous in how he goes about his preparation. He is always fidgeting around with different things technically. That is all pretty normal for Marn.</p>

<p>"Marn is his best coach. The same as Smudge [Smith]. They are their own best coaches. They are great problem solvers, and that is why they have been such great players for Australia for a period of time," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Marnus’ injury scare and Broad’s legacy</strong></p>

<p>Ahead of the start of the second Test, Marnus suffered a blow on his index finger of the right hand while facing throwdowns on Saturday. Though he stayed down and later was checked by the team doctor, Marnus resumed training shortly.</p>

<p>"He's got a finger that has copped a couple of knocks. I think he just got another one," di Venuto said.</p>

<p>While talking about Broad, who turned 37 on Saturday, June 24, Di Venuto said praised his tactics against two best batters in this format. He added, with more than 600 wickets, Broad knows how to get rid of top batters.</p>

<p>"He is a quality bowler and has been for a long time," he said. "You expect bowlers to think up plans and come up with different tactics to what they have in the past. It's no different to any other series at the moment." D'Costa added, "He's got nearly 600 wickets…should be no surprise he's got out the best batsmen in the world several times. And there have been times when Marnus has dominated him."</p>

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Ranked number one batter in Tests, Marnus Labuschagne has had trouble settling down in four innings so far in the UK – two against India in the WTC Final and then against England in the first Ashes Test in Edgbaston.

Ranked number one batter in Tests, Marnus Labuschagne has had trouble settling down in four innings so far in the UK – two against India in the WTC Final and then against England in the first Ashes Test in Edgbaston. While star batter Steve Smith pounced on his chance against India, scoring his maiden WTC Final hundred in the first innings, he looked out of rhythm against England. After winning the first Test by a narrow margin of two wickets, the Australian pair will aim for a better outing at Lord’s. Marnus got out on a golden duck in the first innings to Stuart Broad, with the seamer repealing rewards for perfectly executing his new out swinger that he was working on, especially for Marnus and Smith. While in the second innings, he got out in the same fashion, Australia’s batting coach Michael Di Venuto said these kinds of dismissals surprised them too but backed the right-hander to work on this and come on the top in the second Test, which begins on Wednesday, June 28. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023: Nasser Hussain's advice to Ollie Robinson after backlash over Khawaja send-off Di Venuto said players like Marnus and Smith are their best coaches, and with them being good problem-solvers too, there is nothing much to read between the lines as both are likely to hit top form soon in the ongoing Ashes. "Marnus is always working on his game," Australia’s batting coach said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. "You have all seen him train before; he is meticulous in how he goes about his preparation. He is always fidgeting around with different things technically. That is all pretty normal for Marn. "Marn is his best coach. The same as Smudge [Smith]. They are their own best coaches. They are great problem solvers, and that is why they have been such great players for Australia for a period of time," he added. Marnus’ injury scare and Broad’s legacy Ahead of the start of the second Test, Marnus suffered a blow on his index finger of the right hand while facing throwdowns on Saturday. Though he stayed down and later was checked by the team doctor, Marnus resumed training shortly. "He's got a finger that has copped a couple of knocks. I think he just got another one," di Venuto said. While talking about Broad, who turned 37 on Saturday, June 24, Di Venuto said praised his tactics against two best batters in this format. He added, with more than 600 wickets, Broad knows how to get rid of top batters. "He is a quality bowler and has been for a long time," he said. "You expect bowlers to think up plans and come up with different tactics to what they have in the past. It's no different to any other series at the moment." D'Costa added, "He's got nearly 600 wickets…should be no surprise he's got out the best batsmen in the world several times. And there have been times when Marnus has dominated him." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes 2023 - 'Marnus, Steve are their best coaches': Oz batting coach on star pair rising from Edgbaston slump

<p>Australia head coach Andrew McDonald is not concerned about the form of former captain Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne after the duo failed to impress in the opening Ashes Test at Edgbaston. Australia narrowly avoided defeat in the opening Test against England after they clinched a two-wicket win to take a 1-0 lead in the Ashes. Both Labuschagne and Smith scored an aggregate of 35 runs in the contest as they failed to deliver for the World Test Champions.</p>

<h2><strong>McDonald not worried about Smith, Labuschagne</strong></h2>

<p>"We've got some areas we can improve, there's some growth within the team and there's two obvious ones. It's very rare that Marn and Smudge miss out in the same Test match," McDonald said on the duo.</p>

<p>Despite the failure of the duo, Usman Khawaja was the standout man for the Aussies after he scored 141 runs in the first innings while contributing 65 in the second innings. He was lucky in the first innings as he was dismissed on a no-ball when batting on 112. Labuschagne was dismissed on a golden duck by Stuart Broad in the first innings while the same bowler got the better of him in the second innings.</p>

<p>"There will be no doubt a craving for more net sessions from Marn and Smudge," McDonald said.</p>

<p>”They're disappointed they missed out in this game, but I think any time the Australian cricket team can win without those two performing at a high level is always a positive."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-bell-claims-australia-have-more-to-work-on-despite-cummins-cos-narrow-win-in-edgbaston-607319">Ashes 2023: Bell claims 'Australia have more to work on' despite Cummins &amp; Co.'s narrow win in Edgbaston</a></p>

<h2><strong>Aussies hunting for glory</strong></h2>

<p>The Aussies, having taken a 1-0 lead, will now look to hunt for more when they take on the hosts in the second Test match on Wednesday, June 28. They will look to capitalise as they try to retain the Ashes yet again. England last won the Ashes in 2015 while the Aussies have won the prestigious series on two of the last three occasions. However, they haven’t won the Ashes on English soil since 2001, having drawn the series in 2019. The last time Ashes was won by a team away from home was in 2011 when England got the better of Australia Down Under.</p>

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Australia head coach Andrew McDonald is not concerned about the form of former captain Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne after the duo failed to impress in the opening Ashes Test at Edgbaston.

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald is not concerned about the form of former captain Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne after the duo failed to impress in the opening Ashes Test at Edgbaston. Australia narrowly avoided defeat in the opening Test against England after they clinched a two-wicket win to take a 1-0 lead in the Ashes. Both Labuschagne and Smith scored an aggregate of 35 runs in the contest as they failed to deliver for the World Test Champions. McDonald not worried about Smith, Labuschagne "We've got some areas we can improve, there's some growth within the team and there's two obvious ones. It's very rare that Marn and Smudge miss out in the same Test match," McDonald said on the duo. Despite the failure of the duo, Usman Khawaja was the standout man for the Aussies after he scored 141 runs in the first innings while contributing 65 in the second innings. He was lucky in the first innings as he was dismissed on a no-ball when batting on 112. Labuschagne was dismissed on a golden duck by Stuart Broad in the first innings while the same bowler got the better of him in the second innings. "There will be no doubt a craving for more net sessions from Marn and Smudge," McDonald said. ”They're disappointed they missed out in this game, but I think any time the Australian cricket team can win without those two performing at a high level is always a positive." ALSO READ | Ashes 2023: Bell claims 'Australia have more to work on' despite Cummins & Co.'s narrow win in Edgbaston Aussies hunting for glory The Aussies, having taken a 1-0 lead, will now look to hunt for more when they take on the hosts in the second Test match on Wednesday, June 28. They will look to capitalise as they try to retain the Ashes yet again. England last won the Ashes in 2015 while the Aussies have won the prestigious series on two of the last three occasions. However, they haven’t won the Ashes on English soil since 2001, having drawn the series in 2019. The last time Ashes was won by a team away from home was in 2011 when England got the better of Australia Down Under. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: Andrew McDonald not disappointed with Labuschagne, Smith's poor show, says 'it's very rare'

<p>Alex Carey has been one of Australia's key performers across formats. Despite a dismal run with the bat in Australia's four-match Test series versus India, early this year in the subcontinent, Carey has come up with vital knocks in the WTC final, versus India, and even during the ongoing opening Test of Ashes 2023 versus arch-rivals England. In the WTC summit clash, he returned with scores of 48 and 66 not out, whereas he also scored a 99-ball 66 in Australia's first innings of the Edgbaston Test versus Ben Stokes' England.</p>

<p>During the India tour, Carey failed to get going due to his shot selections. Even in the first innings of the WTC final, he fell for 48 playing a reverse sweep.&nbsp;Speaking to&nbsp;<i>Cricket.com.au</i>,&nbsp;Carey commented on his dismissal, saying, "There was no need to play that at The Oval in the first innings."&nbsp;Further, he revealed the response he got from two of the finest modern-day batters Virat Kohli and Steve Smith for playing the reverse sweep, forcing him to keep away from the stroke.</p>

<p>“When you have Virat Kohli and Steve Smith saying, 'What are you doing that for?', you probably listen to them,” Carey revealed.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-english-fans-mock-steve-smith-with-saw-you-crying-on-telly-on-day-4-of-edgbaston-test-watch-606434">Ashes 2023: English fans mock Steve Smith with 'saw you cry on telly' chants in Edgbaston Test - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>At present, Carey-starrer Australia are involved in an exciting first Test of Ashes 2023 in Edgbaston, Birmingham. Opting to bat first, Stokes-led England posted 393 for 8 declare, riding on Joe Root's 118 not out before Australia made 386 all-out in reply. With a slender lead of seven runs, England gave a 282-run target to the visitors as Pat Cummins &amp; Co. were 107 for 3 at stumps on the penultimate day on Monday (June 19). The fifth and final day's start has been delayed due to rain as Australia need another 174 runs whereas England are seven wickets away from a memorable win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Usman Khawaja, unbeaten on 34, Carey, Travis Head, etc. will hold the key for Australia on the final day.</p>

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Alex Carey has been one of Australia's key performers across formats. Despite a dismal run with the bat in Australia's four-match Test series versus India, early this year in the subcontinent, Carey has come up with vital knocks in the WTC final, versus India, and even during the ongoing opening Test of Ashes 2023 versus arch-rivals England.

Alex Carey has been one of Australia's key performers across formats. Despite a dismal run with the bat in Australia's four-match Test series versus India, early this year in the subcontinent, Carey has come up with vital knocks in the WTC final, versus India, and even during the ongoing opening Test of Ashes 2023 versus arch-rivals England. In the WTC summit clash, he returned with scores of 48 and 66 not out, whereas he also scored a 99-ball 66 in Australia's first innings of the Edgbaston Test versus Ben Stokes' England. During the India tour, Carey failed to get going due to his shot selections. Even in the first innings of the WTC final, he fell for 48 playing a reverse sweep. Speaking to Cricket.com.au, Carey commented on his dismissal, saying, "There was no need to play that at The Oval in the first innings." Further, he revealed the response he got from two of the finest modern-day batters Virat Kohli and Steve Smith for playing the reverse sweep, forcing him to keep away from the stroke. “When you have Virat Kohli and Steve Smith saying, 'What are you doing that for?', you probably listen to them,” Carey revealed. Also Read: Ashes 2023: English fans mock Steve Smith with 'saw you cry on telly' chants in Edgbaston Test - Watch At present, Carey-starrer Australia are involved in an exciting first Test of Ashes 2023 in Edgbaston, Birmingham. Opting to bat first, Stokes-led England posted 393 for 8 declare, riding on Joe Root's 118 not out before Australia made 386 all-out in reply. With a slender lead of seven runs, England gave a 282-run target to the visitors as Pat Cummins & Co. were 107 for 3 at stumps on the penultimate day on Monday (June 19). The fifth and final day's start has been delayed due to rain as Australia need another 174 runs whereas England are seven wickets away from a memorable win. Usman Khawaja, unbeaten on 34, Carey, Travis Head, etc. will hold the key for Australia on the final day. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'What are you doing that for?': Alex Carey shares Virat Kohli's reaction on his WTC final dismissal

<p>The opening Test of Ashes 2023 has lived up to expectations. After England opted to bat first, they rode on Joe Root's 118 not out to declare at 393 for 8. In reply, Australia made 386 all-out courtesy of Usman Khawaja's 141 as Ben Stokes &amp; Co. ended Day 3 at 28 for 2, with a lead of 35 runs. Day 4 turned out to be another exciting contest between bat and ball with the hosts restricting Australia to 107 for 3 in pursuit of 282. The penultimate day's play also saw the English fans target Steve Smith once again.</p>

<p>Ever since Smith returned to international cricket post the infamous sandpaper gate fiasco, which took place during his captaincy tenure in Australia's tour of South Africa in early 2018, the English fans have given him a hard time. They mocked him during the 2019 ODI World Cup, Ashes 2019 and the Edgbaston fans sledged him during Day 4's proceedings on Monday (June 19).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a video that has gone viral on social media platforms, home fans chanted 'Saw you cry&nbsp;on the telly' for Smith, reminding him of his press conference where he accepted his involvement in the sandpaper gate saga in 2018. Smith, however, didn't react much to the taunts. <strong>Here's the video -</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">English Crowd Mocking Steven Smith: We Saw You Crying on the Telly.<br />
Steven Smith is Tackling that with a smile🥺💯. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StevenSmith?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StevenSmith</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvsAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvsAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes2023</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes23</a> <a href="https://t.co/jgEwQ9MMpf">pic.twitter.com/jgEwQ9MMpf</a></p>
— Shaharyar Ejaz 🏏 (@SharyOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SharyOfficial/status/1670859548905570330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/just-because-they-didnt-win-wtc-final-former-aussie-skipper-backs-rohit-sharma-to-remain-india-captain-606377">'Just because they didn’t win WTC final...': Former Aussie skipper backs Rohit Sharma to remain India captain</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Here's a throwback to Smith's press conference following the Sandpaper gate scandal -</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Heartbreaking. Steve Smith has broken down delivering a message to young Aussie cricket fans. <a href="https://t.co/l14AsvAhXz">pic.twitter.com/l14AsvAhXz</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/979294929418670080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Talking about the first Test in Ashes 2023, England's Stuart Broad's twin strikes dented Australia in a chase of 282 in the last session of Day 4. Broad also removed Smith for 6 (13) as the match is evenly poised at stumps on the&nbsp;penultimate day, with Australia in need of 174 more runs and England requiring seven wickets for a win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Day 5 has seen a delayed start due to rain. Fans from both camps will hope for rain to not hamper the entire day's play with an exciting end on cards at Edgbaston, Birmingham.</p>

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The opening Test of Ashes 2023 has lived up to expectations. After England opted to bat first, they rode on Joe Root's 118 not out to declare at 393 for 8. In reply, Australia made 386 all-out courtesy of Usman Khawaja's 141 as Ben Stokes & Co.

The opening Test of Ashes 2023 has lived up to expectations. After England opted to bat first, they rode on Joe Root's 118 not out to declare at 393 for 8. In reply, Australia made 386 all-out courtesy of Usman Khawaja's 141 as Ben Stokes & Co. ended Day 3 at 28 for 2, with a lead of 35 runs. Day 4 turned out to be another exciting contest between bat and ball with the hosts restricting Australia to 107 for 3 in pursuit of 282. The penultimate day's play also saw the English fans target Steve Smith once again. Ever since Smith returned to international cricket post the infamous sandpaper gate fiasco, which took place during his captaincy tenure in Australia's tour of South Africa in early 2018, the English fans have given him a hard time. They mocked him during the 2019 ODI World Cup, Ashes 2019 and the Edgbaston fans sledged him during Day 4's proceedings on Monday (June 19). In a video that has gone viral on social media platforms, home fans chanted 'Saw you cry on the telly' for Smith, reminding him of his press conference where he accepted his involvement in the sandpaper gate saga in 2018. Smith, however, didn't react much to the taunts. Here's the video - English Crowd Mocking Steven Smith: We Saw You Crying on the Telly. Steven Smith is Tackling that with a smile🥺💯. #StevenSmith #ENGvsAUS #Ashes2023 #Ashes23 pic.twitter.com/jgEwQ9MMpf — Shaharyar Ejaz 🏏 (@SharyOfficial) June 19, 2023 × Also Read: 'Just because they didn’t win WTC final...': Former Aussie skipper backs Rohit Sharma to remain India captain Here's a throwback to Smith's press conference following the Sandpaper gate scandal - Heartbreaking. Steve Smith has broken down delivering a message to young Aussie cricket fans. pic.twitter.com/l14AsvAhXz — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) March 29, 2018 × Talking about the first Test in Ashes 2023, England's Stuart Broad's twin strikes dented Australia in a chase of 282 in the last session of Day 4. Broad also removed Smith for 6 (13) as the match is evenly poised at stumps on the penultimate day, with Australia in need of 174 more runs and England requiring seven wickets for a win. Day 5 has seen a delayed start due to rain. Fans from both camps will hope for rain to not hamper the entire day's play with an exciting end on cards at Edgbaston, Birmingham. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Ashes 2023: English fans mock Steve Smith with 'saw you cry on telly' chants in Edgbaston Test - Watch

<p>Modern-day best Test batter Steve Smith says that for the English and Australian players winning the Ashes is above everything else. As the Ashes 2023 gets underway in Edgbaston on Friday, Smith talked about the 140-year-plus-old history of this iconic rivalry and its importance for both teams.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the start of the first Test, Australia beat India by 209 runs to win their maiden World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the Oval. Smith, who became the second Aussie batter after Travis Head to complete a hundred in the WTC Final, said he enjoyed lifting the Test mace, but to him, winning as Ashes would still top everything.</p>

<p>Smith's maiden WTC Final hundred, his 31st overall in Tests, helped Australia put a mammoth 469 in the first innings against India. After the Aussies wrapped up India's first innings on 296, they piled up 270 for eight (declared) and gave India a daunting target of 444. Following a cautious start, the Indian batters failed to stick as they got all out on 234, thus going down by 209 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-bazball-to-keep-draw-out-of-equation-says-nasser-hussain-605127">Ashes 2023: 'Bazball' to keep draw out of equation, says Nasser Hussain</a></p>

<p>“We had a great last week winning the Test championship. It was two years of hard work that went into it. It was a really proud moment for all the boys, but yeah, the Ashes, for Australia and England cricketers, is the pinnacle. We work for it throughout our life, so it's going to be exciting,” Smith said, as quoted by Hindustan Times.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, England's track record under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum has been excellent, with them winning 11 of the last 13 matches. Australia, which holds a better head-to-head record (34-32), are up for the challenge, and Smith feels the upcoming series will be an exciting contest.</p>

<p>“Just the history of it. Australia and England, it's the biggest series. It's the one you want to do really well in, and hope your team has success. The way England have been in playing, the way we have been playing, it's going to be exciting series. The boys can't wait to get into it,” added former Australia skipper Smith.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here is the Ashes schedule -</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20</li>
	<li>Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2</li>
	<li>Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10</li>
	<li>Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23</li>
	<li>Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31</li>
</ul>

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Modern-day best Test batter Steve Smith says that for the English and Australian players winning the Ashes is above everything else. As the Ashes 2023 gets underway in Edgbaston on Friday, Smith talked about the 140-year-plus-old history of this iconic rivalry and its importance for both teams.

Modern-day best Test batter Steve Smith says that for the English and Australian players winning the Ashes is above everything else. As the Ashes 2023 gets underway in Edgbaston on Friday, Smith talked about the 140-year-plus-old history of this iconic rivalry and its importance for both teams. Ahead of the start of the first Test, Australia beat India by 209 runs to win their maiden World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the Oval. Smith, who became the second Aussie batter after Travis Head to complete a hundred in the WTC Final, said he enjoyed lifting the Test mace, but to him, winning as Ashes would still top everything. Smith's maiden WTC Final hundred, his 31st overall in Tests, helped Australia put a mammoth 469 in the first innings against India. After the Aussies wrapped up India's first innings on 296, they piled up 270 for eight (declared) and gave India a daunting target of 444. Following a cautious start, the Indian batters failed to stick as they got all out on 234, thus going down by 209 runs. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023: 'Bazball' to keep draw out of equation, says Nasser Hussain “We had a great last week winning the Test championship. It was two years of hard work that went into it. It was a really proud moment for all the boys, but yeah, the Ashes, for Australia and England cricketers, is the pinnacle. We work for it throughout our life, so it's going to be exciting,” Smith said, as quoted by Hindustan Times. Meanwhile, England's track record under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum has been excellent, with them winning 11 of the last 13 matches. Australia, which holds a better head-to-head record (34-32), are up for the challenge, and Smith feels the upcoming series will be an exciting contest. “Just the history of it. Australia and England, it's the biggest series. It's the one you want to do really well in, and hope your team has success. The way England have been in playing, the way we have been playing, it's going to be exciting series. The boys can't wait to get into it,” added former Australia skipper Smith. Here is the Ashes schedule - First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20 Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2 Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10 Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23 Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31 WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

For WTC Final we work for two years, for Ashes we work throughout our life: Steve Smith

<p>For the second straight time, the Indian team has lost the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, this time against Australia by 209 runs at the Oval in London. The Australian team wrapped up the formalities on day five of the one-off Test with Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon running through India’s batting order.</p>

<p>With India starting day five needing 280 runs with seven wickets in hand, the consensus in the dressing room was this total can be achieved. While Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane began from where they left on Saturday, Boland had different plans. Boland, very smartly, set up Virat’s wicket by first bowling regular inswingers and then went fullish, only for Kohli to go after the ball and edge it to the slip cordon.</p>

<p>Standing in the second slip, Steve Smith didn’t make a mistake as he jumped to&nbsp;his right and took a blinder to dismiss Kohli on 49. Two balls later, Ravindra Jadeja got out after nicking one to keeper Carey on zero.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-day-5-watch-scott-boland-produces-stunning-spell-to-dismiss-virat-kohli-jadeja-in-one-over-603131">WTC Final, Day 5: WATCH – Scott Boland produces stunning spell to dismiss Virat Kohli, Jadeja in one over</a></p>

<p>In no time, Mitchell Starc, who looked out of rhythm so far, got the big fish of Ajinkya Rahane on 46, as Lyon trapped India’s first-inning hero with bat Shardul Thakur right in front the next over. Starc then returned to pick Umesh Yadav on just one.</p>

<p>Again, in the next over, Lyon got the last recognised batter in KS Bharat, as he mistimed one straight to Lyon. The off-spinner picked his fourth and final wicket of the game by removing Mohammed Siraj on one, as India got all out on 234.</p>

<p>Australia won the World Test Championship (WTC) Final by 209 runs.</p>

<h2>The final that&nbsp;Australia never lost</h2>

<p>After being asked to bat first, Australia avoided early jitters and owned all sessions on day one. Travis Head and Steve Smith notched up respective hundreds as the Oz put up a mammoth 469 in the first innings. For India, seamer Siraj starred, picking up four wickets.</p>

<p>India’s first innings saw them losing early wickets as they got reduced to 71 for four at one stage. Hard-fought fifties from comeback man Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra Jadeja and an unlikely hero with the bat in hand, Shardul Thakur, ensured India doesn’t stay much behind. They got all out on 296.</p>

<p>In Australia’s second innings, they scored 270 for eight declared, with Alex Carey remaining unbeaten on 66 runs. Jadeja topped the wickets column as he returned with three for 58.</p>

<p>Needing 444 to win, India had its own troubles despite getting off to a good start. Though a much-needed partnership between Kohli and Rahane did give fans some hope, an exceptional bowling show from the other end saw Australia coming on top with 209 runs margin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With this win, the Australian Men’s Team has become the only team to have won all the ICC trophies to date.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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For the second straight time, the Indian team has lost the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, this time against Australia by 209 runs at the Oval in London. The Australian team wrapped up the formalities on day five of the one-off Test with Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon running through India’s batting order.

For the second straight time, the Indian team has lost the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, this time against Australia by 209 runs at the Oval in London. The Australian team wrapped up the formalities on day five of the one-off Test with Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon running through India’s batting order. With India starting day five needing 280 runs with seven wickets in hand, the consensus in the dressing room was this total can be achieved. While Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane began from where they left on Saturday, Boland had different plans. Boland, very smartly, set up Virat’s wicket by first bowling regular inswingers and then went fullish, only for Kohli to go after the ball and edge it to the slip cordon. Standing in the second slip, Steve Smith didn’t make a mistake as he jumped to his right and took a blinder to dismiss Kohli on 49. Two balls later, Ravindra Jadeja got out after nicking one to keeper Carey on zero. ALSO READ: WTC Final, Day 5: WATCH – Scott Boland produces stunning spell to dismiss Virat Kohli, Jadeja in one over In no time, Mitchell Starc, who looked out of rhythm so far, got the big fish of Ajinkya Rahane on 46, as Lyon trapped India’s first-inning hero with bat Shardul Thakur right in front the next over. Starc then returned to pick Umesh Yadav on just one. Again, in the next over, Lyon got the last recognised batter in KS Bharat, as he mistimed one straight to Lyon. The off-spinner picked his fourth and final wicket of the game by removing Mohammed Siraj on one, as India got all out on 234. Australia won the World Test Championship (WTC) Final by 209 runs. The final that Australia never lost After being asked to bat first, Australia avoided early jitters and owned all sessions on day one. Travis Head and Steve Smith notched up respective hundreds as the Oz put up a mammoth 469 in the first innings. For India, seamer Siraj starred, picking up four wickets. India’s first innings saw them losing early wickets as they got reduced to 71 for four at one stage. Hard-fought fifties from comeback man Ajinkya Rahane, Ravindra Jadeja and an unlikely hero with the bat in hand, Shardul Thakur, ensured India doesn’t stay much behind. They got all out on 296. In Australia’s second innings, they scored 270 for eight declared, with Alex Carey remaining unbeaten on 66 runs. Jadeja topped the wickets column as he returned with three for 58. Needing 444 to win, India had its own troubles despite getting off to a good start. Though a much-needed partnership between Kohli and Rahane did give fans some hope, an exceptional bowling show from the other end saw Australia coming on top with 209 runs margin. With this win, the Australian Men’s Team has become the only team to have won all the ICC trophies to date. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australia crowned World Test Champions after beating India by 209 runs at Oval

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<p>Has there been a better replacement for a first-team player (Josh Hazlewood here) in Test cricket than Scott Boland? The lanky Victorian almost sealed the deal for the Aussies on day five of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India with his stunning spell. During the first hour of play, Boland dismissed Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja in the space of three balls to put India on the backfoot.</p>

<p>Boland, who got picked over regular seamer Hazlewood on precautionary grounds for this one-off Test, did wonders for his team by picking three wickets so far in the final innings at the Oval. After getting rid of dangerous Shubman Gill on Saturday, Boland took no time in sending the star pair of Kohli and Jadeja back to the hut.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-never-expected-that-ravi-shastri-laments-poor-shot-selection-from-cheteshwar-pujara-on-day-4-603081">WTC Final: 'Never expected that...:' Ravi Shastri laments poor shot selection from Cheteshwar Pujara on day 4</a></p>

<p>Smartly setting up Kohli early on day five, Boland first bowled a couple of usual inswingers and then pitched one on the fifth stump knowing Kohli’s weakness of chasing that – which eventually happened, and as he edged it with the hard hands, it went straight to the slip cordon where Steve Smith plucked a stunning catch to send the former Indian captain packing.</p>

<p>There was utter silence in the ground as hopes of thousands of Indian fans shattered in front of their eyes.</p>

<h2><strong>WATCH THE VIDEO HERE –</strong></h2>

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<p>Coming in next was star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Boland came around the wicket to him, only to wrap him up in two balls. Jadeja left the first one but couldn’t stop himself from trying to put bat to ball on the second fullish delivery, resulting in him nicking one to the keeper Alex Carey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Boland, who already looked threatening with his tight line and lengths, made all the difference across two innings.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, India was in a decent position at stumps on day four, with scorecard reading 164 for three, with 280 runs needed to win.</p>

<p>After making most of the lead in the second innings, Australian batters struggled to score freely but still stood ahead with each run scored. Declaring on 270 for eight, Australia gave India a daunting target of 444 – a total that has never been chased in Test history.</p>

<p>The Indian openers came up with an attacking approach but couldn’t continue for long as they lost Gill and Rohit inside 100 runs. Cheteshwar Pujara also departed early by playing a poor shot, with Indian team left with Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane to build a partnership.</p>

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Has there been a better replacement for a first-team player (Josh Hazlewood here) in Test cricket than Scott Boland? The lanky Victorian almost sealed the deal for the Aussies on day five of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India with his stunning spell.

Has there been a better replacement for a first-team player (Josh Hazlewood here) in Test cricket than Scott Boland? The lanky Victorian almost sealed the deal for the Aussies on day five of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India with his stunning spell. During the first hour of play, Boland dismissed Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja in the space of three balls to put India on the backfoot. Boland, who got picked over regular seamer Hazlewood on precautionary grounds for this one-off Test, did wonders for his team by picking three wickets so far in the final innings at the Oval. After getting rid of dangerous Shubman Gill on Saturday, Boland took no time in sending the star pair of Kohli and Jadeja back to the hut. ALSO READ: WTC Final: 'Never expected that...:' Ravi Shastri laments poor shot selection from Cheteshwar Pujara on day 4 Smartly setting up Kohli early on day five, Boland first bowled a couple of usual inswingers and then pitched one on the fifth stump knowing Kohli’s weakness of chasing that – which eventually happened, and as he edged it with the hard hands, it went straight to the slip cordon where Steve Smith plucked a stunning catch to send the former Indian captain packing. There was utter silence in the ground as hopes of thousands of Indian fans shattered in front of their eyes. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE – Virat Kohli - Wicket - Australia vs India via @icc https://t.co/UHsY5JyxG2 — 𝗚𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗺 𝗦𝗼𝗱𝗵𝗶 (@GautamSodhi1) June 11, 2023 × Coming in next was star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Boland came around the wicket to him, only to wrap him up in two balls. Jadeja left the first one but couldn’t stop himself from trying to put bat to ball on the second fullish delivery, resulting in him nicking one to the keeper Alex Carey. Boland, who already looked threatening with his tight line and lengths, made all the difference across two innings. Meanwhile, India was in a decent position at stumps on day four, with scorecard reading 164 for three, with 280 runs needed to win. After making most of the lead in the second innings, Australian batters struggled to score freely but still stood ahead with each run scored. Declaring on 270 for eight, Australia gave India a daunting target of 444 – a total that has never been chased in Test history. The Indian openers came up with an attacking approach but couldn’t continue for long as they lost Gill and Rohit inside 100 runs. Cheteshwar Pujara also departed early by playing a poor shot, with Indian team left with Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane to build a partnership. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WTC Final, Day 5: WATCH – Scott Boland produces stunning spell to dismiss Virat Kohli, Jadeja in one over

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<p>Steve Smith’s love affair of piling up runs and runs together, especially at the Oval in London, continues even in the ongoing WTC Final against India. The greatest Test batter of this age and time, as also called the same by India great Virat Kohli, Smith hit his third hundred at the venue in his sixth innings, and alongside Travis Head – who also slammed his maiden ton on the English soil, scoring 163, Australia find them in a strong position in this one-off Test.</p>

<p>Stranded on 95 after stumps on day one, Smith required just two deliveries off his pads on day two to reach the milestone, and the Aussie batter was nothing but grateful about that. After the end of the second day’s play, Smith addressed the media and showered praises on Head, that partnership and how much he enjoys batting at the Kennington Oval.</p>

<p>"I quite like it for English conditions and the way the ball bounces over here. It obviously worked when I was here last time. And yeah, just the positions I get myself into, it doesn't mean I'm going to do it all the time. I may revert back to old styles at certain periods when I feel it's necessary, but on this surface and with the bowlers I was coming up against, I felt that was the right way forward," Smith said after completing his 31st Test hundred, most by any of the Fab Four.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-day-3-preview-rahane-bharat-must-save-indias-sinking-ship-as-oz-eye-big-lead-in-2nd-innings-602384">WTC Final, Day 3: Preview - Rahane, Bharat must save India's sinking ship as Oz eye big lead in 2nd innings</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, after Australia got reduced to 76 for three at one stage, it was a mountainous 285-run stand between the two that helped Australia put 469 on the board in the first innings. While Smith headlined for completing his 31st Test hundred, Travis Head hogged the limelight for his brilliant 163.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Obviously, a really good partnership with Travis, who batted beautifully in that middle session yesterday. I thought the way he took the game on, put the pressure back on their bowlers, got them off their lengths, which I think helped me at the other end as well. Yeah, set us up for a nice inning," Smudge, as fans often call him, added.</p>

<h2>Smith shares plans on how to dismiss India soon</h2>

<p>India find them in hot waters after losing five wickets for 151 runs at the stumps on day two. With them being 318 runs behind and considering Rahane and Bharat are the last-recognised batters at the crease, India are less likely to fancy their chances of a turnaround rightaway unless a miracle happens.</p>

<p>Talking about that length on the off stump that troubled most batters in this Test, Smith said,</p>

<p>"The length at off stump I think is important. We've obviously seen a bit of variable bounce and some seam movement. So, if we're challenging the top of the stumps as much as possible, I think that's the quickest way home. You can certainly get the outside edge from there if it seams away and bounces or takes off, which a couple have. And then pads and stumps are in play with the ones that shoot low or seam back. So, it's about as simple as we need to keep it, I think,” Smith added.</p>

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Steve Smith’s love affair of piling up runs and runs together, especially at the Oval in London, continues even in the ongoing WTC Final against India. The greatest Test batter of this age and time, as also called the same by India great Virat Kohli, Smith hit his third hundred at the venue in his sixth innings, and alongside Travis Head – who also slammed his maiden ton on the English soil, scoring 163, Australia find them in a strong position in this one-off Test.

Steve Smith’s love affair of piling up runs and runs together, especially at the Oval in London, continues even in the ongoing WTC Final against India. The greatest Test batter of this age and time, as also called the same by India great Virat Kohli, Smith hit his third hundred at the venue in his sixth innings, and alongside Travis Head – who also slammed his maiden ton on the English soil, scoring 163, Australia find them in a strong position in this one-off Test. Stranded on 95 after stumps on day one, Smith required just two deliveries off his pads on day two to reach the milestone, and the Aussie batter was nothing but grateful about that. After the end of the second day’s play, Smith addressed the media and showered praises on Head, that partnership and how much he enjoys batting at the Kennington Oval. "I quite like it for English conditions and the way the ball bounces over here. It obviously worked when I was here last time. And yeah, just the positions I get myself into, it doesn't mean I'm going to do it all the time. I may revert back to old styles at certain periods when I feel it's necessary, but on this surface and with the bowlers I was coming up against, I felt that was the right way forward," Smith said after completing his 31st Test hundred, most by any of the Fab Four. ALSO READ: WTC Final, Day 3: Preview - Rahane, Bharat must save India's sinking ship as Oz eye big lead in 2nd innings Meanwhile, after Australia got reduced to 76 for three at one stage, it was a mountainous 285-run stand between the two that helped Australia put 469 on the board in the first innings. While Smith headlined for completing his 31st Test hundred, Travis Head hogged the limelight for his brilliant 163. "Obviously, a really good partnership with Travis, who batted beautifully in that middle session yesterday. I thought the way he took the game on, put the pressure back on their bowlers, got them off their lengths, which I think helped me at the other end as well. Yeah, set us up for a nice inning," Smudge, as fans often call him, added. Smith shares plans on how to dismiss India soon India find them in hot waters after losing five wickets for 151 runs at the stumps on day two. With them being 318 runs behind and considering Rahane and Bharat are the last-recognised batters at the crease, India are less likely to fancy their chances of a turnaround rightaway unless a miracle happens. Talking about that length on the off stump that troubled most batters in this Test, Smith said, "The length at off stump I think is important. We've obviously seen a bit of variable bounce and some seam movement. So, if we're challenging the top of the stumps as much as possible, I think that's the quickest way home. You can certainly get the outside edge from there if it seams away and bounces or takes off, which a couple have. And then pads and stumps are in play with the ones that shoot low or seam back. So, it's about as simple as we need to keep it, I think,” Smith added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WTC Final: Steve 'Super' Smith continues his love affair of batting at the Oval, praises partnership with Head

<p>Australia&nbsp;started Day 1 of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India on the front foot as they ended at 327/3. Top knocks from Travis Head (unbeaten 146) and Steve Smith (unbeaten 95) stitched a partnership of 251 runs for the fourth wicket as the Aussies took control at the Oval. The ton from Head was the first in the history of the WTC final while Smith is also closing in on his 43rd international hundred.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Stumps on Day 1 🏏<br />
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Indian bowlers were made to toil as Travis Head and Steve Smith put Australia in control 👊<br />
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Follow the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC23</a> Final 👉 <a href="https://t.co/wJHUyVnX0r">https://t.co/wJHUyVnX0r</a> <a href="https://t.co/29K7u7rcPR">pic.twitter.com/29K7u7rcPR</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1666492288686514199?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Aussies suffered early setback</strong></h2>

<p>Asked to bat first in the challenging conditions of the Oval, Australia started on the back foot as they lost star batter Usman Khawaja for a duck in the fourth over. David Warner (43) and Marnus Labuschagne (26) then took control of the innings as they put together a 69-run stand for the second wicket. However, Shardul Thakur and Mohammed Siraj then struck in quick succession to put the Aussies back on the back foot.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-virat-kohli-hopes-for-another-rohit-sharma-century-at-the-oval-601649">WTC Final: Virat Kohli hopes for another Rohit Sharma century at the Oval</a></p>

<h2><strong>Head and Smith mastermind Aussie innings</strong></h2>

<p>At 76/3 in the first session, the Indians were at the top of their game as the decision to bowl looked wise. However, it was the Steve Smith and Travis Head show that would frustrate the Indian bowlers. On a challenging wicket that had bounce, both Smith and Head held their nerves until it became old. They took the attack against Indian pacers while giving no chance to Ravindra Jadeja to settle in the conditions.</p>

<p>On the fourth ball of the 65th over, Head bought his sixth Test hundred and looked in good touch, and need just 106 deliveries. In the meantime, Smith also continued his exploits but was scoring at a slower rate than Head. He brought his 38th Test fifty in the 62nd over.</p>

<p>In the same over, Head was also checked for concussion as a Mohammed Siraj delivery hit Travis on the head.</p>

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Australia started Day 1 of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India on the front foot as they ended at 327/3. Top knocks from Travis Head (unbeaten 146) and Steve Smith (unbeaten 95) stitched a partnership of 251 runs for the fourth wicket as the Aussies took control at the Oval.

Australia started Day 1 of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India on the front foot as they ended at 327/3. Top knocks from Travis Head (unbeaten 146) and Steve Smith (unbeaten 95) stitched a partnership of 251 runs for the fourth wicket as the Aussies took control at the Oval. The ton from Head was the first in the history of the WTC final while Smith is also closing in on his 43rd international hundred. Stumps on Day 1 🏏 Indian bowlers were made to toil as Travis Head and Steve Smith put Australia in control 👊 Follow the #WTC23 Final 👉 https://t.co/wJHUyVnX0r pic.twitter.com/29K7u7rcPR — ICC (@ICC) June 7, 2023 × Aussies suffered early setback Asked to bat first in the challenging conditions of the Oval, Australia started on the back foot as they lost star batter Usman Khawaja for a duck in the fourth over. David Warner (43) and Marnus Labuschagne (26) then took control of the innings as they put together a 69-run stand for the second wicket. However, Shardul Thakur and Mohammed Siraj then struck in quick succession to put the Aussies back on the back foot. ALSO READ | WTC Final: Virat Kohli hopes for another Rohit Sharma century at the Oval Head and Smith mastermind Aussie innings At 76/3 in the first session, the Indians were at the top of their game as the decision to bowl looked wise. However, it was the Steve Smith and Travis Head show that would frustrate the Indian bowlers. On a challenging wicket that had bounce, both Smith and Head held their nerves until it became old. They took the attack against Indian pacers while giving no chance to Ravindra Jadeja to settle in the conditions. On the fourth ball of the 65th over, Head bought his sixth Test hundred and looked in good touch, and need just 106 deliveries. In the meantime, Smith also continued his exploits but was scoring at a slower rate than Head. He brought his 38th Test fifty in the 62nd over. In the same over, Head was also checked for concussion as a Mohammed Siraj delivery hit Travis on the head. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: Head, Smith dominate with bat as Aussies take control at Oval on Day 1

<p>Indian speedster Mohammed Siraj was seen in a furious mood on Thursday, 8 June on the second day of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia.&nbsp;Vice-captain Steve Smith, who stamped his authority on the contest before departing for 121, had a heated exchange with Indian pacer Siraj as the Indian player was not happy with an unfortunate incident. While the heated exchange was the centre of attraction, it was the Aussie bowlers and batters who made headlines in the early hours of Thursday morning at the Oval.</p>

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<h2><strong>What happened between Smith and Siraj?</strong></h2>

<p>On the fourth ball of the 86th over, Smith decided to pull out of the delivery at the last moment which sparked the anger for Siraj. Smith pointed towards the sky to indicate something was wrong and distracted his vision while Siraj came into bowl. An angry Siraj, already at the side of the umpire, angrily threw the ball in Smith’s direction.</p>

<p>The situation unfolded&nbsp;after Smith reached his 31st hundred for the Aussies in the Test format. The New South Wales batter leapfrogged Matthew Hayden for most Test hundreds while also bringing up his 43rd international ton. Only Steve Waugh (32) and Ricky Ponting (41) have reached the triple-figure mark on more occasions. Australia would later end their innings at 469 after they were bowled out by Indian bowlers.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-it-had-been-a-question-of-money-i-would-have-gone-to-saudi-arabia-lionel-messi-on-joining-inter-miami-601947">'If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia' - Lionel Messi on joining Inter Miami</a></p>

<h2><strong>Siraj completes 50 wickets in Tests</strong></h2>

<p>On the flip side, Siraj completed 50 wickets in Test cricket after scalping Nathan Lyon in the 120th over. During the Australian innings, Siraj was the pick of the bowlers for India. He took 4/108 in 28.3 overs. Siraj got the prized wickets of Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, skipper Pat Cummins, and Lyon.</p>

<p>In 19 Tests, Siraj has taken 51 wickets at an average of 30.96. His economy rate is 3.31, with the best bowling figure of 5/73, his solitary five-wicket haul in Test cricket.</p>

<p>India on the other hand did not make the best of starts as they lost both openers Shubman Gill (13) and Rohit Sharma (15) before the lunch break. Skipper Pat Cummins and Scott Boland were the pick of the bowlers for the Aussies as they narrowed India to 37/2 at the break. Virat Kohli was batting on 4 while Cheteshwar Pujara was unbeaten on 3 while India still trailed by 432 runs in the first innings.</p>

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Indian speedster Mohammed Siraj was seen in a furious mood on Thursday, 8 June on the second day of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia. Vice-captain Steve Smith, who stamped his authority on the contest before departing for 121, had a heated exchange with Indian pacer Siraj as the Indian player was not happy with an unfortunate incident.

Indian speedster Mohammed Siraj was seen in a furious mood on Thursday, 8 June on the second day of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia. Vice-captain Steve Smith, who stamped his authority on the contest before departing for 121, had a heated exchange with Indian pacer Siraj as the Indian player was not happy with an unfortunate incident. While the heated exchange was the centre of attraction, it was the Aussie bowlers and batters who made headlines in the early hours of Thursday morning at the Oval. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) What happened between Smith and Siraj? On the fourth ball of the 86th over, Smith decided to pull out of the delivery at the last moment which sparked the anger for Siraj. Smith pointed towards the sky to indicate something was wrong and distracted his vision while Siraj came into bowl. An angry Siraj, already at the side of the umpire, angrily threw the ball in Smith’s direction. The situation unfolded after Smith reached his 31st hundred for the Aussies in the Test format. The New South Wales batter leapfrogged Matthew Hayden for most Test hundreds while also bringing up his 43rd international ton. Only Steve Waugh (32) and Ricky Ponting (41) have reached the triple-figure mark on more occasions. Australia would later end their innings at 469 after they were bowled out by Indian bowlers. ALSO READ | 'If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia' - Lionel Messi on joining Inter Miami Siraj completes 50 wickets in Tests On the flip side, Siraj completed 50 wickets in Test cricket after scalping Nathan Lyon in the 120th over. During the Australian innings, Siraj was the pick of the bowlers for India. He took 4/108 in 28.3 overs. Siraj got the prized wickets of Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, skipper Pat Cummins, and Lyon. In 19 Tests, Siraj has taken 51 wickets at an average of 30.96. His economy rate is 3.31, with the best bowling figure of 5/73, his solitary five-wicket haul in Test cricket. India on the other hand did not make the best of starts as they lost both openers Shubman Gill (13) and Rohit Sharma (15) before the lunch break. Skipper Pat Cummins and Scott Boland were the pick of the bowlers for the Aussies as they narrowed India to 37/2 at the break. Virat Kohli was batting on 4 while Cheteshwar Pujara was unbeaten on 3 while India still trailed by 432 runs in the first innings. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: Mohammed Siraj gets furious with Steve Smith for THIS reason - WATCH

<p>India missed the trick after electing to bowl first against Australia in the World Test Championship Final. Although looking at the overhead conditions and a green, bouncy turf on offer, the call looked bang-on in the first hour, not realising the threat of chasing in the fourth innings after what transpired after the end of day one must have made them question their decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Plus, bearing the brunt of benching the ranked number one Test bowler and third-best all-rounder in the world, Ravi Ashwin, added salt to the injury. This call, questioned by many, was backed by the captain Rohit Sharma at the toss, who admitted it wasn't easy to drop Ashwin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-head-smith-dominate-with-bat-as-aussies-take-control-at-oval-on-day-1-601895">WTC Final: Head, Smith dominate with bat as Aussies take control at Oval on Day 1</a></p>

<p>The team named an extra seam-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur in the XI instead. Though he picked David Warner's prize wicket, the right-hand bowler went for runs, conceding 75 from 18 overs. Umesh Yadav, the third seamer for this one-off Test, looked out of rhythm, remaining wicketless after the day's play.</p>

<p>Travis Head and Steve Smith made light work of Indian bowlers, who looked clueless about their plans after the sun decided to keep the usual clouds away. With the pair closing in on completing a 300-run stand, things look gloomy for Team India heading into day two.</p>

<h2>What can India do to get back into the game?</h2>

<p>India still has a lot to play for, with four days remaining in the game. The way Mohammed Shami opened proceedings after lunch on day one by dismissing well-settled Marnus Labuschagne clean bowled off a peach, India require such a start to put brakes on the Aussies' innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Getting rid of this pair must be India's priority, as wrapping Australia's first innings with anything under 400 or 420 would be a bonus. Then in their first innings, with the wicket playing in the batter's favour, India must make the most of this chance and try and build a few partnerships. Not to forget, they need to give respect to the new ball to avoid facing the old fates of getting out early in a crunch situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's top four need to weather the storm with two of them, Shubman Gill and Chesteshwar Pujara, in stellar form. Besides, the onus will again fall on veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who need to put on runs to keep India stay alive in the match.</p>

<p>With India batting deep this time in the presence of Thakur at number eight, taking some risks after settling down will not be a bad idea either.</p>

<p>As things stand, Australia is 327 for three after stumps on day one.</p>

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India missed the trick after electing to bowl first against Australia in the World Test Championship Final. Although looking at the overhead conditions and a green, bouncy turf on offer, the call looked bang-on in the first hour, not realising the threat of chasing in the fourth innings after what transpired after the end of day one must have made them question their decision.

India missed the trick after electing to bowl first against Australia in the World Test Championship Final. Although looking at the overhead conditions and a green, bouncy turf on offer, the call looked bang-on in the first hour, not realising the threat of chasing in the fourth innings after what transpired after the end of day one must have made them question their decision. Plus, bearing the brunt of benching the ranked number one Test bowler and third-best all-rounder in the world, Ravi Ashwin, added salt to the injury. This call, questioned by many, was backed by the captain Rohit Sharma at the toss, who admitted it wasn't easy to drop Ashwin. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Head, Smith dominate with bat as Aussies take control at Oval on Day 1 The team named an extra seam-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur in the XI instead. Though he picked David Warner's prize wicket, the right-hand bowler went for runs, conceding 75 from 18 overs. Umesh Yadav, the third seamer for this one-off Test, looked out of rhythm, remaining wicketless after the day's play. Travis Head and Steve Smith made light work of Indian bowlers, who looked clueless about their plans after the sun decided to keep the usual clouds away. With the pair closing in on completing a 300-run stand, things look gloomy for Team India heading into day two. What can India do to get back into the game? India still has a lot to play for, with four days remaining in the game. The way Mohammed Shami opened proceedings after lunch on day one by dismissing well-settled Marnus Labuschagne clean bowled off a peach, India require such a start to put brakes on the Aussies' innings. Getting rid of this pair must be India's priority, as wrapping Australia's first innings with anything under 400 or 420 would be a bonus. Then in their first innings, with the wicket playing in the batter's favour, India must make the most of this chance and try and build a few partnerships. Not to forget, they need to give respect to the new ball to avoid facing the old fates of getting out early in a crunch situation. India's top four need to weather the storm with two of them, Shubman Gill and Chesteshwar Pujara, in stellar form. Besides, the onus will again fall on veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who need to put on runs to keep India stay alive in the match. With India batting deep this time in the presence of Thakur at number eight, taking some risks after settling down will not be a bad idea either. As things stand, Australia is 327 for three after stumps on day one. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WTC Final, Day 2 - Preview: Following troubled start, clueless Indian team to aim for comeback

<p>Australia vice-captain Steve Smith was full of praise for Travis Head after the latter played a superb knock to see his side in command in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Smith, who also bought up his 43rd international hundred on Thursday, 8 June stitched a 285-run stand for the fourth wicket before being dismissed for 121 by Shardul Thakur. On the flip side, Head was dismissed on 163 before being scalped by Mohammed Siraj.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Steve Smith's love affair with India continues 😮<br />
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Follow the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC23</a> Final 👉 <a href="https://t.co/wJHUyVnX0r">https://t.co/wJHUyVnX0r</a> <a href="https://t.co/inQo39ZaoD">pic.twitter.com/inQo39ZaoD</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1666746315487735808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Smith lauds Head</strong></h2>

<p>"I had the best seat in the house for the performance Head put on. But for me it is staying in the bubble, playing the way I know I play in test cricket. Not sort of shying away too much from that. If I tried to keep up with Heady, I would get myself into trouble. Just play what is in front of me and just keep batting," said Smith before the start of Day 2.</p>

<p>Asked to bat first in the challenging conditions of the Oval, Australia started on the back foot on Day 1 as they lost star batter Usman Khawaja for a duck in the fourth over. David Warner (43) and Marnus Labuschagne (26) then took control of the innings as they put together a 69-run stand for the second wicket. However, Shardul and Siraj then struck in quick succession to put the Aussies back on the back foot.</p>

<p>At 76/3 in the first session, the Indians were at the top of their game as the decision to bowl looked wise. However, it was the Steve Smith and Travis Head show that would frustrate the Indian bowlers. On a challenging wicket that had bounce, both Smith and Head held their nerves until it became old. They took the attack against Indian pacers while giving no chance to Ravindra Jadeja to settle in the conditions.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-it-had-been-a-question-of-money-i-would-have-gone-to-saudi-arabia-lionel-messi-on-joining-inter-miami-601947">'If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia' - Lionel Messi on joining Inter Miami</a></p>

<h2><strong>Smith on conditions</strong></h2>

<p>"I think yesterday it really helped. It put a lot of pressure back on the bowlers. Probably got them off their lengths a little bit. It translated to how they were bowling to me as well. I thought in the middle session, bowling perhaps a bit too short, probably didn't challenge the top of the stumps enough. I thought that came from the way Travis was playing and the pressure he was putting on them. So it was a nice partnership,” Smith said in the pre-day interview.</p>

<p>On Day 2 at the time of writing, the Aussies were 410/7 as Indian bowlers once again dominated the first hour as they scalped wickets to stamp their authority. Mohammed Shami, Siraj, and Shardul took two wickets each while Mitchell Starc was run out on 5.</p>

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Australia vice-captain Steve Smith was full of praise for Travis Head after the latter played a superb knock to see his side in command in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.

Australia vice-captain Steve Smith was full of praise for Travis Head after the latter played a superb knock to see his side in command in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Smith, who also bought up his 43rd international hundred on Thursday, 8 June stitched a 285-run stand for the fourth wicket before being dismissed for 121 by Shardul Thakur. On the flip side, Head was dismissed on 163 before being scalped by Mohammed Siraj. Steve Smith's love affair with India continues 😮 Follow the #WTC23 Final 👉 https://t.co/wJHUyVnX0r pic.twitter.com/inQo39ZaoD — ICC (@ICC) June 8, 2023 × Smith lauds Head "I had the best seat in the house for the performance Head put on. But for me it is staying in the bubble, playing the way I know I play in test cricket. Not sort of shying away too much from that. If I tried to keep up with Heady, I would get myself into trouble. Just play what is in front of me and just keep batting," said Smith before the start of Day 2. Asked to bat first in the challenging conditions of the Oval, Australia started on the back foot on Day 1 as they lost star batter Usman Khawaja for a duck in the fourth over. David Warner (43) and Marnus Labuschagne (26) then took control of the innings as they put together a 69-run stand for the second wicket. However, Shardul and Siraj then struck in quick succession to put the Aussies back on the back foot. At 76/3 in the first session, the Indians were at the top of their game as the decision to bowl looked wise. However, it was the Steve Smith and Travis Head show that would frustrate the Indian bowlers. On a challenging wicket that had bounce, both Smith and Head held their nerves until it became old. They took the attack against Indian pacers while giving no chance to Ravindra Jadeja to settle in the conditions. ALSO READ | 'If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia' - Lionel Messi on joining Inter Miami Smith on conditions "I think yesterday it really helped. It put a lot of pressure back on the bowlers. Probably got them off their lengths a little bit. It translated to how they were bowling to me as well. I thought in the middle session, bowling perhaps a bit too short, probably didn't challenge the top of the stumps enough. I thought that came from the way Travis was playing and the pressure he was putting on them. So it was a nice partnership,” Smith said in the pre-day interview. On Day 2 at the time of writing, the Aussies were 410/7 as Indian bowlers once again dominated the first hour as they scalped wickets to stamp their authority. Mohammed Shami, Siraj, and Shardul took two wickets each while Mitchell Starc was run out on 5. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: Steve Smith lauds Travis Head after historic ton, says 'I had the best seat in the house'

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<p>Batting great Steve Smith wishes for Test cricket’s longevity amid concerns surrounding the slow death of this format due to the growing culture of franchise-based T20 leagues. With all focus now on the World Test Championship Final between India and Australia, Smith opined, being a traditionalist, he wants this format to stay on every board’s priority and must be given utmost importance.</p>

<p>In the lead-up to the big tie against India, which starts on June 7th at the Oval in London, Smith said he thinks Test cricket is in a good space, and having watched a few matches lately, he believes this format is here to stay. He, however, remained concerned about its growth going&nbsp;forward.</p>

<p>"Yeah, I am slightly concerned. But yeah, hopefully, Test Cricket still stays alive and well. I think it's in a good place at the moment. In terms of some of the games, we've seen recently have been pretty amazing. So, yeah, for me as a, I suppose, a traditionalist, someone that loves Test cricket, I hope it still remains at the front of all the board's minds and stays alive and well for some time to come,” Smith said, as quoted by Cricbuzz.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-coach-rahul-dravid-dismisses-concern-around-winning-icc-trophy-says-india-is-under-no-pressure-600957">WTC Final: Coach Rahul Dravid dismisses concern around winning ICC trophy, says India is under no pressure</a></p>

<p>In regards to keeping this format relevant and important, Smith feels the WTC has come as a blessing and that the contest against India is going to glue everyone to their TV screens. Pressing on reaching this point after grinding hard for over two years in this WTC cycle, Smith said, "Oh, I mean it's really important. I think the World Test Championship now, having the two best teams play in a final, I think that's great. It adds a little bit more relevance, I suppose, to Test cricket. So it's what we all work towards for a couple of years. And this week should be an exciting one, and yeah the guys are looking forward to it."</p>

<h2>Smith aware of Shami, Siraj threat</h2>

<p>With the Indian camp keeping the cards close to their chest about the final XI against Australia, Smith remains aware of two-seamers who will play – Shami and Siraj. Considering the use of Duke Ball during the final and how good form both these pacers are in, they will be some threat to the daunting Aussie line-up.</p>

<p>"I think they've got a good mix obviously of quality seam bowlers. Shami and Siraj, probably their two main guys who have really good skills, and I think the Duke ball suits them nicely. And then obviously their spinners as well, who bowl really well in all conditions. So, I think they're a good attack and yeah, we're going to have to play well against them this week," Smith, who averages closer to 60 from 96 Tests, said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, following the WTC Final, the Australian team will take on England in the Ashes, starting June 16th in Edgbaston.</p>

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Batting great Steve Smith wishes for Test cricket’s longevity amid concerns surrounding the slow death of this format due to the growing culture of franchise-based T20 leagues.

Batting great Steve Smith wishes for Test cricket’s longevity amid concerns surrounding the slow death of this format due to the growing culture of franchise-based T20 leagues. With all focus now on the World Test Championship Final between India and Australia, Smith opined, being a traditionalist, he wants this format to stay on every board’s priority and must be given utmost importance. In the lead-up to the big tie against India, which starts on June 7th at the Oval in London, Smith said he thinks Test cricket is in a good space, and having watched a few matches lately, he believes this format is here to stay. He, however, remained concerned about its growth going forward. "Yeah, I am slightly concerned. But yeah, hopefully, Test Cricket still stays alive and well. I think it's in a good place at the moment. In terms of some of the games, we've seen recently have been pretty amazing. So, yeah, for me as a, I suppose, a traditionalist, someone that loves Test cricket, I hope it still remains at the front of all the board's minds and stays alive and well for some time to come,” Smith said, as quoted by Cricbuzz. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Coach Rahul Dravid dismisses concern around winning ICC trophy, says India is under no pressure In regards to keeping this format relevant and important, Smith feels the WTC has come as a blessing and that the contest against India is going to glue everyone to their TV screens. Pressing on reaching this point after grinding hard for over two years in this WTC cycle, Smith said, "Oh, I mean it's really important. I think the World Test Championship now, having the two best teams play in a final, I think that's great. It adds a little bit more relevance, I suppose, to Test cricket. So it's what we all work towards for a couple of years. And this week should be an exciting one, and yeah the guys are looking forward to it." Smith aware of Shami, Siraj threat With the Indian camp keeping the cards close to their chest about the final XI against Australia, Smith remains aware of two-seamers who will play – Shami and Siraj. Considering the use of Duke Ball during the final and how good form both these pacers are in, they will be some threat to the daunting Aussie line-up. "I think they've got a good mix obviously of quality seam bowlers. Shami and Siraj, probably their two main guys who have really good skills, and I think the Duke ball suits them nicely. And then obviously their spinners as well, who bowl really well in all conditions. So, I think they're a good attack and yeah, we're going to have to play well against them this week," Smith, who averages closer to 60 from 96 Tests, said. Meanwhile, following the WTC Final, the Australian team will take on England in the Ashes, starting June 16th in Edgbaston. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Steve Smith concerned about Test cricket's future, wishes for its survival with one eye on WTC Final

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<p>Veteran England seamer James Anderson believes getting Steve Smith out cheaply in the upcoming Ashes 2023 will be one of the aims if the hosts were to retain the urn for the first time since 2015. Ahead of the historic five-match Test series, which begins with the first game in Edgbaston, Birmingham on June 16th, Anderson said Smith had great success against them in the past and shall remain the threat that he is.</p>

<p>Speaking with Sydney Morning Herald, Anderson, 40, said though he doesn’t like singling out any player, he knows what Smith has done against them. The right-arm seamer also admitted to having gone overboard in thinking about how to dismiss him.</p>

<p>During the last away Ashes in 2019, Smith scored a mountain number of runs, piling up 774 runs in five Tests, averaging above 100 (110.57).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-michael-hussey-backs-virat-kohli-to-come-good-with-bat-expects-rohit-to-dictate-terms-early-on-597485">WTC Final: Michael Hussey backs Virat Kohli to come good with bat, expects Rohit to dictate terms early on</a></p>

<p>“I never really like singling anyone out, but Smith has had a lot of success against us in recent times. Maybe in the past, we’ve actually gone overboard in thinking of ways to get people out,” Anderson told Sydney Morning Herald.</p>

<p>While all talks are about how Steve Smith will fare against the English quicks, Anderson also had some words for the Aussie attack which is as lethal with the duke ball in those conditions as any bowling line-up. With Pat Cummins as captain and Smith playing his deputy, the Australian team have some smart brains taking calls during Ashes 2023.</p>

<p>"Australia have done it very well in the past, rotating their quicks. Even now Pat’s captain, with Steve Smith being able to take over the captaincy, I think he’ll still look after his body as much as possible,” Anderson added.</p>

<h2>We have clicked as a unit, says Anderson</h2>

<p>Under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum’s leadership, England’s Test team prospered like anything in the past 12 months, winning ten out of the 12 Tests. Speaking on their&nbsp;brand of cricket, which is labelled as ‘Bazball’ by fans,&nbsp;Anderson said,</p>

<p>"What we’ve done brilliantly in the last 12 months is thinking about what we do well. That’s worked particularly well for the batters not worrying about who’s bowling at them, and just really concentrating on their strengths and the areas they can score in,” the veteran seamer added.</p>

<p>Earlier, Anderson revealed he will not be available for the five Tests as he would a burnout. With Stuart Broad, Ollie Robinson, Chris Woakes and others, the England team will have to rotate its bowlers.</p>

<p><strong>Here is the Ashes schedule -</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20</li>
	<li>Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2</li>
	<li>Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10</li>
	<li>Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23</li>
	<li>Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31</li>
</ul>

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Veteran England seamer James Anderson believes getting Steve Smith out cheaply in the upcoming Ashes 2023 will be one of the aims if the hosts were to retain the urn for the first time since 2015.

Veteran England seamer James Anderson believes getting Steve Smith out cheaply in the upcoming Ashes 2023 will be one of the aims if the hosts were to retain the urn for the first time since 2015. Ahead of the historic five-match Test series, which begins with the first game in Edgbaston, Birmingham on June 16th, Anderson said Smith had great success against them in the past and shall remain the threat that he is. Speaking with Sydney Morning Herald, Anderson, 40, said though he doesn’t like singling out any player, he knows what Smith has done against them. The right-arm seamer also admitted to having gone overboard in thinking about how to dismiss him. During the last away Ashes in 2019, Smith scored a mountain number of runs, piling up 774 runs in five Tests, averaging above 100 (110.57). ALSO READ: WTC Final: Michael Hussey backs Virat Kohli to come good with bat, expects Rohit to dictate terms early on “I never really like singling anyone out, but Smith has had a lot of success against us in recent times. Maybe in the past, we’ve actually gone overboard in thinking of ways to get people out,” Anderson told Sydney Morning Herald. While all talks are about how Steve Smith will fare against the English quicks, Anderson also had some words for the Aussie attack which is as lethal with the duke ball in those conditions as any bowling line-up. With Pat Cummins as captain and Smith playing his deputy, the Australian team have some smart brains taking calls during Ashes 2023. "Australia have done it very well in the past, rotating their quicks. Even now Pat’s captain, with Steve Smith being able to take over the captaincy, I think he’ll still look after his body as much as possible,” Anderson added. We have clicked as a unit, says Anderson Under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum’s leadership, England’s Test team prospered like anything in the past 12 months, winning ten out of the 12 Tests. Speaking on their brand of cricket, which is labelled as ‘Bazball’ by fans, Anderson said, "What we’ve done brilliantly in the last 12 months is thinking about what we do well. That’s worked particularly well for the batters not worrying about who’s bowling at them, and just really concentrating on their strengths and the areas they can score in,” the veteran seamer added. Earlier, Anderson revealed he will not be available for the five Tests as he would a burnout. With Stuart Broad, Ollie Robinson, Chris Woakes and others, the England team will have to rotate its bowlers. Here is the Ashes schedule - First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20 Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2 Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10 Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23 Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31 WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes: James Anderson wary of Steve Smith threat, admits going overboard in thinking about how to dismiss him

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<p>Ranked number one Test batter in the world, Australia's Marnus Labuschagne has warned England of Steve Smith donning the 2019 hat - wherein he single-handedly punished the home side by scoring 774 runs from seven innings in the draw Ashes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the upcoming winter Ashes that begins with the first Test in Edgbaston on June 16th, Marnus revealed Smith's change in technique could be a nightmare for the hosts.</p>

<p>Playing for Glamorgan in the County Championship, Marnus is preparing for the Ashes 2023. While he is sure of his credentials heading into the mega event, Marnus feels Smith would again be the backbone of the travelling side.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/michael-atherton-backs-returning-jonny-bairstow-as-right-man-to-keep-wickets-for-ireland-test-as-ashes-looms-594050">Michael Atherton backs returning Jonny Bairstow as right man to keep wickets for Ireland Test as Ashes looms</a></p>

<p>Speaking with&nbsp;<em>The Sydney Morning Herald</em>, Marnus said the way Smith batted against West Indies and South Africa in the summer gone by and how he batted against England in 2019, there is a vast difference as he has tweaked his technique a bit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If you look at how he batted this summer against the West Indies and South Africa, compared to how he batted in the Ashes in 2019, they're two polar opposite methods of batting," Marnus said, as quoted in AFP.</p>

<p>"He has that freakish ability that he can find ways to have success regardless of how he plays," Labuschagne added.</p>

<p>Since the home summer where Smith shone with bat, he was surprisingly successful in the Big Bash - where he scored 346 from five matches, including two centuries. According to Marnus, this all happened because of a small change Smith did to his stance, changing it from being 'really open' to 'a lot more side on'.</p>

<p>"You can see why his Twenty20 game has gone through the roof with some of those technical changes. It's certainly helped him with his power and his swing. He took the mickey this summer in the white-ball stuff," he added.</p>

<p>"It just shows he can bat both those ways and have ample success. And knowing Steve he's made sure he works out what he feels is the best method to score runs here in England."</p>

<p>It's fair to say the former Test captain Smith loves playing in England, a country where he averages nearly 60 in 16 Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Representing Sussex in the ongoing County, Smith was on 68* overnight against Marnus' Glamorgan.</p>

<p><strong>Here is the Ashes schedule -&nbsp;</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20</li>
	<li>Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2</li>
	<li>Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10</li>
	<li>Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23</li>
	<li>Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31</li>
</ul>

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Ranked number one Test batter in the world, Australia's Marnus Labuschagne has warned England of Steve Smith donning the 2019 hat - wherein he single-handedly punished the home side by scoring 774 runs from seven innings in the draw Ashes.

Ranked number one Test batter in the world, Australia's Marnus Labuschagne has warned England of Steve Smith donning the 2019 hat - wherein he single-handedly punished the home side by scoring 774 runs from seven innings in the draw Ashes. Ahead of the upcoming winter Ashes that begins with the first Test in Edgbaston on June 16th, Marnus revealed Smith's change in technique could be a nightmare for the hosts. Playing for Glamorgan in the County Championship, Marnus is preparing for the Ashes 2023. While he is sure of his credentials heading into the mega event, Marnus feels Smith would again be the backbone of the travelling side. ALSO READ: Michael Atherton backs returning Jonny Bairstow as right man to keep wickets for Ireland Test as Ashes looms Speaking with The Sydney Morning Herald, Marnus said the way Smith batted against West Indies and South Africa in the summer gone by and how he batted against England in 2019, there is a vast difference as he has tweaked his technique a bit. "If you look at how he batted this summer against the West Indies and South Africa, compared to how he batted in the Ashes in 2019, they're two polar opposite methods of batting," Marnus said, as quoted in AFP. "He has that freakish ability that he can find ways to have success regardless of how he plays," Labuschagne added. Since the home summer where Smith shone with bat, he was surprisingly successful in the Big Bash - where he scored 346 from five matches, including two centuries. According to Marnus, this all happened because of a small change Smith did to his stance, changing it from being 'really open' to 'a lot more side on'. "You can see why his Twenty20 game has gone through the roof with some of those technical changes. It's certainly helped him with his power and his swing. He took the mickey this summer in the white-ball stuff," he added. "It just shows he can bat both those ways and have ample success. And knowing Steve he's made sure he works out what he feels is the best method to score runs here in England." It's fair to say the former Test captain Smith loves playing in England, a country where he averages nearly 60 in 16 Tests. Representing Sussex in the ongoing County, Smith was on 68* overnight against Marnus' Glamorgan. Here is the Ashes schedule - First Test (Edgbaston) - June 16 - June 20 Second Test (Lord's) - June 28 - July 2 Third Test (Clean Slate Headingley) - July 6 - July 10 Fourth Test (Emirates Old Trafford) - July 19 - July 23 Fifth Test (The Kia Oval) - July 27 - July 31 WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes 2023: Marnus Labuschagne warns England of bossman Steve Smith repeating 2019 heroics

<p>Australian Test vice-captain Steve Smith has hit back at veteran England pacer Stuart Broad after the latter’s comment on the 2021 Ashes where they lost 0-4. Broad, who had earlier described the 2021 Ashes as ‘void’ and had seen his team on the receiving end of a capitulating defeat, is looking forward to making an impression in the upcoming Ashes which begins in Edgbaston in June. Smith, on the flip side, has also started his preparations for the Ashes, having already landed in England.</p>

<p>"I mean, it was a little odd," Steve Smith said.</p>

<p>Smith was seen in excellent touch during his last Ashes visit to England and was one of the star performers of the side. Broad on the flip side did not have a positive tour Down Under in 2021-22 and scalped only 13 wickets, the most by any English bowler. Smith though was not happy with Broad’s comment and looked animated before the start of the Ashes.</p>

<p>"We were all there and playing so it was a little bit odd, you know? He's a nice guy and loves throwing out some good banter so it's all part of it.</p>

<p>"It certainly wasn't an ideal scenario. But the whole world was going through it and we were in the middle of a pandemic, so we couldn't really complain too much.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-unsurprised-by-the-approach-but-we-arent-tempted-alex-carey-plays-down-matching-engs-bazball-style-588795">Ashes: Unsurprised by the approach but we aren't tempted - Alex Carey plays down matching ENG's Bazball style</a></p>

<p>"We were actually out there being able to do what we love, so I don't really have much more to add to it," Smith said.</p>

<p>The former Australia skipper scored a staggering 744 runs in the Ashes in 2019 and helped his side regain the Ashes after it ended in a stalemate. He only managed to score 244 runs in the previous edition but had happy memories of having led his team to one win in the absence of Pat Cummins.</p>

<p>The latest chapter of the rivalry will kick start on June 19 in Edgbaston England look to regain the Ashes for the first time in eight years. Ben Stokes’ men haven’t tasted a win in the historic series since 2015 but will look to continue their impressive run in the last 12 months.</p>

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Australian Test vice-captain Steve Smith has hit back at veteran England pacer Stuart Broad after the latter’s comment on the 2021 Ashes where they lost 0-4. Broad, who had earlier described the 2021 Ashes as ‘void’ and had seen his team on the receiving end of a capitulating defeat, is looking forward to making an impression in the upcoming Ashes which begins in Edgbaston in June.

Australian Test vice-captain Steve Smith has hit back at veteran England pacer Stuart Broad after the latter’s comment on the 2021 Ashes where they lost 0-4. Broad, who had earlier described the 2021 Ashes as ‘void’ and had seen his team on the receiving end of a capitulating defeat, is looking forward to making an impression in the upcoming Ashes which begins in Edgbaston in June. Smith, on the flip side, has also started his preparations for the Ashes, having already landed in England. "I mean, it was a little odd," Steve Smith said. Smith was seen in excellent touch during his last Ashes visit to England and was one of the star performers of the side. Broad on the flip side did not have a positive tour Down Under in 2021-22 and scalped only 13 wickets, the most by any English bowler. Smith though was not happy with Broad’s comment and looked animated before the start of the Ashes. "We were all there and playing so it was a little bit odd, you know? He's a nice guy and loves throwing out some good banter so it's all part of it. "It certainly wasn't an ideal scenario. But the whole world was going through it and we were in the middle of a pandemic, so we couldn't really complain too much. ALSO READ | Ashes: Unsurprised by the approach but we aren't tempted - Alex Carey plays down matching ENG's Bazball style "We were actually out there being able to do what we love, so I don't really have much more to add to it," Smith said. The former Australia skipper scored a staggering 744 runs in the Ashes in 2019 and helped his side regain the Ashes after it ended in a stalemate. He only managed to score 244 runs in the previous edition but had happy memories of having led his team to one win in the absence of Pat Cummins. The latest chapter of the rivalry will kick start on June 19 in Edgbaston England look to regain the Ashes for the first time in eight years. Ben Stokes’ men haven’t tasted a win in the historic series since 2015 but will look to continue their impressive run in the last 12 months. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ashes 2023: Steve Smith takes a jibe at Stuart Broad's claim of 'void series' after 4-0 humiliation Down Under

<p>Ahead of the India-Australia ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final face-off, which will take place early next month at The Oval, London, Cheteshwar Pujara and Steve Smith are set to play for Sussex. After Sussex acquired the Australian's services early this year -- with the batter&nbsp;to prepare for Ashes 2023 and WTC finale -- both Pujara and Smith will share the dressing room before they represent their respective sides in India-Australia's marquee face-off.</p>

<p>Pujara shared his excitement of playing along with Smith. The duo were part of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, held in India, where Pujara-starrer India beat Smith's Australia 2-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have spoken, but most of the time we have played against each other. It is never for the same team, so it will be exciting to have him in the same side," Pujara was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-cricket-thrives-because-of-players-like-yashasvi-jaiswal-harbhajan-lauds-rrs-centurion-after-mi-tie-587792">Indian cricket thrives because of players like Yashasvi Jaiswal: Harbhajan lauds RR's centurion after MI tie</a></strong></p>

<p>Pujara further asserted, "I will try and get his thoughts, try and know him a little better. We will be playing the WTC final, so it will be mixed feelings. On the field we always have good battles, but off the field we are good friends."</p>

<p>"All of us are looking forward to having him here and sharing his experience. He has a lot of knowledge about the game so it will be nice to have his inputs," India's reliable No. 3&nbsp;concluded.</p>

<p>For Pujara, Sussex has been extremely lucky for him. After being dropped from India's Test squad early in 2022, he represented the club and amassed plenty of runs (1,094 in 13 County outings) to revive his red-ball career. In addition, he scored 624 runs in Royal London One-Day Cup last year (second-most overall) at a strike rate of 111.62. Overall, he ended the 2022 season with eight tons (five in County -- including a double ton --&nbsp;and three in the ODI tournament).</p>

<p>Pujara has already started the 2023 season on a high, with two centuries for Sussex in the ongoing&nbsp;County Championship Division Two.</p>


Ahead of the India-Australia ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final face-off, which will take place early next month at The Oval, London, Cheteshwar Pujara and Steve Smith are set to play for Sussex.

Ahead of the India-Australia ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final face-off, which will take place early next month at The Oval, London, Cheteshwar Pujara and Steve Smith are set to play for Sussex. After Sussex acquired the Australian's services early this year -- with the batter to prepare for Ashes 2023 and WTC finale -- both Pujara and Smith will share the dressing room before they represent their respective sides in India-Australia's marquee face-off. Pujara shared his excitement of playing along with Smith. The duo were part of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, held in India, where Pujara-starrer India beat Smith's Australia 2-1. "We have spoken, but most of the time we have played against each other. It is never for the same team, so it will be exciting to have him in the same side," Pujara was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo. Also Read: Indian cricket thrives because of players like Yashasvi Jaiswal: Harbhajan lauds RR's centurion after MI tie Pujara further asserted, "I will try and get his thoughts, try and know him a little better. We will be playing the WTC final, so it will be mixed feelings. On the field we always have good battles, but off the field we are good friends." "All of us are looking forward to having him here and sharing his experience. He has a lot of knowledge about the game so it will be nice to have his inputs," India's reliable No. 3 concluded. For Pujara, Sussex has been extremely lucky for him. After being dropped from India's Test squad early in 2022, he represented the club and amassed plenty of runs (1,094 in 13 County outings) to revive his red-ball career. In addition, he scored 624 runs in Royal London One-Day Cup last year (second-most overall) at a strike rate of 111.62. Overall, he ended the 2022 season with eight tons (five in County -- including a double ton -- and three in the ODI tournament). Pujara has already started the 2023 season on a high, with two centuries for Sussex in the ongoing County Championship Division Two.

'Will try and know him a little better': Pujara excited to play with Steve Smith in Sussex before WTC final

<p>After a terrific run in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, in India, spinner Todd Murphy made the cut in Cricket Australia's (CA) expended 24-man list of centrally contracted players for the 2023-24 season. Along with him, uncapped pacer Lance Morris also features in the list with Australia's eye on the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final and Ashes 2023, both to be held&nbsp;in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Murphy had a stunning debut series in the India-Australia Tests, in the subcontinent, and ended with 14 wickets at 25.21 including a seven-fer on debut in the Nagpur Test. The other backup&nbsp;fast bowlers such as Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson and Sean Abbott have also&nbsp;been handed contracts. Meanwhile, Mitchell Swepson, Peter Handscomb and the recently retired Aaron Finch are some notable absentees.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here's Cricket Australia contracted men's players 2023-24 season:</strong></p>

<p>Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kane-williamson-to-undergo-surgery-in-three-weeks-following-leg-injury-set-to-miss-world-cup-in-india-579638">Kane Williamson to undergo surgery in three weeks following leg injury, set to miss World Cup in India</a></strong></p>

<p>"We have chosen a group of players we expect will form the majority of those two campaigns and we know that we will need a squad mentality to achieve success," national selector George Bailey said. "As we find each year now, there is a lot of cricket in the next six to 12 months and our depth will be tested. The six Test matches during the winter are in relatively short succession and we have a busy period of white ball cricket leading up to, and post, the ODI World Cup."</p>

<p>At present, several Australian cricketers are part of the ongoing&nbsp;Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition in India. They have an important year ahead with the WTC final, versus India in early June, Ashes 2023 and the ODI World Cup in India in October-November.&nbsp;</p>


After a terrific run in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, in India, spinner Todd Murphy made the cut in Cricket Australia's (CA) expended 24-man list of centrally contracted players for the 2023-24 season.

After a terrific run in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, in India, spinner Todd Murphy made the cut in Cricket Australia's (CA) expended 24-man list of centrally contracted players for the 2023-24 season. Along with him, uncapped pacer Lance Morris also features in the list with Australia's eye on the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final and Ashes 2023, both to be held in the United Kingdom. Murphy had a stunning debut series in the India-Australia Tests, in the subcontinent, and ended with 14 wickets at 25.21 including a seven-fer on debut in the Nagpur Test. The other backup fast bowlers such as Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson and Sean Abbott have also been handed contracts. Meanwhile, Mitchell Swepson, Peter Handscomb and the recently retired Aaron Finch are some notable absentees. Here's Cricket Australia contracted men's players 2023-24 season: Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar Also Read: Kane Williamson to undergo surgery in three weeks following leg injury, set to miss World Cup in India "We have chosen a group of players we expect will form the majority of those two campaigns and we know that we will need a squad mentality to achieve success," national selector George Bailey said. "As we find each year now, there is a lot of cricket in the next six to 12 months and our depth will be tested. The six Test matches during the winter are in relatively short succession and we have a busy period of white ball cricket leading up to, and post, the ODI World Cup." At present, several Australian cricketers are part of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition in India. They have an important year ahead with the WTC final, versus India in early June, Ashes 2023 and the ODI World Cup in India in October-November.

Australia's central contract for 2023-24 season: Todd Murphy makes the cut in CA's expanded list

<p>Defending champions Gujarat Titans have been dealt a blow as their star batter Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the tournament after injuring his knee in the season opener against Chennai Super Kings.</p>

<p>Williamson will now be travelling back home to New Zealand for further assessment and treatment, as per the tweet by Gujarat. Titans, however, were able to win the match by five wickets, thanks to last-overs heroics of spinner Rashid Khan and Rahul Tewatia.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We regret to announce, Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the TATA IPL 2023, after sustaining an injury in the season opener against Chennai Super Kings.<br />
<br />
We wish our Titan a speedy recovery and hope for his early return. <a href="https://t.co/SVLu73SNpl">pic.twitter.com/SVLu73SNpl</a></p>
— Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) <a href="https://twitter.com/gujarat_titans/status/1642386218364071936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>While Titans haven't named a replacement yet, there are many who think Australian stalwart Steve Smith could be the perfect replacement for the Kiwi star. Smith is currently with the Star Sports' commentary team and is not playing in league.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-poor-execution-sloppy-fielding-cost-us-the-match-laments-delhi-capitals-coach-ricky-ponting-578207">IPL 2023: Poor execution, sloppy fielding cost us the match, laments Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting</a></p>

<p>The batter although, was asked about possibility of playing for Titans and said, "I don't know if I'll qualify, I didn't even put myself in the auctions. So I don't think there's even a possibility. So, maybe next year, we will see where we go."</p>

<p>"I think that would be a brilliant call, and Steve Smith is the kind of player they want, somebody who can play all kinds of gears. Plus with the new rules which he finds very cool, I'd love to see Smith's captaincy, we saw that and we were raving about it in the India-Australia series," he said. "And Hardik Pandya needs a bit of help, he confessed, 'I have no idea what my tactics are, so I'm going to leave it to the others.' So, that could be a great call actually," he added.</p>

<p>Smith has already played IPL for various teams including Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals. He has so far played 103 matches in the IPL, scoring 2,485 runs at an average of 34.51. Smith has also managed to score 11 fifties and one hundred in the league.</p>

<p>Gujarat, meanwhile, face Delhi Capitals next on April 4 in an away game.</p>

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Defending champions Gujarat Titans have been dealt a blow as their star batter Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the tournament after injuring his knee in the season opener against Chennai Super Kings.

Defending champions Gujarat Titans have been dealt a blow as their star batter Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the tournament after injuring his knee in the season opener against Chennai Super Kings. Williamson will now be travelling back home to New Zealand for further assessment and treatment, as per the tweet by Gujarat. Titans, however, were able to win the match by five wickets, thanks to last-overs heroics of spinner Rashid Khan and Rahul Tewatia. We regret to announce, Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the TATA IPL 2023, after sustaining an injury in the season opener against Chennai Super Kings. We wish our Titan a speedy recovery and hope for his early return. pic.twitter.com/SVLu73SNpl — Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) April 2, 2023 × While Titans haven't named a replacement yet, there are many who think Australian stalwart Steve Smith could be the perfect replacement for the Kiwi star. Smith is currently with the Star Sports' commentary team and is not playing in league. Also Read: IPL 2023: Poor execution, sloppy fielding cost us the match, laments Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting The batter although, was asked about possibility of playing for Titans and said, "I don't know if I'll qualify, I didn't even put myself in the auctions. So I don't think there's even a possibility. So, maybe next year, we will see where we go." "I think that would be a brilliant call, and Steve Smith is the kind of player they want, somebody who can play all kinds of gears. Plus with the new rules which he finds very cool, I'd love to see Smith's captaincy, we saw that and we were raving about it in the India-Australia series," he said. "And Hardik Pandya needs a bit of help, he confessed, 'I have no idea what my tactics are, so I'm going to leave it to the others.' So, that could be a great call actually," he added. Smith has already played IPL for various teams including Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals. He has so far played 103 matches in the IPL, scoring 2,485 runs at an average of 34.51. Smith has also managed to score 11 fifties and one hundred in the league. Gujarat, meanwhile, face Delhi Capitals next on April 4 in an away game. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IPL 2023: Smith for injured Williamson in Gujarat Titans? Here's Aussie batsman's reply

<p>Former Australia captain Steve Smith is in awe of MS Dhoni. Having led perhaps one of the greatest captains ever at the Rising Pune Super Giants (RPSG) in IPL 2017, Smith revealed how MS inspired him from behind the wickets and how his inputs helped Smith guide his team to the final.</p>

<p>Smith, who will be joining the commentary team for the upcoming IPL 2023, heaped praises on MS and even admitted he got shocked when RPSG management asked him to captain the franchise instead of Dhoni, saying he didn’t have answers to that. Revealing what it was like leading MS Dhoni, Smith said he enjoyed doing that, but it was daunting at the same time.</p>

<p>"It was a great experience being able to captain him, but also very daunting as well," Smith told Star Sports. "When I got the call to say that they wanted me to captain, it was a little bit daunting. But that season, MSD was just wonderful. You know, he helped in any way that he could and he's a terrific guy," Smith added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-delhi-capitals-set-to-bring-in-bengal-keeper-abhishek-porel-as-rishabh-pants-replacement-577166">IPL 2023: Delhi Capitals set to bring in Bengal keeper Abhishek Porel as Rishabh Pant's replacement</a></p>

<p>Elaborating further on his first thoughts after getting approached for the leadership role, Smith said he didn’t believe in the first place and instead asked them if they had spoken with MS Dhoni about the same.</p>

<p>However, upon accepting the role and having succeeded in leading his team to the finals, which they lost against Mumbai Indians, Smith said he had Dhoni's back and that the former India captain was wonderful throughout - – something he cannot thank him enough for.</p>

<p>"Yeah, I didn't really know what to expect initially, you know, MS had captained every team he played for, obviously throughout the IPL with Chennai, every season should I say. "But yeah, when they came and asked me, I was a little bit shocked at first, and then I didn't really know what to say. It was like, have you spoken to MS about this? This is a little bit strange from my side, but after we sorted everything out, MS was just wonderful,” he said.</p>

<p>"And the way he helped me and helped guide that team that year was incredible. And yeah, I couldn't thank him enough," Steve Smith added.</p>

<p>Smith, who recently led Australia to the ODI series win over India, also said MS Dhoni’s nature of remaining cool and calm in almost situation inspired him to such an extent that Smith acquired that trait, not only for that season but for the future as well.</p>

<p>"I think just the calmness that MS shows; we saw it throughout his career, just how calm he was. It didn't look like he was flustered by any emotions or anything like that. "And that's certainly something that I've taken in not just in that season, but just watching him go about his business in the prior years, just how calm and relaxed he was,” Smith said.</p>

<p>“And you know, at times I can get quite agitated and things like that. So you know, I have to try and keep myself as calm and as sort of level-headed as I can. And yeah, that's certainly something that I learned off of MS," Smith concluded.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, back to captaining Chennai Super Kings the following year, MS Dhoni guided his team to the third IPL title, beating SunRisers Hyderabad in the finals. Now Dhoni will lead his CSK franchise in IPL 2023 as they start their campaign against defending champions Gujarat Titans on March 31st.</p>


Former Australia captain Steve Smith is in awe of MS Dhoni. Having led perhaps one of the greatest captains ever at the Rising Pune Super Giants (RPSG) in IPL 2017, Smith revealed how MS inspired him from behind the wickets and how his inputs helped Smith guide his team to the final.

Former Australia captain Steve Smith is in awe of MS Dhoni. Having led perhaps one of the greatest captains ever at the Rising Pune Super Giants (RPSG) in IPL 2017, Smith revealed how MS inspired him from behind the wickets and how his inputs helped Smith guide his team to the final. Smith, who will be joining the commentary team for the upcoming IPL 2023, heaped praises on MS and even admitted he got shocked when RPSG management asked him to captain the franchise instead of Dhoni, saying he didn’t have answers to that. Revealing what it was like leading MS Dhoni, Smith said he enjoyed doing that, but it was daunting at the same time. "It was a great experience being able to captain him, but also very daunting as well," Smith told Star Sports. "When I got the call to say that they wanted me to captain, it was a little bit daunting. But that season, MSD was just wonderful. You know, he helped in any way that he could and he's a terrific guy," Smith added. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: Delhi Capitals set to bring in Bengal keeper Abhishek Porel as Rishabh Pant's replacement Elaborating further on his first thoughts after getting approached for the leadership role, Smith said he didn’t believe in the first place and instead asked them if they had spoken with MS Dhoni about the same. However, upon accepting the role and having succeeded in leading his team to the finals, which they lost against Mumbai Indians, Smith said he had Dhoni's back and that the former India captain was wonderful throughout - – something he cannot thank him enough for. "Yeah, I didn't really know what to expect initially, you know, MS had captained every team he played for, obviously throughout the IPL with Chennai, every season should I say. "But yeah, when they came and asked me, I was a little bit shocked at first, and then I didn't really know what to say. It was like, have you spoken to MS about this? This is a little bit strange from my side, but after we sorted everything out, MS was just wonderful,” he said. "And the way he helped me and helped guide that team that year was incredible. And yeah, I couldn't thank him enough," Steve Smith added. Smith, who recently led Australia to the ODI series win over India, also said MS Dhoni’s nature of remaining cool and calm in almost situation inspired him to such an extent that Smith acquired that trait, not only for that season but for the future as well. "I think just the calmness that MS shows; we saw it throughout his career, just how calm he was. It didn't look like he was flustered by any emotions or anything like that. "And that's certainly something that I've taken in not just in that season, but just watching him go about his business in the prior years, just how calm and relaxed he was,” Smith said. “And you know, at times I can get quite agitated and things like that. So you know, I have to try and keep myself as calm and as sort of level-headed as I can. And yeah, that's certainly something that I learned off of MS," Smith concluded. Meanwhile, back to captaining Chennai Super Kings the following year, MS Dhoni guided his team to the third IPL title, beating SunRisers Hyderabad in the finals. Now Dhoni will lead his CSK franchise in IPL 2023 as they start their campaign against defending champions Gujarat Titans on March 31st.

IPL 2023: 'The way MS Dhoni helped me, guided me was incredible, he's terrific,' says Steve Smith

<p>Former Australia skipper and Rajasthan Royals star Steve Smith is set to feature in the Indian Premier League (IPL) season 16, despite going unsold in the auctions. The star Aussie all-rounder will be seen in the commentary box for the upcoming season after it was confirmed by the broadcasters. Smith was last seen in the IPL in 2021 when Delhi Capitals signed him for Rs 2.20 crore and will now handle the microphone rather than the bat.</p>

<p>"Steve Smith has joined the expert panel for the marquee tournament. Smith will be making his broadcast debut with Star Sports, adding his invaluable insights and expertise to Star Sports' already impressive roster of panelists," the broadcaster said in a statement.</p>

<p>Smith, 33, announced his return to the tournament on Twitter on Monday, saying in a teaser video: "Namaste, India. I've got some exciting news for you: I'm joining IPL 2023.”</p>

<p>The Aussie star first came into the spotlight in 2012, when he was snapped by the Pune Warriors India and would then play for the Rising Pune Supergiants. With the latter, Smith reached the final of the IPL in 2017 before failing to take his team over the line in the final over of the season finale. Smith then signed for Rajasthan Royals and led the side before being released ahead of the 2021 season.</p>

<p>"DON'T blink if you're being held at gunpoint," one Twitter user quipped.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-sachin-tendulkar-abdul-razzaq-names-master-blasters-iconic-teammate-as-most-dangerous-player-576611">Not Sachin Tendulkar! Abdul Razzaq names Master Blaster's ICONIC teammate as 'most dangerous player'</a></p>

<p>The former Australia captain was recently seen leading the ODI side as regular skipper Pat Cummins was absent due to the death of his ill mother. Smith’s Aussie side came from behind to win 2-1 while condemning India to their first home ODI series defeat in four years.</p>

<p>Till now he has played 103 matches in his IPL career. He has scored 2485 runs, with an average of 34.51. He has also slammed one century and 11 half-centuries, with his highest IPL score being 101 runs.</p>

<p>The IPL 2023 season will start on Friday, March 31 when defending champions Gujarat Titans take on four-time champions Chennai Super Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmadabad.</p>

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Former Australia skipper and Rajasthan Royals star Steve Smith is set to feature in the Indian Premier League (IPL) season 16, despite going unsold in the auctions.

Former Australia skipper and Rajasthan Royals star Steve Smith is set to feature in the Indian Premier League (IPL) season 16, despite going unsold in the auctions. The star Aussie all-rounder will be seen in the commentary box for the upcoming season after it was confirmed by the broadcasters. Smith was last seen in the IPL in 2021 when Delhi Capitals signed him for Rs 2.20 crore and will now handle the microphone rather than the bat. "Steve Smith has joined the expert panel for the marquee tournament. Smith will be making his broadcast debut with Star Sports, adding his invaluable insights and expertise to Star Sports' already impressive roster of panelists," the broadcaster said in a statement. Smith, 33, announced his return to the tournament on Twitter on Monday, saying in a teaser video: "Namaste, India. I've got some exciting news for you: I'm joining IPL 2023.” The Aussie star first came into the spotlight in 2012, when he was snapped by the Pune Warriors India and would then play for the Rising Pune Supergiants. With the latter, Smith reached the final of the IPL in 2017 before failing to take his team over the line in the final over of the season finale. Smith then signed for Rajasthan Royals and led the side before being released ahead of the 2021 season. "DON'T blink if you're being held at gunpoint," one Twitter user quipped. ALSO READ | Not Sachin Tendulkar! Abdul Razzaq names Master Blaster's ICONIC teammate as 'most dangerous player' The former Australia captain was recently seen leading the ODI side as regular skipper Pat Cummins was absent due to the death of his ill mother. Smith’s Aussie side came from behind to win 2-1 while condemning India to their first home ODI series defeat in four years. Till now he has played 103 matches in his IPL career. He has scored 2485 runs, with an average of 34.51. He has also slammed one century and 11 half-centuries, with his highest IPL score being 101 runs. The IPL 2023 season will start on Friday, March 31 when defending champions Gujarat Titans take on four-time champions Chennai Super Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmadabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IPL 2023: Former Australia skipper Steve Smith back in spotlight, set to feature in THIS role

<p>Known to be an observer of the game like none other, ace India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin explained how Steve Smith and Ashton Agar plotted Virat Kohli’s dismissal in the final ODI in Chennai. Chasing 270, India got reduced to 77 for two when Kohli and KL Rahul started building a partnership. When Kohli crossed his fifty, he fell prey to the ploy laid by the stand-in Aussie captain and left-arm spinner Agar, chipping one straight to the long-off area.</p>

<p>Speaking on his YouTube Channel, Ashwin, who had earlier tweeted praising Smith’s captaincy following the end of the match, explained how Steve while standing in the slips, helped Agar get the big scalp in Kohli.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Steve smith and captaincy is a match made in heaven👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a></p>
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1638573157555789825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Carrying the momentum forward, Agar also dismissed Suryakumar Yadav on the very next ball, accounting for him attaining a bizarre record of getting out on a first-ball duck in three successive matches.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-team-management-to-be-blamed-for-suryakumar-yadavs-three-ducks-vs-australia-danish-kaneria-575659">Rohit Sharma, team management to be blamed for Suryakumar Yadav's three ducks vs Australia: Danish Kaneria</a></p>

<p>Returning to the dismissal, Ashwin said he heard Smith constantly telling Agar to bowl outside the off-stump area. Explaining how that led to Kohli’s wicket, Ashwin said if the ball holds its line while the batter tries to play it over the extra-cover region, it will go straight to long-off, which creates a higher chance of a wicket falling and eventually, that only happened.</p>

<p>“I noticed Steve Smith was constantly telling Ashton Agar from the first slip, 'Keep bowling it outside. Because when they see the line, they will try to go over extra cover, and if the ball holds its line and goes straight, it will go straight to long-off. He also made David Warner come in a bit from long-off and set up the entire dismissal,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p>The India international also commented on how Kohli rediscovering his form might help India in the World Cup later this year. Ashwin said Kohli is peaking again at the right time, and while he failed to convert his fifties into daddy hundreds like he used to do before, the former India captain might unleash him at the bigger stage.</p>

<p>“Usually, when Virat Kohli scores a fifty, he will convert it into an unbeatable hundred and prove why he is the king. But that did not happen. But fingers crossed, he is looking very good by the day. He is definitely going to turn it on during the World Cup, I have all the beliefs. Let's back him,” Ashwin added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, both Ashwin and Kohli will now be seen playing for the Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bangalore, respectively in the IPL 2023, which starts on March 31.</p>


Known to be an observer of the game like none other, ace India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin explained how Steve Smith and Ashton Agar plotted Virat Kohli’s dismissal in the final ODI in Chennai.

Known to be an observer of the game like none other, ace India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin explained how Steve Smith and Ashton Agar plotted Virat Kohli’s dismissal in the final ODI in Chennai. Chasing 270, India got reduced to 77 for two when Kohli and KL Rahul started building a partnership. When Kohli crossed his fifty, he fell prey to the ploy laid by the stand-in Aussie captain and left-arm spinner Agar, chipping one straight to the long-off area. Speaking on his YouTube Channel, Ashwin, who had earlier tweeted praising Smith’s captaincy following the end of the match, explained how Steve while standing in the slips, helped Agar get the big scalp in Kohli. Steve smith and captaincy is a match made in heaven👌#INDvAUS — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) March 22, 2023 × Carrying the momentum forward, Agar also dismissed Suryakumar Yadav on the very next ball, accounting for him attaining a bizarre record of getting out on a first-ball duck in three successive matches. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma, team management to be blamed for Suryakumar Yadav's three ducks vs Australia: Danish Kaneria Returning to the dismissal, Ashwin said he heard Smith constantly telling Agar to bowl outside the off-stump area. Explaining how that led to Kohli’s wicket, Ashwin said if the ball holds its line while the batter tries to play it over the extra-cover region, it will go straight to long-off, which creates a higher chance of a wicket falling and eventually, that only happened. “I noticed Steve Smith was constantly telling Ashton Agar from the first slip, 'Keep bowling it outside. Because when they see the line, they will try to go over extra cover, and if the ball holds its line and goes straight, it will go straight to long-off. He also made David Warner come in a bit from long-off and set up the entire dismissal,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. The India international also commented on how Kohli rediscovering his form might help India in the World Cup later this year. Ashwin said Kohli is peaking again at the right time, and while he failed to convert his fifties into daddy hundreds like he used to do before, the former India captain might unleash him at the bigger stage. “Usually, when Virat Kohli scores a fifty, he will convert it into an unbeatable hundred and prove why he is the king. But that did not happen. But fingers crossed, he is looking very good by the day. He is definitely going to turn it on during the World Cup, I have all the beliefs. Let's back him,” Ashwin added. Meanwhile, both Ashwin and Kohli will now be seen playing for the Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bangalore, respectively in the IPL 2023, which starts on March 31.

Ravi Ashwin explains how Steve Smith and Ashton Agar plotted Virat Kohli's dismissal in final ODI

<p>Rohit Sharma’s Team India suffered their first ODI series defeat in four years on home turf after Australia beat them by 21 runs in the deciding contest on Wednesday, March 22. Chasing 270 runs, India’s poor middle-order batting was once again the concern as Australia compiled a bizarre week for the Indian team. The 1-2 series defeat was India’s first since March 2019 on home turf with serious questions once again surrounding the team with the ODI World Cup all set to take centre&nbsp;stage later this year.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A series win for the Aussies! 🙌<br />
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Scorecard: <a href="https://t.co/fxzcM70kwy">https://t.co/fxzcM70kwy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/M1KY5r7Mnf">pic.twitter.com/M1KY5r7Mnf</a></p>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1638581041412861952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h3>India make good start</h3>

<p>Having initially lead the series 1-0 after the Mumbai contest, the Indian Team needed a string show with the bat after they suffered a 10-wicket defeat in Vizag. Both skipper Rohit Sharma (30) and Shubman Gill (37) gave a brilliant start to the innings as they put together an opening stand of 65 runs. However, both Rohit and Shubman departed in quick succession as India were left to rue despite a good start.</p>

<p>Virat Kohli (54) and KL Rahul (32) then steadied the ship for India as they built a partnership of 69 runs for the third wicket. However, wickets then fell in tandem as Suryakumar Yadav was dismissed for a third consecutive golden duck while Axar Patel (2) returned after a bizarre mix-up while running. However, Adam Zampa’s four wickets and Ashton Agar’s brace were enough to break the back of the Indian team as they were bowled out for 248 and lost by 21 runs.</p>

<p>The series defeat was India’s first on home turf in ODIs since 2019, having lost 3-2 in 2019.</p>

<h3>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-a-proper-statement-r-ashwin-lauds-hardik-pandya-for-his-remark-on-test-return-during-wtc-final-574660">This is a proper statement: R Ashwin lauds Hardik Pandya for his remark on Test return during WTC final</a></h3>

<h3>What happened in the Australian innings?</h3>

<p>Tight bowling spells by Kuldeep Yadav and Hardik Pandya helped India bundle out Australia for 269 in 49 overs in the third and final game of the three-match ODI series at MA Chidambaram Stadium here on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Mitchell Marsh scored the highest for Australia at 47 and made them from as many deliveries. Alex Carey played a knock of 38 runs. For India, Pandya and Kuldeep Yadav bagged three wickets each while Axar Patel and Mohammed Siraj scalped two wickets respectively. Opting to bat first, Australia got off to a flying start as their openers Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head made the Indian bowlers toil hard making merry of the excellent batting conditions.</p>

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Rohit Sharma’s Team India suffered their first ODI series defeat in four years on home turf after Australia beat them by 21 runs in the deciding contest on Wednesday, March 22.

Rohit Sharma’s Team India suffered their first ODI series defeat in four years on home turf after Australia beat them by 21 runs in the deciding contest on Wednesday, March 22. Chasing 270 runs, India’s poor middle-order batting was once again the concern as Australia compiled a bizarre week for the Indian team. The 1-2 series defeat was India’s first since March 2019 on home turf with serious questions once again surrounding the team with the ODI World Cup all set to take centre stage later this year. A series win for the Aussies! 🙌 Scorecard: https://t.co/fxzcM70kwy #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/M1KY5r7Mnf — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) March 22, 2023 × India make good start Having initially lead the series 1-0 after the Mumbai contest, the Indian Team needed a string show with the bat after they suffered a 10-wicket defeat in Vizag. Both skipper Rohit Sharma (30) and Shubman Gill (37) gave a brilliant start to the innings as they put together an opening stand of 65 runs. However, both Rohit and Shubman departed in quick succession as India were left to rue despite a good start. Virat Kohli (54) and KL Rahul (32) then steadied the ship for India as they built a partnership of 69 runs for the third wicket. However, wickets then fell in tandem as Suryakumar Yadav was dismissed for a third consecutive golden duck while Axar Patel (2) returned after a bizarre mix-up while running. However, Adam Zampa’s four wickets and Ashton Agar’s brace were enough to break the back of the Indian team as they were bowled out for 248 and lost by 21 runs. The series defeat was India’s first on home turf in ODIs since 2019, having lost 3-2 in 2019. ALSO READ | This is a proper statement: R Ashwin lauds Hardik Pandya for his remark on Test return during WTC final What happened in the Australian innings? Tight bowling spells by Kuldeep Yadav and Hardik Pandya helped India bundle out Australia for 269 in 49 overs in the third and final game of the three-match ODI series at MA Chidambaram Stadium here on Wednesday. Mitchell Marsh scored the highest for Australia at 47 and made them from as many deliveries. Alex Carey played a knock of 38 runs. For India, Pandya and Kuldeep Yadav bagged three wickets each while Axar Patel and Mohammed Siraj scalped two wickets respectively. Opting to bat first, Australia got off to a flying start as their openers Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head made the Indian bowlers toil hard making merry of the excellent batting conditions. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IND vs AUS 3rd ODI: Steve Smith's Australia dismantle Team India for first home series defeat in four years

<p>Australia beat India by 21 runs on Wednesday in Chennai to claim the three-match ODI series 2-1 and the number one spot in the ICC ODI rankings. This win also accounted for Australia ending India’s four-year-long ODI series winning streak at home in this format. Ironically, it was Australia only that last beat them in an ODI series (3-2) at home in 2019. As things stand, with 113 rating points, Australia is the new number-one ODI team in the world.</p>

<p>At the start of this year, firstly India beat Sri Lanka 3-0 and then thumped New Zealand with the same margin in the following series to take the number one spot from England in ODIs. A month and a half later, they returned to the second spot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, an injury-hit Australian team&nbsp;was without two of their premier seamers in regular captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, while their star all-rounder Glenn Maxwell was also benched for this game. As this&nbsp;series was tied at 1-1 with Australia making a comeback after a massive ten-wicket win in the previous match in Vizag, Chennai played as the decider that turned out to be a heartbreak for the Indian fans.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-3rd-odi-steve-smiths-australia-dismantle-team-india-for-first-home-series-defeat-in-4-years-574788">IND vs AUS 3rd ODI: Steve Smith's Australia dismantle Team India for first home series defeat in four years</a></p>

<p>Australia won the toss and elected to bat. They brought in fit-now David Warner, who surprisingly didn’t open as Australia persisted with the successful opening combination of Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh. The pair flourished as they stitched a 68-run stand for the first wicket before Hardik Pandya struck three wickets to pull India back into the game.</p>

<p>While Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav kept picking wickets at regular intervals, resistance from the lower order ensured Australia reach 269 in the first innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Unlike how it started in the previous two games, India’s innings this time was right on the track as Shubman Gill and captain Rohit Sharma slammed Mitchell Starc to all parts of the ground. While Australia’s premier seamer didn’t provide his team with the breakthrough, Sean Abbot got rid of Rohit initially.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A couple of overs later, Adam Zampa trapped Shubman Gill in the front. Virat Kohli and India’s first-match hero KL then steadied the ship with a 69-run partnership before two quick wickets hurt India’s momentum. It was about the time before Ashton Agar struck gold, removing Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav on successive deliveries to put the hosts under further pressure.</p>

<p>Though Hardik Pandya did play an anchor role later on, he too lost his wicket soon after, as Adam Zampa added two to his name, almost ending India’s hope of winning the series and safeguarding their number one spot. Australia wrapped India on 248 and won the game by 21 runs.&nbsp;</p>


Australia beat India by 21 runs on Wednesday in Chennai to claim the three-match ODI series 2-1 and the number one spot in the ICC ODI rankings. This win also accounted for Australia ending India’s four-year-long ODI series winning streak at home in this format.

Australia beat India by 21 runs on Wednesday in Chennai to claim the three-match ODI series 2-1 and the number one spot in the ICC ODI rankings. This win also accounted for Australia ending India’s four-year-long ODI series winning streak at home in this format. Ironically, it was Australia only that last beat them in an ODI series (3-2) at home in 2019. As things stand, with 113 rating points, Australia is the new number-one ODI team in the world. At the start of this year, firstly India beat Sri Lanka 3-0 and then thumped New Zealand with the same margin in the following series to take the number one spot from England in ODIs. A month and a half later, they returned to the second spot. Meanwhile, an injury-hit Australian team was without two of their premier seamers in regular captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, while their star all-rounder Glenn Maxwell was also benched for this game. As this series was tied at 1-1 with Australia making a comeback after a massive ten-wicket win in the previous match in Vizag, Chennai played as the decider that turned out to be a heartbreak for the Indian fans. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS 3rd ODI: Steve Smith's Australia dismantle Team India for first home series defeat in four years Australia won the toss and elected to bat. They brought in fit-now David Warner, who surprisingly didn’t open as Australia persisted with the successful opening combination of Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh. The pair flourished as they stitched a 68-run stand for the first wicket before Hardik Pandya struck three wickets to pull India back into the game. While Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav kept picking wickets at regular intervals, resistance from the lower order ensured Australia reach 269 in the first innings. Unlike how it started in the previous two games, India’s innings this time was right on the track as Shubman Gill and captain Rohit Sharma slammed Mitchell Starc to all parts of the ground. While Australia’s premier seamer didn’t provide his team with the breakthrough, Sean Abbot got rid of Rohit initially. A couple of overs later, Adam Zampa trapped Shubman Gill in the front. Virat Kohli and India’s first-match hero KL then steadied the ship with a 69-run partnership before two quick wickets hurt India’s momentum. It was about the time before Ashton Agar struck gold, removing Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav on successive deliveries to put the hosts under further pressure. Though Hardik Pandya did play an anchor role later on, he too lost his wicket soon after, as Adam Zampa added two to his name, almost ending India’s hope of winning the series and safeguarding their number one spot. Australia wrapped India on 248 and won the game by 21 runs.

IND vs AUS: Australia attain number one spot in ODIs after 2-1 series win over India

<p>Former Australia batter Shane Watson feels that Steve Smith shouldn't lead the national team again as the original skipper Pat Cummins is doing a great job. Cummins' mother recently passed away due to breast cancer and the key fast bowler missed the final two matches of the recently completed Border-Gavaskar Test series to remain in Australia alongside his grieving family.</p>

<p>Cummins’ absence from national duty will continue throughout March, with him to sit out the three ODI matches in India. Former skipper Steve Smith took the responsibility and led Australia to a heavy 10-wicket win over India in the second ODI after suffering defeat in the first match.</p>

<h3>Watson goes harsh on Steve Smith</h3>

<p>"No Steve shouldn't be leading the Aussie side again as Pat Cummins is doing good. He is doing a great job as a great leader. No question Steve Smith should lead the team, " Watson told ANI.</p>

<p>Smith has captained Australia in 34 Tests between 2014 and 2018, including Australia's most recent Test tour of India in 2017, a controversy-marred campaign in which Smith dominated with the bat, scoring three centuries.</p>

<p>Steve Smith was sacked from captaincy in 2018 after he and other teammates were found guilty in a ball tempering scandal during their South Africa tour. Smith, who captained the Men in Yellow across all the formats, was sacked as a leader, and a two-year leadership ban was imposed on him.</p>

<h3>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ab-de-villiers-the-fastest-runner-between-wickets-followed-by-ms-dhoni-rcb-star-virat-kohli-574311">AB de Villiers the fastest runner between wickets followed by MS Dhoni: RCB star Virat Kohli</a>Australia to explore team balance in third ODI</h3>

<p>In the third match against India, Australia will continue to explore team balance with them. On a number of occasions last year, Australia had deep batting lineups with Cameron Green or Glenn Maxwell batting at number 8.</p>

<p>The third and final game of the ODI series between India and Australia will be held in Chennai on Wednesday, with the winner of that contest claiming the series 2-1 and bragging rights ahead of the World Cup later in the year.</p>

<p>Australia Squad: Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Steven Smith(c), Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis(w), Cameron Green, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Sean Abbott, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, David Warner, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey and Nathan Ellis.</p>

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Former Australia batter Shane Watson feels that Steve Smith shouldn't lead the national team again as the original skipper Pat Cummins is doing a great job. Cummins' mother recently passed away due to breast cancer and the key fast bowler missed the final two matches of the recently completed Border-Gavaskar Test series to remain in Australia alongside his grieving family.

Former Australia batter Shane Watson feels that Steve Smith shouldn't lead the national team again as the original skipper Pat Cummins is doing a great job. Cummins' mother recently passed away due to breast cancer and the key fast bowler missed the final two matches of the recently completed Border-Gavaskar Test series to remain in Australia alongside his grieving family. Cummins’ absence from national duty will continue throughout March, with him to sit out the three ODI matches in India. Former skipper Steve Smith took the responsibility and led Australia to a heavy 10-wicket win over India in the second ODI after suffering defeat in the first match. Watson goes harsh on Steve Smith "No Steve shouldn't be leading the Aussie side again as Pat Cummins is doing good. He is doing a great job as a great leader. No question Steve Smith should lead the team, " Watson told ANI. Smith has captained Australia in 34 Tests between 2014 and 2018, including Australia's most recent Test tour of India in 2017, a controversy-marred campaign in which Smith dominated with the bat, scoring three centuries. Steve Smith was sacked from captaincy in 2018 after he and other teammates were found guilty in a ball tempering scandal during their South Africa tour. Smith, who captained the Men in Yellow across all the formats, was sacked as a leader, and a two-year leadership ban was imposed on him. ALSO READ | AB de Villiers the fastest runner between wickets followed by MS Dhoni: RCB star Virat KohliAustralia to explore team balance in third ODI In the third match against India, Australia will continue to explore team balance with them. On a number of occasions last year, Australia had deep batting lineups with Cameron Green or Glenn Maxwell batting at number 8. The third and final game of the ODI series between India and Australia will be held in Chennai on Wednesday, with the winner of that contest claiming the series 2-1 and bragging rights ahead of the World Cup later in the year. Australia Squad: Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Steven Smith(c), Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis(w), Cameron Green, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Sean Abbott, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, David Warner, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey and Nathan Ellis. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IND vs AUS 3rd ODI: 'Steve Smith shouldn't lead Australia' - Shane Watson highlights Pat Cummins' impact

<p>Stand-in Australian captain Steve Smith pulled off a blinder at first slip to remove Hardik Pandya in&nbsp;the second ODI in Vizag on Sunday. Regarded as one of the better in-ring catchers in world cricket, Smith flew full-stretch to his right and grabbed a one-handed catch to dismiss Pandya off Sean Abbott on just one.</p>

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<p>Electing to bowl first, Australia was on the top of the Indian team from the word go. Mitchell Starc, who wrecked havoc in the first game with his early exploits, began from where he had left, dismissing young Shubman Gill on one in the first over. He then accounted for the returning Indian captain Rohit Sharma on 13 from 15 balls. Putting India’s back against the wall, Starc then removed T20 super batter Suryakumar Yadav on the first ball, trapped right in the middle – similar to how he got him out in the first ODI. This wicket sent shivers down the Indian dug out.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-2nd-odi-horror-for-suryakumar-yadav-as-mitchell-starc-again-traps-him-lbw-on-first-ball-watch-573564">Ind vs Aus, 2nd ODI: HORROR for Suryakumar Yadav as Mitchell Starc again traps him LBW on first ball - WATCH</a></p>

<p>KL Rahul then joined Virat Kohli in the middle. While the pair had little moments to cherish during their small partnership, Starc provided a breakthrough by bagging his fourth wicket in KL Rahul.</p>

<p>Hardik Pandya soon followed him after Smith plucked a blinder at the first slip. Former captain Virat Kohli also departed after making 31 off 35 balls, leaving the lower-order and the tail to deal with the Aussies seamers. Meanwhile, following his wicket, it was about time before Australia wrapped India’s&nbsp;innings on 117 – their fourth lowest total at home.</p>

<p>While Abbott returned with figures of three for 23, left-arm fast bowler, Mitchell Starc picked a five-for (five for 53).</p>

<p>For India to win the match and the series, they have to produce a similar bowling show, else the final One-Dayer in Chennai on March 22nd will be played as a decider.</p>


Stand-in Australian captain Steve Smith pulled off a blinder at first slip to remove Hardik Pandya in the second ODI in Vizag on Sunday. Regarded as one of the better in-ring catchers in world cricket, Smith flew full-stretch to his right and grabbed a one-handed catch to dismiss Pandya off Sean Abbott on just one.

Stand-in Australian captain Steve Smith pulled off a blinder at first slip to remove Hardik Pandya in the second ODI in Vizag on Sunday. Regarded as one of the better in-ring catchers in world cricket, Smith flew full-stretch to his right and grabbed a one-handed catch to dismiss Pandya off Sean Abbott on just one. Watch the video here – Smith's flying catch!!! pic.twitter.com/gUCI0j3X26 — hahaha hahahah (@bandkarohasna) March 19, 2023 × Electing to bowl first, Australia was on the top of the Indian team from the word go. Mitchell Starc, who wrecked havoc in the first game with his early exploits, began from where he had left, dismissing young Shubman Gill on one in the first over. He then accounted for the returning Indian captain Rohit Sharma on 13 from 15 balls. Putting India’s back against the wall, Starc then removed T20 super batter Suryakumar Yadav on the first ball, trapped right in the middle – similar to how he got him out in the first ODI. This wicket sent shivers down the Indian dug out. ALSO READ: Ind vs Aus, 2nd ODI: HORROR for Suryakumar Yadav as Mitchell Starc again traps him LBW on first ball - WATCH KL Rahul then joined Virat Kohli in the middle. While the pair had little moments to cherish during their small partnership, Starc provided a breakthrough by bagging his fourth wicket in KL Rahul. Hardik Pandya soon followed him after Smith plucked a blinder at the first slip. Former captain Virat Kohli also departed after making 31 off 35 balls, leaving the lower-order and the tail to deal with the Aussies seamers. Meanwhile, following his wicket, it was about time before Australia wrapped India’s innings on 117 – their fourth lowest total at home. While Abbott returned with figures of three for 23, left-arm fast bowler, Mitchell Starc picked a five-for (five for 53). For India to win the match and the series, they have to produce a similar bowling show, else the final One-Dayer in Chennai on March 22nd will be played as a decider.

IND vs AUS, 2nd ODI: Steve Smith takes a blinder to remove Hardik Pandya - WATCH VIDEO

<p>After a gruelling four-match Test series, India and Australia have locked horns in the three-match ODI series opener at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (March 17). Both the regular captains Rohit Sharma and Pat Cummins are not in action as the latter remains in Australia after his mother's passing away whereas Hitman will join the squad for the remainder ODIs after missing the series opener due to personal reasons.</p>

<p>In Rohit's absence, Hardik Pandya is leading Team India. After winning the toss, India opted to bowl first and have bundled out the Steve Smith-led Aussies for a paltry 188 in 35.4 overs. Md Siraj and Md Shami ended with three scalps each whereas Ravindra Jadeja took 2 for 48. Captain Hardik removed the dangerman Smith with KL Rahul grabbing a sharp low catch. <strong>Here's the video of Rahul's timely dive as he removed Smith with a stunner behind the stumps:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Edged and taken!<a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a> strikes and how good was that grab behind the stumps from <a href="https://twitter.com/klrahul?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@klrahul</a> 💪<br />
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Steve Smith departs.<br />
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Watch his dismissal here 👇👇<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mastercardindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mastercardindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/yss3sj4N4z">pic.twitter.com/yss3sj4N4z</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1636659941585870848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-safe-sachin-adam-gilchrist-reacts-to-incorrect-claims-labelling-him-as-worlds-richest-cricketer-572958">You safe Sachin: Adam Gilchrist reacts to INCORRECT claims labelling him as world's RICHEST cricketer</a></strong></p>

<p>Rohit-less India will look to take a 1-0 lead in the three ODIs after dismissing Australia for 188. At one stage, they were well-placed at 129 for 2 with Mitchell Marsh (81 off 65 balls) lying the perfect platform but regular breakthroughs dented their progress.</p>

<p>From 129 for 2, Australia were soon reduced to 188 all-out and the Men in Yellow have a herculean task to stop the Indian team from chasing down the below-par total.</p>


After a gruelling four-match Test series, India and Australia have locked horns in the three-match ODI series opener at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (March 17).

After a gruelling four-match Test series, India and Australia have locked horns in the three-match ODI series opener at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (March 17). Both the regular captains Rohit Sharma and Pat Cummins are not in action as the latter remains in Australia after his mother's passing away whereas Hitman will join the squad for the remainder ODIs after missing the series opener due to personal reasons. In Rohit's absence, Hardik Pandya is leading Team India. After winning the toss, India opted to bowl first and have bundled out the Steve Smith-led Aussies for a paltry 188 in 35.4 overs. Md Siraj and Md Shami ended with three scalps each whereas Ravindra Jadeja took 2 for 48. Captain Hardik removed the dangerman Smith with KL Rahul grabbing a sharp low catch. Here's the video of Rahul's timely dive as he removed Smith with a stunner behind the stumps: Edged and taken!@hardikpandya7 strikes and how good was that grab behind the stumps from @klrahul 💪 Steve Smith departs. Watch his dismissal here 👇👇#INDvAUS @mastercardindia pic.twitter.com/yss3sj4N4z — BCCI (@BCCI) March 17, 2023 × Also read: You safe Sachin: Adam Gilchrist reacts to INCORRECT claims labelling him as world's RICHEST cricketer Rohit-less India will look to take a 1-0 lead in the three ODIs after dismissing Australia for 188. At one stage, they were well-placed at 129 for 2 with Mitchell Marsh (81 off 65 balls) lying the perfect platform but regular breakthroughs dented their progress. From 129 for 2, Australia were soon reduced to 188 all-out and the Men in Yellow have a herculean task to stop the Indian team from chasing down the below-par total.

WATCH: KL Rahul takes a STUNNER as Hardik Pandya gets rid of Steve Smith in India-Australia 1st ODI

<p>Australia captain Patrick Cummins will not be returning to India to lead the side in the upcoming three-match ODI series and Steve Smith will be the stand-in captain. Notably, Cummins flew back to Australia after the second Test of Border-Gavaskar series, initially for the third Test only, to attend his ailing mother.</p>

<p>Cummins then stayed back after his mother passed away and will continue to stay there for some more time. Steve Smith, meanwhile, led in his absence in the last two Test of the series, which India won 2-1.</p>

<p>Australia coach Andrew McDonald also said that Cummins is still taking care of what has happened.</p>

<p>"Pat won’t be coming back, he’s still taking care of what’s happened back home," he said. "Our thoughts are with Pat and his family as they go through that grieving process," added McDonald.</p>

<p>The Australian cricket board, however, has not named a replacement for Cummins in the squad which now has 15 players in it.</p>

<p>Opening batsman David Warner and spinner Ashton Agar, however, will be available for the series. David Warner had flown back to Australia due to a fractured arm after the second Test and Ashton Agar was sent back as well midway through the series.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-2023-former-india-opener-sunil-gavaskar-wants-this-batsman-to-replace-ks-bharat-as-wicket-keeper-571898">WTC Final, 2023: Former India opener Sunil Gavaskar wants THIS batsman to replace KS Bharat as wicket-keeper</a></p>

<p>Apart from them, Glenn Maxwell and Mitchell Marsh will also be making a comeback following a long absence due to injuries. Pacers Josh Hazlewood and Jhye Richardson, however, won't be available due to injuries. Nathan Ellis has been named as as a replacement for Richardson though.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Coach McDonald, while talking about the balance of the team, said he has had a conversation around it and there'll be a mix of combinations leading into the ODI World Cup, scheduled to played in India later this year.</p>

<p>"We've got a couple of conversations around the balance of the team we want to play, we've gone in with a structure with eight batters to bat a little bit deeper, we've tried that. So there'll be a mix of combinations as we lead into the World Cup. (There is) a lot of allrounders picked in the squad and can they all play in the one team. So we've got to answer a few of those questions," he said.</p>

<p>The ODI series starts on March 17 in Mumbai with next two matches scheduled in Vishakhapatnam and Chennai on March 19 and 22, respectively.</p>

<p><strong>Australia ODI squad vs India:</strong> Steve Smith (c), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa</p>

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Australia captain Patrick Cummins will not be returning to India to lead the side in the upcoming three-match ODI series and Steve Smith will be the stand-in captain.

Australia captain Patrick Cummins will not be returning to India to lead the side in the upcoming three-match ODI series and Steve Smith will be the stand-in captain. Notably, Cummins flew back to Australia after the second Test of Border-Gavaskar series, initially for the third Test only, to attend his ailing mother. Cummins then stayed back after his mother passed away and will continue to stay there for some more time. Steve Smith, meanwhile, led in his absence in the last two Test of the series, which India won 2-1. Australia coach Andrew McDonald also said that Cummins is still taking care of what has happened. "Pat won’t be coming back, he’s still taking care of what’s happened back home," he said. "Our thoughts are with Pat and his family as they go through that grieving process," added McDonald. The Australian cricket board, however, has not named a replacement for Cummins in the squad which now has 15 players in it. Opening batsman David Warner and spinner Ashton Agar, however, will be available for the series. David Warner had flown back to Australia due to a fractured arm after the second Test and Ashton Agar was sent back as well midway through the series. Also Read: WTC Final, 2023: Former India opener Sunil Gavaskar wants THIS batsman to replace KS Bharat as wicket-keeper Apart from them, Glenn Maxwell and Mitchell Marsh will also be making a comeback following a long absence due to injuries. Pacers Josh Hazlewood and Jhye Richardson, however, won't be available due to injuries. Nathan Ellis has been named as as a replacement for Richardson though. Coach McDonald, while talking about the balance of the team, said he has had a conversation around it and there'll be a mix of combinations leading into the ODI World Cup, scheduled to played in India later this year. "We've got a couple of conversations around the balance of the team we want to play, we've gone in with a structure with eight batters to bat a little bit deeper, we've tried that. So there'll be a mix of combinations as we lead into the World Cup. (There is) a lot of allrounders picked in the squad and can they all play in the one team. So we've got to answer a few of those questions," he said. The ODI series starts on March 17 in Mumbai with next two matches scheduled in Vishakhapatnam and Chennai on March 19 and 22, respectively. Australia ODI squad vs India: Steve Smith (c), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Steve Smith to lead Australia in India ODIs as Pat Cummins stays home after mother's death

<p>Australia's Steve Smith, who acted as the stand-in captain for the last two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar series, has given a subdued warning to India, against whom the Aussies will play in the World Test Championship (WTC) final in England in June.</p>

<p>Speaking after the Ahmedabad Test at the press conference, Smith said, "There's usually reasonable bounce and pace for an English wicket. It's probably as close as you get to Australia potentially in terms of pace and bounce. So yeah, it's going to be a great Test match and the guys are looking forward to it."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/to-who-ever-stole-england-test-captain-ben-stokes-loses-his-cool-after-unfortunate-incident-see-post-571793">'To who ever stole...': England Test captain Ben Stokes loses cool after an unfortunate incident - see post</a></p>

<p>The match will be played at the Oval and Smith said that it wears on as the game progresses but is a great place to play cricket.</p>

<p>"You know, the Oval, the wicket there can take some spin at times, particularly as the game wears on. So could be interesting in terms of what what sort of wicket we get. But, you know, it's a great place to play cricket."</p>

<p>Australia made into the WTC final with surety after winning the Indore Test, the third of the four-match Border-Gavaskar series, by nine wickets. India, who had won the first Two Tests of the series in Nagpur and Delhi, respectively, made into the final only after New Zealand beat Sri Lanka in a thrilling Test match on the last ball by two wickets.</p>

<p>India had to win the Border-Gavaskar trophy with a 3-0 or 3-1 margin to stay independent of the outcome of Sri Lanka vs New Zealand Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fourth Test in Ahmedabad, however, was headed for a draw soon after the first session on the final day. After scoring 480 runs in the first innings, Australia conceded a 91-run lead after India scored 571/9.</p>

<p>Australia, however, didn't give any early wickets to India in the second innings and the match was called a draw with the visitors being at 175/2 in the third session.</p>

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Australia's Steve Smith, who acted as the stand-in captain for the last two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar series, has given a subdued warning to India, against whom the Aussies will play in the World Test Championship (WTC) final in England in June.

Australia's Steve Smith, who acted as the stand-in captain for the last two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar series, has given a subdued warning to India, against whom the Aussies will play in the World Test Championship (WTC) final in England in June. Speaking after the Ahmedabad Test at the press conference, Smith said, "There's usually reasonable bounce and pace for an English wicket. It's probably as close as you get to Australia potentially in terms of pace and bounce. So yeah, it's going to be a great Test match and the guys are looking forward to it." Also Read: 'To who ever stole...': England Test captain Ben Stokes loses cool after an unfortunate incident - see post The match will be played at the Oval and Smith said that it wears on as the game progresses but is a great place to play cricket. "You know, the Oval, the wicket there can take some spin at times, particularly as the game wears on. So could be interesting in terms of what what sort of wicket we get. But, you know, it's a great place to play cricket." Australia made into the WTC final with surety after winning the Indore Test, the third of the four-match Border-Gavaskar series, by nine wickets. India, who had won the first Two Tests of the series in Nagpur and Delhi, respectively, made into the final only after New Zealand beat Sri Lanka in a thrilling Test match on the last ball by two wickets. India had to win the Border-Gavaskar trophy with a 3-0 or 3-1 margin to stay independent of the outcome of Sri Lanka vs New Zealand Test. The fourth Test in Ahmedabad, however, was headed for a draw soon after the first session on the final day. After scoring 480 runs in the first innings, Australia conceded a 91-run lead after India scored 571/9. Australia, however, didn't give any early wickets to India in the second innings and the match was called a draw with the visitors being at 175/2 in the third session. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Looking forward to...': Australia's Steve Smith issues warning to India ahead of WTC 2023 final at the Oval

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